Information processing device and information processing method

Abstract

The present invention provides an information processing device and information processing method that can shorten the time required to create a processing program. [Solution] The information processing device includes shape recognition means for recognizing features of a 3D model from a file of the 3D model that has been taken in; machining cycle generation means for generating machining cycles for the recognized features; display control means for displaying the generated machining cycles on a display; reception means for receiving a first input for selecting the displayed machining cycle; and program generation means for generating a machining program for executing the selected machining cycle on a machine tool.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus and an information processing method. [Background Art]

[0002] Conventionally, as disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2023-98544 (Patent Document 1), it is known to generate a machining program used in a machine tool using Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and software called a post-processor. Specifically, CAM generates a tool path based on a three-dimensional model created by Computer Aided Design (CAD). A post-processor generates the machining program based on the tool path. [Prior Art Document] [Patent Document]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2023-98544 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] It takes a lot of time to create a machining program for a machine tool. The present disclosure provides an information processing apparatus and an information processing method capable of shortening the creation time of a machining program. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0005] According to a part of this disclosure, the information processing device includes shape recognition means for recognizing features of a 3D model from a file of the 3D model that has been taken in; machining cycle generation means for generating machining cycles for the recognized features; display control means for displaying the generated machining cycles on a display; receiving means for receiving a first input for selecting the displayed machining cycles; and program generation means for generating a machining program for executing the selected machining cycles on a machine tool.

[0006] In accordance with other aspects of this disclosure, the information processing method comprises the steps of: recognizing features of a 3D model from a file of the captured 3D model; generating machining cycles for the recognized features; displaying the generated machining cycles on a display; receiving input to select a displayed machining cycle; and generating a machining program to execute the selected machining cycle on a machine tool. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, the time required to create processing programs can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of the processing system. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows the machining chamber of a machine tool. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the information processing device. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the first half of the processing performed by the information processing device. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the latter half of the processing performed by the information processing device. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the information processing device. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the process in step S3 of Figure 4. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S4 in FIG. 4. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S5 in FIG. 4. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S6 in FIG. 4. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S7 in FIG. 4. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S8 in FIG. 4. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a machining area. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S10 in FIG. 4. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a state where a pull-down menu of an image object shown in FIG. 14 is expanded. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S11 in FIG. 4. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S12 in FIG. 4. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram for further explaining the processing of step S11 in FIG. 4. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram for further explaining the processing of step S12 in FIG. 4. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S16 in FIG. 5. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining a screen displayed when an image object is selected in FIG. 20. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a screen displayed when a predetermined image object is selected in FIG. 20. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S19 in FIG. 5. [Figure 24]FIG. 24 is a diagram for further explaining the processing of step S19 in FIG. 5. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S21 in FIG. 6. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S22 in FIG. 6. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining an operator operation. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a window immediately after an image object is selected. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated.

[0010] <A. System Overview> FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of a machining system according to the present embodiment. A machining system 1000 includes a machine tool 900 and an information processing apparatus 1. Although FIG. 1 illustrates only one machine tool 900, the present invention is not limited thereto (see FIG. 3).

[0011] The machine tool 900 is a 5-axis multi-tasking machine. The machine tool 900 includes a main body 910 and two doors 921 and 922. The doors 921 and 922 cover an opening of the main body 910. When the doors 921 and 922 are opened, an operator can access a machining chamber inside the main body 910. The machine tool 900 is not limited to a 5-axis multi-tasking machine.

[0012] The information processing device 1 is communicably connected to a machine tool 900. The information processing device 1 comprises a main body 2, a display 3, and an operating device 4. The operating device 4 includes not only a keyboard but also various input devices such as a mouse, a touchpad, and the like. The operating device 4 receives various operator operations described later.

[0013] As will be described in detail later, the information processing device 1 generates a machining program to be executed by the machine tool 900. Specifically, in this example, the information processing device 1 generates an NC (Numerical Control) program serving as the machining program. The information processing device 1 transmits the generated NC program to the machine tool 900 or the like.

[0014] In this example, when the machine tool is viewed from the front, the left-right direction is defined as the "Z-axis direction". The direction from left to right is defined as the "positive Z-axis direction". The direction from right to left is defined as the "negative Z-axis direction". When the machine tool is viewed from the front, the up-down direction is defined as the "X-axis direction". The direction from bottom to top is defined as the "positive X-axis direction". The direction from top to bottom is defined as the "negative X-axis direction". The direction orthogonal to both the Z-axis and the X-axis is defined as the "Y-axis direction". When the machine tool is viewed from the front, the direction from the back to the front is defined as the "positive Y-axis direction". The direction from the front to the back is defined as the "negative Y-axis direction".

[0015] <B. Hardware Configuration of Machine Tool> Figure 2 is a diagram showing the inside of a machining chamber 990 of the machine tool 900. As shown in Figure 2, the machine tool 900 includes, within the machining chamber 990, a tool spindle 930, a first workpiece spindle 940, a second workpiece spindle 950, and a tool post 960. The machine tool 900 further comprises an automatic tool changer (ATC: Automatic Tool Changer) not shown in the figure.

[0016] A tool T is attached to the tool spindle 930. A plurality of tools are attached to the tool post 960. In the present example, the tool spindle 930 is a turn-mill spindle. When processing a material (workpiece) using the tool T attached to the tool spindle 930, the tool T is rotated at a predetermined speed. When processing the material using a tool attached to the tool post 960, the material is rotated at a predetermined speed.

[0017] A material (workpiece) to be processed is attached to the first workpiece spindle 940 and the second workpiece spindle 950. The first workpiece spindle 940 rotates about an axis J1 parallel to the Z-axis as its rotation center. The second workpiece spindle 950 rotates about an axis J2 parallel to the Z-axis as its rotation center. The axis J1 and the axis J2 have the same X-coordinate value and the same Y-coordinate value.

[0018] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, a case where the information processing apparatus 1 creates an NC program including: (i) a step of processing a material in a state where the material is attached to the first workpiece spindle 940; (ii) a step of subsequently transferring the material to the second workpiece spindle 950; and (iii) a step of processing the material in a state where the material is attached to the second workpiece spindle 950 will be described as an example.

[0019] <C. Hardware Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus> Figure 3 is a diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 1. As shown in Figure 3, in addition to the display 3 and the operating device 4 described above, the information processing apparatus 1 further comprises a processor 5, a memory 6, and a communication interface 7.

[0020] Memory 6 has the following installed in an executable state: computer-aided design (CAD) software (CAD11), NC program generation software 12, and second simulation software 13. Memory 6 also stores the tool database 14 and the machining condition database 15. The NC program generation software 12 includes computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software (CAM21), a post-processor 22, and first simulation software 23.

[0021] The information processing device 1 can communicate with the machine tool 900 via the communication interface 7. The information processing device 1 can also communicate with other machine tools 900A and 900B within the machining system 1000 via the communication interface 7.

[0022] The tool database (DB14) pre-stores information on tools usable with each machine tool (900, 900A, 900B). For example, the tool database (DB14) stores information on tools that can be mounted on the spindle (930) of machine tool (900) and information on tools that can be mounted on the tool post (960) of machine tool (900). The tool information includes the tool type, tool diameter, and tool length.

[0023] The machining conditions database DB15 stores machining conditions for each machine tool (900, 900A, 900B) and each tool. Machining conditions include cutting width, cutting depth, feed rate, and rotational speed.

[0024] The processor 5 executes each software in the memory 6 based on operator input via the control device 4. The processor 5 displays the execution results on the display 3. The processor 5 generates NC programs for each machine tool. The processor 5 transmits the generated NC programs to the target machine tool via the communication interface 7. The following describes the phase in which the processor 5 generates an NC program for the machine tool 900.

[0025] <D. Control Structure of Information Processing Apparatus> Figures 4 and 5 are flowcharts showing the flow of processing executed by the information processing apparatus 1. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the first half of the processing. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the second half of the processing.

[0026] Each processing from step S1 to step S12 in Figure 4 and each processing from step S13 to step S21 in Figure 5 is implemented by the processor 5 executing NC program generation software 12. The processing of step S22 in Figure 5 is implemented by the processor 5 executing second simulation software 13.

[0027] Note that examples of screens displayed on the display 3 based on the respective processing of steps S3 to S8, steps S10 to S12, step S16, step S19, and steps S21 to S22 will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 26.

[0028] As shown in Figure 4, in step S1, a 3D (Dimension) model file is imported. Specifically, the processor 5 imports the 3D model file created by CAD 11 into the NC program generation software 12. In the present example, said import is performed by an operator selecting a desired 3D model file from one or more 3D model files displayed on the display 3 using the operating device 4.

[0029] In step S2, feature recognition is performed. Specifically, the processor 5 recognizes features of a 3D model (hereinafter also referred to as a "product model") from the imported 3D model file. More specifically, the processor 5 classifies processing target locations into predetermined features.

[0030] In this example, the predetermined features are managed as groups. Examples of feature groups include turns, planes, sides, grooves, pockets, holes, and stepped holes. The turns group includes three features: turned holes, general-purpose grooves, and square grooves. The planes group includes two features: rectangular regions and circles. The sides group includes two features: straight lines and arbitrary contours. The grooves group includes two features: circles and straight lines. The pockets group includes four features: arbitrary contours, squares, keyways, and circles. The holes group includes a circular feature. The stepped holes group includes a circular feature.

[0031] Since feature names may overlap between groups, the screen examples described later will display each feature with both the "group name" and the "feature name". For example, to show a general-purpose feature from the turning group, the display screen will show "Turning-General Purpose".

[0032] In step S3, the product model is displayed based on the imported 3D model file. Specifically, the processor 5 displays the 3D model on the display 3 at a predetermined tilt and position. In step S4, the product shape is set. Specifically, the processor 5 sets the tilt and position of the 3D model based on the operator's input. More specifically, the machining origin and axial direction are set.

[0033] In step S5, the product model display is updated. Specifically, the processor 5 updates the display of the 3D model based on the settings for the tilt and position of the 3D model. In step S6, the material to be processed is set. Specifically, the processor 5 sets the material, shape, and dimensions of the material (workpiece) based on the operator's input. In step S7, a 3D model representing the set material (hereinafter also referred to as the "material model") is displayed. Specifically, the processor 5 displays the set material model on the display 3 in a manner overlaid on the product model.

[0034] In step S8, the machining area is set. Specifically, the processor 5 sets the machining area for machining with the material attached to the first work spindle 940 and the machining area for machining with the material attached to the second work spindle 950. In step S9, a machining cycle is generated. Specifically, the processor 5 generates a machining cycle for each recognized feature. At that time, the processor 5 refers to the tool DB 14 and the machining condition DB 15 to further set the tool and machining conditions.

[0035] For example, the aforementioned feature "Turning - General Purpose" has three machining cycles pre-assigned: "General Purpose - End Face," "General Purpose - Outer Diameter," and "General Purpose - Inner Diameter." Therefore, processor 5 generates these three machining cycles for the recognized feature "Turning - General Purpose."

[0036] In step S10, the feature tree is displayed. Specifically, the processor 5 displays each recognized feature and its machining cycle on the display 3. More specifically, the processor 5 displays multiple machining cycles grouped by feature.

[0037] In step S11, a machining cycle is selected (provisional selection and final selection). Specifically, the information processing device 1 receives operator input to provisionally select and final select one or more machining cycles to be machined from a plurality of machining cycles displayed in a tree format (hierarchical structure format). Typically, the processor 5 receives input to provisionally select a machining cycle, and then receives input to final select a machining cycle.

[0038] In step S12, the display method (color in this example) of the selected area is changed. Specifically, the processor 5 displays the location of the feature corresponding to the selected (tentatively selected / final selected) machining cycle on the display 3 in a predetermined manner. More specifically, the processor 5 displays the location of the feature corresponding to the tentatively selected machining cycle in a first color (for example, blue). After the tentative selection is finalized, the processor 5 displays the location of the feature in a second color (for example, green).

[0039] As shown in Figure 5, in step S13, the machining cycle is registered. Specifically, the processor 5 registers the selected machining cycle with the cycle manager that manages the process display, based on the operator's operation. In step S14, the order of the machining cycles is set. The processor 5 sets the execution order of the registered machining cycles based on a predetermined algorithm. The processor 5 sets the execution order of the machining cycles in order of predetermined priority.

[0040] In step S15, the order of machining operations is set. Specifically, the processor 5 sets the execution order of machining operations (e.g., roughing, finishing) included in each machining cycle using a predetermined algorithm based on the order of the machining cycle.

[0041] In step S16, the execution order of the machining cycle and the execution order of the machining operations are displayed on the display 3. Specifically, the processor 5 displays the machining cycle (image object) based on the order, and also displays the machining operations in the display area of ​​the machining system (first system) using the tool spindle 930. More specifically, the processor 5 displays the machining operations in a predetermined display area of ​​a predetermined display window displayed on the display 3.

[0042] In step S17, a change in the order of the machining cycle is accepted. Specifically, the information processing device 1 accepts an operator operation to change the execution order of the registered machining cycles. The processor 5 accepts input based on the operator operation. If a change in order is not required, step S17 is not performed. In step S18, a change in the order of the machining operations is accepted. Specifically, the information processing device 1 accepts a user operation to change the execution order of the machining operations. The processor 5 accepts input based on the operator operation. If a change in order is not required, step S18 is not performed.

[0043] In step S19, the system change of the machining operation is accepted. Specifically, when the information processing device 1 receives an operator operation to move a desired machining operation (image object) to the display area of ​​the machining system (second system) using the tool post 960, it sets the moved machining operation to be executed by the tool post 960 in a machining cycle. The processor 5 receives input based on the operator operation. The display area of ​​the machining system using the tool post 960 is included in the display window that also includes the display area of ​​the machining system using the tool spindle 930. If a change in order is not required, step S19 is not performed.

[0044] In step S20, the NC program is generated. Specifically, the processor 5 generates the NC program based on the configured machining operation. More specifically, the processor 5 generates the toolpath using CAM 21, and then generates the NC program using the post-processor 22.

[0045] In step S21, a first simulation is executed. Specifically, the processor 5 executes the first simulation using first simulation software 23 within NC program generation software 12. The first simulation is a simulation that focuses only on the workpiece to be machined and the tool that machines the workpiece among the plurality of members present in the machining chamber 990 of the machine tool 900. No interference check is performed in the first simulation. The processor 5 displays the execution result as a moving image on the display 3. Note that "interference check" refers to detecting an interference state in which a plurality of members (parts, structures, etc.) overlap (collide) with each other prior to actual machining.

[0046] In step S22, a second simulation is executed. Specifically, the processor 5 passes the generated NC program to second simulation software 13 external to the NC program generation software 12, and executes the second simulation including interference check. The processor 5 displays the execution result as a moving image on the display 3. In terms of performing interference check, the second simulation is a more detailed simulation than the first simulation.

[0047] <E. Functional Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus> Figure 6 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the information processing apparatus 1. As shown in Figure 6, a functional block group 30 of the information processing apparatus 1 includes an input reception unit 31 and a display control unit 32.

[0048] The functional block group 30 further includes a file import unit 33, a shape recognition unit 34, a product shape setting unit 35, a material setting unit 36, a machining area setting unit 37, a machining cycle generation unit 38, a machining cycle registration unit 39, a cycle sequence setting unit 40, an operation sequence setting unit 41, a system setting unit 42, an NC program generation unit 43, and a first simulation unit 44, each of which is realized by the processor 5 executing the NC program generation software 12. The product shape setting unit 35 has a machining origin setting unit 51. The functional block group 30 further includes a second simulation unit 45, which is realized by the processor 5 executing the first simulation software 23. Each functional block will be described below.

[0049] The input receiving unit 31 receives various inputs based on operator operations to the operating device 4. The input receiving unit 31 receives, for example, the input for setting the product shape shown in step S4 of Figure 4 and the input for setting the material shown in step S6. The input for setting the product shape includes an input for specifying the processing origin. The input for setting the material includes an input for specifying the material of the material to be processed, the shape of the material, and the dimensions of the material. The input receiving unit 31 further receives the inputs for the provisional selection and final selection of the processing cycle shown in step S11. The input receiving unit 31 further receives inputs based on operator operations shown in steps S17 to S19.

[0050] The display control unit 32 controls the display on the display 3. The display control unit 32 causes various images to be displayed on the display 3. The display control unit 32 displays the recognized processing cycle on the display 3. The display control unit 32 displays the product model on the display 3. The display control unit 32 displays the results of the first simulation and the results of the second simulation on the display 3. Details of the images that the display control unit 32 displays on the display 3 will be explained based on Figures 7 to 28.

[0051] The file import unit 33 imports the 3D model file. The file import unit 33 obtains the 3D model file generated by CAD 11 and imports the 3D model file into the NC program generation software 12. In this way, the file import unit 33 executes the process shown in step S1 of Figure 4.

[0052] The shape recognition unit 34 recognizes the features of the product model from the imported 3D model file. In this way, the shape recognition unit 34 executes the process shown in step S2 of Figure 4.

[0053] Based on the input received by the input receiving unit 31 specifying the tilt and position of the product model, the product shape setting unit 35 sets the tilt and position of the product model. Specifically, the product shape setting unit 35 sets the machining origin and the axial direction. More specifically, based on the input received by the input receiving unit 31 specifying the machining origin, the machining origin setting unit 51 sets the machining origin. In this way, the product shape setting unit 35 executes the process shown in step S4 of Figure 4.

[0054] The material setting unit 36 ​​sets the material (material model) based on the input received by the input receiving unit 31 specifying the material to be processed. As described above, this input includes specifying the material type, the shape of the material, and the dimensions of the shape. In this way, the material setting unit 36 ​​executes the process shown in step S6 of Figure 4. Furthermore, the material setting unit 36 ​​calculates the dimensions of the material that fit the product model at a certain point. Specifically, the material setting unit 36 ​​automatically calculates the dimensions of the material that fit the product model based on a predetermined operator operation (the selection operation of the image object 212, which will be described later).

[0055] The machining area setting unit 37 sets the machining area of ​​the material when it is attached to the first workpiece spindle 940 (hereinafter referred to as "machining area #1") and the machining area of ​​the material when it is attached to the second workpiece spindle 950 (hereinafter referred to as "machining area #2"). In this way, the machining area setting unit 37 performs the process shown in step S8 of Figure 4. More specifically, the machining area setting unit 37 sets these two areas based on the contour lines of the product model. Further functions of the machining area setting unit 37 will be described later.

[0056] The machining cycle generation unit 38 generates a machining cycle for each recognized feature. The machining cycle generation unit 38 sets the tool and machining conditions for each machining cycle. The machining cycle generation unit 38 executes the process shown in step S9 of Figure 4. Further functions of the machining cycle generation unit 38 will be described later.

[0057] The machining cycle registration unit 39 executes the process shown in step S13 of Figure 5. The cycle sequence setting unit 40 executes the process shown in step S17 of Figure 5. The operation sequence setting unit 41 executes the process shown in step S18 of Figure 5. The system setting unit 42 executes the process shown in step S19 of Figure 5.

[0058] The NC program generation unit 43 generates an NC program that executes the machining cycle selected by the operator on the machine tool 900. More specifically, the NC program generation unit 43 generates an NC program that executes one or more machining operations included in the selected machining cycle on the machine tool 900. The NC program generation unit 43 executes the process shown in step S20 of Figure 5.

[0059] The first simulation unit 44 executes the process shown in step S21 of Figure 5. The second simulation unit 45 executes the process shown in step S22 of Figure 5.

[0060] <F.ユーザインターフェイス> Next, we will primarily describe the user interface (screen) displayed on display 3. In this example, multiple windows are displayed on display 3. The images displayed in each window will be described below. In addition, further processing performed by the information processing device 1 will be described as appropriate.

[0061] (f1. Step S3) Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the process of step S3 in Figure 4. As shown in Figure 7, the display control unit 32 displays window W1 on the display 3. Screen G101 is displayed in window W1. On screen G101, the product model 700 based on the 3D model file is displayed together with a coordinate system image CS that shows the three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system (XYZ coordinate system). The three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system shown in Figure 7 is the coordinate system set in CAD11. The display control unit 32 displays the product model 700 in the said three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system at a predetermined inclination and position.

[0062] (f2. Step S4) Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the process of step S4 in Figure 4. As shown in Figure 8, the display control unit 32 displays window W2 on the display 3. Window W2 displays screen G201. Screen G201 includes an image object 201 relating to the product shape and an image object 202 relating to the material.

[0063] In this example, image object 201 is selected. Therefore, screen G102 displays the file name of the 3D model (product model) and includes a settings area 203 for the product model's color scheme. The operator can also change the product model by changing the file name in the settings area 203. Thus, the settings area 203 includes an area for the operator to select the 3D model file and an area for the operator to specify the display color of the product model.

[0064] Screen G102 further includes a setting area 204 for setting the machining origin, a setting area 205 for setting the axial direction (tilt), an image object 206 that accepts operations for automatically setting the machining origin, and an image object 207 for confirming the settings. Note that image objects 206 and 207 are displayed as buttons.

[0065] Setting area 204 is the area where the operator manually inputs the coordinate values ​​of the machining origin. If the machining origin (model origin) set in CAD11 differs from the machining origin used when machining with the machine tool 900, the operator uses setting area 204 to change the machining origin.

[0066] Setting the machining origin coordinates does not necessarily require manual input. The operator can visually set the machining origin by selecting image object 206. When image object 206 is selected, window W1 switches to machining origin acquisition mode. In window W1, the machining origin can be specified using a pointer. For example, the operator can set the tapped location as the machining origin by tapping a point on a vertex or contour line of the product model.

[0067] Setting area 205 is the area where the operator inputs the axial rotation angles. The operator inputs the order of the X, Y, and Z axes, as well as the rotation angle of the X axis, the rotation angle of the Y axis, and the rotation angle of the Z axis, as needed.

[0068] Once the operator has completed each of the above inputs, they select the image object 207. This completes the product shape setting. This product shape setting is performed by the product shape setting unit 35 shown in Figure 6. Of these, the setting of the machining origin is performed by the machining origin setting unit 51.

[0069] (f3. Step S5) Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the process of step S5 in Figure 4. When the image object 207 is selected in screen G102 shown in Figure 8, the display control unit 32 updates the screen displayed in window W1, as shown in Figure 9. Specifically, the display control unit 32 switches the screen displayed in window W1 from screen G101 shown in Figure 7 to screen G102. In other words, the display control unit 32 switches the screen. In this example, since only the machining origin was changed in screen G101, the display control unit 32 changes the position of the coordinate system image CS.

[0070] For the sake of explanation, the following explanation will use the case where the coordinate values ​​(X,Y,Z)=(0,0,0) of the coordinate system image CS shown in Figure 9 are used as the machining origin. Note that axis J1 (Figure 2), which is the rotation axis of the first workpiece spindle 940, coincides with the Z axis.

[0071] (f4. Step S6) Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the process in step S6 of Figure 4. When the image object 202 is selected by the operator, the display control unit 32 switches the screen to be displayed in window W2 from screen G201 shown in Figure 8 to screen G202, as shown in Figure 10.

[0072] Since image object 202 is selected, screen G202 includes a setting area 211 for setting the material and an image object 212 that accepts operations for automatically setting the material (specifically, shape and dimensions). Furthermore, screen G102 further includes an image object 207 for confirming the settings.

[0073] The setting area 211 includes areas for inputting the material type, the shape (type, pattern), the dimensions (outer diameter, inner diameter, overall length, chamfer allowance), and the maximum spindle speed (G50S). In this example, the material type can be selected from several pre-registered materials using a pull-down menu. Selectable materials include FC250, FCD450, SS400, and S45C. Material shapes include bar stock, molded material, stepped material, and arbitrary material. The outer diameter and inner diameter of the material refer to the maximum outer diameter and minimum inner diameter, respectively.

[0074] Setting material dimensions does not necessarily require directly entering numerical values. By selecting image object 212, the operator can automatically calculate the material dimensions that fit product model 700.

[0075] Once the above-mentioned inputs (provisional settings for the material model) are complete, the operator selects image object 207. This completes the setting (final setting) of the material (more specifically, the material model). This material setting (including automatic calculation of dimensions) is performed by the material setting unit 36 ​​shown in Figure 6.

[0076] (f5. Step S7) Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the process of step S7 in Figure 4. Once the material model is provisionally set, the display control unit 32 switches the screen to be displayed in window W1 from screen G102 in Figure 9 to screen G103, as shown in Figure 11.

[0077] On screen G103, the material model 800 is displayed along with the product model 700 displayed in window W1. On screen G103, the product model 700 and the material model 800 are displayed in a manner in which the product model 700 is contained within the material model 800. When the image object 207 shown in Figure 10 is selected, as described above, the screen displayed in window W1 along with the material model settings is switched from screen G103 to screen G102 shown in Figure 9.

[0078] (f6. Step S8) Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the process in step S8 of Figure 4. Once the material model is set up, the machining area is set up. Specifically, machining area #1, where the material is machined with the material attached to the first work spindle 940, and machining area #2, where the material is machined with the material attached to the second work spindle 950 are set up.

[0079] The display control unit 32 displays screen G203 in window W2. The machining area is set by the machining area setting unit 37. The machining area setting unit 37 provisionally sets machining areas #1 and #2 based on the contour lines of the product model 700. Specifically, machining areas #1 and #2 are provisionally set automatically by the processor 5 executing a predetermined algorithm.

[0080] Once the processing areas #1 and #2 are automatically set, the display control unit 32 displays screen G203 in window W2, as shown in Figure 12. Screen G203 includes a cross-section of the product model 700 and a cross-section of the material model 800. This cross-section is a longitudinal section of the product model 700 that includes the central axis J3. In this example, screen G203 includes only the cross-section on one side of the central axis J3 (in this example, the positive X-axis direction). Note that the central axis J3 overlaps with axis J1 (Figure 2) and the Z-axis.

[0081] Screen G203 further includes machining area 810 as machining area #1 and machining area 820 as machining area #2. Machining area 810 includes outer area 811 and inner area 812. Machining area 820 includes outer area 821 and inner area 822. Note that outer area 811 is the area located outside inner area 812 with respect to the central axis J3. Outer area 821 is the area located outside inner area 822 with respect to the central axis J3.

[0082] The display control unit 32 displays the product model 700, the processing area 810, and the processing area 820 in predetermined areas of window W2 using different display modes (hereinafter also referred to as "display mode B1," "display mode B2," and "display mode B3," respectively). Typically, the display control unit 32 uses different colors for the product model 700, the processing area 810, and the processing area 820. For example, the display control unit 32 displays the product model 700, the processing area 810, and the processing area 820 in gray, green, and yellow, respectively. This improves the visibility of the processing area 810 and the processing area 820.

[0083] Screen G203 further includes a setting area 221 that accepts manual settings for machining areas 810 and 820. The operator can change (adjust) the automatically set machining areas 810 and 820 by inputting into the setting area 221.

[0084] The operator selects image object 207, completing the settings for processing areas #1 and #2 (this setting).

[0085] Figure 13 further illustrates the machining regions 810 and 820. As shown in Figure 13, the outer region 811 of the machining region 810 includes sub-regions 811a and 811b. Sub-region 811a is located in the negative Z-axis direction compared to sub-region 811b.

[0086] Boundary line 851 indicates the boundary between the outer region 811 of the machining region 810 and the outer region 821 of the machining region 820. More specifically, boundary line 851 indicates the boundary between partial region 811a and the outer region 821. Boundary line 852 indicates the boundary between partial region 811a and partial region 811b. Boundary line 853 indicates the boundary between the inner region 812 of the machining region 810 and the product model 700. Boundary line 854 indicates the boundary between the inner region 822 of the machining region 820 and the product model 700. Arrow 859 indicates the machining range (Z-axis direction only) of the outer region 811 of the machining region 810.

[0087] Next, we will explain the method (algorithm) for setting the boundary coordinate values ​​in the Z-axis direction in the outer region 811 of the machining region 810 and the boundary coordinate values ​​in the Z-axis direction in the outer region 821 of the machining region 820. Specifically, we will explain the processing of the machining region setting unit 37 (Figure 6).

[0088] (i) Outer area 811 The machining area setting unit 37 identifies the Z-axis coordinate value that maximizes the X-axis coordinate value in the contour line of the product model 700. The machining area setting unit 37 sets the identified coordinate value as the boundary of the outer area 811 in the Z-axis direction. More specifically, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the Z-axis coordinate value at the position where the X-axis coordinate value of the outer contour line is maximized as the boundary coordinate value indicating the boundary of the outer area 811.

[0089] However, if there are multiple Z-axis coordinate values ​​that result in the maximum X-axis coordinate value, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the coordinate value closest to the first workpiece spindle 940 among the multiple coordinate values ​​as the boundary of the outer area 811 in the axial direction of the Z-axis. In this example, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the coordinate value with the smallest Z-axis value among these multiple coordinate values ​​as the boundary coordinate value indicating the boundary of the outer area 811. In this example, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the leftmost Z-axis value as the boundary coordinate value.

[0090] (ii) Outer area 821 Similar to the outer region 811, the machining region setting unit 37 sets the Z-axis coordinate value at the position where the X-axis coordinate value of the outer contour line is maximum as the boundary coordinate value in the outer region 821. However, if there are multiple Z-axis coordinate values ​​that result in the maximum X-axis coordinate value, the machining region setting unit 37 sets the coordinate value with the smallest Z-axis value from among these multiple coordinate values ​​as the boundary coordinate value indicating the outer region 821. In this example, the machining region setting unit 37 sets the leftmost Z-axis value as the boundary coordinate value.

[0091] As a result of the above process, the sub-region 811a will be included in the machining region 810, rather than the machining region 820. Next, we will explain how to set the boundary coordinate values ​​in the Z-axis direction in the inner region 812 of the machining region 810 and the boundary coordinate values ​​in the Z-axis direction in the inner region 822 of the machining region 820.

[0092] (iii) Inner area 812 The machining area setting unit 37 identifies the Z-axis coordinate value that minimizes the X-axis coordinate value in the contour line of the product model 700. The machining area setting unit 37 sets the identified coordinate value as the boundary of the inner area 812 in the Z-axis direction. More specifically, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the Z-axis coordinate value at the position where the X-axis coordinate value of the outer contour line is minimized as the boundary coordinate value indicating the boundary of the inner area 812.

[0093] However, if there are multiple Z-axis coordinate values ​​that result in the smallest X-axis coordinate value, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the coordinate value closest to the first workpiece spindle 940 among the multiple coordinate values ​​as the boundary of the inner area 812 in the axial direction of the Z-axis. In this example, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the coordinate value with the smallest Z-axis value among these multiple coordinate values ​​as the boundary coordinate value indicating the boundary of the inner area 812. In this example, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the leftmost Z-axis value as the boundary coordinate value.

[0094] (iv) Inner area 822 In the case of the inner region 812, the machining region setting unit 37 sets the Z-axis coordinate value at the position where the X-axis coordinate value of the inner contour line is minimized as the boundary coordinate value in the inner region 822. However, if there are multiple Z-axis coordinate values ​​that minimize the X-axis coordinate value, the machining region setting unit 37 sets the coordinate value with the smallest Z-axis value from among these multiple coordinate values ​​as the boundary coordinate value indicating the inner region 822. In this example, the machining region setting unit 37 sets the leftmost Z-axis value as the boundary coordinate value.

[0095] (f7. Step S10) Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the process in step S10 of Figure 4. Once the machining areas 810 and 820 are set, a machining cycle for the recognized features is generated (step S9 in Figure 4). When the machining cycle is generated, the display control unit 32 displays screen G204 in window W2, as shown in Figure 14.

[0096] Screen G204 includes display area R1. Display area R1 includes an image object 230 with a pull-down menu, image objects 241 and 242 each representing a recognized feature, and image objects 2411, 2412, 2421-2426 each representing one or more processing cycles for each feature.

[0097] In this example, two machining cycles ("Left Spindle G54 Turning Drill" and "Right Spindle G55 Turning Drill") are generated for the feature "Turning - Turned Hole". These two machining cycles are displayed as image objects 2411 and 2412. Similarly, six machining cycles ("Left Spindle G54 General Purpose - End Face", "Left Spindle G54 General Purpose - Outer Diameter", "Left Spindle G54 General Purpose - Inner Diameter", "Right Spindle G54 General Purpose - End Face", "Right Spindle G54 General Purpose - Outer Diameter", and "Right Spindle G54 General Purpose - Inner Diameter") are generated for the feature "Turning - General Purpose". These six machining cycles are displayed as image objects 2421 and 2426. As will be explained in more detail later, the operator selects the desired machining cycle from the machining cycles under (below) the feature for each feature.

[0098] In this way, the display control unit 32 displays a list of each recognized feature in the display area R1. Furthermore, the display control unit 32 displays one or more processing cycles for each feature in the display area R1. Typically, the display control unit 32 displays one or more processing cycles for each feature in the display area R1 based on operator operations (display expansion operations) on the image object that shows the features. The display control unit 32 can display multiple features and one or more processing cycles for each feature in a tree format in the window W2.

[0099] Figure 15 shows the state in which the pull-down menu of the image object 230 shown in Figure 14 has been expanded. As shown in Figure 15, the display control unit 32 displays multiple image objects 231 to 238, each representing one of the multiple menus.

[0100] When the operator selects image object 231, all features and their machining cycles are displayed in display area R1. When the operator selects image object 232, turning-related features are extracted from all features, and only these extracted features and their machining cycles are displayed in display area R1. When the operator selects image object 233, planar-related features are extracted from all features, and only these extracted features and their machining cycles are displayed in display area R1.

[0101] Even if other image objects 233-238 are selected by the operator, the corresponding features are extracted, and only the extracted features and their processing cycles are displayed in the display area R1.

[0102] (f8. Steps S11, S12) Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating the process of step S11 in Figure 4. Based on the operator's scrolling of the screen, the display control unit 32 switches the screen displayed in window W2 from screen G204 to screen G205, as shown in Figure 16.

[0103] The display area R1 of screen G205 contains image objects 243-246, each representing a recognized feature, and image objects representing one or more machining cycles for each feature. For example, for the feature "Pocket - Arbitrary Contour," one machining cycle, "Left Spindle G54 Pocket End Face," has been generated. Image object 244 represents the feature "Pocket - Arbitrary Contour." Image object 2411 represents the machining cycle for the feature "Pocket - Arbitrary Contour."

[0104] In Figure 16, pointer P points to image object 2411. When the operator superimposes pointer P onto image object 2411, the display control unit 32 changes the display mode (typically color) of image object 241 and image object 2411 from the default setting.

[0105] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the process in step S12 of Figure 4. When the pointer P is superimposed on the image object 2411, the display control unit 32 switches the screen to be displayed in window W1 from screen G102 shown in Figure 9 to screen G104, as shown in Figure 17.

[0106] Specifically, the display control unit 32 changes the display mode of the feature 701 corresponding to the processing cycle indicated by the image object 2411 in the product model 700 from the default display mode (hereinafter also referred to as "display mode D") to a pre-specified display mode (hereinafter also referred to as "display mode A1"). For example, the display control unit 32 changes the color of the feature 701 from the default gray to blue.

[0107] In this way, the display control unit 32 changes the display mode of the feature "Pocket - Arbitrary Contour" indicated by the image object 241. For example, by changing the color of feature 701 to blue, the operator can visually determine which of the multiple features the image object specified by the pointer is.

[0108] Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating the process in step S11 of Figure 4. As shown in Figure 18, screen G206 of window W2 shows the state in which the operator has checked the checkbox for image object 2411 with pointer P. When the checkbox for image object 2411 is checked, the checkbox for image object 241 is also automatically checked in conjunction with it.

[0109] Checking the checkbox for image object 241 automatically checks the checkbox for image object 2411. Selecting the image object representing the features of image object 241 checks all the image objects representing the processing cycles under it. Through this checking operation, the operator selects the processing cycles to register in the cycle manager.

[0110] Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating the process in step S12 of Figure 4. When the checkbox for image object 2411 is checked, the display control unit 32 switches the screen displayed in window W1 from screen G104 shown in Figure 17 to screen G105, as shown in Figure 19.

[0111] Specifically, the display control unit 32 changes the display mode of feature 701 to another pre-specified display mode (hereinafter also referred to as "display mode A2"). For example, the display control unit 32 changes the color of feature 701 to green. In this way, the display control unit 32 further changes the display mode of the feature "Pocket - Arbitrary Contour" indicated by the image object 241. Unless the operator unchecks it, the feature will continue to be displayed in green.

[0112] By checking the checkbox for image object 2411, the processing cycle for the feature is tentatively set. Furthermore, by changing the color of feature 701, for example, from blue to green, the operator can visually confirm that the feature has been selected.

[0113] The operator repeatedly checks the machining cycle checkbox for each feature. In other words, the operator repeatedly selects the machining cycle to register in the cycle manager. As a result, in the example above, the color of each feature changes to green. This type of display control prevents the operator from missing any features.

[0114] (f9. Steps S13~S15) Furthermore, in Figure 18, when the operator selects an image object 207, each processing cycle to be applied to the material processing is registered in the cycle manager described above (step S13 in Figure 5). In this way, the processing cycle indicated by the checked image object is registered in the cycle manager. This registration process is performed by the processing cycle registration unit 39.

[0115] Next, the cycle sequence setting unit 40 sets the execution order of multiple machining cycles registered in the cycle manager based on predetermined priorities. In this example, the priorities are predetermined to decrease in the order of turning, milling, and drilling. Specifically, turning includes turning hole machining, general-purpose turning end face machining, general-purpose turning outer diameter machining, general-purpose turning inner diameter machining, and turning square groove machining. Within turning, the priorities are set to decrease in the order of turning hole machining, general-purpose turning end face machining, general-purpose turning outer diameter machining, general-purpose turning inner diameter machining, and turning square groove machining. As will be described in detail later, the display control unit 32 displays the multiple machining cycles on the display 3 in the set execution order.

[0116] When the input receiving unit 31 receives an input via the operating device 4 to change the execution order of the machining cycle, the cycle sequence setting unit 40 changes the execution order of the machining cycle based on that input. The process of changing the execution order will be described later.

[0117] As described above, a machining cycle includes one or more machining operations. The operation sequence setting unit 41 sets the execution order of multiple machining operations. The operation sequence setting unit 41 sets the order based on the set machining cycle using a predetermined algorithm.

[0118] For example, even if a processing operation is included in a higher-ranking processing cycle, depending on the nature of the operation, it may be executed after processing operations in lower-ranking processing cycles, for reasons such as work efficiency. Specific examples of how to set the execution order of processing operations will be discussed later.

[0119] In this example, all machining operations included in each machining cycle registered in the cycle manager are, by default, assigned to a machining system using the tool spindle 930.

[0120] (f10. Step S16) Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating the process in step S16 of Figure 5. Once the machining cycle is registered in the cycle manager, the display control unit 32 displays screen G207 in window W2, as shown in Figure 20.

[0121] Screen G207 includes display area R2. Display area R2 displays image objects 260, 263-267. Image object 260 is an image that shows the machining cycle related to "Process setting G54 System 1 - Left spindle" as a group.

[0122] Image object 263 shows the machining cycle for the end face. Image object 264 shows the machining cycle for the outer diameter. Image object 265 shows the machining cycle for the inner diameter. Image object 266 shows the machining cycle for the square groove (end face). Image object 267 shows the machining cycle for the square groove (inner diameter).

[0123] Screen G207 further includes display area R3. Display area R3 shows multiple machining operations assigned to the machining system using the tool spindle 930. In this example, as mentioned above, by default, all machining operations are assigned to the machining system using the tool spindle 930.

[0124] Display area R3 shows image objects 2631, 2632, 2641, 2642, 2651, 2652, 2661, and 2671, each representing a machining operation. The machining operations shown in image objects 2631 and 2632 are two machining operations included in the machining cycle "end face" shown in image object 263. The machining operations shown in image objects 2641 and 2642 are two machining operations included in the machining cycle "outer diameter" shown in image object 264.

[0125] Similarly, the machining operations shown in image objects 2651 and 2652 are two machining operations included in the machining cycle "inner diameter" shown in image object 265. The machining operation shown in image object 2661 is a machining operation included in the machining cycle "square groove (end face)" shown in image object 266. The machining operation shown in image object 2671 is a machining operation included in the machining cycle "square groove (inner diameter)" shown in image object 267.

[0126] In display area R3, multiple image objects are displayed from top to bottom in the order in which the processing operations are executed. In this example, image object 2631, image object 2641, image object 2651, image object 2632, image object 2642, image object 2652, image object 2661, and image object 2671 are arranged from top to bottom in this order. Image object 2651 includes image object 2651a.

[0127] The reason why the execution order of the two machining operations shown in image objects 2641 and 2651 is higher than the machining operation shown in image object 2632 is that the two machining operations shown in image objects 2641 and 2651 are "rough machining" operations, just like the machining operation shown in image object 2631. More specifically, machining in the order of "rough machining," "rough machining," "rough machining," "rough machining," "rough machining," "rough machining," "rough machining," "rough machining," "rough machining" is less efficient from a tool change perspective than machining in the order of "rough machining," "finishing machining," "rough machining," "finishing machining," "rough machining," "rough machining."

[0128] The execution order of these machining operations is set by the cycle sequence setting unit 40. Furthermore, as shown in screen G207, the display control unit 32 displays the machining cycles in the execution order in the display area R2, and also displays multiple machining operations in the execution order in the display area R3.

[0129] Screen G207 further includes display area R4. Display area R4 shows the machining system using the tool post 960. As mentioned above, by default, all machining operations are assigned to the machining system using the tool spindle 930, so no image objects indicating machining operations are displayed in display area R4.

[0130] Screen G207 further includes an image object 209 that instructs the generation of NC statements and an image object 208 that instructs the execution of the first simulation. Note that image object 209 is displayed as a button.

[0131] Figure 21 is a diagram illustrating the screen displayed when image object 263 is selected in Figure 20. When image object 263 is selected by the operator, the display control unit 32 switches the screen to be displayed in window W2 from screen G207 shown in Figure 20 to screen G208, as shown in Figure 21.

[0132] As shown in screen G208, the display control unit 32 changes the display mode of image objects 2631 and 2632 related to image object 263. Specifically, the display control unit 32 changes the display mode of image objects 2631 and 2632, which represent processing operations included in the processing cycle shown in image object 263, from the default display mode to a specific display mode. In this example, the display control unit 32 changes the display mode of the leftmost part of image objects 2631 and 2632.

[0133] This change in display format allows operators to quickly identify which processing cycle includes which processing operations.

[0134] Figure 22 shows the screen displayed when the image object 2651a (see Figure 20) shown in Figure 20 is selected. When the image object 2651a is selected by the operator, the display control unit 32 transitions the screen to be displayed in window W2 to screen G209, as shown in Figure 22.

[0135] As shown in screen G209, the display control unit 32 displays the details of the processing operation for the image object 2651. This display allows the operator to understand the details of the processing operation. When the operator selects image object 2651b, the expanded information is collapsed. The same applies to other image objects displayed in the display area R3.

[0136] (f11. Step S19) Figure 23 is a diagram illustrating the process in step S19 of Figure 5. As shown in Figure 23, screen G210 displayed in window W2 shows the state immediately after multiple image objects have been moved from display area R3 to display area R4 by an operator drag-and-drop operation. In this example, the operator has moved eight image objects, 2631, 2632, 2641, 2642, 2651, 2652, 2661, and 2671, from display area R3 to display area R4.

[0137] In this case, the display control unit 32 displays image objects (image objects 2681, 2691, etc.) that indicate machining operations included in machining cycles that follow the machining cycle "square groove (inner diameter)" in order from top to bottom within the display area R3. The display control unit 32 then moves these image objects to the top of the display area R3.

[0138] As described above, machining operations listed in display area R3 are processed as machining using a tool attached to the tool spindle 930. Machining operations moved to display area R4 are processed as machining using a tool attached to the tool post 960.

[0139] Therefore, by moving an image object indicating a machining operation from display area R3 to display area R4 through operator operation, the machining operation can be executed by the tool post 960. It is also possible to move the image object that has been moved to display area R4 back to display area R3 through operator operation. In this case, the machining operation indicated by the image object is executed using the tool spindle 930. Such system settings (changes) are performed by the system setting unit 42.

[0140] In the state shown in Figure 23, the machining system using the tool spindle 930 and the machining system using the tool post 960 will operate simultaneously, regardless of the progress of the other system.

[0141] Figure 24 is a diagram illustrating the process of step S19 in Figure 5. When the operator adds a waiting operation, the display control unit 32 switches the screen displayed in window W2 from screen G210 in Figure 23 to screen G211, as shown in Figure 24.

[0142] In this example, an operator operation adds a waiting operation between the bottom image object 2671 in display area R4 and the top image object 2681 in display area R3. This operator operation allows the processing operation indicated by image object 2681 to be executed after the processing operation indicated by image object 2671 has finished.

[0143] Incidentally, when an image object 209 that instructs the generation of NC statements is selected by the operator, the NC program generation unit 43 generates an NC program. More specifically, the NC program generation unit 43 generates an NC program such that machining operations included in the machining system using the tool spindle 930 are executed using the tool spindle 930, and machining operations included in the machining system using the tool post 960 are executed using the tool post 960.

[0144] Therefore, different NC programs are generated when image object 209 is selected while screen G207, shown in Figure 20, is displayed in window W2, compared to when image object 209 is selected while screen G211, shown in Figure 24, is displayed in window W2.

[0145] (f12. Step S21) Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating the process of step S21 in Figure 6. When an image object 208 instructing the execution of the first simulation is selected, the first simulation unit 44 (Figure 6) executes the first simulation using the first simulation software 23 (Figure 3) of the NC program generation software 12. As shown in Figure 25, the display control unit 32 displays the simulation results using the tool model Tm as a moving image in window W3 of the display 3. Screen G301 shows the state during the first simulation.

[0146] As described above, the first simulation focuses only on the material to be machined and the tool used to machine the material, among the multiple components present in the machining chamber 990 of the machine tool 900. Therefore, interference checks are not performed in the first simulation.

[0147] If an image object 208 instructing the execution of the first simulation is selected while an NC program has not yet been generated, the NC program generation unit 43 generates the NC program without any operator input. In other words, even if the input receiving unit 31 does not receive an operator input to select an image object 209 instructing the generation of an NC statement, the NC program generation unit 43 will still generate the NC program.

[0148] (f13. Step S22) FIG. 26 is a diagram for explaining the processing of step S22 in FIG. 6. When an input reception unit 31 receives an operator operation instructing execution of a second simulation, a second simulation unit 45 (FIG. 6) executes the second simulation using second simulation software 13 (FIG. 3). In the second simulation, interference check is performed.

[0149] As shown in FIG. 26, a display control unit 32 displays a simulation result as a moving image in a window W4 of a display 3. The display control unit 32 displays not only a tool model Tm but also members other than a material model 800, such as a tool spindle model 930m and a first work spindle model 940m, as a moving image. Note that a screen G302 shows a state in the middle of the second simulation.

[0150] <G. Other Functions> As described above, the information processing device 1 recognizes features of a product model 700 from a captured 3D model file, but it may happen that some of all features are not recognized. A function for coping with such a situation will be described below.

[0151] For example, if the feature 701 ("pocket-arbitrary contour") shown in FIG. 17 is not recognized, the image objects 244 and 2441 displayed on a screen G205 (FIG. 16) are not displayed on the screen displayed in the window W2. Therefore, an operator cannot select the image objects 244 and 2441 related to the feature 701. Therefore, an NC program generation unit 43 cannot generate an NC program for generating the feature 701. Operator operations performed in such a situation will be described below.

[0152] FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining an operator operation. An operator selects an outline 770 of an opening portion of a feature 701 on a screen G106 of a window W1. The outline 770 is a closed outline, and a start point and an end point thereof are connected. When the outline 770 is selected, a display control unit 32 changes a display mode of the outline 770. For example, the display control unit 32 changes at least one of a color and a thickness of the outline 770. As shown in FIG. 27, in this state, the operator selects an image object 291 that instructs shape capturing.

[0153] FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a window W2 immediately after the image object 291 is selected. As shown in FIG. 28, a display control unit 32 causes a screen G212 to be displayed on the window W2.

[0154] The screen G212 includes a setting area 280 for the feature 701 (pocket). An input reception unit 31 receives an operator input (parameter input) specifying the feature 701 such as a machining depth in the setting area 280. When the operator selects an image object 292 that instructs setting, the feature 701 is set. As a result, image objects 244 and 2441 related to the feature 701 are displayed in a display area R1.

[0155] In the above description, a configuration in which a closed outline is selected has been described as an example, but the information processing apparatus 1 can also receive an operation of selecting an outline in which a start point and an end point are not connected.

[0156] <H. Summary> (1) As shown in Figure 6, the information processing device 1 includes a shape recognition unit 34 that recognizes features of the product model 700 (3D model) from the imported 3D model file, a machining cycle generation unit 38 that generates machining cycles for the recognized features, a display control unit 32 that displays the generated machining cycles on a display, an input receiving unit 31 that receives an input (first input) to select the displayed machining cycle, and a program generation unit 43 that generates an NC program to execute the selected machining cycle on the machine tool 900.

[0157] According to the above configuration, a machining cycle is generated from the product model 700, and an NC program is created when the operator selects the machining cycle. In this way, the information processing device 1 can create an NC program from the acquired product model 700 with simple operator operation. Therefore, the information processing device 1 can shorten the time required to create an NC program.

[0158] (2) As shown in Figure 9, the display control unit 32 displays the product model 700 on the display 3 in display mode D (gray in this example). When the input receiving unit 31 receives the first input, as shown in Figure 19, the display control unit 32 changes the display mode of the displayed product model 700 to display mode A2 (green in this example) for the part of the feature 701 that corresponds to the selected machining cycle. With the above configuration, the operator can confirm the location of the feature in the product model 700 that corresponds to the machining cycle selected by the operator.

[0159] (3) The input receiving unit 31 further receives an input (second input) specifying the machining origin (Figure 8). The information processing device 1 further includes a machining origin setting unit 51 that sets the machining origin based on the received second input (Figure 6). With the above configuration, even if the machining origin (model origin) when the product model 700 was created is different from the machining origin at the machine tool 900, the machining origin can be set to match the machining origin at the machine tool 900.

[0160] (4) The input receiving unit 31 further receives an input (third input) specifying the material to be processed (Figure 10). The information processing device 1 further includes a material setting unit 36 ​​that sets the material based on the received third input (Figure 6). With the above configuration, the operator can specify the material to be processed.

[0161] (5) When the image object 212 in Figure 10 is selected, the material setting unit 36 ​​calculates the dimensions of the material that are suitable for the product model. With the above configuration, the operator does not need to calculate the dimensions of the material.

[0162] (6) The material is mounted on the first work spindle 940 of the machine tool 900 and processed by at least one of a tool mounted on the tool spindle 930 of the machine tool 900 and a tool mounted on the tool post 960 of the machine tool 900. As shown in Figure 12, the display control unit 32 displays the product model 700 on the display 3 in display mode B1, and displays the processing area 810 of the material that is processed while mounted on the first work spindle 940 on the display 3 in display mode B2, which is different from display mode B1. With the above configuration, the operator can confirm the location of the processing area in the material that is processed using the first work spindle 940.

[0163] (7) After the material is machined while attached to the first work spindle 940, it is attached to the second work spindle 950 of the machine tool 900, which is positioned opposite the first work spindle 940. As shown in Figure 12, the display control unit 32 displays the machining area 820 of the material that is machined while attached to the second work spindle 950 on the display 3 in a display mode B3 that is different from display modes B1 and B2. With the above configuration, the operator can confirm the location of the machining area in the material that is machined using the second work spindle 950.

[0164] (8) The information processing device 1 further includes a machining area setting unit 37 that sets the machining area 810 based on the contour lines of the product model 700 (Figure 6). With the above configuration, the machining area 810 can be set automatically.

[0165] (9) As shown in Figures 2 and 9, the first workpiece spindle 940 rotates with the Z-axis (first axis, axis J1) as its center of rotation. The machining area setting unit 37 identifies the Z-axis coordinate value (first coordinate value) that maximizes the axial coordinate value of the X-axis (second axis) perpendicular to axis J1 in the contour line of the product model 700. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the identified first coordinate value as the boundary of the outer area 811 of the machining area 810 in the axial direction of the Z-axis. With the above configuration, the boundary of the outer area 811 of the machining area 810 in the axial direction of the Z-axis can be set.

[0166] (10) As shown in Figures 12 and 13, if there are multiple first coordinate values, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the first coordinate value closest to the first workpiece spindle 940 among the multiple first coordinate values ​​as the boundary of the outer area 811 in the axial direction of the Z axis. With the above configuration, even if there are multiple first coordinate values, the boundary of the outer area 811 of the machining area 810 in the axial direction of the Z axis can be set.

[0167] (11) The machining area setting unit 37 identifies the coordinate value in the Z-axis direction (second coordinate value) that minimizes the coordinate value in the X-axis direction on the contour line of the product model 700. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the identified second coordinate value as the boundary of the inner area 812 of the machining area 810 in the Z-axis direction. With the above configuration, the boundary of the inner area 812 of the machining area 810 in the Z-axis direction can be set.

[0168] (12) As shown in Figures 12 and 13, if there are multiple second coordinate values, the machining area setting unit 37 sets the second coordinate value closest to the first workpiece spindle 940 among the multiple second coordinate values ​​as the boundary of the inner area 812 in the axial direction of the Z axis. With the above configuration, even if there are multiple second coordinate values, it is possible to set the boundary of the inner area 812 of the machining area 810 in the axial direction of the Z axis.

[0169] (13) The information processing device 1 further includes a cycle sequence setting unit that sets the execution order of multiple machining cycles based on predetermined priorities. As shown in Figure 20, the display control unit 32 displays the multiple machining cycles on the display 3 in the set execution order. With the above configuration, the operator can confirm the execution order of the machining cycles.

[0170] (14) The priority decreases in the order of turning, milling, and drilling. According to the above configuration, the execution order of the machining cycle can be set in the order of turning, milling, and drilling.

[0171] (15) Turning operations include turning hole machining, general-purpose turning end face machining, general-purpose turning outer diameter machining, general-purpose turning inner diameter machining, and turning square groove machining. The priority decreases in the following order: turning hole machining, general-purpose turning end face machining, general-purpose turning outer diameter machining, general-purpose turning inner diameter machining, and turning square groove machining. According to the above configuration, the execution order of the machining cycle can be set in the following order: turning hole machining, general-purpose turning end face machining, general-purpose turning outer diameter machining, general-purpose turning inner diameter machining, and turning square groove machining.

[0172] (16) The input receiving unit 31 further accepts operations to change the execution order. With the above configuration, the operator can change the execution order of the processing cycles set based on priority.

[0173] (17) As shown in Figure 20, the machining cycle generation unit 38 generates multiple machining cycles. As shown in Figure 20, each of the multiple machining cycles includes a machining operation. As shown in Figure 20, the display control unit 32 sets display area R2 (first display area) and display area R3 (second display area) on the display 3. As shown in Figure 20, the display control unit 32 displays the multiple machining cycles in the order they are executed in display area R2, and displays the multiple machining operations in the order they are executed in display area R3. With the above configuration, the operator can individually check the execution order of the machining cycles and the execution order of the machining operations.

[0174] (18) As described above, the material is mounted on the first work spindle 940 of the machine tool 900 and processed by at least one of a tool mounted on the tool spindle 930 of the machine tool 900 and a tool mounted on the tool post 960 of the machine tool 900.

[0175] As shown in Figure 20, the display control unit 32 sets a display area R4 (third display area) on the display for both display areas R2 and R3. The input reception unit 31 further accepts operations to move machining operations from display area R3 to display area R4. Machining operations lined up in display area R3 are processed as machining using the tool T attached to the tool spindle 930. Machining operations moved to display area R4 are processed as machining using the tool attached to the tool post 960.

[0176] With the above configuration, the operator can simply move the machining operation to the display area R4, and the tool post 960 will then execute the moved machining operation.

[0177] (19) The information processing apparatus 1 includes a first simulation unit 44 that executes a first simulation of the generated NC program. In the first simulation, attention is focused only on the workpiece to be machined and the tool that machines the workpiece among the plurality of members existing in the machining chamber 990 (FIG. 2) of the machine tool 900. As shown in FIG. 25, the display control unit 32 causes the display 3 to display the result of the first simulation. According to the above configuration, the operator can confirm the result of the first simulation focusing only on the workpiece to be machined and the tool that machines the workpiece.

[0178] (20) The information processing apparatus 1 includes a second simulation unit 45 that executes a second simulation of the generated NC program. In the second simulation, an interference check is performed. According to the above configuration, the operator can confirm the result of the second simulation accompanied by the interference check.

[0179] <I. Modifications> (1) One workpiece may be simultaneously fixed by the first work spindle 940 and the second work spindle 950, and the workpiece may be machined by one or more tools.

[0180] (2) In the above description, a configuration in which the machine tool 900 includes the first work spindle 940 and the second work spindle 950 has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The machine tool 900 may not include the second work spindle 950.

[0181] In this case, in order to produce the product represented by the product model 700 from the workpiece, after machining the machining area 810 (FIG. 12), the workpiece (intermediate) is inverted. Specifically, the orientation of the workpiece in the Z-axis direction is inverted. In this case, for both machining before and after inversion, an NC program may be generated in the same manner as the procedure described above.

[0182] (3) In the above description, a configuration in which the machine tool 900 comprises a tool spindle 930 and a tool post 960 was used as an example, but the machine tool 900 is not limited to this. The machine tool 900 only needs to be equipped with at least one of the tool spindle 930 and the tool post 960.

[0183] (4) In the above description, an example was given in which the information processing device 1 is equipped with CAD 11, but the explanation is not limited to this. The information processing device 1 may be configured to acquire 3D model files generated by CAD installed on an external device.

[0184] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not limited to those described herein. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of symbols]

[0185] 1 Information processing unit, 2,910 Main unit, 3 Display, 4 Operating device, 5 Processor, 6 Memory, 7 Communication interface, 12 Program generation software, 13 Second simulation software, 14 Tool DB, 15 Machining condition DB, 22 Post-processor, 23 First simulation software, 30 Functional block group, 31 Input reception unit, 32 Display control unit, 33 File import unit, 34 Shape recognition unit, 35 Product shape setting unit, 36 Material setting unit, 37 Machining area setting unit, 38 Machining cycle generation unit, 39 Machining cycle registration unit, 40 Cycle sequence setting unit, 41 Operation sequence setting unit, 42 System setting unit, 43 Program generation unit, 44 First simulation unit, 45 Second simulation unit, 51 Machining origin setting unit, 203,204,205,211,221,280 Setting area, 700 Product model, 701 Features, 770 Contour, 800 Material model, 810, 820 Machining area, 811, 821 Outer area, 811a, 811b Partial area, 812, 822 Inner area, 851, 852, 853, 854 Boundary line, 900, 900A, 900B Machine tool, 921, 922 Door, 930 Tool spindle, 930m Tool spindle model, 940 First work spindle, 950 Second work spindle, 960 Tool post, 990 Machining chamber, 1000 Machining system, CS Coordinate system image, J1, J2 Axis, J3 Center axis, R1, R2, R3, R4 Display area, Tm Tool model, W1, W2, W3, W4 Window.

Claims

1. A shape recognition means that recognizes multiple features of the 3D model from the imported 3D model file, A machining cycle generation means for generating a machining cycle for each of the recognized features, A display control means for displaying the multiple processing cycles that have been generated on a display, A receiving means for receiving a first input to select one processing cycle from the displayed plurality of processing cycles, The system comprises a program generation means for generating a partial machining program that executes the selected machining cycle on a machine tool, The receiving means further receives a second input specifying the material to be processed. The system further includes a material setting means for setting the material based on the received second input, The material is mounted on the first workpiece spindle of the machine tool and processed by at least one of a tool mounted on the tool spindle of the machine tool and a tool mounted on the tool post of the machine tool. The display control means causes the three-dimensional model to be displayed on the display in a first display mode, and the first region of the material that is processed while attached to the first workpiece spindle to be displayed on the display in a second display mode different from the first display mode. The region setting means for setting the first region based on the contour lines of the three-dimensional model is further provided. The first workpiece spindle rotates with the first axis as its center of rotation. The aforementioned region setting means is In the contour line, a first coordinate value in the direction of the first axis is identified that maximizes the coordinate value in the axial direction of the second axis which is perpendicular to the first axis. The identified first coordinate value is set to the first workpiece spindle side end of the outer region of the first region in the axial direction of the first axis, If there are multiple first coordinate values, the area setting means sets the first coordinate value closest to the first workpiece spindle among the multiple first coordinate values ​​to the first workpiece spindle side end of the outer area in the axial direction of the first axis, which is an information processing device.

2. A shape recognition means that recognizes multiple features of the 3D model from the imported 3D model file, A machining cycle generation means for generating a machining cycle for each of the recognized features, A display control means for displaying the multiple processing cycles that have been generated on a display, A receiving means for receiving a first input to select one processing cycle from the displayed plurality of processing cycles, A program generation means for generating a partial machining program that executes the selected machining cycle on a machine tool, The system includes sequence setting means for setting the execution order of multiple processing cycles based on predetermined priorities, The display control means causes the plurality of processing cycles to be displayed on the display in the set execution order. The aforementioned priority decreases in the order of turning, milling, and drilling. The aforementioned turning process includes turning a hole, turning a general-purpose end face, turning a general-purpose outer diameter, turning a general-purpose inner diameter, and turning a square groove. An information processing device in which the priority order decreases in the following order: turning hole machining, turning general end face machining, turning general outer diameter machining, turning general inner diameter machining, and turning square groove machining.

3. A shape recognition means that recognizes multiple features of the 3D model from the imported 3D model file, A machining cycle generation means for generating a machining cycle for each of the recognized features, A display control means for displaying the multiple processing cycles that have been generated on a display, A receiving means for receiving a first input to select one processing cycle from the displayed plurality of processing cycles, A program generation means for generating a partial machining program that executes the selected machining cycle on a machine tool, The system includes sequence setting means for setting the execution order of multiple processing cycles based on predetermined priorities, The display control means causes the plurality of processing cycles to be displayed on the display in the set execution order. The processing cycle generation means generates a plurality of processing cycles, Each of the aforementioned machining cycles includes rough machining and finish machining. The display control means is A first display area and a second display area are set on the aforementioned display. An information processing device that displays the multiple processing cycles in the order they are executed in the first display area, and displays the roughing and finishing processes within a single processing cycle in the second display area, also in the order they are executed.

4. The area setting means is In the contour line, the second coordinate value in the direction of the first axis that minimizes the coordinate value in the axial direction of the second axis is identified. The identified second coordinate value is set to the first workpiece spindle side end of the inner region of the first region in the axial direction of the first axis, If there are multiple second coordinate values, the area setting means sets the second coordinate value closest to the first workpiece spindle among the multiple second coordinate values ​​to the first workpiece spindle side end of the inner area in the axial direction of the first axis, according to claim 1.

5. Each of the roughing and finishing operations is defined as a machining operation, The material to be processed is mounted on the workpiece spindle of the machine tool and processed by at least one of a tool mounted on the tool spindle of the machine tool and a tool mounted on the tool post of the machine tool. The display control means sets a third display area on the display for both the first display area and the second display area. The receiving means further receives an operation to move the processing operation from the second display area to the third display area. The machining operations listed in the second display area are processed as machining using a tool attached to the tool spindle. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the machining operation moved to the third display area is processed as machining using a tool attached to the tool post.

6. The display control means is The three-dimensional model is displayed on the aforementioned display in a first display mode. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the receiving means receives the first input, the display mode of the portion of the feature corresponding to the selected machining cycle in the displayed three-dimensional model is changed to a second display mode.

7. The receiving means further receives a third input specifying the machining origin, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a machining origin setting means for setting the machining origin based on the received third input.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the material setting means calculates the dimensions of the material that conform to the three-dimensional model.

9. The material is processed while attached to the first workpiece spindle, and then attached to the second workpiece spindle of the machine tool, which is positioned opposite the first workpiece spindle. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control means causes the display to display on the display a second region of the material that is processed while attached to the second workpiece spindle in a third display mode different from the first and second display modes.

10. The system further includes sequence setting means for setting the execution order of multiple processing cycles based on predetermined priorities, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control means causes the plurality of processing cycles to be displayed on the display in the set execution order.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the priority order is lower in the order of turning, milling, and drilling.

12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the receiving means further receives an operation to change the execution order.

13. The system further comprises a first simulation means for executing a first simulation of the generated partial machining program, The first simulation focuses only on the material to be processed and the tool used to process the material, among the multiple components present in the machining chamber of the machine tool. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control means causes the results of the first simulation to be displayed on the display.

14. The system further comprises a second simulation means for performing a second simulation of the generated partial machining program, The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein interference checks are performed in the second simulation.

15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the first workpiece spindle side end of the outer region is the boundary between the outer region and the second region.

16. A step of recognizing multiple features of the 3D model from the imported 3D model file, A step of generating a processing cycle for each of the recognized features, The steps include displaying the generated processing cycles on a display, A step of receiving a first input to select one processing cycle from the displayed plurality of processing cycles, The steps include generating a partial machining program to execute the selected machining cycle on a machine tool, A further step of receiving a second input specifying the material to be processed, The step of setting the material based on the received second input, The material is mounted on the workpiece spindle of the machine tool and processed by at least one of a tool mounted on the tool spindle of the machine tool and a tool mounted on the tool post of the machine tool. The steps include displaying the three-dimensional model on the display in a first display mode, and displaying the region of the material that is machined while attached to the workpiece spindle on the display in a second display mode different from the first display mode, The further step is to define the region based on the contour lines of the three-dimensional model, The aforementioned workpiece spindle rotates with the first axis as its center of rotation. The step of setting the aforementioned region is: The steps include identifying the coordinate values ​​in the direction of the first axis in which the coordinate values ​​in the axial direction of the second axis, which is orthogonal to the first axis, are maximized in the contour line, The steps include setting the identified coordinate values ​​to the workpiece spindle side end of the outer region of the area in the axial direction of the first axis, An information processing method comprising the step of setting, if there are multiple specified coordinate values, the coordinate value closest to the workpiece spindle among the multiple coordinate values ​​to the workpiece spindle side end of the outer region in the axial direction of the first axis.

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