Mechanical equipment monitoring system and mechanical equipment monitoring method

Abstract

This machine equipment monitoring system comprises: machine equipment; an information collection device; and an information processing device. The machine equipment is equipped with a sensor; an actuator; and a communication unit that transmits a trigger signal when the actuator is in a suitable state for the sensor to detect the operating state of the actuator. The information collection device collects operating state data from the sensor upon receiving the trigger signal. The information processing device monitors the actuator on the basis of the operating state data collected by the information collection device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mechanical equipment monitoring system and a mechanical equipment monitoring method for monitoring mechanical equipment.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in order to improve the efficiency of maintenance work for mechanical equipment, there has been a shift from time-based maintenance to condition-based maintenance. As one means of realizing condition-based maintenance, it is effective to monitor and diagnose the conditions of mechanical component parts such as bearings, ball screws, and linear guides. However, conventionally, mechanical equipment such as machine tools has a problem in that it is not suitable for abnormality diagnosis because the driving state of mechanical component parts changes constantly while the work is being processed three-dimensionally.

[0003] In contrast, Patent Document 1 discloses a diagnostic system for a machine tool, which includes a component device whose state changes according to the operation of an actuator of the machine tool, a sensor for detecting the state of the component device, a signal processing device for processing the signal of the sensor, a control device provided in the machine tool for controlling the operation of the actuator, an input / output device for inputting an instruction for causing the control device to perform the operation of the actuator and notifying the operation status of the actuator, and a remote monitoring device for analyzing the state of the component device. In the diagnostic system of Patent Document 1, the control device transmits a first command instructing the signal processing device to generate and transmit simple state description data regarding the occurrence of an abnormality in the component device, and the signal processing device generates simple state description data according to the received first command and transmits it to the control device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in Patent Document 1, simplified state description data is transmitted to the control device on the machine equipment side, such as a machine tool. Therefore, the control device on the machine equipment side needs a communication interface and a corresponding processing capacity to receive the simplified state description data. Consequently, Patent Document 1 has the problem that it cannot diagnose machine equipment with a simple configuration that does not have a control device with a communication interface and a corresponding processing capacity.

[0006] This disclosure aims to provide a machine equipment monitoring system and a machine equipment monitoring method that enable the diagnosis of machine equipment with a simple configuration by eliminating the need for the machine equipment to receive data for the diagnosis of the machine equipment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The mechanical equipment monitoring system according to this disclosure comprises: mechanical equipment including a sensor, an actuator, and a communication unit that transmits a trigger signal when the actuator is in a suitable state for the sensor to detect the operating state of the actuator; an information collection device that, upon receiving the trigger signal from the communication unit, collects operating state data from the sensor indicating the operating state detected by the sensor; and an information processing device that monitors the actuator based on the operating state data collected by the information collection device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, by eliminating the need for the machine equipment to receive data for diagnosing the machine equipment, it is possible to diagnose machine equipment with a simple configuration. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a machine equipment monitoring system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2]This is a flowchart showing the operation of a machine tool in a machine equipment monitoring system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the information collection device of the mechanical equipment monitoring system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a sequence diagram of a mechanical equipment monitoring system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a timing chart for a mechanical equipment monitoring system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a timing chart for a mechanical equipment monitoring system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is another example of a timing chart for a mechanical equipment monitoring system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a timing chart for a mechanical equipment monitoring system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a machine equipment monitoring system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a sequence diagram of a mechanical equipment monitoring system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a machine equipment monitoring system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is a sequence diagram of a mechanical equipment monitoring system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This is a timing chart for a mechanical equipment monitoring system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a machine equipment monitoring system according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This is a sequence diagram of a machine equipment monitoring system according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This is a timing chart for a mechanical equipment monitoring system according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, the drawings are schematic, and the relationship between the thickness and the planar dimensions, the ratio of the thicknesses of each layer, etc. may be different from the actual ones. Therefore, specific thicknesses and dimensions should be determined in consideration of the following description. Also, there may be parts where the dimensional relationships and ratios are different between the drawings.

[0011] The embodiments shown below illustrate devices and methods for embodying the technical idea of the present invention, and the materials, shapes, structures, arrangements, etc. of the components included in the technical idea of the present invention are not limited to the following. Various changes can be made to the embodiments described below within the technical scope defined by the claims recited in the claims.

[0012] (First Embodiment) <Configuration of Machine Equipment Monitoring System> First, the configuration of the machine equipment monitoring system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 1.

[0013] The machine equipment monitoring system 1 includes a machine tool 2, sensors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, an information collection device 4, and an information processing device 6.

[0014] Machine tool 2 is a machine capable of machining in, for example, three axes (X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis). Machine tool 2 comprises a control unit 19, a communication unit 20, an X-table 21, a Y-table 22, a Z-table 23, a spindle 24, a linear guide 25, a linear guide 26, a linear guide 27, a ball screw 28, a ball screw 29, and a ball screw 30. In this specification, a drive source such as a motor and a mechanical configuration (guide element) comprising a bearing 24a, a spindle 24, a linear guide 25, a linear guide 26, a linear guide 27, a ball screw 28, a ball screw 29, and a ball screw 30 are sometimes referred to as an actuator. Note that an actuator only needs to include at least one of the bearing 24a, a spindle 24, ball screws 28, 29, 30, and linear guides 25, 26, 27.

[0015] The control unit 19 controls the operation of the entire machine tool 2, as well as the drive of the X table 21, Y table 22, Z table 23, spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30. The control unit 19 also controls the operation of the communication unit 20.

[0016] The control unit 19 performs a normal cycle and a condition monitoring / diagnosis cycle. In the normal cycle, the control unit 19 controls the drive of the X table 21, Y table 22, Z table 23, spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30 to perform a machining process for machining a workpiece, repeating this process a predetermined number of times. In the condition monitoring / diagnosis cycle, the control unit 19 repeats a condition monitoring / diagnosis process to monitor and diagnose the state of the machine tool 2 a predetermined number of times. When performing the condition monitoring / diagnosis process, the control unit 19 controls the spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30 to a suitable state for monitoring.

[0017] Here, a suitable state is a state in which the actuator operates at a constant speed for a predetermined period, a state in which the actuator accelerates from a stop, operates at a constant speed, then decelerates and stops, a state in which the amount of fluctuation in the load applied to the actuator is less than or equal to a predetermined value, or a state in which the amount of fluctuation in the actuator's temperature is less than or equal to a predetermined value. For example, if the object being monitored is the bearing 24a of the spindle 24, it is a state in which constant speed rotation continues for a certain period; if the object being monitored is the linear guide 25, linear guide 26, or linear guide 27, it is a state in which constant speed motion continues for a certain period; and if the object being monitored is the ball screw 28, ball screw 29, or ball screw 30, it is a state in which it accelerates from a stop, moves at a constant speed, and decelerates with the same profile each time. By performing condition monitoring and diagnosis in a suitable state, it is possible to suppress misjudgments caused by insufficient data, actuator speed fluctuations, and load fluctuations.

[0018] An unsuitable condition is one in which constant-velocity or uniform-velocity motion does not continue for a sufficient time for condition monitoring and diagnosis, or a condition in which the load fluctuates significantly.

[0019] The communication unit 20 operates under the control of the control unit 19 and transmits and receives signals to and from the information gathering device 4.

[0020] The X-table 21 supports the workpiece and is movable along the X-axis direction by an X-axis motor (not shown).

[0021] The Y-table 22 supports the workpiece and is movable along the Y-axis direction by being driven by a Y-axis motor (not shown).

[0022] The Z-table 23 supports the workpiece and is movable along the Z-axis direction by being driven by a Z-axis motor (not shown).

[0023] The spindle 24 is rotatable by a spindle motor (not shown). The spindle 24 is equipped with a bearing 24a inside.

[0024] The linear guide 25 supports the X-table 21 so that it can move in the X-axis direction.

[0025] The linear guide 26 supports the Y-table 22 so that it can move in the Y-axis direction.

[0026] The linear guide 27 supports the Z-table 23 so that it can move in the Z-axis direction.

[0027] The ball screw 28 converts the rotational motion of the X-axis motor (not shown) into linear motion in the X-axis direction and transmits it to the X-table 21.

[0028] The ball screw 29 converts the rotational motion of a Y-axis motor (not shown) into linear motion in the Y-axis direction and transmits it to the Y-table 22.

[0029] The ball screw 30 converts the rotational motion of a Z-axis motor (not shown) into linear motion in the Z-axis direction and transmits it to the Z-table 23.

[0030] Sensor 3a is an acceleration sensor located on or near the main body of the linear guide 25 and the ball screw 28. Sensor 3a detects vibrations indicating the operating state of the linear guide 25 and the ball screw 28 and outputs vibration information data of the detected vibrations to the information acquisition device 4. Sensor 3b is an acceleration sensor located on or near the main body of the linear guide 26 and the ball screw 29. Sensor 3b detects vibrations indicating the operating state of the linear guide 26 and the ball screw 29 and outputs vibration information data of the detected vibrations to the information acquisition device 4. Sensor 3c is an acceleration sensor located on or near the main body of the linear guide 27 and the ball screw 30. Sensor 3c detects vibrations indicating the operating state of the linear guide 27 and the ball screw 30 and outputs vibration information data of the detected vibrations to the information acquisition device 4. Sensor 3d is an acceleration sensor located on or near the main body of the spindle 24. Sensor 3d detects vibrations indicating the operating state of the bearing 24a of the spindle 24 and outputs vibration information data of the detected vibrations to the information acquisition device 4. The vibration information data is operating state data indicating the operating state of the actuator. In the following description, the four sensors 3a, 3b, 3c, and 3d may be referred to as sensor 3.

[0031] The information acquisition device 4 is connected to the information processing device 6 via the network 5. The information acquisition device 4 acquires and collects vibration information data from the sensor 3 when the control unit 19 performs the condition monitoring and diagnostic process. The information acquisition device 4 generates a data file based on the acquired vibration information data and transmits the generated data file to the information processing device 6 via the network 5.

[0032] The information processing device 6 stores a diagnostic program. When the information processing device 6 receives a data file from the information collection device 4 via the network 5, it executes the stored diagnostic program and generates a diagnostic result file based on the data file. The information processing device 6 saves the generated diagnostic result file to the internal storage unit of the information processing device 6 or to external storage, and monitors and diagnoses the bearing 24a, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30. The internal storage unit of the information processing device 6 or external storage may be referred to as a storage device. The external storage may be simply referred to as storage or as data storage.

[0033] <Operation of machine tools> The operation of the machine tool 2 of the machine equipment monitoring system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0034] Machine tool 2 begins the operation shown in Figure 2 when the main power supply (not shown) is turned on.

[0035] First, the control unit 19 of the machine tool 2 determines whether or not to start the condition monitoring and diagnostic cycle (S1).

[0036] If the control unit 19 does not start the status monitoring and diagnostic cycle (S1: NO), it starts the normal cycle (S2). In the normal cycle, the control unit 19 drives the X table 21, Y table 22, Z table 23, spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30 to repeat the machining process a predetermined number of times.

[0037] Subsequently, the control unit 19 terminates the normal cycle (S3) and ends this flow.

[0038] On the other hand, when the condition monitoring and diagnostic cycle is started (S1:YES), the control unit 19 drives the spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30, and controls them to send a trigger signal to the communication unit 20. As a result, the communication unit 20 sends a trigger signal to the information acquisition device 4 (S4).

[0039] Next, the control unit 19 starts the state monitoring and diagnosis process (S5) and controls the spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30 to a suitable state for monitoring.

[0040] Next, the control unit 19 determines whether or not it has received a data acquisition completion signal from the communication unit 20 (S6).

[0041] If the control unit 19 has not received a data acquisition completion signal from the communication unit 20 (S6:NO), it returns to the operation of S5.

[0042] On the other hand, when the control unit 19 receives a data acquisition completion signal from the communication unit 20 (S6: YES), it determines whether or not there is a next state monitoring / diagnosis process (S8).

[0043] The control unit 19 returns to operation S4 if there is a next status monitoring / diagnostic process (S8: YES).

[0044] On the other hand, if there is no next status monitoring / diagnosis process (S8:NO), the control unit 19 terminates the status monitoring / diagnosis cycle (S9) and ends this flow.

[0045] <Operation of the information gathering device> The operation of the information collection device 4 of the mechanical equipment monitoring system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 and 3.

[0046] The information gathering device 4 starts the operation shown in Figure 3 when the main power supply (not shown) is turned on.

[0047] First, the information gathering device 4 determines whether or not it has received a trigger signal from the machine tool 2 (S11).

[0048] If the information gathering device 4 has not received a trigger signal (S11: NO), it repeats the operation of S11.

[0049] On the other hand, when the information gathering device 4 receives a trigger signal (S11:YES), it acquires vibration information data from the sensor 3 (S12).

[0050] Next, the information acquisition device 4 performs A / D conversion on the vibration information data (S13).

[0051] Next, the information gathering device 4 generates a data file of vibration information (S14).

[0052] Next, the information gathering device 4 transfers the data file to the information processing device 6 via the network 5 (S15).

[0053] Next, when the information acquisition device 4 has finished acquiring vibration information data sufficient for condition monitoring and diagnosis, it transmits a data acquisition completion signal to the machine tool 2 as a completion notification (S16), and terminates this flow.

[0054] <Operation of the Machinery and Equipment Monitoring System> The operation of the machine equipment monitoring system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 and 4.

[0055] First, when the control unit 19 of the machine tool 2 starts the condition monitoring and diagnosis cycle, the communication unit 20 of the machine tool 2 transmits a trigger signal to the information acquisition device 4 under the control of the control unit 19 (S21). The control unit 19 also starts the condition monitoring and diagnosis process and controls the spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30 to a suitable state for monitoring.

[0056] Next, after receiving the trigger signal, the information acquisition device 4 acquires the output signal of sensor 3, performs A / D conversion on the acquired sensor signal, and generates a data file (S22).

[0057] Next, the information gathering device 4 transfers the generated data file to the information processing device 6 (S23).

[0058] Next, the information acquisition device 4 transmits a data acquisition completion signal to the machine tool 2 (S24).

[0059] Next, the information processing device 6 generates a diagnostic result file based on the acquired data file and saves the generated diagnostic result file to storage or the like (S25).

[0060] The machine equipment monitoring system 1 repeats the operations from S21 to S25 described above by repeating the execution of the condition monitoring and diagnosis process a predetermined number of times until the condition monitoring and diagnosis cycle is completed.

[0061] Next, after the status monitoring and diagnostic cycle is completed, the user operates a display terminal (not shown) connected to the information processing device 6 (S26).

[0062] Next, the display terminal reads the diagnostic result file stored in storage and displays it, making the user able to view the diagnostic result file (S27).

[0063] Next, the condition monitoring and diagnostic cycle performed by the machine equipment monitoring system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 5.

[0064] At time t1, the communication unit 20 transmits a trigger signal to the information acquisition device 4 under the control of the control unit 19. The control unit 19 also drives the spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30, and starts the execution of the condition monitoring and diagnosis process to control the spindle 24 to a suitable state for monitoring. As a result, the spindle 24 starts rotating, accelerates from a stopped state, operates at a constant speed, then decelerates and comes to a stop.

[0065] At time t2, the information gathering device 4 starts acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3.

[0066] At time t3, the information acquisition device 4 finishes acquiring vibration information data from sensor 3. Then, the information acquisition device 4 generates a data file (BRG) based on the acquired vibration information data and transmits it to the information processing device 6 (arrow extending downward to the right of t3 in Figure 5).

[0067] At time t4, the information acquisition device 4 transmits a data acquisition completion signal. Upon receiving the data acquisition completion signal, the control unit 19 terminates the execution of the status monitoring and diagnostic process.

[0068] At time t5, the communication unit 20 transmits a trigger signal to the information acquisition device 4 under the control of the control unit 19. The control unit 19 also starts the next state monitoring and diagnostic process, controlling the linear guide 25 and ball screw 28 of the X table 21 to a suitable state for monitoring. As a result, the linear guide 25 and ball screw 28 begin translational movement, accelerate from a stopped state, operate at a constant speed, and then decelerate to a stop.

[0069] At time t6, the information acquisition device 4 starts acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3.

[0070] At time t7, the information acquisition device 4 finishes acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3. Then, the information acquisition device 4 generates a data file (BS / LG(X)) based on the acquired vibration information data and transmits it to the information processing device 6.

[0071] At time t8, the information acquisition device 4 transmits a data acquisition completion signal. Upon receiving the data acquisition completion signal, the control unit 19 terminates the execution of the status monitoring and diagnostic process.

[0072] At time t9, the communication unit 20 transmits a trigger signal to the information acquisition device 4 under the control of the control unit 19. The control unit 19 also starts the following state monitoring and diagnostic process, controlling the linear guide 26 and ball screw 29 of the Y table 22 to a suitable state for monitoring. As a result, the linear guide 26 and ball screw 29 begin translational movement, accelerate from a stopped state, operate at a constant speed, and then decelerate to a stop.

[0073] At time t10, the information acquisition device 4 starts acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3.

[0074] At time t11, the information acquisition device 4 finishes acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3. Then, the information acquisition device 4 generates a data file (BS / LG(Y)) based on the acquired vibration information data and transmits it to the information processing device 6.

[0075] At time t12, the information acquisition device 4 transmits a data acquisition completion signal. Upon receiving the data acquisition completion signal, the control unit 19 terminates the execution of the status monitoring and diagnostic process.

[0076] At time t13, the communication unit 20 transmits a trigger signal to the information acquisition device 4 under the control of the control unit 19. The control unit 19 also starts the following state monitoring and diagnostic process, controlling the linear guide 27 and ball screw 30 of the Z table 23 to a suitable state for monitoring. As a result, the linear guide 27 and ball screw 30 begin translational movement, accelerate from a stopped state, operate at a constant speed, and then decelerate to a stop.

[0077] At time t14, the information acquisition device 4 begins acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3.

[0078] At time t15, the information acquisition device 4 finishes acquiring vibration information data from sensor 3. Then, the information acquisition device 4 generates a data file (BS / LG(Z)) based on the acquired vibration information data and transmits it to the information processing device 6.

[0079] At time t16, the information acquisition device 4 transmits a data acquisition completion signal. Upon receiving the data acquisition completion signal, the control unit 19 terminates the execution of the status monitoring and diagnosis process and ends the status monitoring and diagnosis cycle.

[0080] Thus, according to this embodiment, a machine tool 2 comprises a sensor 3, an actuator, and a communication unit 20 that transmits a trigger signal when the actuator is in a suitable state for detection of the actuator's operating state by the sensor 3; an information collection device 4 that, upon receiving a trigger signal from the communication unit 20, collects vibration information data detected by the sensor 3 and transmits the collected vibration information data; and an information processing device 6 that monitors the actuator based on the vibration information data received from the information collection device 4. As a result, the machine tool 2 does not need to receive data for diagnosing the machine tool 2, and thus a diagnosis of the machine tool 2 with a simple configuration can be performed.

[0081] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, by driving each actuator that is subject to condition monitoring and diagnosis one by one, highly accurate diagnosis can be achieved.

[0082] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, by transmitting and receiving only trigger signals and data acquisition completion signals between the machine tool 2 and the information acquisition device 4, modifications to the control program built into the machine tool 2 can be kept to minor.

[0083] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, by including linear guides 25, 26, and 27, as well as ball screws 28, 29, and 30, in addition to bearing 24a, the machine tool 2 can be monitored in more detail.

[0084] In this embodiment, the diagnostic result file was saved to storage, but it is not limited to this; the diagnostic result file may also be saved to a server on network 5 or an on-premises server. Alternatively, the diagnostic result file may be saved to local storage. In this case, the diagnostic result file can be placed within the company's own network, thereby reducing the risk of information leakage.

[0085] Furthermore, although the machine equipment monitoring system 1 includes the machine tool 2 in this embodiment, it is not limited to this, and the machine equipment monitoring system does not necessarily have to include the machine tool 2.

[0086] (Second embodiment) Since the configuration of the machinery and equipment monitoring system according to the second embodiment of the present invention is the same as that shown in Figure 1, its description will be omitted, and the operation of the machinery and equipment monitoring system according to this embodiment will be described using the reference numerals of Figure 1.

[0087] <Operation of the Machinery and Equipment Monitoring System> The operation of the machinery and equipment monitoring system 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0088] First, the operation of the mechanical equipment monitoring system 1 according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Figure 6.

[0089] At time t111, the communication unit 20 transmits a trigger signal to the information acquisition device 4 under the control of the control unit 19. The control unit 19 also drives only the spindle 24.

[0090] At time t112, the control unit 19 starts the state monitoring and diagnostic process to control the spindle 24 to a suitable state for monitoring. As a result, the spindle 24 accelerates from a stopped state, operates at a constant speed, then decelerates and comes to a stop.

[0091] At time t113, the information acquisition device 4 begins acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3.

[0092] At time t114, the information acquisition device 4 finishes acquiring vibration information data from sensor 3 and transmits the data file (BRG) to the information processing device 6.

[0093] At time t115, the information acquisition device 4 transmits a data acquisition completion signal. The communication unit 20 then receives the data acquisition completion signal.

[0094] At time t116, the control unit 19 controls the spindle 24 to a stopped state.

[0095] Next, other operations of the machine equipment monitoring system 1 according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Figure 7.

[0096] At time t211, the communication unit 20 transmits a trigger signal to the information gathering device 4 under the control of the control unit 19. The control unit 19 also drives only the spindle 24.

[0097] At time t212, the control unit 19 starts the state monitoring and diagnostic process to control the spindle 24 to a suitable state for monitoring. As a result, the spindle 24 accelerates from a stopped state, operates at a constant speed, then decelerates and comes to a stop.

[0098] At time t213, the information gathering device 4 begins acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3.

[0099] At time t214, the information acquisition device 4 finishes acquiring vibration information data from sensor 3 and transmits the data file (BRG) to the information processing device 6.

[0100] At time t215, the control unit 19 stops the spindle 24 without waiting for the communication unit 20 to receive a data acquisition completion signal. At this time, the control unit 19 stops driving the spindle 24 after a predetermined time has elapsed from the time control is started to bring the spindle 24 to a suitable state.

[0101] At time t216, the information acquisition device 4 transmits a data acquisition completion signal. The communication unit 20 then receives the data acquisition completion signal.

[0102] As shown in Figure 7, if the information acquisition device 4 has acquired sufficient data for monitoring and diagnosing the state of the spindle 24, the control unit 19 may stop driving the spindle 24 without waiting for the communication unit 20 to receive a data acquisition completion signal. However, even in this case, the control unit 19 will wait for the communication unit 20 to receive a data acquisition completion signal before starting the next state monitoring and diagnosis process.

[0103] Thus, according to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment described above, the bearing 24a can be accurately diagnosed by driving only the spindle 24 and performing the condition monitoring and diagnosis process.

[0104] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, power consumption can be reduced by stopping the actuator drive without waiting for the data acquisition completion signal to be received.

[0105] In this embodiment, the diagnostic result file was saved to storage, but it is not limited to this; the diagnostic result file may also be saved to a server on network 5 or an on-premises server. Alternatively, the diagnostic result file may be saved to local storage. In this case, the diagnostic result file can be placed within the company's own network, thereby reducing the risk of information leakage.

[0106] Furthermore, although the machine equipment monitoring system 1 includes the machine tool 2 in this embodiment, it is not limited to this, and the machine equipment monitoring system does not necessarily have to include the machine tool 2.

[0107] (Third embodiment) The configuration of the machinery and equipment monitoring system according to the third embodiment of the present invention is the same as that shown in Figure 1, so its description will be omitted, and the operation of the machinery and equipment monitoring system according to this embodiment will be described using the reference numerals of Figure 1.

[0108] <Operation of the Machinery and Equipment Monitoring System> The operation of the machinery and equipment monitoring system 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Figure 8.

[0109] At time t311, the communication unit 20 transmits a trigger signal to the information acquisition device 4 under the control of the control unit 19. The control unit 19 also drives only the linear guide 25 and ball screw 28 of the X table 21.

[0110] At time t312, the information acquisition device 4 begins acquiring vibration information data from sensor 3.

[0111] At time t313, the control unit 19 starts the state monitoring and diagnostic process, controlling the linear guide 25 and ball screw 28 to a suitable state for monitoring. As a result, the linear guide 25 and ball screw 28 accelerate from a stopped state, operate at a constant speed, and then decelerate to a stop.

[0112] At time t314, the linear guide 25 and the ball screw 28 stop driving under the control of the control unit 19.

[0113] At time t315, the information acquisition device 4 finishes acquiring vibration information data from sensor 3 and transmits the data file (BS / LG) to the information processing device 6.

[0114] At time t316, the information acquisition device 4 transmits a data acquisition completion signal. The communication unit 20 then receives the data acquisition completion signal.

[0115] Thus, according to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment described above, by driving only the linear guide 25 and the ball screw 28 to perform the condition monitoring and diagnosis process, the linear guide 25 and the ball screw 28 can be diagnosed with high accuracy.

[0116] In this embodiment, the diagnostic result file was saved to storage, but it is not limited to this; the diagnostic result file may also be saved to a server on network 5 or an on-premises server. Alternatively, the diagnostic result file may be saved to local storage. In this case, the diagnostic result file can be placed within the company's own network, thereby reducing the risk of information leakage.

[0117] Furthermore, although the machine equipment monitoring system 1 includes the machine tool 2 in this embodiment, it is not limited to this, and the machine equipment monitoring system does not necessarily have to include the machine tool 2.

[0118] (Fourth embodiment) <Configuration of the Mechanical Equipment Monitoring System> First, the configuration of the machinery and equipment monitoring system 1 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to Figure 9.

[0119] In Figure 9, parts that have the same configuration as those in Figure 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0120] The machine equipment monitoring system 100 includes a machine tool 2, a sensor 3, an information gathering device 104, and a server 105.

[0121] The communication unit 20 operates under the control of the control unit 19 and transmits and receives signals to and from the information gathering device 104.

[0122] Sensor 3 detects vibrations of bearing 24a, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30, and outputs vibration information data of the detected vibrations to information acquisition device 104.

[0123] The information collection device 104 stores a diagnostic program and is connected to the server 105 via the network 5. When the control unit 19 performs the condition monitoring and diagnostic process, the information collection device 104 acquires vibration information data from the sensor 3. Based on the acquired vibration information data, the information collection device 104 generates a data file and executes the stored diagnostic program to generate a diagnostic result file based on the data file. The information collection device 104 saves the generated diagnostic result file to the server 105 via the network 5.

[0124] Server 105 stores the diagnostic result file transferred from the information collection device 4.

[0125] The operation of the machine equipment monitoring system 100 is the same as that shown in Figures 4 and 5, except that a server 105 is installed instead of the information processing device 6; therefore, its explanation will be omitted.

[0126] Thus, according to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment described above, by generating a diagnostic result file with the information collection device 104, the amount of data transmitted from the network 5 to the server 105 can be reduced compared to the first embodiment, and the bandwidth of the network 5 can not be strained.

[0127] In this embodiment, the diagnostic result file was saved on server 105 on network 5, but it is not limited to this, and the diagnostic result file may also be saved on an on-premises server or storage. Alternatively, the diagnostic result file may be saved on local storage. In this case, the diagnostic result file can be placed within the company's own network, thereby reducing the risk of information leakage.

[0128] Furthermore, although the machine equipment monitoring system 100 includes the machine tool 2 in this embodiment, it is not limited to this, and the machine equipment monitoring system does not necessarily have to include the machine tool 2.

[0129] (Fifth embodiment) The configuration of the machinery and equipment monitoring system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention is the same as that shown in Figure 1, so its description will be omitted, and the operation of the machinery and equipment monitoring system according to this embodiment will be described using the reference numerals in Figure 1.

[0130] <Operation of the Machinery and Equipment Monitoring System> First, after the control unit 19 of the machine tool 2 has started a normal cycle and begun executing the machining process, the communication unit 20 of the machine tool 2 transmits a trigger signal to the information acquisition device 4 under the control of the control unit 19 when the spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, or ball screw 30 reach a suitable state during machining operations using the spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, or ball screw 30 (S31).

[0131] Next, after receiving the trigger signal, the information acquisition device 4 starts acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3 and generates a data file (S32).

[0132] Next, the information gathering device 4 transfers the generated data file to the information processing device 6 (S33).

[0133] Next, the information acquisition device 4 transmits a data acquisition completion signal to the machine tool 2 (S34).

[0134] Next, the information processing device 6 generates a diagnostic result file based on the acquired data file and saves the generated diagnostic result file to storage (S35).

[0135] Next, the display terminal reads the diagnostic result file stored in the storage and displays it, making the user able to view the diagnostic result file (S36).

[0136] Thus, according to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment described above, the need to perform a condition monitoring and diagnostic cycle different from the normal cycle is eliminated, thereby eliminating the cycle for diagnosis. As a result, condition monitoring and diagnosis can be performed without impairing the productivity of the machine tool 2.

[0137] In this embodiment, the diagnostic result file was saved to storage, but it is not limited to this; the diagnostic result file may also be saved to a server on network 5 or an on-premises server. Alternatively, the diagnostic result file may be saved to local storage. In this case, the diagnostic result file can be placed within the company's own network, thereby reducing the risk of information leakage.

[0138] Furthermore, although the machine equipment monitoring system 1 includes the machine tool 2 in this embodiment, it is not limited to this, and the machine equipment monitoring system does not necessarily have to include the machine tool 2.

[0139] (Sixth embodiment) In the first to fifth embodiments, the vibration of the actuator was detected by sensor 3 (first sensor), which is an acceleration sensor, to diagnose an abnormality in the machine tool 2. However, the sensor used for diagnosing abnormalities in the machine tool 2 is not limited to an acceleration sensor. Sensors other than acceleration sensors may also be used to detect the operating state of the actuator of the machine tool 2 and to diagnose an abnormality in the machine tool 2. Such a configuration will be described in the sixth embodiment.

[0140] <Configuration of the Mechanical Equipment Monitoring System> The configuration of the machinery and equipment monitoring system 200 according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to Figure 11. Note that parts in Figure 11 that are identical in configuration to those in Figure 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0141] The machine equipment monitoring system 200 includes a machine tool 2, sensors 3a, 3b, 3c, and 3d, an information collection device 4, an information processing device 6, and an information management device 201.

[0142] The machine tool 2 comprises a control unit 19, a communication unit 20, an X table 21, a Y table 22, a Z table 23, a spindle 24, a linear guide 25, a linear guide 26, a linear guide 27, a ball screw 28, a ball screw 29, a ball screw 30, sensors 31a, 31b, 31c, and a sensor 32.

[0143] Sensor 31a is provided on or near the body of the linear guide 25 and the ball screw 28. Sensor 31a is a current sensor that detects current values ​​or a temperature sensor that detects temperature. Sensor 31a may also be a sensor capable of detecting both current values ​​and temperature (in this case, two sensors 31a may be provided, with one sensor 31a detecting current values ​​and the other sensor 31a detecting temperature). Sensor 31b is provided on or near the body of the linear guide 26 and the ball screw 29. Sensor 31b is a current sensor that detects current values ​​or a temperature sensor that detects temperature. Sensor 31b may also be a sensor capable of detecting both current values ​​and temperature (in this case, two sensors 31b may be provided, with one sensor 31b detecting current values ​​and the other sensor 31b detecting temperature). Sensor 31c is provided on or near the body of the linear guide 27 and the ball screw 30. Sensor 31c is a current sensor that detects current values ​​or a temperature sensor that detects temperature. Sensor 31c may be a sensor capable of detecting current and temperature (in this case, two sensors 31c may be provided, with one sensor 31c detecting current and the other sensor 31c detecting temperature). Sensors 31a, 31b, and 31c output the detected current and / or temperature data to the information control device 201. In the following description, sensors 31a, 31b, and 31c may be referred to as sensor 31 (second sensor).

[0144] Sensor 32 (third sensor) is located on or near the spindle 24. Sensor 32 is a rotational speed sensor that detects the rotational speed of the spindle 24. Sensor 32 outputs the detected rotational speed data to the information control unit 201.

[0145] The information gathering device 4 generates a data file based on the acquired vibration information data and transmits the generated data file to the information management device 201.

[0146] The information control device 201 is connected to the information processing device 6 via the network 5. The information control device 201 is, for example, a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). The information control device 201 is equipped with a timer that transmits time information. The information control device 201 acquires current value and / or temperature data from sensor 31 and rotational speed data from sensor 32 by centrally controlling the machine tool 2. The information control device 201 adds time information to the data file received from the information collection device 4, and also adds time information to the centralized data regarding current value and / or temperature and rotational speed acquired from sensors 31 and 32. The information control device 201 transmits the data file with added time information and the centralized data to the information processing device 6 via the network 5.

[0147] When the information processing device 6 receives a data file (including time information) and integrated data (including time information) from the information management device 201 via the network 5, it executes a diagnostic program stored in the information processing device 6 and generates a diagnostic result file based on the data file and integrated data.

[0148] <Operation of the Machinery and Equipment Monitoring System> The operation of the machinery and equipment monitoring system 200 according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to Figures 11 and 12.

[0149] First, the information control unit 201 transmits a first trigger signal to the machine tool 2 (S41) and a second trigger signal to the information acquisition device 4 (S42). When the machine tool 2 receives the first trigger signal, the control unit 19 of the machine tool 2 starts a condition monitoring and diagnosis cycle and begins executing the condition monitoring and diagnosis process, controlling the spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30 to a suitable state for monitoring.

[0150] When the information acquisition device 4 receives the second trigger signal, it starts acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3 and generates a data file (S43).

[0151] Next, the information control device 201 centrally controls the machine tool 2 and acquires current value and / or temperature data from the sensor 31 of the machine tool 2, as well as rotational speed data from the sensor 32 of the machine tool 2 (S44).

[0152] Next, the information gathering device 4 transfers the generated data file to the information management device 201 (S45).

[0153] Next, the information acquisition device 4 transmits a data acquisition completion signal to the machine tool 2 (S46).

[0154] Next, the information management device 201 transmits the data file transferred from the information collection device 4 and the summary data regarding current values ​​and / or temperature and rotational speed transferred from the machine tool 2 to the information processing device 6 (S47).

[0155] Next, the information processing device 6 generates a diagnostic result file based on the acquired (received) data file and summary data, and saves the generated diagnostic result file to storage (S48).

[0156] Next, the display terminal reads and displays the diagnostic result file stored in the storage, making it available for the user to view (S49).

[0157] Next, the operation of the machine equipment monitoring system 200 according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 13. Figure 13 shows a case where the information control device 201 acquires current value and temperature data, but does not acquire rotational speed data. Also, Figure 13 shows a case where only the ball screw 28 of the X table 21 is operating.

[0158] At time t411, the information control unit 201 transmits a trigger signal (three arrows extending diagonally downwards to the right) to the machine tool 2 and the information collection device 4.

[0159] At time t412, the machine tool 2 receives a trigger signal from the information control unit 201, causing the sensor 31 to begin acquiring current and temperature data. Subsequently, the information control unit 201 acquires current and temperature data from the machine tool 2 (sensor 31). Also at time t412, the information collection device 4 receives a trigger signal from the information control unit 201, causing it to begin acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3.

[0160] At time t413, the ball screw 28 of the X table 21 of the machine tool 2 begins translational motion (one round trip motion consisting of one forward movement and one return movement).

[0161] At time t414, the ball screw 28 of the X table 21 of the machine tool 2 completes its translational motion (one reciprocating motion). Also at time t414, the information control unit 201 completes the acquisition of current value and temperature data from sensor 31. Furthermore, at time t414, the information collection device 4 completes the acquisition of vibration information data from sensor 3, generates a data file based on the acquired vibration information data, and transfers the generated data file to the information control unit 201.

[0162] At time t415, the information management device 201 starts a data integration process to combine the summary data regarding current values ​​and temperature acquired from the sensor 31 with the data file acquired from the information collection device 4. In the data integration process, the summary data and the data file are synchronized based on the time information of the summary data and the time information of the data file.

[0163] At time t416, the information management device 201 completes the data integration process and transfers the data file and summary data integrated by the data integration process to the information processing device 6.

[0164] At time t417, the information processing device 6 starts the diagnostic process based on the acquired data file and summary data.

[0165] At time t418, the information processing device 6 terminates the diagnostic process.

[0166] Thus, according to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment described above, the machine tool 2 can be diagnosed using vibration information data and overall data (current value, temperature, and rotational speed data) from the data file, thus enabling a more accurate diagnosis. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the detection data from sensor 3, sensor 31, and sensor 32 can be integrated by the information integration device 201 and then transmitted to the network 5 and information processing device 6 via a single transmission line, which is advantageous in terms of data transmission efficiency and security.

[0167] In this embodiment, the machine equipment monitoring system 200 includes the machine tool 2, but the machine equipment monitoring system does not necessarily have to include the machine tool 2. If the machine equipment monitoring system does not include the machine tool 2, sensors 31 and 32 are provided outside the machine tool 2.

[0168] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information management device 201 acquired data on current value, temperature, and rotational speed, but it may acquire at least one of the data on current value, temperature, and rotational speed.

[0169] (Seventh Embodiment) In this embodiment, an acceleration sensor and other sensors are used to diagnose abnormalities in the machine tool 2. In this embodiment, data integration is performed by the information gathering device 4.

[0170] <Configuration of the Mechanical Equipment Monitoring System> The configuration of the machinery and equipment monitoring system 300 according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to Figure 14. Note that parts in Figure 14 that are identical in configuration to those in Figure 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0171] The machine equipment monitoring system 300 includes a machine tool 2, sensors 3a, 3b, 3c, and 3d, an information collection device 4, an information processing device 6, and an information management device 201.

[0172] The machine tool 2 includes a control unit 19, a communication unit 20, an X table 21, a Y table 22, a Z table 23, a spindle 24, a linear guide 25, a linear guide 26, a linear guide 27, a ball screw 28, a ball screw 29, a ball screw 30, a sensor 31, and a sensor 32.

[0173] Sensor 31a is provided on or near the body of the linear guide 25 and the ball screw 28. Sensor 31a is a current sensor that detects current values ​​or a temperature sensor that detects temperature. Sensor 31a may also be a sensor capable of detecting both current values ​​and temperature (in this case, two sensors 31a may be provided, with one sensor 31a detecting current values ​​and the other sensor 31a detecting temperature). Sensor 31b is provided on or near the body of the linear guide 26 and the ball screw 29. Sensor 31b is a current sensor that detects current values ​​or a temperature sensor that detects temperature. Sensor 31b may also be a sensor capable of detecting both current values ​​and temperature (in this case, two sensors 31a may be provided, with one sensor 31a detecting current values ​​and the other sensor 31a detecting temperature). Sensor 31c is provided on or near the body of the linear guide 27 and the ball screw 30. Sensor 31c is a current sensor that detects current values ​​or a temperature sensor that detects temperature. Sensor 31c may be a sensor capable of detecting current and temperature (in this case, two sensors 31a may be provided, with one sensor 31a detecting the current and the other sensor 31a detecting the temperature). Sensors 31a, 31b, and 31c output the detected current and / or temperature data to the information control device 201. In the following description, sensors 31a, 31b, and 31c may be referred to as sensor 31.

[0174] The sensor 32 is located on or near the spindle 24. The sensor 32 is a rotational speed sensor that detects the rotational speed of the spindle 24. The sensor 32 outputs the detected rotational speed data to the information control unit 201.

[0175] The information control device 201 is, for example, a PLC. The information control device 201 acquires current value and / or temperature data from sensor 31 and rotational speed data from sensor 32 by centrally controlling the machine tool 2. The information control device 201 transmits the acquired centralized data regarding current value and / or temperature and rotational speed to the information collection device 4.

[0176] The information collection device 4 is connected to the information processing device 6 via the network 5. The information collection device 4 is equipped with a timer that transmits time information. The information collection device 4 generates a data file based on vibration information data acquired from the sensor 3 and adds time information to the generated data file. The information collection device 4 adds time information to the integrated data received from the information integration device 201. The information collection device 4 transmits the received integrated data (including time information) and the generated data file (including time information) to the information processing device 6 via the network 5.

[0177] When the information processing device 6 receives data files and summary data from the information collection device 4 via the network 5, it executes a diagnostic program stored in the information processing device 6 and generates a diagnostic result file based on the data files and summary data.

[0178] <Operation of the Machinery and Equipment Monitoring System> The operation of the machinery and equipment monitoring system 300 according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to Figures 15 and 16.

[0179] First, the information control unit 201 transmits a first trigger signal to the machine tool 2 (S51) and a second trigger signal to the information collection device 4 (S52). When the machine tool 2 receives the first trigger signal, the control unit 19 of the machine tool 2 starts a condition monitoring and diagnosis cycle and begins executing the condition monitoring and diagnosis process, controlling the spindle 24, linear guide 25, linear guide 26, linear guide 27, ball screw 28, ball screw 29, and ball screw 30 to a suitable state for monitoring.

[0180] When the information acquisition device 4 receives the second trigger signal, it starts acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3 and generates a data file (S53).

[0181] Next, the information control device 201 centrally controls the machine tool 2 and acquires current value and / or temperature data from the sensor 31 of the machine tool 2, as well as rotational speed data from the sensor 32 of the machine tool 2 (S54).

[0182] Next, the information management device 201 transfers the acquired current value and / or temperature data and the overall data regarding rotational speed to the information collection device 4 (S55).

[0183] After the information acquisition device 4 has finished acquiring vibration information data, it transmits a data acquisition completion signal to the machine tool 2 (S56).

[0184] Next, the information gathering device 4 transmits the generated data file and the integrated data transferred from the information integration device 201 to the information processing device 6 (S57).

[0185] Next, the information processing device 6 generates a diagnostic result file based on the received (acquired) data file and summary data, and saves the generated diagnostic result file to storage (S58).

[0186] Next, the display terminal reads the diagnostic result file stored in the storage and displays it, making the user able to view the diagnostic result file (S59).

[0187] Next, the operation of the machine equipment monitoring system 300 according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 16. Figure 16 shows a case where the information control device 201 acquires current value and temperature data, but does not acquire rotational speed data. Also, Figure 16 shows a case where only the ball screw 28 of the X table 21 is operating.

[0188] At time t511, the information control unit 201 transmits a trigger signal (three arrows extending diagonally downwards to the right) to the machine tool 2 and the information collection device 4.

[0189] At time t512, the machine tool 2 receives a trigger signal from the information control unit 201, causing the sensor 31 to begin acquiring current and temperature data. Subsequently, the information collection device 201 acquires current and temperature data from the machine tool 2 (sensor 31). Also at time t512, the information collection device 4 receives a trigger signal from the information control unit 201, causing it to begin acquiring vibration information data from the sensor 3.

[0190] At time t513, the ball screw 28 of the X table 21 of the machine tool 2 begins translational motion (one round trip motion consisting of one forward movement and one return movement).

[0191] At time t514, the ball screw 28 of the X table 21 of the machine tool 2 completes its translational motion (one reciprocating motion). Also at time t514, the information management device 201 completes the acquisition of current value and temperature data from sensor 31 and transfers the acquired summary data regarding current value and temperature to the information collection device 4. Furthermore, at time t514, the information collection device 4 completes the acquisition of vibration information data from sensor 3 and generates a data file.

[0192] At time t515, the information acquisition device 4 starts a data integration process to integrate the integrated data acquired from the information management device 201 with the data file generated by the information acquisition device 4. In the data integration process, the integrated data and the data file are synchronized based on the time information of the integrated data and the time information of the data file.

[0193] At time t516, the information gathering device 4 completes the data integration process and transfers the data file and summary data integrated by the data integration process to the information processing device 6.

[0194] At time t517, the information processing device 6 starts diagnostic processing based on the acquired data file and summary data.

[0195] At time t518, the information processing device 6 terminates the diagnostic process.

[0196] Thus, according to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment described above, the machine tool 2 can be diagnosed using vibration information data and overall data (current value, temperature, and rotational speed data) from the data file, thus enabling a more accurate diagnosis. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the detection data from sensor 3, sensor 31, and sensor 32 can be integrated by the information acquisition device 4 and then transmitted to the network 5 and information processing device 6 via a single transmission line, which is advantageous in terms of data transmission efficiency and security.

[0197] In this embodiment, the machine equipment monitoring system 300 includes the machine tool 2, but the machine equipment monitoring system does not necessarily have to include the machine tool 2. If the machine equipment monitoring system does not include the machine tool 2, sensors 31 and 32 are provided outside the machine tool 2.

[0198] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information management device 201 acquired data on current value, temperature, and rotational speed, but it may acquire at least one of the data on current value, temperature, and rotational speed.

[0199] In the first to seventh embodiments described above, the spindle 24, linear guides 25-27, and ball screws 28-30 were diagnosed, but the objects of diagnosis are not limited to these. For example, actuators other than the spindle 24, linear guides 25-27, and ball screws 28-30 can be diagnosed.

[0200] Furthermore, in the first to seventh embodiments described above, the vibration, current value, temperature, and rotational speed of the actuator were detected by sensors 3, 31, and 32. However, other sensors besides sensors 3, 31, and 32 may be used to detect the operating status of the actuator other than vibration, current value, temperature, and rotational speed, and this information may be used for diagnosing the machine tool 2 (machinery equipment).

[0201] Furthermore, the first to seventh embodiments described above may be combined as appropriate, provided they do not contradict each other. For example, the machine equipment monitoring system 100 in Figure 9 may be equipped with sensors 31 (31a to 31c) and 32, and an information management device 201. In this case, the information collection device 104 diagnoses and monitors the machine tool 2 based on the detection data from sensors 3, 31, and 32.

[0202] Although specific embodiments are described above, these embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Apparatuses and methods described herein can be embodied in forms other than those described above. Furthermore, the embodiments described above can be omitted, substituted, and modified as appropriate without departing from the scope of the present invention. Such omitted, substituted, and modified forms fall within the scope of the claims and their equivalents and are within the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0203] 1. Mechanical Equipment Monitoring System 2 Machine tools 3. Sensor (1st sensor) 4. Information gathering device 5 Network 6. Information Processing Device 19 Control Unit 20 Communications Department 21 X Table 22 Y-table 23 Z Table 24 spindles 24a Bearing 25 Linear Guide 26 Linear Guide 27 Linear Guide 28 Ball screw 29 Ball screw 30 Ball Screw 31 Sensor (Second Sensor) 32 Sensor (Third Sensor) 100 Machinery and Equipment Monitoring System 104 Information gathering device 105 Servers

Claims

1. Sensors and, A mechanical device comprising an actuator and a communication unit that transmits a trigger signal for detecting the operating state of the actuator using the sensor, An information collection device that, after receiving the trigger signal from the communication unit, collects operating status data indicating the operating status detected by the sensor from the sensor, An information processing device that monitors the actuator based on the operating status data collected by the information collection device, A mechanical equipment monitoring system having, The aforementioned machinery and equipment are After the communication unit transmits the trigger signal, the control unit controls the actuator so that the operating state of the actuator is in a state suitable for detection by the sensor, The information collection device collects the operating status data from the sensor after the control unit starts the control, The aforementioned machinery and equipment are The actuator comprises multiple types, The control unit, A mechanical equipment monitoring system that controls only one of several types of actuators to be in the desired state, and controls the operation of all actuators except the one actuator to stop their operation.

2. The aforementioned preferred state is The actuator operates at a constant speed for a predetermined period of time; the actuator accelerates from a stop, operates at a constant speed, then decelerates and comes to a stop; the amount of fluctuation in the load applied to the actuator is less than or equal to a predetermined value; or the amount of fluctuation in the temperature of the actuator is less than or equal to a predetermined value. The machine equipment monitoring system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned information gathering device is Upon completion of collecting the aforementioned operating status data, a completion notification is sent to the machine equipment. The aforementioned communications unit is Upon receiving the aforementioned completion notification, The control unit, When the communication unit receives the completion notification, it stops controlling the actuator to reach the desired state. The machine equipment monitoring system according to claim 1.

4. The control unit, After a predetermined time has elapsed from the time control is initiated to achieve the desired state, the actuator stops controlling to achieve the desired state. The machine equipment monitoring system according to claim 1.

5. The actuator is Including at least one of a bearing, a ball screw, and a linear guide, The machine equipment monitoring system according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned communications unit is During a machining operation using the actuator, the trigger signal is transmitted when the actuator reaches the preferred state. A machine equipment monitoring system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

7. The system includes a storage device for storing the monitoring results of the actuator by the information processing device. A machine equipment monitoring system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

8. The mechanical equipment monitoring system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the sensor is an acceleration sensor that detects vibrations of the actuator, and the operating state data is vibration data of the actuator.

9. A sensor and, A mechanical device comprising an actuator and a communication unit that transmits a trigger signal for detecting the operating state of the actuator using the sensor, An information collection device that, after receiving the trigger signal from the communication unit, collects operating status data indicating the operating status detected by the sensor from the sensor, An information processing device that monitors the actuator based on the operating status data collected by the information collection device, A mechanical equipment monitoring system having, The aforementioned machinery and equipment are After the communication unit transmits the trigger signal, the control unit controls the actuator so that the operating state of the actuator is in a state suitable for detection by the sensor, The information collection device collects the operating status data from the sensor after the control unit starts the control, The sensor is a first sensor that detects vibrations of the actuator, The aforementioned mechanical equipment monitoring system is A second sensor for detecting the current value and / or temperature of the actuator, An information management device that acquires detection data from the second sensor, It further possesses, The information management device acquires the detection data of the first sensor from the information collection device, and transmits the detection data of the first sensor and the detection data of the second sensor to the information processing device in time synchronization. The information processing device is a mechanical equipment monitoring system that monitors the actuator based on the detection data of the first sensor and the detection data of the second sensor.

10. The aforementioned mechanical equipment monitoring system further includes a third sensor for detecting the rotational speed of the actuator, The information management device acquires the detection data from the third sensor, and transmits the detection data from the first sensor, the detection data from the second sensor, and the detection data from the third sensor to the information processing device in a time-synchronized manner. The mechanical equipment monitoring system according to claim 9, wherein the information processing device monitors the actuator based on the detection data of the first sensor, the detection data of the second sensor, and the detection data of the third sensor.

11. The sensor is a first sensor that detects vibrations of the actuator, The aforementioned mechanical equipment monitoring system is A second sensor for detecting the current value and / or temperature of the actuator, An information management device that acquires detection data from the second sensor, It further possesses, The information gathering device acquires the detection data of the second sensor from the information management device, and transmits the detection data of the first sensor and the detection data of the second sensor to the information processing device in time synchronization. The mechanical equipment monitoring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the information processing device monitors the actuator based on the detection data of the first sensor and the detection data of the second sensor.

12. The aforementioned mechanical equipment monitoring system further includes a third sensor for detecting the rotational speed of the actuator, The information management device acquires the detection data from the third sensor, synchronizes the detection data from the second sensor and the detection data from the third sensor with the time, and transmits them to the information collection device. The information gathering device transmits the detection data from the first sensor, the detection data from the second sensor, and the detection data from the third sensor to the information processing device in a time-synchronized manner. The mechanical equipment monitoring system according to claim 9, wherein the information processing device monitors the actuator based on the detection data of the first sensor, the detection data of the second sensor, and the detection data of the third sensor.

13. A method for monitoring mechanical equipment in a mechanical equipment monitoring system comprising a sensor, an actuator and a communication unit, an information collection device and an information processing device, A signal transmission step in which the communication unit transmits a trigger signal to the information collection device for detecting the operating state of the actuator using the sensor, After the information collection device receives the trigger signal, it collects operating status data indicating the operating status detected by the sensor from the sensor in a data collection step, A monitoring step in which the information processing device monitors the actuator based on the operating status data collected by the information collection device, A method for monitoring mechanical equipment, comprising: The aforementioned machinery and equipment includes a control unit, The machine equipment monitoring method further includes a control step in which the control unit controls the actuator so that the operating state of the actuator becomes suitable for detection by the sensor after the communication unit transmits the trigger signal, The data acquisition step is performed after the start of the control step. The control step is, A method for monitoring mechanical equipment, wherein the control unit of the mechanical equipment, which is equipped with multiple types of actuators, controls only one of the multiple types of actuators to be in the preferred state, and controls the operation of the actuators other than the one actuator to stop.

14. The aforementioned preferred state is The actuator operates at a constant speed for a predetermined period of time; the actuator accelerates from a stop, operates at a constant speed, then decelerates and comes to a stop; the amount of fluctuation in the load applied to the actuator is less than or equal to a predetermined value; or the amount of fluctuation in the temperature of the actuator is less than or equal to a predetermined value. The method for monitoring machinery and equipment according to claim 13.

15. A notification transmission step in which the information collection device transmits a completion notification to the machinery when it has completed the collection of the operating status data, The communication unit receives the completion notification in a receiving step, A stop step in which, upon receiving the completion notification from the communication unit, the control unit stops controlling the actuator to reach the desired state, The mechanical equipment monitoring method according to claim 13, further comprising:

16. The control further includes a stop step in which, after a predetermined time has elapsed from the time the control unit starts controlling the actuator to reach the desired state, the control unit stops controlling the actuator to reach the desired state. The method for monitoring machinery and equipment according to claim 13.

17. The actuator is Including at least one of a bearing, a ball screw, and a linear guide, The method for monitoring machinery and equipment according to claim 13.

18. The signal transmission step is, When the machine equipment is performing a machining operation using the actuator and the actuator reaches the desired state, the communication unit transmits the trigger signal to the information gathering device. The method for monitoring machinery and equipment according to claim 13 or claim 14.

19. The system includes a storage step of storing the monitoring results of the actuator by the information processing device in a storage device. The method for monitoring machinery and equipment according to claim 13 or claim 14.

20. The mechanical equipment monitoring method according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the sensor is an acceleration sensor that detects vibrations of the actuator, and the operating state data is vibration data of the actuator.

21. A method for monitoring mechanical equipment in a mechanical equipment monitoring system comprising a sensor, an actuator and a communication unit, an information collection device and an information processing device, A signal transmission step in which the communication unit transmits a trigger signal to the information collection device for detecting the operating state of the actuator using the sensor, After the information collection device receives the trigger signal, it collects operating status data indicating the operating status detected by the sensor from the sensor in a data collection step, A monitoring step in which the information processing device monitors the actuator based on the operating status data collected by the information collection device, A method for monitoring mechanical equipment, comprising: The aforementioned machinery and equipment includes a control unit, The machine equipment monitoring method further includes a control step in which the control unit controls the actuator so that the operating state of the actuator becomes suitable for detection by the sensor after the communication unit transmits the trigger signal, The data acquisition step is performed after the start of the control step. The sensor is a first sensor that detects vibrations of the actuator, The aforementioned mechanical equipment monitoring system is A second sensor for detecting the current value and / or temperature of the actuator, An information management device that acquires detection data from the second sensor, It further possesses, The aforementioned mechanical equipment monitoring method is, The information management device performs an acquisition step of acquiring detection data from the first sensor from the information collection device, The information management device performs a data transmission step in which it transmits the detection data from the first sensor and the detection data from the second sensor to the information processing device in a time-synchronized manner. It further possesses, A method for monitoring mechanical equipment, wherein in the monitoring step, the information processing device monitors the actuator based on the detection data of the first sensor and the detection data of the second sensor.

22. The aforementioned mechanical equipment monitoring system further includes a third sensor for detecting the rotational speed of the actuator, The acquisition step described above is: The information management device acquires the detection data from the third sensor, The aforementioned data transmission step is: The detection data from the first sensor, the detection data from the second sensor, and the detection data from the third sensor are transmitted to the information processing device in a time-synchronized manner. The mechanical equipment monitoring method according to claim 21, wherein in the monitoring step, the information processing device monitors the actuator based on the detection data of the first sensor, the detection data of the second sensor, and the detection data of the third sensor.

23. The sensor is a first sensor that detects vibrations of the actuator, The aforementioned mechanical equipment monitoring system is A second sensor for detecting the current value and / or temperature of the actuator, An information management device that acquires detection data from the second sensor, It further possesses, The aforementioned mechanical equipment monitoring method is, The information gathering device performs an acquisition step of acquiring detection data from the second sensor from the information management device, A data transmission step of transmitting the detection data from the first sensor and the detection data from the second sensor to the information processing device in time synchronization, It further possesses, The mechanical equipment monitoring method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein in the monitoring step, the information processing device monitors the actuator based on the detection data of the first sensor and the detection data of the second sensor.

24. The aforementioned mechanical equipment monitoring system further includes a third sensor for detecting the rotational speed of the actuator, The acquisition step described above is: The information management device acquires the detection data from the third sensor, The aforementioned data transmission step is: The information management device transmits the detection data of the second sensor and the detection data of the third sensor to the information collection device, and the information collection device transmits the detection data of the first sensor, the detection data of the second sensor, and the detection data of the third sensor to the information processing device in a time-synchronized manner. The mechanical equipment monitoring method according to claim 23, wherein in the monitoring step, the information processing device monitors the actuator based on the detection data of the first sensor, the detection data of the second sensor, and the detection data of the third sensor.

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