Machining path generation method, laser processing system, program, and laser processing method

Abstract

The machining path generation method includes a step of preparing an assembly model in which a plurality of models including a first model modeling a first elongated member and a second model modeling a second elongated member are combined; a step of executing a first identification process including identifying a second identifier that is an identifier of the second model in response to selection of the first model and a second model adjacent to the first model from the assembly model; and a step of generating a first machining path including a first marking formation pass for forming a first laser marking representing the first identifier that is the identifier of the first model on the first elongated member, and a second marking formation pass for forming a second laser marking representing the second identifier identified by execution of the first identification process on the first elongated member.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing path generating method, a laser processing system, a program, and a laser processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art When connecting two members, a technique is known in which one of the members is provided with a mark that identifies the other member to be connected.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a connected member. In the connected member described in Patent Document 1, a connection mark is provided at a connection portion between one connected member and another connected member. The connection mark includes a symbol indicating the connection order. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2002-98115 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a processing path generation method, a laser processing system, a program, and a laser processing method that enable accurate laser engraving on an elongated member to efficiently connect the elongated member to other elongated members. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In some embodiments, a machining path generation method includes a step of preparing an assembly model in which a plurality of models including a first model modeling a first elongated member and a second model modeling a second elongated member are combined; a step of performing a first identification process including identifying a second identifier that is an identifier of the second model in response to selection of the first model and the second model adjacent to the first model from the assembly model; and a step of generating a first machining path including a first marking formation pass for forming a first laser marking representing the first identifier that is the identifier of the first model on the first elongated member, and a second marking formation pass for forming a second laser marking representing the second identifier identified by execution of the first identification process on the first elongated member.

[0007] In some embodiments, the laser processing system includes a preparation process for preparing an assembly model in which a plurality of models including a first model modeling a first elongated member and a second model modeling a second elongated member are combined; a first identification process including identifying a second identifier that is an identifier of the second model in response to selection of the first model and the second model adjacent to the first model from the assembly model; a first marking formation pass for forming a first laser marking representing the first identifier that is an identifier of the first model on the first elongated member; and The laser processing system includes a processing path generating device that executes a first generation process that generates a first processing path including a second marking forming path for forming a second laser marking representing a second identifier on the first elongated member and a first cutting path for cutting out the first elongated member from the first elongated member; a control device that generates a control command by executing a processing program created based on at least the first processing path and transmits the generated control command to a laser processing machine; and the laser processing machine that operates based on the control command and produces the first elongated member from the first elongated member by irradiating the first elongated member with a laser.

[0008] A program in some embodiments is a program for causing a machining path generating device or a laser machining system to execute the above-described machining path generating method.

[0009] In some embodiments, the laser processing method includes a step of preparing an assembly model in which a plurality of models including a first model modeling a first elongated member and a second model modeling a second elongated member are combined; a step of executing a first identification process including identifying a second identifier that is an identifier of the second model in response to selection of the first model and the second model adjacent to the first model from the assembly model; a step of executing a first identification process including a first marking forming pass for forming a first laser marking representing a first identifier that is an identifier of the first model on the first elongated member; The method includes the steps of: generating a first processing path including a second marking forming path for forming a second laser marking representing the second identifier identified by execution of processing on the first elongated member, and a first cutting path for cutting out the first elongated member from the first elongated work; creating a processing program based on at least the first processing path; generating a control command by a control device that executes the processing program; and producing the first elongated member from the first elongated work by irradiating a laser on the first elongated work by a laser processing machine that receives the control command. Effect of the Invention

[0010] The present invention provides a processing path generation method, a laser processing system, a program, and a laser processing method that enable accurate laser marking on an elongated member for efficiently connecting the elongated member to another elongated member. As an example, a worker can efficiently connect the elongated member to another elongated member without referring to an assembly drawing and a parts drawing. It goes without saying that the worker may refer to the assembly drawing and / or the parts drawing for confirmation, etc. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a laser processing system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the machining path generating device receiving model data indicating the shape and arrangement of each of a plurality of models from a CAD device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a first elongated member and a second elongated member. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the first machining path. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the first machining path. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second machining path. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a machining path generating device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a first elongated member and a second elongated member produced by a laser processing system. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view showing a state in which the first elongated member and the second elongated member are combined. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a plurality of elongated members including a first elongated member and a second elongated member. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Figure 17]FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of a portion surrounded by a dashed-dotted rectangle F in FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is an enlarged view of a portion enclosed by a dashed-dotted rectangle G in FIG. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a first elongated member, a second elongated member, and a third elongated member produced by a laser processing system. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a schematic perspective view showing a state in which a plurality of elongated members including a first elongated member and a second elongated member are combined. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display. [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating an example of a machining path generating device. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating an example of the first machining path. [Diagram 35] FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second machining path. [Diagram 36] FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating a schematic diagram of a laser processing system in the first embodiment. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a diagram illustrating a schematic diagram of a laser processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating a schematic diagram of a laser processing system in the first embodiment. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing an example of the laser processing method in the second embodiment. [Diagram 40] FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an example of a non-volatile storage medium on which a program is recorded. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, a processing path generating method, a laser processing system 100, a program P, and a laser processing method according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for parts and members having the same functions, and repeated description of the parts and members to which the same reference numerals are used will be omitted.

[0013] (First embodiment) A laser processing system 100A according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 38. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the laser processing system 100A according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a state in which the processing path generating device 1A receives model data DA showing the shape and arrangement of each of a plurality of models M from the CAD device 91. FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2. FIGS. 4 and 5 are diagrams showing examples of images displayed on the display 5. FIGS. 6 and 7 are each a diagram showing an example of the first processing path T1. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the second processing path T2. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the processing path generating device 1A. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a part of FIG. 1. FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 produced by the laser processing system 100A. FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view showing a state where the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 are combined. FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a plurality of elongated members including the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2. Each of FIGS. 14 to 17 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display 5. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a portion surrounded by a dashed-dotted rectangle F in FIG. 17. Each of FIGS. 19 to 22 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display 5. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 22. Each of FIGS. 24 to 26 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display 5. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an enlarged view of a portion surrounded by a dashed-dotted rectangle G in FIG. 26. FIG. 28 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the first elongated member Q1, the second elongated member Q2, and the third elongated member Q3 produced by the laser processing system 100A. Fig. 29 is a schematic perspective view showing a state in which a plurality of elongated members including a first elongated member Q1 and a second elongated member Q2 are combined. Fig. 30 to Fig. 32 are diagrams showing examples of images displayed on the display 5. Fig. 33 is a diagram showing an example of a machining path generating device 1A. Fig. 34 is a diagram showing an example of a first machining path T1.Fig. 35 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second processing path T2. Figs. 36 to 38 are diagrams illustrating the laser processing system 100A in the first embodiment.

[0014] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the laser processing system 100A includes a processing path generating device 1A, a control device 7, and a laser processing machine 101.

[0015] The machining path generating device 1A generates a machining path for producing an elongated member Q from an elongated workpiece W. In this specification, the machining path means a path along which a laser or a tool machines the elongated workpiece W.

[0016] The control device 7 generates a control command SA by executing a machining program created based on the machining path, and transmits the generated control command SA to the laser processing machine 101.

[0017] The laser processing machine 101 operates based on a control command SA, and produces an elongated member Q from an elongated workpiece W by irradiating the elongated workpiece W with a laser.

[0018] 2, the machining path generating device 1A (for example, a CAD / CAM device 10a) has a calculation device 2, a memory 3, an input device 4, a display 5, and a communication circuit 6. The input device 4 may include a keyboard 4k, a pointing device 4p such as a mouse, or a touch panel of a display with a touch panel.

[0019] 3 shows an example of a first elongated member Q1 and a second elongated member Q2. The machining path generating device 1A executes a process (hereinafter referred to as a "preparation process") of preparing an assembly model AM in which a plurality of models M including a first model M1 (see FIG. 2) modeling the first elongated member Q1 and a second model M2 (see FIG. 2) modeling the second elongated member Q2 are combined. The assembly model AM may include a third model M3 (see FIG. 14) modeling a third elongated member. In other words, the number of models M constituting the assembly model AM may be two or may be three or more.

[0020] FIG. 2 shows a state in which the assembly model AM prepared by the preparation process is displayed on the display 5.

[0021] The preparation process includes, for example, the calculation device 2 reading out model data DA indicating the shape and arrangement of each of the multiple models M. More specifically, the preparation process includes the calculation device 2 executing a program P stored in the memory 3 reading out a file F including model data DA indicating the shape and arrangement of each of the multiple models M from the memory 3. Alternatively, or additionally, the preparation process may include the calculation device 2 displaying an assembly model AM on the display 5 as illustrated in FIG. Alternatively, or additionally, the preparation process may include creating an assembly model AM in which the multiple models M are combined, using software (e.g., CAD software) executed by the calculation device 2.

[0022] The model data DA indicating the shape and arrangement of each of the multiple models M includes first model data DA1 indicating the shape and arrangement of the first model M1 (more specifically, the first model data DA1 indicating the shape of the first model M1 and the arrangement of the first model M1 in the assembly model AM) and second model data DA2 indicating the shape and arrangement of the second model M2 (more specifically, the second model data DA2 indicating the shape of the second model M2 and the arrangement of the second model M2 in the assembly model AM). Additionally, the model data DA may include third model data DA3 indicating the shape and arrangement of the third model M3 (see FIG. 14) (more specifically, the third model data DA3 indicating the shape of the third model M3 and the arrangement of the third model M3 in the assembly model AM).

[0023] In the example shown in FIG. 2, model data DA indicating the shape and arrangement of each of the multiple models M (e.g., first model data DA1 indicating the shape and arrangement of the first model M1, and second model data DA2 indicating the shape and arrangement of the second model M2) are stored in memory 3.

[0024] The model data DA indicating the shape and arrangement of each of the multiple models M may be created by a CAD device 91 separate from the machining path generating device 1A. In this case, the machining path generating device 1A receives the model data DA indicating the shape and arrangement of each of the multiple models M from the CAD device 91. In addition, the machining path generating device 1A stores the received model data DA in the memory 3. Alternatively, the machining path generating device 1A may receive the model data DA indicating the shape and arrangement of each of the multiple models M from a portable memory such as a USB memory, and store the received model data DA in the memory 3.

[0025] In the example shown in Fig. 4, the machining path generating device 1A executes a first identification process including identifying a second identifier ID2 that is an identifier of the second model M2 in response to the selection of a first model M1 and a second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 from the assembly model AM. In Fig. 4, the first model M1 hatched with dots indicates a state in which the first model M1 is selected. Also, the second model M2 indicated by a dashed line indicates a state in which the second model M2 is selected. In Figs. 4 and 5, the identifiers (ID1, ID2) are displayed on the display 5, but the display of the identifiers may be omitted.

[0026] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the first model M1 includes a first marking shape K1, which will be described later. In this case, in the first identification process, the first identifier ID1, which is the identifier of the first model M1, does not necessarily need to be identified. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 14, when the first model M1 does not include a first marking shape K1, which will be described later, it is preferable that the first identifier ID1, which is the identifier of the first model M1, is identified in the first identification process. Details will be described later.

[0027] 2, the second model data DA2 indicating the shape and arrangement of the second model M2 and the second identifier ID2 which is the identifier of the second model M2 are associated with each other and stored in the memory 3. In this case, the calculation device 2 can easily identify the second identifier ID2 in response to the selection of the second model M2.

[0028] In the example shown in FIG. 4 (or FIG. 14), the selection of the first model M1 is performed by the input device 4 receiving a first user input. For example, the first model M1 is selected in response to an image IG1 showing the shape of the first model M1 displayed on the display 5 being clicked with a pointing device such as a mouse. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the first model M1 may be selected in response to an image IG2 showing data of the first model M1 displayed on the display 5 being clicked with a pointing device such as a mouse.

[0029] In the example shown in FIG. 4 (or FIG. 14), the selection of the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 is performed by the input device 4 receiving a second user input. For example, the second model M2 is selected in response to an image IG3 showing the shape of the second model M2 displayed on the display 5 being clicked with a pointing device such as a mouse. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the second model M2 may be selected in response to an image IG4 showing the data of the second model M2 displayed on the display 5 being clicked with a pointing device such as a mouse.

[0030] Alternatively, the selection of the first model M1 and / or the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 may be automatically performed by the calculation device 2. For example, when the assembly model AM includes only two models M, the calculation device 2 can automatically select the first model M1 and the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1. When the calculation device 2 automatically determines a model adjacent to the first model M1 from among a plurality of models M, the calculation device 2 can automatically select the first model M1 and the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1. The calculation device 2 may be configured to automatically select the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 in response to the selection of the first model M1 by the user. For example, if there are multiple models adjacent to the first model M1, the calculation device 2 may automatically select, from among the multiple models adjacent to the first model M1, the model that is located close to the position indicated by the user using a pointing device (more specifically, the model that is located close to the cursor on the screen operated by the pointing device) as the second model M2.

[0031] In the example shown in Fig. 6, the machining path generating device 1A executes a process for generating a first machining path T1 for producing a first elongated member Q1 (hereinafter referred to as a "first generation process"). More specifically, in the first generation process, the first machining path T1 for producing the first elongated member Q1 is generated based on at least a first model M1 (e.g., see Fig. 4) selected in the first identification process and a second identifier ID2 (e.g., see Fig. 4) identified by the execution of the first identification process.

[0032] The first machining path means a path along which a laser or a tool machines the first elongated workpiece W1 so as to produce the first elongated member Q1 from the first elongated workpiece W1 (for example, a path along which the laser head 111 moves relative to the first elongated workpiece W1 so as to produce the first elongated member Q1 from the first elongated workpiece W1). In each of Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, the first machining path T1 is diagrammatically shown by a dashed line.

[0033] 36, when the laser processing machine 101 has a processing head 140 that holds a tool such as a cutting tool 141, the first processing path may include both a path along which the laser processes the first elongated workpiece W1 and a path along which a tool such as the cutting tool 141 processes the first elongated workpiece W1. The calculation device 2 stores first processing path data DP1 indicating the generated first processing path T1 in the memory 3 (see FIG. 9).

[0034] The first processing path T1 includes (1) a first marking forming path TG1 (see Figure 6 or Figure 7) for forming a first laser engraving LG1 (see Figure 11) representing a first identifier ID1, which is an identifier of the first model M1, in the first elongated member Q1, and (2) a second marking forming path TG2 (see Figure 6 or Figure 7) for forming a second laser engraving LG2 (see Figure 11) representing a second identifier ID2 identified by execution of the above-mentioned first identification process in the first elongated member Q1.

[0035] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the first model M1 is provided in advance with a first marking shape K1 expressing a first identifier ID1. In this case, the calculation device 2 can generate a first marking forming path TG1 (see FIG. 6 or FIG. 7) based on the first model M1 selected in the first identification process. In the above example, the second identifier ID2 is identified in the first identification process. Therefore, the calculation device 2 can generate a second marking forming path TG2 (see FIG. 6 or FIG. 7) based on the selected first model M1 and the identified second identifier ID2.

[0036] The first machining path T1 may include a first cutting path TC1 (see FIG. 7) for cutting out the first elongated member Q1 from the first elongated workpiece W1. The calculation device 2 can generate the first cutting path TC1 (see FIG. 7) based on the first model M1 selected in the first identification process.

[0037] The machining path generating device 1A or the control device 7 creates a machining program PG based on at least the first machining path T1. The control device 7 executes the machining program PG to generate a control command SA. The control device 7 transmits the generated control command SA to the laser processing machine 101 (see FIG. 1).

[0038] The laser processing machine 101 operates based on a control command SA, and produces a first elongated member Q1 from the first elongated workpiece W1 by irradiating the first elongated workpiece W1 with a laser.

[0039] Fig. 11 shows a first elongated member Q1 and a second elongated member Q2 produced by the laser processing machine 101. As illustrated in Fig. 11, the first elongated member Q1 produced by the laser processing machine 101 is provided with a first laser engraving LG1 that identifies the first elongated member Q1 and a second laser engraving LG2 that identifies the second elongated member Q2 that will be disposed adjacent to the first elongated member Q1. This allows the user to efficiently connect the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2.

[0040] In the laser processing system 100A of the first embodiment, when the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 is selected, the second identifier ID2, which is the identifier of the second model M2, is specified. This prevents another laser engraving from being mistakenly added in place of the second laser engraving LG2. In other words, in the laser processing system 100A of the first embodiment, the first elongated member Q1 can be accurately engraved with a laser engraving for efficiently connecting the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2.

[0041] (Optional configuration) Next, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the laser processing system 100A in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0042] (Processing path generating device 1A) The machining path generating device 1A includes at least one computer. The machining path generating device 1A may include a CAD / CAM device 10a. Note that CAD is an abbreviation of "Computer Aided Design" and CAM is an abbreviation of "Computer Aided Manufacturing". The CAD / CAM device 10a can create a part drawing and can generate a machining path (e.g., a first machining path) based on the created part drawing.

[0043] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the machining path generating device 1A (for example, a CAD / CAM device 10a) includes a calculation device 2, a memory 3, an input device 4, a display 5, and a communication circuit 6.

[0044] The arithmetic device 2 includes at least one processor 2a (e.g., at least one CPU). In the example shown in Fig. 2, the machining path generating device 1A (more specifically, the arithmetic device 2) executes a program P stored in the memory 3, thereby causing the arithmetic device 2 to function as a model correction unit 21 and a machining path generating unit 23.

[0045] The memory 3 is a storage medium readable by the arithmetic device 2. The memory 3 may be, for example, a non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as a RAM, a ROM, or a flash memory, or may be a magnetic disk or other type of memory. The memory 3 stores the program P and data.

[0046] The memory 3 may be distributed in multiple locations. For example, a memory for storing data may be provided separately from a memory for storing the program P. The memory 3 may include a cloud storage accessible via a network.

[0047] The input device 4 may include a keyboard 4k, a pointing device 4p such as a mouse, or other devices (for example, a touch panel on the display 5).

[0048] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the arithmetic unit 2, the memory 3, the input device 4, the display 5, and the communication circuit 6 are connected to one another via a bus 15.

[0049] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the machining path generating device 1A is a device separate from the control device 7. Alternatively, the control device 7 may function as the machining path generating device 1A. Further alternatively, the CAD / CAM device 10a and the control device 7 may cooperate to function as the machining path generating device 1A, or the CAD / CAM device 10a and the CAD device 91 may cooperate to function as the machining path generating device 1A. Also, the CAD / CAM device 10a, the control device 7, and the CAD device 91 may cooperate to function as the machining path generating device 1A.

[0050] (First specific process) The above-mentioned first identification process is executed by the arithmetic device 2 executing the program P. In the example shown in FIG. 4 or FIG. 14, the above-mentioned first identification process includes the arithmetic device 2 identifying a first identifier ID1 that is an identifier of the first model M1 and a second identifier ID2 that is an identifier of the second model M2 in response to the selection of the first model M1 and the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 from the assembly model AM. It is preferable that the identification of the first identifier ID1 and the second identifier ID2 is automatically performed by the arithmetic device 2 in response to the selection of the first model M1 and the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1.

[0051] The first identifier ID1 is, for example, a code string that identifies the first model M1, and the second identifier ID2 is, for example, a code string that identifies the second model M2. The code may include letters, numbers, symbols, etc.

[0052] (Modification of the first model M1) In the examples shown in Fig. 14 to Fig. 18 (or Fig. 19 to Fig. 27), the machining path generating device 1A can execute a model correction process including correcting the first model M1. Also, the above-mentioned first machining path T1 is generated based on the first model M1' (see Fig. 18 or Fig. 27) corrected by executing the model correction process.

[0053] The model correction process is executed by the arithmetic device 2 that executes a program P. For example, the arithmetic device 2 functions as a model correction unit 21 by executing the program P, and the model correction unit 21 executes the model correction process including correcting the first model M1.

[0054] 18, the model correction process includes adding to the first model M1 a first marking shape K1 that represents the first identifier ID1 identified by execution of the first identification process (more specifically, the first marking shape K1 that corresponds to the shape of the first laser engraving LG1). In other words, the first model M1' corrected by execution of the model correction process includes the first marking shape K1 that corresponds to the shape of the first laser engraving LG1.

[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 4, when the first model M1 includes the first marking shape K1 in advance, the correction of adding the first marking shape K1 to the first model M1 is omitted.

[0056] 18, the model correction process includes adding a second marking shape K2 corresponding to the shape of the second laser engraving LG2 to the first model M1. In other words, the first model M1' corrected by executing the model correction process includes the second marking shape K2 corresponding to the shape of the second laser engraving LG2.

[0057] 18, in the first model M1 (or the corrected first model M1'), a region adjacent to the second model M2 (or the corrected second model M2') is defined as a first region RG1. Also, in the first model M1 (or the corrected first model M1'), a region farther from the second model M2 (or the corrected second model M2') than the first region RG1 is defined as a second region RG2.

[0058] In the example shown in Fig. 18, the model correction process includes adding a second marking shape K2 to a first region RG1 of the first model M1. Also, in the example shown in Fig. 18, the model correction process includes adding a first marking shape K1 to a second region RG2 of the first model M1.

[0059] When the second marking shape K2 is disposed in the first region RG1, the second laser engraving LG2 is formed in a position close to the connection position between the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 (see FIG. 11). This allows the user to easily check for any connection errors when connecting the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2.

[0060] As illustrated in FIG. 11, a laser marking that specifies the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2 is defined as a third laser marking LG3.

[0061] 18, the model correction process includes adding a third marking shape K3 corresponding to the shape of the third laser engraving LG3 to the first model M1 (more specifically, the first region RG1 of the first model M1). In other words, the first model M1' corrected by executing the model correction process includes the third marking shape K3 corresponding to the shape of the third laser engraving LG3.

[0062] When the third marking shape K3 is added to the first model M1, a third laser engraving LG3 (see FIG. 11) specifying the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2 is formed on the first elongated member Q1. Thus, the user can position the first elongated member Q1 relative to the second elongated member Q2 by referring to the third laser engraving LG3.

[0063] In this specification, a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second elongated member Q2 (or the longitudinal direction of the second model M2) is defined as a first direction DR1. In the example shown in Fig. 18, the third marking shape K3 includes a first arrow K3-1 that uniquely specifies the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2 in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. The first arrow K3-1 pinpoints the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2.

[0064] When the third marking shape K3 includes the first arrow K3-1, the third laser engraving LG3 includes the first arrow engraving LG3-1 that pinpoints the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2, as illustrated in Figures 11 and 12. Thus, the user can position the first elongated member Q1 relative to the second elongated member Q2 while referring to the tip of the first arrow engraving LG3-1.

[0065] (Modification of the second model M2) 14 to 18 (or 19 to 27), the model correction process includes correcting the second model M2 in addition to correcting the first model M1. A second machining path T2, which will be described later, is generated based on the second model M2' (see FIG. 18 or FIG. 27) corrected by executing the model correction process.

[0066] In the example shown in Fig. 18, the model correction process includes adding to the second model M2 a fourth marking shape K4 that represents the second identifier ID2 (see Fig. 16) identified by execution of the first identification process. The fourth marking shape K4 corresponds to the shape of the fourth laser engraving LG4 (see Fig. 11). In the example shown in Fig. 18, the second model M2' corrected by execution of the model correction process includes a fourth marking shape K4 that corresponds to the shape of the fourth laser engraving LG4.

[0067] As illustrated in FIG. 4, when the second model M2 already includes the fourth marking shape K4, the correction of adding the fourth marking shape K4 to the second model M2 is omitted.

[0068] In the example shown in Fig. 18, the model correction process includes adding to the second model M2 a fifth marking shape K5 that represents the first identifier ID1 (see Fig. 16) identified by execution of the first identification process. The fifth marking shape K5 corresponds to the shape of the fifth laser engraving LG5 (see Fig. 11). In other words, the second model M2' corrected by execution of the model correction process includes a fifth marking shape K5 that corresponds to the shape of the fifth laser engraving LG5.

[0069] 18, in the second model M2 (or the modified second model M2'), a region adjacent to the first model M1 (or the modified first model M1') is defined as a fourth region RG4. In addition, in the second model M2 (or the modified second model M2'), a region farther from the first model M1 (or the modified first model M1') than the fourth region RG4 is defined as a fifth region RG5.

[0070] In the example shown in Fig. 18, the model correction process includes adding a fifth marking shape K5 to the fourth region RG4 of the second model M2. Also, in the example shown in Fig. 18, the model correction process includes adding a fourth marking shape K4 to the fifth region RG5 of the second model M2.

[0071] When the fifth marking shape K5 is disposed in the fourth region RG4, the fifth laser engraving LG5 is formed in a position close to the connection position between the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 (see FIG. 11). This allows the user to easily check for any connection errors when connecting the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2.

[0072] As illustrated in FIG. 11, a laser marking that specifies the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1 is defined as a sixth laser marking LG6.

[0073] 18, the model correction process includes adding a sixth marking shape K6 corresponding to the shape of the sixth laser engraving LG6 to the second model M2 (more specifically, the fourth region RG4 of the second model M2). In other words, the second model M2' corrected by executing the model correction process includes the sixth marking shape K6 corresponding to the shape of the sixth laser engraving LG6.

[0074] When the sixth marking shape K6 is added to the second model M2, a sixth laser engraving LG6 (see FIG. 11) specifying the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1 is formed on the second elongated member Q2. Thus, the user can position the second elongated member Q2 relative to the first elongated member Q1 by referring to the sixth laser engraving LG6.

[0075] 18, the sixth marking shape K6 includes a second arrow K6-1 that uniquely specifies the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1 in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. The second arrow K6-1 specifies with pinpoint the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1.

[0076] When the sixth marking shape K6 includes the second arrow K6-1, the sixth laser engraving LG6 includes a second arrow mark LG6-1 that pinpoints the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1, as illustrated in Fig. 11 and Fig. 12. Thus, the user can position the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1 while referring to the tip of the second arrow mark LG6-1. More specifically, the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 are suitably positioned by arranging the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 so that the tip of the first arrow mark LG3-1 and the tip of the second arrow mark LG6-1 are substantially the same.

[0077] (Second specific processing) In the example shown in Fig. 24 and Fig. 25, the machining path generating device 1A executes a second identification process including identifying a first identifier ID1 that is an identifier of the first model M1 and a third identifier ID3 that is an identifier of the third model M3 in response to the selection of a first model M1 (e.g., the corrected first model M1') and a third model M3 adjacent to the first model M1 (e.g., the corrected first model M1') from the assembly model AM. Note that in Fig. 24 and Fig. 25, the first model M1 (e.g., the corrected first model M1') hatched with dots indicates a state in which the first model M1 (e.g., the corrected first model M1') is selected. Also, the third model M3 indicated by a dashed line indicates a state in which the third model M3 is selected.

[0078] In the examples shown in FIG. 24 and FIG. 25, the selection of the first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1') is performed by the input device 4 receiving a third user input, and the selection of the third model M3 adjacent to the first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1') is performed by the input device 4 receiving a fourth user input. Alternatively, the selection of the first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1') and the selection of the third model M3 adjacent to the first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1') may be performed automatically by the arithmetic device 2. For example, when there are a plurality of models adjacent to the first model M1, the arithmetic device 2 may automatically select, from the plurality of models adjacent to the first model M1, a model located near a position indicated by the user using a pointing device (more specifically, a model located near a cursor on the screen operated by the pointing device) as the third model M3.

[0079] (Further modification of the first model M1) In the example shown in Figs. 19 to 27, the model correction process includes adding to the first model M1 a seventh marking shape K7 (see Fig. 27) that represents a third identifier ID3 (more specifically, the third identifier ID3 identified by execution of the second identification process) that is an identifier of the third model M3. The seventh marking shape K7 corresponds to the shape of the seventh laser engraving LG7 (see Fig. 28). In the example shown in Fig. 27, the first model M1' corrected by execution of the model correction process includes a seventh marking shape K7 that corresponds to the shape of the seventh laser engraving LG7.

[0080] 27, in the first model M1 (or the corrected first model M1'), a region adjacent to the third model M3 (or the corrected third model M3') is defined as a third region RG3. The third region RG3 is a region closer to the third model M3 (or the corrected third model M3') than the above-mentioned second region RG2.

[0081] In the example depicted in FIG. 27, the model correction process includes adding a seventh marking shape K7 to the third region RG3 of the first model M1.

[0082] When the seventh marking shape K7 is disposed in the third region RG3, the seventh laser engraving LG7 is formed in a position close to the connection position between the first elongated member Q1 and the third elongated member Q3 (see FIG. 28). This allows the user to easily check for any connection errors when connecting the first elongated member Q1 and the third elongated member Q3.

[0083] As illustrated in FIG. 28, the laser marking that specifies the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the third elongated member Q3 is defined as an eighth laser marking LG8.

[0084] 27, the model correction process includes adding an eighth marking shape K8 corresponding to the shape of the eighth laser engraving LG8 to the first model M1 (more specifically, the third region RG3 of the first model M1). In other words, the first model M1' corrected by executing the model correction process includes the eighth marking shape K8 corresponding to the shape of the eighth laser engraving LG8.

[0085] When the eighth marking shape K8 is added to the first model M1, an eighth laser engraving LG8 (see FIG. 28) specifying the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the third elongated member Q3 is formed in the first elongated member Q1. Thus, the user can position the first elongated member Q1 relative to the third elongated member Q3 by referring to the eighth laser engraving LG8.

[0086] In the example depicted in FIG. 27, the eighth marking feature K8 includes a third arrow K8-1 that pinpoints the connection location of the first elongate member Q1 to the third elongate member Q3.

[0087] (Modification of the 3rd model M3) In the example illustrated in Figures 19 to 27, the model modification process includes modifying the third model M3.

[0088] 27, the model correction process includes adding, to the third model M3, a ninth marking shape K9 representing a third identifier ID3 that is an identifier of the third model M3 (more specifically, the third identifier ID3 identified by execution of the second identification process). The ninth marking shape K9 corresponds to the shape of a ninth laser engraving LG9 (see FIG. 28).

[0089] It should be noted that, in the case where the third model M3 already includes the ninth marking shape K9, the correction of adding the ninth marking shape K9 to the third model M3 is omitted.

[0090] 27, the model correction process includes adding, to the third model M3, a tenth marking shape K10 representing a first identifier ID1 that is an identifier of the first model M1 (more specifically, the first identifier ID1 identified by execution of the second identification process). The tenth marking shape K10 corresponds to the shape of a tenth laser engraving LG10 (see FIG. 28).

[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 28, the laser marking that specifies the connection position of the third elongated member Q3 to the first elongated member Q1 is defined as an eleventh laser marking LG11.

[0092] In the example depicted in FIG. 27, the model correction process includes adding to the third model M3 an eleventh marking shape K11 corresponding to the shape of the eleventh laser engraving LG11.

[0093] In the example depicted in FIG. 27, the eleventh marking shape K11 includes a fourth arrow K11-1 that pinpoints the connection position of the third elongated member Q3 to the first elongated member Q1.

[0094] (First generation process) In the example shown in Fig. 33, the calculation device 2 (more specifically, the machining path generating unit 23 of the calculation device 2) executing the program P executes a first generation process to generate a first machining path for producing the first elongated member Q1. More specifically, the calculation device 2 generates the first machining path for producing the first elongated member Q1 based on the first model M1' (see, for example, Fig. 18 or Fig. 27) corrected by executing the above-mentioned model correction process. The calculation device 2 stores first machining path data DP1 indicating the generated first machining path in the memory 3 (see Fig. 33).

[0095] In the example shown in Figure 34, the first processing path T1 includes (1) a first marking forming path TG1 for forming a first laser engraving LG1 (see Figure 28) representing a first identifier ID1 (more specifically, the first identifier ID1 identified by executing the above-mentioned first identification process) which is an identifier of the first model M1, in the first elongated member Q1, (2) a second marking forming path TG2 for forming a second laser engraving LG2 (see Figure 28) representing a second identifier ID2 (more specifically, the second identifier ID2 identified by executing the above-mentioned first identification process) which is an identifier of the second model M2, in the first elongated member Q1, and (3) a first cutting path TC1 for cutting out the first elongated member Q1 from the first elongated workpiece W1.

[0096] The first processing path T1 may include a third marking forming path TG3 for forming a third laser engraving LG3 (more specifically, a first arrow marking LG3-1 shown in FIG. 28) on the first elongated member Q1, the third laser engraving LG3 specifying the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2.

[0097] The first processing path T1 may include a seventh marking forming path TG7 for forming a seventh laser marking LG7 (see Figure 28) on the first elongated member Q1, the seventh laser marking LG7 representing a third identifier ID3 which is an identifier of the third model M3 (more specifically, the third identifier ID3 identified by executing the second identification process described above).

[0098] The first processing path T1 may include an eighth engraving forming path TG8 for forming an eighth laser engraving LG8 (more specifically, an arrow engraving) on ​​the first elongated member Q1 that specifies the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the third elongated member Q3.

[0099] (Second generation process) In the example shown in Fig. 33, the calculation device 2 (more specifically, the machining path generating unit 23 of the calculation device 2) executing the program P executes a second generation process to generate a second machining path for producing the second elongated member Q2. More specifically, the calculation device 2 generates the second machining path for producing the second elongated member Q2 based on the second model M2' (see, for example, Fig. 18 or Fig. 27) corrected by executing the above-mentioned model correction process. The calculation device 2 stores second machining path data DP2 indicating the generated second machining path in the memory 3 (see Fig. 33).

[0100] The second machining path means a path along which a laser or a tool machines the second elongated workpiece W2 so as to produce the second elongated member Q2 from the second elongated workpiece W2 (for example, a path along which the laser head 111 moves relative to the second elongated workpiece W2 so as to produce the second elongated member Q2 from the second elongated workpiece W2). As illustrated in Fig. 37, in the case where the laser processing machine 101 has a processing head 140 that holds a tool such as a cutting tool 141, the second machining path may include both a path along which the laser machines the second elongated workpiece W2 and a path along which a tool such as the cutting tool 141 machines the second elongated workpiece W2.

[0101] In the example shown in Fig. 37, the second elongated work W2 is a work separate from the first elongated work W1. Alternatively, the second elongated work W2 may be the same as the first elongated work W1. In other words, in the explanation of the previous paragraph, "the second elongated work W2" can be read as "the first elongated work W1, or a second elongated work W2 separate from the first elongated work W1."

[0102] In the example shown in Figure 35, the second processing path T2 includes (1) a fourth marking forming pass TG4 for forming a fourth laser engraving LG4 (see Figure 28) in the second elongated member Q2, the fourth laser engraving LG4 representing the second identifier ID2 (more specifically, the second identifier ID2 identified by executing the first identification process described above) which is the identifier of the second model M2; (2) a fifth laser engraving forming pass TG5 for forming a fifth laser engraving LG5 (see Figure 28) in the second elongated member Q2, the fifth laser engraving LG5 representing the first identifier ID1 (more specifically, the first identifier ID1 identified by executing the first identification process described above) which is the identifier of the first model M1; and (3) a second cutting pass TC2 for cutting out the second elongated member Q2 from the first elongated workpiece W1 or a second elongated workpiece W2 separate from the first elongated workpiece W1.

[0103] The second machining pass T2 may include a sixth marking forming pass TG6 for forming a sixth laser marking LG6 (see FIG. 28) in the second elongated member Q2 that specifies the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1. In the example shown in FIG. 35, the sixth marking forming pass TG6 includes a machining pass for forming a second arrow marking LG6-1 (see FIG. 28) in the second elongated member Q2.

[0104] Alternatively, or additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the sixth marking forming pass TG6 may include a machining pass for forming a first linear marking LG6-2 (see FIG. 11) in the second elongated member Q2.

[0105] (Control device 7) The control device 7 controls the laser processing machine 101. In the example shown in FIG. 36, the control device 7 includes a display 72, an input device 73 (for example, a touch panel on the display 72), a calculation device 74, a communication circuit 75, and a memory 76. In the example shown in FIG. 36, the memory 76 stores a processing program PG created based on at least the first processing path T1. The processing program PG stored in the memory 76 may be a program created based on the first processing path T1 and the second processing path T2.

[0106] The control device 7 (more specifically, the arithmetic device 74) generates a control command SA by executing the machining program PG. In this specification, the control device 7 (more specifically, the arithmetic device 74) executing the machining program PG includes the control device 7 (more specifically, the arithmetic device 74) executing the machining program PG via the arithmetic program PJ. In other words, the control device 7 (more specifically, the arithmetic device 74) may execute the arithmetic program PJ, thereby causing the machining program PG to be processed (in other words, interpreted) by the control device 7 (more specifically, the arithmetic device 74).

[0107] In the example shown in FIG. 36, a display 72 , an input device 73 , a computing device 74 , a communication circuit 75 , and a memory 76 are connected to each other via a bus 77 .

[0108] The laser processing machine 101 operates based on control commands SA generated by the processing program PG being executed by the control device 7 (more specifically, the arithmetic device 74). More specifically, the communication circuit 75 transmits the control commands SA to the laser processing machine 101, and the laser processing machine 101 that receives the control commands SA operates based on the control commands SA. The control commands SA include a plurality of commands such as a movement command SA1 for moving the laser head 111 and an emission command SA2 for emitting a laser from the laser head 111.

[0109] In the example shown in FIG. 36, the laser processing machine 101 operates based on a control command SA, and produces a first elongated member Q1 from the first elongated workpiece W1 by irradiating the first elongated workpiece W1 with a laser.

[0110] In the example shown in FIG. 37, the laser processing machine 101 operates based on a control command SA, and produces a second elongated member Q2 from the second elongated workpiece W2 by irradiating the second elongated workpiece W2 with a laser.

[0111] (Laser processing machine 101) In the example shown in FIG. 36, the laser processing machine 101 includes a laser irradiation device 110 having a laser head 111, a moving device 120, and a workpiece supporting device .

[0112] 36, the workpiece support device 130 has a first chuck 131 and a second chuck 134. The first chuck 131 and the second chuck 134 support an elongated workpiece (for example, a first elongated workpiece W1).

[0113] The first chuck 131 may have a gripping member 132 capable of gripping an elongated workpiece (e.g., the first elongated workpiece W1). The first chuck 131 may be movable in a direction parallel to the X-axis together with the elongated workpiece (e.g., the first elongated workpiece W1). In the example shown in FIG. 36, the X-axis is an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated workpiece (e.g., the first elongated workpiece W1) gripped by the first chuck 131.

[0114] The second chuck 134 may have a plurality of guide rollers 135 that sandwich the elongated workpiece (e.g., the first elongated workpiece W1). The plurality of guide rollers 135 guide the movement of the elongated workpiece (e.g., the first elongated workpiece W1) in a direction parallel to the X-axis.

[0115] In the example shown in FIG. 36, the workpiece supporting device 130 may have a rotation driving device 137 that rotates an elongated workpiece (for example, a first elongated workpiece W1) around an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated workpiece.

[0116] The moving device 120 moves the laser head 111 relative to the work supporting device 130 .

[0117] 36, the moving device 120 includes a first moving device 121 that moves the laser head 111. The moving device 120 may include a work moving device that moves an elongated workpiece (e.g., a first elongated workpiece W1) (more specifically, a motor that moves the elongated workpiece in a direction parallel to the X-axis).

[0118] In the example shown in FIG. 36, the first moving device 121 has a moving body (122a; 123a) that supports the laser head 111, and a driving device (122b; 123b) that moves the moving body (122a; 123a).

[0119] The first moving device 121 may have a first moving body 122a and a first driving device 122b that moves the first moving body 122a in a direction parallel to the Z axis. In the example shown in FIG. 36, the first moving body 122a directly or indirectly supports the laser head 111 and is movable together with the laser head 111 in a direction parallel to the Z axis. The Z axis is an axis perpendicular to the X axis. In the example shown in FIG. 36, the Z axis is an axis parallel to the vertical direction.

[0120] The first moving device 121 may have a second moving body 123a and a second driving device 123b that moves the second moving body 123a in a direction parallel to the Y axis. In the example shown in FIG. 36, the second moving body 123a directly or indirectly supports the laser head 111 and is movable together with the laser head 111 in a direction parallel to the Y axis. The Y axis is an axis perpendicular to both the X axis and the Z axis. In the example shown in FIG. 36, the Y axis is an axis parallel to a horizontal plane.

[0121] The laser irradiation device 110 has a laser head 111, a laser light source 113, and an optical component 115 (for example, an optical fiber or the like) that transmits a laser from the laser light source 113 to the laser head 111. The laser head 111 has a laser emission port 112 that emits a laser.

[0122] 38, the laser processing machine 101 may have a carry-in section 103, a laser processing section 105, and an unloading section 107. The elongated work (e.g., the first elongated work W1) carried in to the carry-in section 103 is transferred to the laser processing section 105 by a moving device such as a work moving device. A member such as the first elongated member Q1 made from the elongated work (e.g., the first elongated work W1) is transferred from the laser processing section 105 to the unloading section 107 by an arbitrary transfer device such as a conveyor.

[0123] (Laser processing system 100A) In the example shown in Fig. 38, the laser processing system 100A includes a processing path generating device 1A (more specifically, a CAD / CAM device 10a), a control device 7, and a laser processing machine 101. In the example shown in Fig. 38, the processing path generating device 1A (more specifically, the CAD / CAM device 10a) and the control device 7 are connected to each other via a wired LN or wirelessly so as to be capable of transmitting information.

[0124] The machining path generating device 1A generates the above-mentioned first machining path. The machining path generating device 1A may generate the above-mentioned second machining path. The machining path generating device 1A may create a machining program PG based on at least the first machining path. In the example described in FIG. 38, the machining path generating device 1A can transmit the machining program PG to the control device 7 via a wired LN or wirelessly. The control device 7 stores the machining program PG received from the machining path generating device 1A in the memory 76. Alternatively, the control device 7 may create the machining program PG based on at least the first machining path. In this case, the first machining path generated by the machining path generating device 1A may be transmitted to the control device 7 via a wired LN or wirelessly, and the control device 7 may create the machining program PG based on at least the first machining path. The created machining program PG is stored in the memory 76.

[0125] Alternatively, information transmission between the machining path generating device 1A and the control device 7 may be performed using a portable memory (for example, a USB memory).

[0126] In the example shown in FIG. 38, the control device 7 is disposed in a location where the laser processing machine 101 is disposed. More specifically, the control device 7 and the laser processing machine 101 are disposed in the same work room SP1. The control device 7 may be attached to the laser processing machine 101 (for example, an outer wall of the laser processing machine 101). In the example shown in FIG. 38, the processing path generating device 1A is disposed in a room (more specifically, an office space SP2) different from the work room SP1 where the laser processing machine 101 is disposed.

[0127] Second embodiment A processing path generating method and a laser processing method according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 39. Fig. 39 is a flowchart showing an example of the laser processing method according to the second embodiment.

[0128] In the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, repeated descriptions of matters already described in the first embodiment will be omitted. Therefore, it goes without saying that matters already described in the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment even if they are not explicitly described in the second embodiment. Conversely, matters described in the second embodiment can be applied to the first embodiment.

[0129] The machining path generation method in the second embodiment may be performed using the machining path generation device 1A (e.g., CAD / CAM device 10a) or laser processing system 100A in the first embodiment, or may be performed using another machining path generation device or laser processing system.

[0130] In a first step ST1, an assembly model AM is prepared by combining a plurality of models M. The first step ST1 is a preparation step. In the example shown in FIG. 4, FIG. 14, or FIG. 19, the assembly model AM prepared in the preparation step includes a first model M1 that models the first elongated member Q1 and a second model M2 that models the second elongated member Q2. As illustrated in FIG. 14 or FIG. 19, the assembly model AM prepared in the preparation step may include a third model M3 that models the third elongated member Q3.

[0131] The preparation step (first step ST1) includes, for example, the machining path generating device 1 (e.g., the CAD / CAM device 10a) reading out model data DA indicating the shape and arrangement of each of the multiple models M (more specifically, the model data DA indicating the shape of each of the multiple models M and the arrangement of each of the multiple models M in the assembly model AM). More specifically, the preparation step (first step ST1) includes the calculation device 2 executing the program P stored in the memory 3 reading out from the memory 3 a file F including the model data DA indicating the shape and arrangement of each of the multiple models M.

[0132] 4, 14, or 19, the preparation step (first step ST1) may include the calculation device 2 displaying an assembly model AM on the display 5. Alternatively, or additionally, the preparation step (first step ST1) may include creating an assembly model AM in which a plurality of models M are combined, using software (e.g., CAD software) executed by the calculation device 2.

[0133] As illustrated in FIG. 14, the preparation step (first step ST1) may include the calculation device 2 displaying, on the display 5, an image IU that accepts input of data identifying each of the multiple models M (e.g., the name of the first model M1, a first identifier ID1 that identifies the first model M1). In the example illustrated in FIG. 14, when data is input into a first input field Cb displayed on the display 5, the calculation device 2 registers the data input into the first input field Cb as a first identifier ID1 that identifies the first model M1. Note that, when the model data DA includes data that identifies each of the multiple models M, the display of the first input field Cb may be omitted.

[0134] In a second step ST2, a first identification process is executed, including identifying a second identifier ID2 (see, for example, FIG. 20) that is an identifier of the second model M2. The second step ST2 is a first identification process. The first identification process (or the first identification process) may include, in response to the selection of the first model M1 and the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 from the assembly model AM, the calculation device 2 identifying the first identifier ID1 that is an identifier of the first model, and identifying the second identifier ID2 that is an identifier of the second model M2.

[0135] In the examples shown in Figures 4, 14, or 19, in response to a selection of a first model M1 and a second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 based on user input via the input device 4, the calculation device 2 automatically identifies a first identifier ID1 and identifies a second identifier ID2.

[0136] 4, 14, or 19, the selection of the first model M1 and the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 is performed by receiving a user input by the input device 4. For example, the first model M1 is selected in response to an image IG1 showing the shape of the first model M1 displayed on the display 5 being clicked with a pointing device such as a mouse, and the second model M2 is selected in response to an image IG3 showing the shape of the second model M2 displayed on the display 5 being clicked with a pointing device such as a mouse.

[0137] Alternatively, the selection of the first model M1 and / or the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 may be automatically performed by the calculation device 2. For example, when the calculation device 2 automatically determines a model adjacent to the first model M1 from among a plurality of models M, the calculation device 2 may automatically select the first model M1 and the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1. In addition, the calculation device 2 may be configured to automatically select the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 in response to the selection of the first model M1 by the user. For example, when there are a plurality of models adjacent to the first model M1, the calculation device 2 may automatically select, as the second model M2, a model located near a position indicated by the user using a pointing device (more specifically, a model located near a cursor on the screen operated by a pointing device) from among the plurality of models adjacent to the first model M1.

[0138] In a third step ST3, at least one model M including the first model M1 is modified. The third step ST3 is a model modification step. The model modification step will be described later. Note that the model modification step (third step ST3) may be omitted.

[0139] In a fourth step ST4, a first machining path for producing the first elongated member Q1 is generated. The fourth step ST4 is a first generating step. The first generating step (fourth step ST4) is executed by the machining path generating device 1 (more specifically, the arithmetic device 2 executing the program P).

[0140] In the first generating step (fourth step ST4), a first machining path T1 (e.g., see FIG. 6 or 7) for producing the first elongated member Q1 is generated based on at least the first model M1 (e.g., see FIG. 4) selected in the first identification process and the second identifier ID2 (e.g., see FIG. 4) identified by execution of the first identification process. The first machining path T1 has been described in the first embodiment, so a repeated description of the first machining path T1 will be omitted.

[0141] In the example shown in Figure 6, Figure 7, or Figure 34, the first processing path T1 includes (1) a first marking forming path TG1 for forming a first laser engraving LG1 (see Figure 11 or Figure 28) representing a first identifier ID1, which is an identifier of the first model M1 (more specifically, the first identifier ID1 identified by execution of the above-mentioned first identification process), in the first elongated member Q1, and (2) a second marking forming path TG2 for forming a second laser engraving LG2 (see Figure 11 or Figure 28) representing a second identifier ID2 identified by execution of the above-mentioned first identification process, in the first elongated member Q1.

[0142] As illustrated in FIG. 7 or FIG. 34, the first machining path T1 may include a first cutting path TC1 for cutting out a first elongated member Q1 from the first elongated workpiece W1.

[0143] In a fifth step ST5, a second machining path for producing the second elongated member Q2 is generated. The fifth step ST5 is a second generating step. The second generating step (fifth step ST5) is executed by the machining path generating device 1 (more specifically, the arithmetic device 2 executing the program P). The first generating step (fourth step ST4) and the second generating step (fifth step ST5) may be executed sequentially by the machining path generating device 1.

[0144] In the second generating step (fifth step ST5), a second machining path T2 (e.g., see FIG. 8) for producing the second elongated member Q2 is generated based on at least the second model M2 (e.g., see FIG. 4) selected in the first identification process and the first identifier ID1 (e.g., see FIG. 4) identified by execution of the first identification process. The second machining path T2 has been described in the first embodiment, so a repeated description of the second machining path T2 will be omitted.

[0145] In the example shown in Figure 8 or Figure 35, the second processing path T2 includes (1) a fourth marking forming path TG4 for forming a fourth laser engraving LG4 (see Figure 11 or Figure 28) in the second elongated member Q2, the fourth laser engraving LG4 representing the second identifier ID2 (more specifically, the second identifier ID2 identified by execution of the above-mentioned first identification process), which is the identifier of the second model M2, and (2) a fifth laser engraving forming path TG5 for forming a fifth laser engraving LG5 (see Figure 11 or Figure 28) in the second elongated member Q2, the fifth laser engraving LG5 representing the first identifier ID1 identified by execution of the above-mentioned first identification process.

[0146] As illustrated in Figure 8 or Figure 35, the second machining path T2 may include a second cutting path TC2 for cutting out a second elongated member Q2 from the first elongated workpiece W1 or a second elongated workpiece W2 separate from the first elongated workpiece W1.

[0147] The second generation step (fifth step ST5) may be executed before the first generation step (fourth step ST4), after the first generation step (fourth step ST4), or in parallel with the first generation step (fourth step ST4). The second generation step (fifth step ST5) may be omitted.

[0148] The laser processing method in the second embodiment includes, in addition to at least the first step ST1, the second step ST2, and the fourth step ST4 described above, (1) a step of creating a processing program PG based on at least the first processing path described above, (2) a step of a control device 7 executing the processing program PG generating a control command SA, and (3) a step of a laser processing machine 101 receiving the control command SA irradiating a laser beam to the first elongated workpiece W1 to produce a first elongated member Q1 from the first elongated workpiece W1. Additionally, the laser processing method in the second embodiment may include a step of (4) a step of a laser processing machine 101 receiving the control command SA irradiating a laser beam to the first elongated workpiece W1 or a second elongated workpiece W2 different from the first elongated workpiece W1 or a second elongated workpiece W2 different from the first elongated workpiece W2 to produce a second elongated member Q2 from the first elongated workpiece W1 or a second elongated workpiece W2 different from the first elongated workpiece W1.

[0149] In the processing path generating method in the second embodiment (or the laser processing method in the second embodiment), a second identifier ID2, which is an identifier of the second model M2, is specified in response to selecting a second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1. In addition, a first processing path T1 is generated, which includes a second marking forming path TG2 for forming a second laser marking LG2 representing the specified second identifier ID2 on the first elongated member Q1. This prevents a laser marking other than the second laser marking LG2 from being mistakenly made. In other words, the second embodiment provides a processing path generating method (or a laser processing method) that makes it possible to accurately make a laser marking on the first elongated member Q1 for efficiently connecting the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2.

[0150] (Optional configuration) Next, an optional additional configuration that can be adopted in the machining path generating method and the laser machining method in the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs.

[0151] (Processing path generating device 1A, laser processing system 100A) The above-mentioned first step ST1 to fifth step ST5 are executed, for example, by the machining path generating device 1A (more specifically, the CAD / CAM device 10a) in the first embodiment, or the laser processing system 100A in the first embodiment. The machining path generating device 1A and the laser processing system 100A have been described in the first embodiment, so repeated description of the machining path generating device 1A and the laser processing system 100A will be omitted.

[0152] (1st specific process) In the example described in Figures 14 and 15, the above-mentioned first identification step (second step ST2) or the above-mentioned first identification process includes: (1) the calculation device 2 displays, on the display 5, an assembly model AM in which a plurality of models M are combined, including a first model M1 modeled on a first elongated member Q1 and a second model M2 modeled on a second elongated member Q2; (2) the calculation device 2 accepts selection of the first model M1 and the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 from the assembly models AM displayed on the display 5; and (3) in response to the selection of the first model M1 and the second model M2, the calculation device 2 identifies a first identifier ID1 which is the identifier of the first model M1 and a second identifier ID2 which is the identifier of the second model M2.

[0153] (Modification of the first model M1) 14 to 18 (or 19 to 27), the machining path generating method according to the second embodiment includes a step (third step ST3) of executing a model correction process including correcting the first model M1. The model correction process is executed by the arithmetic device 2 executing the program P.

[0154] 14 and 18 (or FIGS. 19 and 27), the model correction process includes adding a first marking shape K1 representing the first identifier ID1 (in other words, a first marking shape K1 corresponding to the shape of the first laser engraving LG1) to the first model M1. The first marking shape K1 has been described in the first embodiment, so a repeated description of the first marking shape K1 will be omitted.

[0155] In the example shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, the model correction process includes displaying, on the display 5, an image IV1 (more specifically, a first selection field C1) that accepts a selection of whether or not to add the first marking shape K1 to the first model M1. After the selection of adding the first marking shape K1 to the first model M1 is made via the input device 4, the calculation device 2 executes a process of adding the first marking shape K1 to the first model M1. In the example shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, the process of adding the first marking shape K1 to the first model M1 is automatically performed by the calculation device 2 in response to the selection of adding the first marking shape K1 to the first model M1 and the approval of the execution of the model correction (for example, in response to the first button BN1 displayed on the display 5 being clicked using the pointing device 4p).

[0156] In the example shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, it is also possible to select not to add the first marking shape K1 to the first model M1 via the input device 4. In this case, the first model M1 is not modified to add the first marking shape K1. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, if the first model M1 already includes the first marking shape K1, there is no need to further add the first marking shape K1 to the first model M1.

[0157] As exemplified in FIG. 32, the model correction process may include the calculation device 2 displaying, on the display 5, an image IV8 (more specifically, a first editing field C8) that accepts a change in the size of the first marking shape K1. In the example described in FIG. 32, the calculation device 2 determines the size of the first marking shape K1 to be added to the first model M1 based on data inputted into the first editing field C8. Note that the first editing field C8 may display a recommended value (e.g., a value registered in advance by a user) of the size of the first marking shape K1. In this case, the user can input the size of the first marking shape K1 to the calculation device 2 via the input device 4 with reference to the recommended value.

[0158] 14 and 18 (or FIGS. 19 and 27), the model correction process includes adding a second marking shape K2 representing the second identifier ID2 (in other words, a second marking shape K2 corresponding to the shape of the second laser engraving LG2) to the first model M1. The second marking shape K2 has been described in the first embodiment, so a repeated description of the second marking shape K2 will be omitted.

[0159] In the example shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, the model correction process includes displaying, on the display 5, an image IV2 (more specifically, a second selection field C2) that accepts a selection of whether or not to add the second marking shape K2 to the first model M1. After the selection of adding the second marking shape K2 to the first model M1 is made via the input device 4, the calculation device 2 executes a process of adding the second marking shape K2 to the first model M1. In the example shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, the process of adding the second marking shape K2 to the first model M1 is automatically performed by the calculation device 2 in response to the selection of adding the second marking shape K2 to the first model M1 and the approval of the execution of the model correction (for example, in response to the first button BN1 displayed on the display 5 being clicked using the pointing device 4p).

[0160] As exemplified in FIG. 32, the model correction process may include the calculation device 2 displaying, on the display 5, an image IV9 (more specifically, a second editing field C9) that accepts a change in the size of the second marking shape K2. In the example described in FIG. 32, the calculation device 2 determines the size of the second marking shape K2 to be added to the first model M1 based on data inputted into the second editing field C9. Note that the second editing field C9 may display a recommended value (e.g., a value registered in advance by a user) of the size of the second marking shape K2. In this case, the user can input the size of the second marking shape K2 to the calculation device 2 via the input device 4 with reference to the recommended value.

[0161] 15 to 18, the model correction process includes: (1) the calculation device 2 receiving, via the input device 4, a designation of a designated boundary line segment BLd (see, for example, FIG. 15) from among a plurality of boundary lines BL between the first model M1 and the second model M2; and (2) when a surface that is in contact with the designated boundary line segment BLd among a plurality of surfaces of the first model M1 is defined as a first surface PL1, adding the above-mentioned second marking shape K2 (see FIG. 18) to the first surface PL1. As exemplified in FIG. 18, the model correction process may include adding the first marking shape K1 to the above-mentioned first surface PL1.

[0162] When the designated boundary line segment BLd can be designated, as shown in FIG. 11, the first laser engraving LG1 and / or the second laser engraving LG2 can be formed at a position that is easily visible to the user.

[0163] In the example shown in Fig. 18, the model correction process includes adding a second marking shape K2 to a first region RG1 in the first model M1 that is adjacent to the second model M2. Also, in the example shown in Fig. 18, the model correction process includes adding a first marking shape K1 to a second region RG2 in the first model M1 that is farther from the second model M2 than the first region RG1.

[0164] When the second marking shape K2 is disposed in the first region RG1, the second laser engraving LG2 is formed in a position close to the connection position between the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 (see FIG. 11). This allows the user to easily check for any connection errors when connecting the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2.

[0165] 18, the model correction process includes adding a third marking shape K3 to the first model M1 (more specifically, the first region RG1 of the first model M1) corresponding to the shape of the third laser engraving LG3 specifying the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2. The third marking shape K3 has been described in the first embodiment, and therefore a repeated description of the third marking shape K3 will be omitted.

[0166] 11 and 12, when the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 are assembled together (see FIG. 12), the first elongated member Q1 is allowed to move relative to the second elongated member Q2 in a first direction DR1 parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second elongated member Q2. In the examples shown in FIGS. 14 to 18, the boundary shape between the first model M1 and the second model M2 is a non-interlocking shape so that the relative movement is allowed.

[0167] In this case, the third marking shape K3 preferably has a shape that uniquely specifies the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2 in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. In the example shown in Fig. 18, the third marking shape K3 includes a first arrow K3-1 that uniquely specifies the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2 in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. The first arrow K3-1 pinpoints the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2.

[0168] When the third marking shape K3 includes the first arrow K3-1, the third laser engraving LG3 includes the first arrow engraving LG3-1 that pinpoints the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2, as illustrated in Figures 11 and 12. Thus, the user can position the first elongated member Q1 relative to the second elongated member Q2 while referring to the tip of the first arrow engraving LG3-1.

[0169] (Modification of the second model M2) In the example shown in Figures 14 to 18 (or Figures 19 to 27), the model correction step (or model correction process) includes correcting the second model M2. More specifically, in the example shown in Figures 14 to 18 (or Figures 19 to 27), the model correction step (or model correction process) includes correcting the first model M1 and correcting the second model M2.

[0170] 14 and 18 (or FIGS. 19 and 27), the model correction process includes adding, to the second model M2, a fourth marking shape K4 expressing a second identifier ID2 that is an identifier of the second elongated member Q2 (in other words, a fourth marking shape K4 corresponding to the shape of the fourth laser engraving LG4). The fourth marking shape K4 has been described in the first embodiment, and therefore a repeated description of the fourth marking shape K4 will be omitted.

[0171] In the example shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, the arithmetic device 2 displays on the display 5 an image IV1 (more specifically, a first selection field C1) that accepts a selection of whether or not to add a self-identification mark to each of the first model M1 and the second model M2. After the selection of adding a self-identification mark is made via the input device 4, the arithmetic device 2 executes a process of adding a first marking shape K1 to the first model M1 and adding a fourth marking shape K4 to the second model M2. In the example shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, the process of adding the first marking shape K1 to the first model M1 and adding the fourth marking shape K4 to the second model M2 is automatically performed by the arithmetic device 2 in response to the selection of adding a self-identification mark and the approval of the execution of the model correction (for example, in response to the first button BN1 displayed on the display 5 being clicked using the pointing device 4p).

[0172] In the example shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, it is also possible to select not to add a self-identification mark to each of the first model M1 and the second model M2 via the input device 4. In this case, the correction of adding the first marking shape K1 to the first model M1 and the correction of adding the fourth marking shape K4 to the second model M2 are not performed. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, when the first model M1 includes the first marking shape K1 in advance and the second model M2 includes the fourth marking shape K4 in advance, there is no need to further add a self-identification mark to each of the first model M1 and the second model M2.

[0173] 14 and 18 (or FIGS. 19 and 27), the model correction process includes adding, to the second model M2, a fifth marking shape K5 expressing the first identifier ID1, which is the identifier of the first model M1 (in other words, the fifth marking shape K5 corresponding to the shape of the fifth laser engraving LG5). The fifth marking shape K5 has already been described in the first embodiment, so a repeated description of the fifth marking shape K5 will be omitted.

[0174] In the example shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, the arithmetic device 2 displays on the display 5 an image IV2 (more specifically, a second selection field C2) that accepts a selection of whether or not to add an opponent identification mark to each of the first model M1 and the second model M2. After the addition of the opponent identification mark is selected via the input device 4, the arithmetic device 2 executes a process of adding the second marking shape K2 to the first model M1 and adding the fifth marking shape K5 to the second model M2. In the example shown in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, the process of adding the second marking shape K2 to the first model M1 and adding the fifth marking shape K5 to the second model M2 is automatically performed by the arithmetic device 2 in response to the selection of adding the opponent identification mark and the approval of the execution of the model correction (for example, in response to the first button BN1 displayed on the display 5 being clicked using the pointing device 4p).

[0175] 15 to 18, the model correction process includes: (1) the calculation device 2 receives, via the input device 4, a designation of a designated boundary line segment BLd (see FIG. 15) from among a plurality of boundary lines BL between the first model M1 and the second model M2; and (2) when a surface that is in contact with the designated boundary line segment BLd among a plurality of surfaces of the second model M2 is defined as the second surface PL2 (see FIG. 16), adding the above-mentioned fifth marking shape K5 (see FIG. 18) to the second surface PL2. As illustrated in FIG. 18, the model correction process may include adding a fourth marking shape K4 to the above-mentioned second surface PL2.

[0176] When the designated boundary line segment BLd can be designated, as exemplified in FIG. 11, the fourth laser engraving LG4 and / or the fifth laser engraving LG5 can be formed at a position that is easily visible to the user.

[0177] In the example shown in Fig. 18, the model correction process includes adding a fifth marking shape K5 to a fourth region RG4 in the second model M2 that is adjacent to the first model M1. Also, in the example shown in Fig. 18, the model correction process includes adding a fourth marking shape K4 to a fifth region RG5 in the second model M2 that is farther from the first model M1 than the fourth region RG4.

[0178] When the fifth marking shape K5 is disposed in the fourth region RG4, the fifth laser engraving LG5 is formed in a position close to the connection position between the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 (see FIG. 11). This allows the user to easily check for any connection errors when connecting the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2.

[0179] 18, the model correction process includes adding a sixth marking shape K6 corresponding to the shape of a sixth laser engraving LG6 specifying the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1 to the second model M2 (more specifically, the fourth region RG4 of the second model M2). The sixth marking shape K6 has been described in the first embodiment, and therefore a repeated description of the sixth marking shape K6 will be omitted.

[0180] 11 and 12, when the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 are assembled together (see FIG. 12), the first elongated member Q1 is allowed to move relative to the second elongated member Q2 in a first direction DR1 parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second elongated member Q2. In the examples shown in FIGS. 14 to 18, the boundary shape between the first model M1 and the second model M2 is a non-interlocking shape so that the relative movement is allowed.

[0181] In this case, the sixth marking shape K6 preferably has a shape that uniquely specifies the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1 in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. In the example shown in Fig. 18, the sixth marking shape K6 includes a second arrow K6-1 that uniquely specifies the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1 in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1. The second arrow K6-1 pinpoints the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1.

[0182] When the sixth marking shape K6 includes the second arrow K6-1, the sixth laser engraving LG6 includes a second arrow mark LG6-1 that pinpoints the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1, as illustrated in Fig. 11 and Fig. 12. Thus, the user can position the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1 while referring to the tip of the second arrow mark LG6-1. More specifically, the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 are suitably positioned by arranging the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 so that the tip of the first arrow mark LG3-1 and the tip of the second arrow mark LG6-1 are substantially the same.

[0183] 18, the sixth marking shape K6 includes a first line K6-2 that specifies the connection position and the connection angle of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1. The first line K6-2 uniquely specifies the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1 in a direction parallel to the first direction DR1.

[0184] When the sixth marking shape K6 includes the first line K6-2, the sixth laser engraving LG6 includes a first linear engraving LG6-2 that specifies the connection position and connection angle of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1, as illustrated in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12. Thus, the user can position the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1 while referring to the first linear engraving LG6-2. More specifically, the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 are preferably positioned in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second elongated member Q2 by arranging the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 so that the first linear engraving LG6-2 and the edge line of the first elongated member Q1 substantially overlap each other. In addition, the relative angle of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2 is preferably set.

[0185] (Modifying the boundary shape) 19 and 23, the model correction process may include correcting the boundary shape BS1 between the first model M1 and the second model M2. More specifically, the model correction process may include correcting the boundary shape BS1 between the first model M1 and the second model M2 to a predetermined first alignment shape (for example, a spigot shape). In this specification, the spigot shape refers to the boundary shape between a convex portion and a concave portion when the convex portion fits into the concave portion.

[0186] 19 and 23, the model correction process includes correcting the boundary shape of the first model M1 relative to the second model M2 (hereinafter referred to as "first boundary shape BS1-1") in the boundary region between the first model M1 and the second model M2 from the original shape to a first convex shape Hv1 (see FIG. 23). The model correction process also includes correcting the boundary shape of the second model M2 relative to the first model M1 (hereinafter referred to as "second boundary shape BS1-2") in the boundary region between the first model M1 and the second model M2 to a first concave shape Hc1 (see FIG. 23) complementary to the first convex shape Hv1.

[0187] In this specification, a portion where the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 are connected is defined as a first connection portion N1 (see FIG. 13). The model correction process may include the calculation device 2 determining a first shape HD1 (see FIG. 21) as a first alignment shape of the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 at the first connection portion N1, and the calculation device 2 correcting a first boundary shape BS1-1 (see FIG. 23) of the first model M1 relative to the second model M2 based on the first shape HD1. The model correction process may also include the calculation device 2 correcting a second boundary shape BS1-2 (see FIG. 23) of the second model M2 relative to the first model M1 based on the first shape HD1.

[0188] Determining the first shape HD1 may include the input device 4 receiving a first input from a user, and the computing device 2 determining, based on the first input, the first shape HD1 as a first alignment shape of the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 at the first connection portion N1.

[0189] In the example shown in FIG. 21, the arithmetic device 2 displays on the display 5 an image IV3 (more specifically, a third selection box C3) for accepting a selection of whether or not to modify the boundary shape BS1 between the first model M1 and the second model M2. In response to the selection of modifying the boundary shape BS1 via the input device 4 and the determination of a first shape HD1 as a first alignment shape between the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 at the first connection portion N1, the arithmetic device 2 modifies the first boundary shape BS1-1 (see FIG. 19) of the first model M1 to a shape that matches the first shape HD1, and modifies the second boundary shape BS1-2 of the second model M2 to a shape that matches the first shape HD1. Note that the shape that matches the first shape HD1 means a shape that matches the first shape HD1 or a shape similar to the first shape HD1 (for example, a shape in which the first shape HD1 is slightly modified so as to ensure a play between the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2).

[0190] In the example shown in FIG. 21, the calculation device 2 causes the display 5 to display an image IV4 (more specifically, a first column C4 and / or a second column C5) that accepts a first input that specifies a first shape HD1.

[0191] In the example shown in FIG. 21, an image IV4 (more specifically, a first column C4) for accepting a first input includes an image showing a first candidate E1 of a shape type and an image showing a second candidate E2 of a shape type. The first candidate E1 has, for example, a first type of spigot shape. The second candidate E2 has, for example, a second type of spigot shape.

[0192] In the example shown in FIG. 21, the image IV4 for receiving the first input includes a second field C5 in which the dimensions of the first shape HD1 are input.

[0193] In the example shown in Fig. 21, in response to a first candidate E1 being selected from among multiple candidates for shape type via the input device 4, the calculation device 2 adopts the shape type indicated by the first candidate E1 as the shape type of the first shape HD1. In the example shown in Fig. 21, in response to a dimension of the first shape HD1 being input via the input device 4, the calculation device 2 determines the first shape HD1 based on the input dimension.

[0194] More specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 21, a first candidate E1 is selected from multiple candidates for shape type via the input device 4, and the dimensions of the first shape HD1 are input via the input device 4, and in response, the calculation device 2 determines the first shape HD1 based on the selected first candidate E1 and the input dimensions.

[0195] When the first boundary shape BS1-1 of the first model M1 and the second boundary shape BS1-2 of the second model M2 are modified based on the first shape HD1, the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 are fabricated so that the boundary shape between the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 corresponds to the first shape HD1. This makes it easy to align the fabricated first elongated member Q1 with the second elongated member Q2 (see FIG. 29).

[0196] (Second specific process) 24 and 25, the machining path generating method includes a second identification process including identifying a third identifier ID3 that is an identifier of the third model M3 in response to the selection of the first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1') and the third model M3 adjacent to the first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1') from the assembly model AM. Additionally, the second identification process may include identifying a first identifier ID1 that is an identifier of the first model M1 in response to the selection of the first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1') and the third model M3 adjacent to the first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1') from the assembly model AM.

[0197] In the example described in FIG. 24 and FIG. 25, the above-mentioned second identification step (or the above-mentioned second identification process) includes: (1) the calculation device 2 displays an assembly model AM in which a plurality of models M are combined; (2) the calculation device 2 accepts selection of a first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1′) and a third model M3 adjacent to the first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1′) from the assembly model AM displayed on the display 5; and (3) in response to the selection of the first model M1 (e.g., the modified first model M1′) and the third model M3, the calculation device 2 identifies a first identifier ID1 that is an identifier of the first model M1 and a third identifier ID3 that is an identifier of the third model M3.

[0198] (Further modification of the first model M1) 19 to 27, the model correction process includes adding, to the first model M1, a seventh marking shape K7 (see FIG. 27) that represents a third identifier ID3 (more specifically, the third identifier ID3 identified by execution of the second identification process), which is an identifier of the third model M3. The seventh marking shape K7 has been described in the first embodiment, and therefore a repeated description of the seventh marking shape K7 will be omitted.

[0199] In the example depicted in FIG. 27, the model correction process includes adding a seventh marking shape K7 to the third region RG3 of the first model M1 adjacent to the third model M3.

[0200] When the seventh marking shape K7 is disposed in the third region RG3, the seventh laser engraving LG7 is formed in a position close to the connection position between the first elongated member Q1 and the third elongated member Q3 (see FIG. 28). This allows the user to easily check for any connection errors when connecting the first elongated member Q1 and the third elongated member Q3.

[0201] 27, the model correction process includes adding an eighth marking shape K8 corresponding to the shape of an eighth laser engraving LG8 specifying a connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the third elongated member Q3 to the first model M1 (more specifically, the third region RG3 of the first model M1). The eighth marking shape K8 has been described in the first embodiment, and therefore a repeated description of the eighth marking shape K8 will be omitted.

[0202] When the eighth marking shape K8 is added to the first model M1, an eighth laser engraving LG8 (see FIG. 28) specifying the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the third elongated member Q3 is formed in the first elongated member Q1. Thus, the user can position the first elongated member Q1 relative to the third elongated member Q3 by referring to the eighth laser engraving LG8.

[0203] In the example depicted in FIG. 27, the eighth marking feature K8 includes a third arrow K8-1 that pinpoints the connection location of the first elongate member Q1 to the third elongate member Q3.

[0204] In the example shown in FIG. 27, the first model M1' corrected by executing the model correction process includes a first marking shape K1, a second marking shape K2, a third marking shape K3, a seventh marking shape K7, and an eighth marking shape K8.

[0205] 19 and 27, the model correction process may include correcting the boundary shape BS2 between the first model M1 and the third model M3. More specifically, the model correction process may include correcting the boundary shape BS2 between the first model M1 and the third model M3 to a predetermined second alignment shape (e.g., a spigot shape).

[0206] 19 and 27, the model correction process includes correcting the boundary shape of the first model M1 with respect to the third model M3 (hereinafter referred to as "third boundary shape BS2-1") from the original shape to a second convex shape Hv2 (see FIG. 27) in the boundary region between the first model M1 and the third model M3. The model correction process also includes correcting the boundary shape of the third model M3 with respect to the first model M1 (hereinafter referred to as "fourth boundary shape BS2-2") in the boundary region between the first model M1 and the third model M3 to a second concave shape Hc2 (see FIG. 27) complementary to the second convex shape Hv2.

[0207] (Modification of the 3rd model M3) In the example shown in Figures 19 to 27, the model correction step (or the model correction process) includes correcting the third model M3. In the example shown in Figures 19 to 27, the model correction step (or the model correction process) includes correcting the first model M1, correcting the second model M2, and correcting the third model M3.

[0208] 27, the model correction process includes adding, to the third model M3, a ninth marking shape K9 that represents a third identifier ID3 that is an identifier of the third model M3 (more specifically, the third identifier ID3 identified by the execution of the second identification process). The ninth marking shape K9 has been described in the first embodiment, and therefore a repeated description of the ninth marking shape K9 will be omitted.

[0209] It should be noted that, in the case where the third model M3 already includes the ninth marking shape K9, the correction of adding the ninth marking shape K9 to the third model M3 is omitted.

[0210] 27, the model correction process includes adding a tenth marking shape K10 representing a first identifier ID1 (more specifically, the first identifier ID1 identified by execution of the second identification process) that is an identifier of the first model M1 to the third model M3. The tenth marking shape K10 has been described in the first embodiment, and therefore a repeated description of the tenth marking shape K10 will be omitted.

[0211] 27, the model correction process includes adding, to the third model M3, an eleventh marking shape K11 corresponding to the shape of an eleventh laser engraving LG11 specifying the connection position of the third elongated member Q3 to the first elongated member Q1. The eleventh marking shape K11 has been described in the first embodiment, and therefore a repeated description of the eleventh marking shape K11 will be omitted.

[0212] In the example depicted in FIG. 27, the eleventh marking shape K11 includes a fourth arrow K11-1 that pinpoints the connection position of the third elongated member Q3 to the first elongated member Q1.

[0213] (Length correction for the first model M1) 30 and 31, the model correction process may include a correction to increase the length of the first model M1 by a length corresponding to the weld shrinkage. Also, the model correction process may include a correction to increase the length of the second model M2 by a length corresponding to the weld shrinkage.

[0214] 13, when the first elongated member Q1 and the second elongated member Q2 are welded at the first connection portion N1, the length of the first elongated member Q1 becomes shorter than its original length. In other words, the length of the first elongated member Q1 becomes shorter due to welding shrinkage at the first connection portion N1.

[0215] Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 30, a correction can be made to increase the length of the first model M1 by an amount corresponding to the welding shrinkage.

[0216] The model correction process may include a process in which the calculation device 2 determines a first value V1 indicating a first amount of shrinkage of the first elongated member caused by welding at the first connection portion N1, and a process in which the calculation device 2 increases the length of the first model M1 based on the first value V1.

[0217] The process of determining the first value V1 may include the input device 4 receiving a second input from a user (more specifically, the input of first data identifying the first value V1), and the calculation device 2 determining, based on the second input (more specifically, the input of first data identifying the first value V1), the first value V1 indicating a first amount of shrinkage of the first elongated member Q1 caused by welding at the first connection portion N1.

[0218] 30, the calculation device 2 causes the display 5 to display an image IV5 (more specifically, a fourth selection field C6) that accepts a selection of whether or not to modify the length of the first model M1 taking into account welding shrinkage. In response to a selection to modify the length of the first model M1 being made via the input device 4 and a first value V1 indicating a first amount of shrinkage of the first elongated member Q1 being determined, the calculation device 2 modifies the length of the first model M1 based on the first value V1. More specifically, the calculation device 2 increases the length of the first model M1 by the first value V1.

[0219] 30, the arithmetic device 2 causes the display 5 to display an image IV6 for accepting a second input (more specifically, an input of first data specifying the first value V1). The image IV6 for accepting a second input may include a third field C7 for accepting an input of the first data specifying the first value V1.

[0220] The third column C7 may be a direct input type input field in which the user directly inputs a number, or alternatively, the third column C7 may be a selection type input field configured to select one number from a number displayed in a list.

[0221] When the length of the first model M1 is corrected based on the first value V1, the first elongated member Q1 is produced taking into account welding shrinkage. Thus, when the first elongated member Q1 is welded to the second elongated member Q2, the length of the first elongated member Q1 is reduced from an excessively large length to an appropriate length due to welding shrinkage at the first connection portion N1.

[0222] (Image IG of assembly model AM) As illustrated in Figure 14, the machining path generation method in the second embodiment includes a calculation device 2 displaying on a display 5 an image IG of an assembly model AM in which multiple models M including a first model M1 and a second model M2 are combined.

[0223] In the example described in Figures 14 and 15, the machining path generation method in the second embodiment includes the calculation device 2 extracting a first model M1 and a second model M2 from the assembly model AM in response to a first model M1 and a second model M2 being selected from the assembly model AM via the input device 4.

[0224] 15, the machining path generating method in the second embodiment includes the calculation device 2 causing the display 5 to display only the extracted first model M1 and second model M2 among the multiple models M constituting the assembly model AM. Alternatively, or additionally, the calculation device 2 may cause the display 5 to display the assembly model AM such that the extracted first model M1 and second model M2 are highlighted in the assembly model AM.

[0225] In the example shown in FIG. 19, when the boundary area RB is defined as an area indicating the boundary between two adjacent models M, the assembly model AM has a plurality of boundary areas RB. When the assembly model AM has a plurality of boundary areas RB, the user may have difficulty recognizing which boundary area RB corresponds to which marking shape identifying the counterpart model is added. As illustrated in FIG. 22 and FIG. 26, the model correction process may include adding a distinction mark J to the assembly model AM displayed on the display 5 to distinguish the boundary area RB1 to which the marking shape identifying the counterpart model is added from other boundary areas RB2. In the example shown in FIG. 22 and FIG. 26, the distinction mark J has a circular shape. Alternatively, the distinction mark J may have another shape (e.g., a polygonal shape).

[0226] (First image IM1) 16 or 21, the machining path generating method in the second embodiment may include the calculation device 2 displaying a first image IM1 for receiving an input from a user on the display 5. The calculation device 2 executes a program P to execute a first display process for displaying the first image IM1 on the display 5.

[0227] As illustrated in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, the first image IM1 may include an image IV1 (more specifically, a first selection field C1) that accepts a selection of whether or not to add a self-identification mark to each of the first model M1 and the second model M2. Alternatively, or additionally, the first image IM1 may include an image IV2 (more specifically, a second selection field C2) that accepts a selection of whether or not to add a partner identification mark to each of the first model M1 and the second model M2. Alternatively, or additionally, the first image IM1 may include an image IV3 (more specifically, a third selection field C3) that accepts a selection of whether or not to correct the boundary shape BS1 between the first model M1 and the second model M2. Alternatively, or additionally, the first image IM1 may include an image IV5 (more specifically, a fourth selection field C6) that accepts a selection of whether or not to correct the length of the first model M1 taking into account welding shrinkage.

[0228] As exemplified in FIG. 16 or FIG. 21, the first image IM1 may include an image IV7 showing a shape in which the first model M1 and the second model M2 are combined.

[0229] As illustrated in Fig. 32, the first image IM1 may include an image IV8 (more specifically, a first editing field C8) that accepts a change in the size of the first marking shape K1. Also, as illustrated in Fig. 32, the first image IM1 may include an image IV9 (more specifically, a second editing field C9) that accepts a change in the size of the second marking shape K2.

[0230] (Second image IM2) 17 or 26, the machining path generating method in the second embodiment may include the calculation device 2 causing the display 5 to display a second image IM2 including the corrected first model M1'. The calculation device 2 executes a program P to perform a second display process for causing the display 5 to display the second image IM2.

[0231] In the example shown in Fig. 17 or Fig. 26, the second display process includes causing the display 5 to simultaneously display the modified first model M1' and the modified second model M2'. As illustrated in Fig. 26, the second display process may include causing the display 5 to simultaneously display the modified first model M1', the modified second model M2', and the modified third model M3'.

[0232] 14 and 17 (or FIGS. 19 and 26), the second display process includes displaying the modified first model M1' (see FIG. 17 or FIG. 26) at the position where the first model M1 was displayed on the display 5 (see FIG. 14 or FIG. 19). By displaying the modified first model M1' at the position where the first model M1 was displayed, the user can easily understand that the modification has been applied to the first model M1.

[0233] 14 and 17 (or FIGS. 19 and 26), the second display process includes displaying the modified second model M2' (see FIG. 17 or FIG. 26) at the position where the second model M2 was displayed on the display 5 (see FIG. 14 or FIG. 19). By displaying the modified second model M2' at the position where the second model M2 was displayed, the user can easily understand that modifications have been applied to the second model M2.

[0234] In order to make it easy to understand that a modification has been applied, displaying the modified first model M1' on the display 5 may include displaying the modified first model M1' (see, for example, FIG. 17) in place of the first model M1 (see, for example, FIG. 14), and displaying the modified second model M2' on the display 5 may include displaying the modified second model M2' (see, for example, FIG. 17) in place of the second model M2 (see, for example, FIG. 14).

[0235] (1st generation process) The machining path generating method in the second embodiment includes the calculation device 2 executing a first generation process for generating a first machining path for producing the first elongated member Q1. In the first generation process, the first machining path for producing the first elongated member Q1 is generated based on at least the first model M1 selected in the first identification process and the second identifier ID2 identified by the execution of the first identification process. More specifically, the calculation device 2 executes the program P to generate the first machining path for producing the first elongated member Q1 based on the first model M1' (see, for example, FIG. 18 or FIG. 27) corrected by the execution of the above-mentioned model correction process. The calculation device 2 stores first machining path data DP1 indicating the generated first machining path in the memory 3 (see FIG. 33).

[0236] In the example shown in Figure 34, the first processing path T1 includes (1) a first marking forming path TG1 for forming a first laser engraving LG1 (see Figure 28) representing a first identifier ID1 (more specifically, the first identifier ID1 identified by executing the above-mentioned first identification process) which is an identifier of the first model M1, in the first elongated member Q1, (2) a second marking forming path TG2 for forming a second laser engraving LG2 (see Figure 28) representing a second identifier ID2 (more specifically, the second identifier ID2 identified by executing the above-mentioned first identification process) which is an identifier of the second model M2, in the first elongated member Q1, and (3) a first cutting path TC1 for cutting out the first elongated member Q1 from the first elongated workpiece W1.

[0237] 34, the first cutting path TC1 may include a first edge forming path TC1-1 for forming, in the first elongated member Q1, a first edge corresponding to the first boundary shape BS1-1 (see FIG. 27) of the first model M1′ corrected by executing the above-mentioned model correction process. More specifically, the first cutting path TC1 may include a first edge forming path TC1-1 for forming, in the first elongated member Q1, a first edge that matches the above-mentioned first shape HD1 (see FIG. 21).

[0238] Alternatively, or additionally, the first cutting path TC1 may include a second edge forming path TC1-2 (see FIG. 34) for forming a second edge in the first elongated member Q1 corresponding to the third boundary shape BS2-1 (see FIG. 27) of the first model M1 modified by executing the above-mentioned model modification process.

[0239] Alternatively, or additionally, the first processing path T1 may include a third marking forming path TG3 for forming a third laser marking LG3 (more specifically, the first arrow marking LG3-1 shown in FIG. 28) on the first elongated member Q1 specifying the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the second elongated member Q2.

[0240] Alternatively, or additionally, the first processing path T1 may include a seventh marking forming path TG7 for forming a seventh laser marking LG7 (see Figure 28) in the first elongated member Q1, the seventh laser marking LG7 representing a third identifier ID3 which is an identifier of the third model M3 (more specifically, the third identifier ID3 identified by execution of the second identification process described above).

[0241] Alternatively, or additionally, the first processing path T1 may include an eighth marking forming path TG8 for forming an eighth laser marking LG8 (more specifically, an arrow marking, see Figure 28) in the first elongated member Q1 specifying the connection position of the first elongated member Q1 to the third elongated member Q3.

[0242] (Second generation process) The machining path generating method in the second embodiment may include the calculation device 2 executing a second generation process to generate a second machining path for producing the second elongated member Q2. In the second generation process, the second machining path for producing the second elongated member Q2 is generated based on at least the second model M2 selected in the first identification process and the first identifier ID1 identified by the execution of the first identification process. More specifically, the calculation device 2 executes the program P to generate the second machining path for producing the second elongated member Q2 based on the second model M2' (see, for example, FIG. 18 or FIG. 27) corrected by the execution of the above-mentioned model correction process. The calculation device 2 stores second machining path data DP2 indicating the generated second machining path in the memory 3 (see FIG. 33).

[0243] In the example shown in Figure 35, the second processing path T2 includes (1) a fourth marking forming pass TG4 for forming a fourth laser engraving LG4 (see Figure 28) in the second elongated member Q2, the fourth laser engraving LG4 representing the second identifier ID2 (more specifically, the second identifier ID2 identified by executing the first identification process described above) which is the identifier of the second model M2; (2) a fifth laser engraving forming pass TG5 for forming a fifth laser engraving LG5 (see Figure 28) in the second elongated member Q2, the fifth laser engraving LG5 representing the first identifier ID1 (more specifically, the first identifier ID1 identified by executing the first identification process described above) which is the identifier of the first model M1; and (3) a second cutting pass TC2 for cutting out the second elongated member Q2 from the first elongated workpiece W1 or a second elongated workpiece W2 separate from the first elongated workpiece W1.

[0244] As illustrated in Fig. 35, the second cutting path TC2 may include a third edge forming path TC2-1 for forming, in the second elongated member Q2, a third edge corresponding to the second boundary shape BS1-2 (see Fig. 27) of the second model M2' corrected by executing the above-mentioned model correction process. More specifically, the second cutting path TC2 may include a third edge forming path TC2-1 (see Fig. 35) for forming, in the second elongated member Q2, a third edge that matches the above-mentioned first shape HD1 (see Fig. 21).

[0245] Alternatively, or additionally, the second processing path T2 may include a sixth marking forming path TG6 (see Figure 35) for forming a sixth laser marking LG6 (more specifically, the second arrow marking LG6-1 shown in Figure 28) on the second elongated member Q2, which specifies the connection position of the second elongated member Q2 to the first elongated member Q1.

[0246] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the sixth marking forming pass TG6 may include a machining pass for forming a first linear marking LG6-2 (see FIG. 11) on the second elongated member Q2.

[0247] (Laser processing method) The laser processing method in the second embodiment includes a process of creating a processing program PG. More specifically, after the above-mentioned first step ST1 to fifth step ST5 are performed, the processing program PG is created in a sixth step ST6. The sixth step ST6 is a processing program creating process.

[0248] The machining program creating step (sixth step ST6) includes creating a machining program PG based on at least the first machining path. The machining program creating step (sixth step ST6) may include creating a machining program PG based on at least the first machining path and the second machining path. Any known algorithm can be used as an algorithm for creating the machining program PG based on machining paths such as the first machining path.

[0249] The machining program PG may be created by the machining path generating device 1 (more specifically, the arithmetic device 2) that executes the program P. Alternatively, the machining program PG may be created by the control device 7.

[0250] In the case where the machining program PG is created by the machining path generating device 1, the laser machining method in the second embodiment includes a step in which the control device 7 receives the machining program PG created by the machining path generating device 1. More specifically, the laser machining method in the second embodiment includes a step in which the control device 7 receives the machining program PG from the machining path generating device 1.

[0251] On the other hand, when the processing program PG is created by the control device 7, the laser processing method in the second embodiment includes a step in which the control device 7 receives first processing path data DP1 indicating the first processing path, and a step in which the control device 7 creates the processing program PG based on at least the first processing path.

[0252] The laser processing method according to the second embodiment includes a step of generating a control command SA based on the processing program PG. More specifically, after the execution of the sixth step ST6, in the seventh step ST7, the control device 7 executing the processing program PG generates the control command SA. The seventh step ST7 is a control command generating step.

[0253] The control device 7 has already been described in the first embodiment, so a repeated description of the control device 7 will be omitted.

[0254] As illustrated in Fig. 36, the laser processing method in the second embodiment includes a step of producing a first elongated member Q1 from a first elongated workpiece W1. More specifically, after the execution of the seventh step ST7 described above, in an eighth step ST8, the laser processing machine 101 receiving the control command SA irradiates the first elongated workpiece W1 with a laser, thereby producing the first elongated member Q1 from the first elongated workpiece W1. Note that, as illustrated in Fig. 36, in the case where the laser processing machine 101 has a processing head 140 that holds a tool such as a cutting tool 141, the eighth step ST8 may include the laser processing machine 101 receiving the control command SA processing the first elongated workpiece W1 using the tool.

[0255] Since the laser processing machine 101 has already been described in the first embodiment, a repeated description of the laser processing machine 101 will be omitted.

[0256] As illustrated in Fig. 37, the laser processing method in the second embodiment may include a step of producing a second elongated member Q2 from the first elongated workpiece W1 or a second elongated workpiece W2 different from the first elongated workpiece W1. More specifically, after the execution of the seventh step ST7 described above, in a ninth step ST9, the laser processing machine 101 receiving the control command SA may irradiate the first elongated workpiece W1 or the second elongated workpiece W2 with a laser, thereby producing the second elongated member Q2 from the first elongated workpiece W1 or the second elongated workpiece W2. Note that, as illustrated in Fig. 37, in the case where the laser processing machine 101 has a processing head 140 that holds a tool such as a cutting tool 141, the ninth step ST9 may include the laser processing machine 101 receiving the control command SA processing the first elongated workpiece W1 or the second elongated workpiece W2 using the tool.

[0257] The ninth step ST9 may be performed before the eighth step ST8 is performed, or after the eighth step ST8 is performed. The ninth step ST9 may be omitted.

[0258] (Program P) The program P in the embodiment is a program for causing the machining path generating device 1 or the laser machining system 100 to execute the machining path generating method in the second embodiment.

[0259] More specifically, the program P in the embodiment includes: (1) a step of preparing an assembly model AM in which a plurality of models M, including a first model M1 modeled on a first elongated member Q1 and a second model M2 modeled on a second elongated member Q2, are combined (in other words, the above-mentioned first step ST1); (2) a step of executing a first identification process including identifying a second identifier ID2 that is an identifier of the second model M2 in response to the selection of the first model M1 and the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 from the assembly model AM (in other words, the above-mentioned second step ST2); and (3) a step of executing a second identification process including identifying a second identifier ID2 that is an identifier of the second model M2 in response to the selection of the first model M1 and the second model M2 adjacent to the first model M1 from the assembly model AM. The program is for causing the processing path generating device 1 or the laser processing system 100 to execute a processing path generating method (more specifically, a processing path generating method in the second embodiment) including a step of generating a first processing path T1 (in other words, the above-mentioned fourth step ST4) that includes a first marking forming path TG1 for forming a first laser marking LG1 representing a first identifier ID1, which is an identifier of the first model M1, on the first elongated member Q1, and a second marking forming path TG2 for forming a second laser marking LG2 representing a second identifier ID2 identified by execution of the first identification process on the first elongated member Q1.

[0260] The program P in the embodiment may be a program for causing the processing path generating device 1 or the laser processing system 100 to execute a processing path generating method (more specifically, the processing path generating method in the second embodiment) that includes, in addition to the above-mentioned first step ST1, the above-mentioned second step ST2, and the above-mentioned fourth step ST4, a step of executing a model correction process including correcting the first model M1 (the above-mentioned third step ST3).

[0261] The program P in the embodiment may be a program for causing the processing path generating device 1 or the laser processing system 100 to execute a processing path generating method (more specifically, the processing path generating method in the second embodiment) that includes, in addition to the first step ST1 to the fourth step ST4 described above, a step of generating a second processing path T2 for producing the second elongated member Q2 (in other words, the fifth step ST5 described above).

[0262] Since the machining path generating method in the second embodiment has already been described, repeated description of the machining path generating method in the second embodiment will be omitted.

[0263] The program P may include a plurality of subprograms. For example, the program P may include a subprogram for executing the above-mentioned first step ST1 (preparation step), the above-mentioned second step ST2 (first identification step), and the above-mentioned third step ST3 (model correction step), and a subprogram for executing the above-mentioned fourth step ST4 (first generation step), and the above-mentioned fifth step ST5 (second generation step).

[0264] The program P may include a program for executing the above-mentioned sixth step ST6 (processing program creation step). In other words, the program P in the embodiment may be a program for causing the processing path generating device 1 or the laser processing system 100 to execute the processing program creation method including the above-mentioned first step ST1 to sixth step ST6.

[0265] The memory 3 in the first embodiment may be a non-volatile storage medium that records the above-mentioned program P. The non-volatile storage medium that records the above-mentioned program P may be a portable storage medium 3M, as exemplified in FIG.

[0266] The program P in the embodiment achieves the same effects as the machining path generating method in the second embodiment by being executed by the machining path generating device 1 or the laser machining system.

[0267] (Multiple slender members Q) FIG. 28 diagrammatically illustrates a plurality of elongated members fabricated using the laser processing system 100A in the first embodiment or the laser processing method in the second embodiment.

[0268] In the example shown in FIG. 28, the first elongated member Q1 is a first pipe Qa. Therefore, the term "first elongated member" in this specification can be read as a "first pipe", and the term "first model" in this specification can be read as a "first pipe model". The first pipe Qa is, for example, hollow and made of metal. The first pipe Qa is, for example, a rectangular pipe (note that the term "rectangle" also includes a square). In other words, the first pipe Qa has a rectangular shape in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first pipe Qa. In the example shown in FIG. 28, the end of the first pipe Qa has a first end opening OP1.

[0269] Alternatively, the first elongated member Q1 may be an elongated member having a C-shaped cross section (i.e., a C-shaped elongated member) or an elongated member having an H-shaped cross section (i.e., an H-shaped elongated member). Further alternatively, the first elongated member Q1 may be an elongated member other than a pipe, a C-shaped elongated member, or an H-shaped elongated member.

[0270] In the example shown in FIG. 28, the second elongated member Q2 is a second pipe Qb. Thus, the term "second elongated member" in this specification can be read as a "second pipe", and the term "second model" in this specification can be read as a "second pipe model". The second pipe Qb is, for example, hollow and made of metal. The second pipe Qb is, for example, a rectangular pipe. In other words, the second pipe Qb has a rectangular shape in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second pipe Qb. In the example shown in FIG. 28, the end of the second pipe Qb has a second end opening OP2. In the example shown in FIG. 28, the thickness of the second elongated member Q2 (for example, the second pipe Qb) is different from the thickness of the first elongated member Q1 (for example, the first pipe Qa). Alternatively, the thickness of the second elongated member Q2 (for example, the second pipe Qb) may be the same as the thickness of the first elongated member Q1 (for example, the first pipe Qa).

[0271] Alternatively, the second elongated member Q2 may be an elongated member having a C-shaped cross section (i.e., a C-shaped elongated member) or an elongated member having an H-shaped cross section (i.e., an H-shaped elongated member).Further alternatively, the second elongated member Q2 may be an elongated member other than a pipe, a C-shaped elongated member, or an H-shaped elongated member.

[0272] In the example shown in FIG. 28, the third elongated member Q3 is a third pipe Qc. Thus, the term "third elongated member" in this specification can be read as a "third pipe", and the term "third model" in this specification can be read as a "third pipe model". The third pipe Qc is, for example, hollow and made of metal. The third pipe Qc is, for example, a rectangular pipe. In other words, the third pipe Qc has a rectangular shape in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the third pipe Qc. In the example shown in FIG. 28, the end of the third pipe Qc has a third end opening OP3. In the example shown in FIG. 28, the thickness of the third elongated member Q3 (for example, the third pipe Qc) is the same as the thickness of the second elongated member Q2 (for example, the second pipe Qb). Alternatively, the thickness of the third elongated member Q3 (for example, the third pipe Qc) may be different from the thickness of the second elongated member Q2 (for example, the second pipe Qb).

[0273] Alternatively, the third elongated member Q3 may be a elongated member having a C-shaped cross section (i.e., a C-shaped elongated member) or an H-shaped cross section (i.e., an H-shaped elongated member).Further alternatively, the third elongated member Q3 may be an elongated member other than a pipe, a C-shaped elongated member, or an H-shaped elongated member.

[0274] In the examples shown in Figs. 4, 14 and 19, the first model M1 and the second model M2 are arranged in a substantially T-shape in the assembly model AM. Alternatively, the first model M1 and the second model M2 may be arranged in a substantially L-shape in the assembly model AM. In the examples shown in Figs. 4, 14 and 19, the angle between the extension direction of the first model M1 and the extension direction of the second model M2 in the assembly model AM is 90 degrees. Alternatively, the angle between the extension direction of the first model M1 and the extension direction of the second model M2 in the assembly model AM may be an angle other than 90 degrees.

[0275] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments or modifications, and it is clear that each embodiment or modification can be appropriately modified or changed within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. In addition, various techniques used in each embodiment or modification can be applied to other embodiments or other modifications as long as no technical contradiction occurs. Furthermore, any additional configuration in each embodiment or modification can be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0276] 1, 1A...machining path generating device, 2...arithmetic unit, 2a...processor, 3...memory, 3M...storage medium, 4...input device, 4k...keyboard, 4p...pointing device, 5...display, 6...communication circuit, 7...control device, 10a...CAM device, 15...bus, 21...model correction unit, 23...machining path generating unit, 72...display, 73...input device, 74...arithmetic unit, 75...communication circuit, 76...memory, 77...bus, 91...CAD device, 100, 100A...laser processing system, 101...laser processing machine, 103...loading unit, 105...laser processing unit, 10 7...unloading section, 110...laser irradiation device, 111...laser head, 112...laser emission port, 113...laser light source, 115...optical component, 120...moving device, 121...first moving device, 122a...first moving body, 122b...first driving device, 123a...second moving body, 123b...second driving device, 130...work support device, 131...first chuck, 132...gripping member, 134...second chuck, 135...guide roller, 137...rotation driving device, 140...machining head, 141...cutting tool, AM...assembly model, BL...boundary line, BLd...designated boundary line, BN1... First button, BS1...boundary shape, BS1-1...first boundary shape, BS1-2...second boundary shape, BS2...boundary shape, BS2-1...third boundary shape, BS2-2...fourth boundary shape, C1...first selection field, C2...second selection field, C3...third selection field, C4...first column, C5...second column, C6...fourth selection field, C7...third column, C8...first editing field, C9...second editing field, Cb...first input field, DA...model data, DA1...first model data, DA2...second model data, DA3...third model data, DP1...first machining path data, DP2...second machining path data, DR1...second 1 direction, E1...first candidate, E2...second candidate, F...file, HD1...first shape, Hc1...first concave shape, Hc2...second concave shape, Hv1...first convex shape, Hv2...second convex shape, ID1...first identifier, ID2...second identifier, ID3...third identifier, IG...image of assembly model, IG1...image showing the shape of the first model, IG2...image showing data of the first model, IG3...image showing the shape of the second model, IG4...image showing data of the second model, IM1...first image, IM2...second image, IU...image for accepting input of data identifying each of a plurality of models,IV1: an image for accepting a selection of whether or not to add a first marking shape to a first model; IV2: an image for accepting a selection of whether or not to add an opponent identification mark to each model; IV3: an image for accepting a selection of whether or not to modify a boundary shape; IV4: an image for accepting a first input; IV5: an image for accepting a selection of whether or not to modify a length of a first model; IV6: an image for accepting a second input; IV7: an image showing a shape in which the first model and the second model are combined; IV8: an image for accepting a change in size of the first marking shape; IV9: an image showing a second marking shape Image that accepts size changes, J...distinction mark, K1...first marking shape, K2...second marking shape, K3...third marking shape, K3-1...first arrow, K4...fourth marking shape, K5...fifth marking shape, K6...sixth marking shape, K6-1...second arrow, K6-2...first line, K7...seventh marking shape, K8...eighth marking shape, K8-1...third arrow, K9...ninth marking shape, K10...tenth marking shape, K11...eleventh marking shape, K11-1...fourth arrow, LG1...first laser engraving, LG2...second laser engraving, LG 3...3rd laser engraving, LG3-1...1st arrow mark, LG4...4th laser engraving, LG5...5th laser engraving, LG6...6th laser engraving, LG6-1...2nd arrow mark, LG6-2...1st linear engraving, LG7...7th laser engraving, LG8...8th laser engraving, LG9...9th laser engraving, LG10...10th laser engraving, LG11...11th laser engraving, LN...wired, M...model, M1, M1'...1st model, M2, M2'...2nd model, M3, M3'...3rd model, N1...1st connection part, OP1...1st end opening, OP2...2nd end opening, OP3...3rd end opening, P...pro gram, PG... machining program, PJ... calculation program, PL1... first surface, PL2... second surface, Q... slender part, Q1... first slender part, Q2... second slender part, Q3... third slender part, Qa... first pipe, Qb... second pipe, Qc... third pipe, RB, RB1, RB2... boundary area, RG1... first area, RG2... second area, RG3... third area, RG4... fourth area, RG5... fifth area, SA... control command, SA1... movement command, SA2... injection command, SP1... work room, SP2... office space, T1... first machining path, T2... second machining path, TC1... first cutting path,TC1-1...first edge forming pass, TC1-2...second edge forming pass, TC2...second cutting pass, TC2-1...third edge forming pass, TG1...first stamp forming pass, TG2...second stamp forming pass, TG3...third stamp forming pass, TG4...fourth stamp forming pass, TG5...fifth stamp forming pass, TG6...sixth stamp forming pass, TG7...seventh stamp forming pass, TG8...eighth stamp forming pass, V1...first value, W...long and narrow workpiece, W1...first long and narrow workpiece, W2...second long and narrow workpiece,

Claims

1. preparing an assembly model in which a plurality of models including a first model that models a first elongated member and a second model that models a second elongated member are combined; executing a first identification process including identifying a second identifier that is an identifier of the second model in response to the first model and the second model adjacent to the first model being selected from the assembly model; generating a first processing path including a first marking forming path for forming a first laser marking representing a first identifier, which is an identifier of the first model, on the first elongated member, and a second marking forming path for forming a second laser marking representing the second identifier identified by execution of the first identification process on the first elongated member; Equipped with Machining path generation method.

2. The first machining path includes a first cutting path for cutting the first elongated member from a first elongated workpiece. The machining path generating method according to claim 1 .

3. performing a model modification process including modifying the first model; the model modification process includes adding a second marking shape to the first model, the second marking shape corresponding to the second laser engraving shape; The first machining path is generated based on the first model corrected by executing the model correction process. The machining path generating method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. displaying on a display an image for accepting a selection of whether or not to add the second marking shape to the first model; After selecting to add the second marking shape to the first model via an input device, a process of adding the second marking shape to the first model is executed. The machining path generating method according to claim 3 .

5. receiving a designation of a designated boundary line segment from among a plurality of boundary lines between the first model and the second model; When a surface that is in contact with the specified boundary line segment among a plurality of surfaces of the first model is defined as a first surface, the model correction process includes adding the second marking shape to the first surface. The machining path generating method according to claim 3 .

6. The model correction process includes adding the second marking shape to a first region of the first model adjacent to the second model. The machining path generating method according to claim 3 .

7. The model modification process includes adding to the first model a third marking shape corresponding to a third laser inscription shape that specifies a connection location of the first elongate member to the second elongate member. The machining path generating method according to claim 3 .

8. a boundary shape between the first model and the second model is a non-interlocking shape such that, when the first elongated member and the second elongated member are assembled together, the first elongated member is allowed to move relative to the second elongated member in a first direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of the second elongated member; The third marking feature uniquely designates the connection location of the first elongate member to the second elongate member in a direction parallel to the first direction. The machining path generating method according to claim 7.

9. The model correction process includes correcting a boundary shape between the first model and the second model. The machining path generating method according to claim 3 .

10. generating a second machining path to create the second elongated member; The first identification process includes identifying the first identifier; The second machining path is a fourth marking pass for forming a fourth laser marking on the second elongated member, the fourth laser marking representing the second identifier; a fifth marking forming pass for forming a fifth laser marking on the second elongated member, the fifth laser marking representing the first identifier identified by execution of the first identification process; Includes The machining path generating method according to claim 1 or 2.

11. executing a second identification process including, in response to the selection of the first model and a third model adjacent to the first model, identifying a third identifier that is an identifier of the third model; The first processing path includes a seventh marking forming path for forming a seventh laser marking on the first elongated member, the seventh laser marking representing the third identifier identified by execution of the second identification process. The machining path generating method according to claim 1 or 2.

12. The selection of the second model adjacent to the first model from the assembly model is automatically performed by a computing device. The machining path generating method according to claim 1 or 2.

13. a machining path generating device that executes a preparation process for preparing an assembly model in which a plurality of models including a first model modeling a first elongated member and a second model modeling a second elongated member are combined; a first identification process including identifying a second identifier that is an identifier of the second model in response to selection of the first model and the second model adjacent to the first model from the assembly model; and a first generation process for generating a first machining path including a first marking forming pass for forming a first laser marking that represents the first identifier that is an identifier of the first model on the first elongated member, a second marking forming pass for forming a second laser marking that represents the second identifier identified by execution of the first identification process on the first elongated member, and a first cutting pass for cutting out the first elongated member from a first elongated workpiece; A control device that executes a machining program created based on at least the first machining path to generate a control command and transmits the generated control command to a laser machining machine; the laser processing machine that operates based on the control command and produces the first elongated member from the first elongated workpiece by irradiating the first elongated workpiece with a laser; Equipped with Laser processing system.

14. 3. A program for causing a machining path generating device or a laser machining system to execute the machining path generating method according to claim 1 or 2.

15. preparing an assembly model in which a plurality of models including a first model that models a first elongated member and a second model that models a second elongated member are combined; executing a first identification process including identifying a second identifier that is an identifier of the second model in response to the first model and the second model adjacent to the first model being selected from the assembly model; A process of generating a first processing path including a first marking forming pass for forming a first laser marking representing a first identifier, which is an identifier of the first model, on the first elongated member, a second marking forming pass for forming a second laser marking representing the second identifier identified by execution of the first identification process on the first elongated member, and a first cutting pass for cutting out the first elongated member from a first elongated workpiece; creating a machining program based on at least the first machining path; A control device that executes the machining program generates a control command; a step of producing the first elongated member from the first elongated workpiece by a laser processing machine that receives the control command and irradiating the first elongated workpiece with a laser; Equipped with Laser processing method.