Model generation method, determination method, machine tool system, and computer program

Abstract

This model generation method includes causing a processor to acquire first data from a storage device, the first data representing: a flange diameter, which is the length of a tool holder in a radial direction with respect to a central shaft, the tool holder comprising a flange formed around the central shaft and a holder body which protrudes from the flange in the axial direction along the central shaft and to which a rotary tool can be attached; and a flange length, which is the length of the flange in an axial direction. This model generation method includes causing the processor to receive, from an operator and via an input interface, input of a shank diameter of the rotary tool and a body length that is the length of the holder body in the axial direction. This model generation method includes causing the processor to acquire, from the storage device that stores correspondences between the shank diameter and a body diameter that is the length of the holder body in the radial direction, second data that represents the body diameter corresponding to the acquired shank diameter. This model generation method includes causing the processor to generate a shape model of the tool holder on the basis of the acquired body length, the first data, and the second data.

Description

Model generation method, determination method, machine tool system, and computer program

[0001] The present invention relates to a model generation method, a determination method, a machine tool system, and a computer program.

[0002] Conventionally, machine tools have been known that have an interference check function to prevent components such as a tool, a table, a tool holder, and a workpiece from interfering with each other against the operator's intention (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent No. 7303405

[0004] In the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, creating a tool holder model is time-consuming. Therefore, if a machine tool manufacturer provides a tool holder model, the burden on the operator of creating the tool holder model can be reduced. However, in machine tools (e.g., machining centers) that operate rotary tools, a variety of tool manufacturers supply tool holders, making it difficult for the machine tool manufacturer to provide geometric models of all tool holders in advance. Therefore, in the case of a tool holder other than a model provided by the machine tool manufacturer, the operator has to obtain the tool holder geometric model from the tool manufacturer or create the tool holder geometric model, which is a burden.

[0005] The purpose of the technology disclosed in this application is to provide a model generation method, a determination method, a machine tool system, and a computer program that can generate a shape model of a tool holder attached to a machine tool that operates a rotary tool more easily than conventional methods.

[0006] A model generation method according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes having a processor acquire, from a storage device, first data representing a flange diameter, which is a radial length relative to a central axis of a tool holder having a flange formed around a central axis and a holder body that protrudes from the flange in an axial direction along the central axis and is capable of mounting a rotary tool. The model generation method also includes having the processor accept input from an operator of a shank diameter of the rotary tool and a body length, which is the axial length of the holder body, via an input interface. The model generation method also includes having the processor acquire, from a storage device that stores a correspondence relationship between the shank diameter and the body diameter, which is the radial length of the holder body, second data representing a body diameter corresponding to the acquired shank diameter. The model generation method also includes having the processor generate a shape model of the tool holder based on the acquired body length, the first data, and the second data.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generation method according to the first aspect, having a processor accept input of the body length from an operator includes having the processor accept input of the total length of the holder, which is the body length plus the flange length, from the operator via an input interface, and having the processor determine the body length by subtracting the flange length from the total length of the holder.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generation method according to the first or second aspect, having the processor acquire the first data includes having the processor accept, via an input interface, an input from an operator of holder type information indicating the type of tool holder that can be attached to the machine tool, and having the processor acquire the first data based on the holder type information from a storage device that stores correspondences between the holder type information and the flange diameter and flange length corresponding to the holder type information.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generation method according to the third aspect, the tool holder has a holder shank axially opposite to the holder body with respect to the flange, the spindle of the machine tool has a receiving hole into which the holder shank can be inserted, and whether multiple tool holders can be attached to the machine tool is determined based on whether the receiving hole fits the holder shank.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generation method according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the body diameter is an outer diameter of a nut for fixing the rotary tool to the holder body.

[0011] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generation method according to the fifth aspect, the nut is configured to fasten a collet that can press-fit a rotary tool having a shank diameter.

[0012] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generation method according to the sixth aspect, the outer diameter of the nut is determined based on the ISO 15488 standard to a dimension corresponding to the size of the collet that is compatible with the shank diameter.

[0013] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the model generation method according to any one of the first to seventh aspects further includes causing a processor to generate a signal to a display to display the geometric model of the tool holder on the display. The model generation method further includes causing the processor to accept, via the input interface, an input from an operator of at least one correction value of the flange diameter, the flange length, the body diameter, and the body length. When the at least one correction value is input, the model generation method further includes causing the processor to regenerate the geometric model of the tool holder based on the at least one correction value.

[0014] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the model generation method according to any one of the first to eighth aspects further includes having a processor accept, via an input interface, an input from an operator of a tool length offset, which is a protrusion length of the rotary tool from the nut. The model generation method further includes having the processor acquire, from a storage device, third data defining a shape of the rotary tool. The model generation method further includes having the processor generate a shape model of the rotary tool based on the tool length offset and the third data. The model generation method further includes having the processor generate an assembly model combining the shape model of the rotary tool and the shape model of the tool holder.

[0015] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the model generation method of the ninth aspect further includes causing a processor to generate a signal to a display to display the geometric model of the tool holder on the display. The model generation method further includes causing the processor to accept, via an input interface, an input of at least one correction value of a flange diameter, a flange length, a body diameter, a body length, and a tool length offset. When the at least one correction value is input, the model generation method further includes causing the processor to regenerate the assembly model based on the at least one correction value.

[0016] A determination method according to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure includes executing the model generation method of the ninth or tenth aspect, and causing a processor to acquire from a storage device a shape model of an obstacle including a measuring device that measures a tool length offset. The determination method includes causing the processor to determine whether or not the assembly model and the shape model of the obstacle interfere with each other by the time the shape model of the rotary tool reaches a predetermined measurement position when a rotary tool movement program for measuring the rotary tool with the measuring device is executed on a machine tool to which a rotary tool and a tool holder are attached. The predetermined position is preferably a position of the measuring device where the rotary tool is inserted when measuring the rotary tool with the measuring device.

[0017] A determination method according to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure includes executing the model generation method of any one of the ninth or tenth aspects and causing a processor to acquire a shape model of an obstacle from a storage device. The determination method includes causing the processor to determine whether or not an assembly model interferes with the shape model of the obstacle when a machining program for machining a workpiece by driving a spindle of a machine tool is executed.

[0018] A computer according to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure includes a processor configured to execute any one of the model generation methods according to the first to tenth aspects or the determination method according to the eleventh or twelfth aspect, a storage device, and an input interface.

[0019] A machine tool system according to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure includes the computer according to the thirteenth aspect and a machine tool including a spindle to which a tool holder can be attached.

[0020] A computer program according to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure comprises instructions that, when executed by a computer including an input interface, cause the computer to execute any one of the model generation methods of the first to tenth aspects, or the determination method of the eleventh or twelfth aspect.

[0021] A computer-readable medium according to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure comprises instructions that, when executed by a computer including an input interface, cause the computer to perform any one of the model generation methods of the first to tenth aspects, or the determination method of the eleventh or twelfth aspects.

[0022] In the model generation method according to the first aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect including a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the first aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect including the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the first aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the first aspect, the flange diameter and flange length of the tool holder flange are obtained from a storage device, and the body diameter of the holder body of the tool holder is automatically calculated from the shank diameter, which is one of the tool shapes of the rotary tool, which is separately input. Therefore, a tool holder model can be generated by the operator inputting only the parameter related to the body length of the holder body. This makes it easier to generate a tool holder model than before.

[0023] The model generation method according to the second aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the second aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect having the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the second aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the second aspect can improve usability for the operator by using the overall holder length, which is familiar to operators, as a parameter representing the shape of the tool holder.

[0024] In the model generating method according to the third aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect including a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generating method according to the third aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect including the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generating method according to the third aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generating method according to the third aspect, the flange diameter and flange length of the tool holder are set by inputting holder type information, thereby further improving usability for the operator.

[0025] In the model generation method according to the fourth aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the fourth aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect having the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the fourth aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the fourth aspect, the shape of the holder is determined so that the receiving hole of the spindle fits the holder shank, so that the determined holder can be securely attached to the spindle.

[0026] The model generation method according to the fifth aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the fifth aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect having the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the fifth aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the fifth aspect make it easy to determine the body diameter because the body diameter is determined from the shank diameter by utilizing the correlation between the outer diameter of the nut for fixing the rotary tool to the holder body and the shank diameter.

[0027] In the model generation method according to the sixth aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the sixth aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect having the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the sixth aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the sixth aspect, the rotary tool is press-fitted by the collet, so that the rotary tool is securely fixed to the tool holder.

[0028] The model generation method according to the seventh aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect including a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the seventh aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect including the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the seventh aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the seventh aspect can accommodate many tool holder shapes that are compatible with international standards because the correlation between the outer diameter of the nut and the shank diameter is determined based on international standards.

[0029] In the model generating method according to the eighth aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect including a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generating method according to the eighth aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect including the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generating method according to the eighth aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generating method according to the eighth aspect, each dimension of the tool holder can be displayed on a display and then modified, thereby further improving usability for the operator.

[0030] The model generation method according to the ninth aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the ninth aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect having the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the ninth aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the ninth aspect make it possible to generate an assembly model that combines a shape model of a rotary tool and a shape model of a tool holder, thereby making it possible to simulate interference detection between the assembly model and a workpiece and tool protrusion instructions.

[0031] In the model generation method according to the tenth aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect including a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the tenth aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect including the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the tenth aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the tenth aspect, the dimensions of the tool holder and the rotating tool can be displayed on a display and then modified, thereby further improving usability for the operator.

[0032] The determination method according to the eleventh aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect including a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the determination method according to the eleventh aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect including the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the determination method according to the eleventh aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the determination method according to the eleventh aspect enable a path for a rotary tool not to interfere with obstacles to be set by simulation, so that the rotary tool can be moved at a high rotation speed to a position as close as possible to the measuring device and then inserted into the measuring device at a low approach speed. Alternatively, in the past, because the tool protrusion amount was unknown, it was necessary to set the machine origin as the starting point for tool measurement and move the tool to a predetermined position to measure the tool. However, because the tool protrusion amount is known from the protrusion instruction, it is possible to set a position closer to the tool measuring device than the machine origin as the starting point for tool measurement and move the tool to a predetermined position to measure the tool. As a result, the measurement time for tool measurement can be shortened.

[0033] The determination method according to the 12th aspect, the computer according to the 13th aspect including a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the determination method according to the 12th aspect, the machine tool system according to the 14th aspect including the computer, the computer program according to the 15th aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the determination method according to the 12th aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the 16th aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the determination method according to the 12th aspect, make it possible to simulate detection of interference between an assembly model and an obstacle. Also, the magnitude of the tool length offset that prevents interference between the tool holder and the workpiece can be checked in advance by simulation.

[0034] The technology disclosed in the present application makes it possible to provide a model generation method, a determination method, a machine tool system, and a computer program that can generate a shape model of a tool holder attached to a machine tool that operates a rotary tool more easily than conventional methods.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the external configuration of a machine tool system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electronic circuit of a machine tool according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view showing a tool magazine and a tool changer. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an overview of a machining head of the machine tool shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a tool holder and a rotary tool. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the periphery of a collet. FIG. 7 is an example of flange definition data. FIG. 8 is an example of holder body definition data. FIG. 9 is an example of an input interface for a tool interface. FIG. 10 is an example of an input interface for a shank diameter of a rotary tool. FIG. 11 is an example of an input interface for a body length of a tool holder. FIG. 12 is a modified example of holder shape data. FIG. 13 is an example of a display of an additional menu. FIG. 14 is an example of a display of a detailed shape input screen. FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram of movement of a rotary tool to a measurement device. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing details of the operation of the model generation program. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing details of the operation of step S1. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing details of the operation of step S5.

[0036] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings showing embodiments thereof. Note that the same reference numerals in the drawings indicate corresponding or substantially identical components. <Embodiment> <Configuration of Machine Tool 1> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the external configuration of a machine tool system 100 including a machine tool 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electronic circuit of the machine tool system 100 according to the embodiment. The machine tool system 100 includes the machine tool 1 and a computer 90 connected to the machine tool 1 via a network NW. The computer 90 may be a general-purpose computer including electronic circuits such as a hardware processor and memory. The computer 90 is used to perform a simulation when a machining program is executed by the machine tool 1. The network NW may be a wired network such as an intranet or a wireless network such as a wireless LAN.

[0037] As shown in Fig. 1, the machine tool 1 includes a control panel 10, a machining table 11 that holds a workpiece W (see Fig. 3), a machining head 12 that is movable in the X, Y, and Z directions relative to the workpiece W, a tool magazine 15, and a tool changer 16. The tool magazine 15 can store both a tool holder 17 that holds a rotary tool T1 and a tool holder 17 that holds another rotary tool T2. Although not shown in Fig. 1, the machine tool 1 may further include a cover that covers the above-mentioned components other than the control panel 10.

[0038] 2 , the control panel 10 includes a numerical control device 2 that controls the operation of the machine tool 1, an input device 10a such as keys, buttons, dials, or a touch panel through which an operator inputs machining conditions and the like for machining control performed by the numerical control device 2, and a display 10b that displays the machining conditions and the like to the operator. The numerical control device 2 includes a hardware processor 3, a memory 4, a bus 5, an input / output interface 6, and a communication interface 7. The communication interface 7 is configured to communicate with a computer 90 via a network NW. The memory 4 stores a machining program 8 such as a cutting program and tool data 9 that represents the shapes and the like of multiple rotary tools T1. The memory 4 may also be referred to as a storage device. The hardware processor 3 executes various programs. In the following embodiments, the hardware processor 3 may also be simply referred to as a processor 3.

[0039] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view showing the tool magazine 15 and the tool changer 16. The tool magazine 15 has a plurality of holding sections 15a that hold a plurality of tool holders 17 and a holding section moving device 15b that moves the plurality of holding sections 15a along a peripheral path. The plurality of holding sections 15a are each assigned a pocket number "PK No." to distinguish them from one another. The rotating tools T1 held in each of the plurality of holding sections 15a via the tool holders 17 are each assigned a T number "T No.". The tool data 9 stores the T numbers corresponding to the pocket numbers and the shapes, etc., of the rotating tools T1 corresponding to the T numbers in association with each other. The tool magazine 15 may also have a holder removal device 15c that moves the tool holders 17 stored in the tool magazine 15 to a standby position PH accessible by the tool changer 16.

[0040] The tool changer 16 is configured to change tools between the tool magazine 15 and the spindle 12b. The tool changer 16 includes a tool changer arm 16a, an arm rotation device 16b that rotates the tool changer arm 16a, and an arm movement device 16c that linearly moves the tool changer arm 16a. The arm rotation device 16b rotates the tool changer arm 16a around an arm rotation axis AX2. The arm movement device 16c moves the tool changer arm 16a in directions parallel to the arm rotation axis AX2 (first direction DR1 and second direction DR2 in FIG. 3; details of these directions will be described later). The tool changer 16 also includes grippers 16d and 16e, each configured similar to a magic wand, that can hold the tool holder 17 before and after tool change.

[0041] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an overview of the machining head 12 of the machine tool 1 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the machining head 12 includes a hollow spindle frame 12a forming a housing and a spindle 12b contained within the spindle frame 12a. The spindle frame 12a of the machining head 12 is attached to the XYZ drive mechanism 13 shown in FIG. 2 and is movable in three axes (X, Y, and Z). One end of the spindle 12b is connected to a rotation drive device 14, such as a motor, and configured to rotate around a rotation axis AX1. The rotation drive device 14 includes a stator 14s fixed to the spindle frame 12a and a rotor 14r fixed to the spindle 12b. The XYZ drive mechanism 13 and the rotation drive device 14 are connected to the numerical control device 2 via the input / output interface 6.

[0042] A tool holder 17 is detachably attached to the lower end of the spindle 12b. FIG. 4 shows a rotary tool T1 according to an embodiment. The rotary tool T1 is a tool for cutting. The rotary tool T1 is held by a tool holder 17. A pull stud 18 is attached to the upper end of the tool holder 17. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the tool holder 17 and the rotary tool T1, excluding the pull stud 18. As shown in FIG. 5, the tool holder 17 includes a holder shank 17S, a flange 17F, a holder body 17MB, a collet 17C, and a nut 17N. The holder shank 17S has a generally truncated cone shape that is a body of revolution about a central axis AX0. When the tool holder 17 is attached to the spindle 12b, the central axis AX0 substantially coincides with the rotation axis AX1. "Substantially coincident" means that deviation within the mounting error range of the tool holder 17 is permitted. Holder shank 17S may have a generally triangular truncated pyramid shape like a CAPTO shank (CAPTO is a registered trademark). Holder shank 17S has a threaded hole 17SH into which pull stud 18 is threaded. The male thread portion (not shown) of pull stud 18 is threaded into threaded hole 17SH, connecting pull stud 18 to holder shank 17S.

[0043] The flange 17F is formed around the central axis AX0. The flange 17F includes a seating surface 17BS that can abut against the spindle 12b. Depending on the type of tool holder 17, the seating surface 17BS does not need to abut against the spindle 12b as long as it faces the spindle 12b. The flange 17F has a flange length LF that is perpendicular to the seating surface 17BS and is the length in the axial direction DX along the central axis AX0. The flange 17F has a flange diameter DF that is the length in the radial direction DR relative to the central axis AX0 (the radial direction DR perpendicular to the axial direction DX). The flange 17F protrudes in the radial direction DR from the holder shank 17S and the holder body 17MB. The flange 17F has a groove 17G cut out in the radial direction DR.

[0044] The holder body 17MB protrudes from the flange 17F in the axial direction DX. The holder body 17MB has a body length LM, which is the length in the axial direction DX, and a body diameter DM, which is the length in the radial direction DR. The sum of the flange length LF and the body length LM is called the holder overall length LH, and the body length LM may be calculated by subtracting the flange length LF from the holder overall length LH. The holder shank 17S and the holder body 17MB are disposed on opposite sides of the flange 17F in the axial direction DX. The rotary tool T1 can be attached to the holder body 17MB. Specifically, referring to FIG. 6 , the holder body 17MB has a receiving hole 17MBH into which the collet 17C is inserted and a male thread portion 17MS that can engage with the nut 17N.

[0045] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the collet 17C and its surroundings. The collet 17C comprises a cylindrical inner surface 17CIS and a tapered sleeve 17CSV having multiple slits 17CSL. The nut 17N has a receiving hole 17NBH into which the collet 17C is inserted and a female thread portion 17FS engageable with the male thread portion 17MS. The nut 17N is used to secure the rotary tool T1 to the holder body 17MB. Specifically, the nut 17N is configured to fasten the collet 17C, which can be press-fitted onto the rotary tool T1. When the nut 17N with the collet 17C inserted is threaded into the holder body 17MB, the sleeve 17CSV is pressed against the wall of the receiving hole 17MBH in the axial direction DX, compressing the collet 17C and firmly clamping the shank SHK of the rotary tool T1 inserted into the insertion hole (17CIH) defined by the inner surface 17CIS. In other words, the diameter DIS of the insertion hole 17CIH changes depending on the degree of tightening of the collet 17C.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 5 , the rotary tool T1 has a cutting edge BR and a shank SHK on the opposite side of the cutting edge BR, which is inserted into the insertion hole 17CIH of the collet 17C. The cutting edge BR has a tool diameter DT, which is its diameter in the radial direction DR. The rotary tool T1 has a tool length offset LT, which is its protrusion length from the nut 17N. The shank SHK has a shank diameter DS, which is its diameter in the radial direction DR. Because the diameter DIS of the insertion hole 17CIH has a limited range of variation, determining the shank diameter DS limits the type of collet 17C to be used. ISO 15488 specifies the shape of the nut 17N to be used, the shape of the receiving hole 17MBH of the holder body 17MB, and the shape of the male thread portion 17MS, which correspond to the specifications of the collet 17C. Therefore, once the shank diameter DS is determined, the outer diameter DN of the nut 17N is generally determined by the standard. That is, the outer diameter DN of the nut 17N is determined based on the ISO15488 standard to correspond to the size of the collet 17C that matches the shank diameter DS.

[0047] Returning to FIG. 4 , the spindle 12b includes a collet chuck 19 that can mate with the pull stud 18 and a key 12K that can mate with the groove 17G. The collet chuck 19 is movable in the axial direction DX along the rotation axis AX1 of the spindle 12b. The spindle 12b has a receiving hole 18RS into which the holder shank 17S can be inserted so that the central axis AX0 in FIG. 5 coincides with the rotation axis AX1 in FIG. 4 when the holder body 17MB and the rotary tool T1 are attached to the spindle 12b. The shape of the receiving hole 18RS is determined based on the tool interface supported by the machine tool 1 (spindle 12b). In other words, whether multiple tool holders 17 can be attached to the machine tool 1 is determined based on whether the receiving hole 18RS fits the holder shank 17S. The tool interface defines the receiving hole 18RS, the holder shank 17S, the pull stud 18, and the collet chuck 19. In other words, the tool interface corresponds to holder type information that indicates the type of tool holder 17 that can be attached to the machine tool 1. The collet chuck 19 is configured to open radially relative to the rotation axis AX1 when shifted in a first direction DR1, in the axial direction DX, from the pull stud 18 toward the rotary tool T1, thereby enabling the pull stud 18 to be attached or detached. The collet chuck 19 is configured to close radially relative to the rotation axis AX1 when shifted in a second direction DR2, in the axial direction DX, from the rotary tool T1 toward the pull stud 18, thereby engaging with the pull stud 18. The pull stud 18 engages with the collet chuck 19, thereby fixing the tool holder 17 to the spindle 12b. At this time, a key 12K of the spindle 12b engages with a groove 17G of the tool holder 17, restricting rotation of the tool holder 17 relative to the spindle 12b.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 2, the computer 90 is used to execute, for example, a model generation program 81 that generates a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 and a three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotary tool T1, an interference determination program 82 that determines whether or not an assembly model AM that combines the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 and the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotary tool T1 will interfere with the three-dimensional shape model of the workpiece W when the machine tool 1 is caused to execute the machining program 8 for machining the workpiece W, and a measurement feasibility determination program 82a that determines whether or not the assembly model AM can be moved to the measuring device MD that measures the three-dimensional shape of the rotary tool T1.

[0049] The computer 90 includes an input device 91a, a display 91b, and a computer main body 92, each of which has substantially the same functions as the input device 10a, the display 10b, and the numerical control device 2. The computer main body 92 includes a hardware processor 93, a memory 94, a system bus 95, an input / output interface 96, and a communication interface 97, each of which has substantially the same functions as the hardware processor 3, the memory 4, the system bus 5, the input / output interface 6, and the communication interface 7. In the following embodiments, the hardware processor 93 may be simply referred to as the processor 93. The memory 4 and the memory 94 may each be referred to as a storage device. The memory 94 of the computer 90 is configured to store a model generation program 81, an interference detection program 82, a measurement feasibility determination program 82a, flange definition data 83, holder body definition data 84, holder shape data 85, a machining program 98, and tool data 99. The machining program 98 is equivalent to the machining program 8, and the tool data 99 is equivalent to the tool data 9. In the following embodiments, the tool data 99 may be referred to as third data that defines the shape of the rotary tool T1.

[0050] <Generation of a Model of the Tool Holder 17> Next, a specific operation of the model generation program 81 will be described. The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 and an assembly model AM that combines the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotary tool T1 and the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17, assuming that the body diameter DM of the holder body 17MB is equal to the outer diameter DN of the nut 17N or a predetermined multiple of the outer diameter DN of the nut 17N. To achieve this, the memory 94 is configured to store flange definition data 83 that describes at least first data representing the flange diameter DF and the flange length LF. The memory 94 is further configured to store holder body definition data 84 that describes the correspondence between the shank diameter DS and the body diameter DM.

[0051] FIG. 7 shows an example of flange definition data 83. Referring to FIG. 7 , the flange definition data 83 includes first data representing a tool interface supported by the machine tool 1 (spindle 12b) and a flange diameter DF and flange length LF corresponding to the tool interface. In other words, the flange definition data 83 represents a correspondence relationship between holder type information and the flange diameter DF and flange length LF corresponding to the holder type information. The flange definition data 83 in FIG. 7 shows a data configuration in a case where the model generation program 81 is designed for general use so that it can be commonly used by a variety of machine tools 1. Note that the machine tool 1 (spindle 12b) typically supports only one tool interface. Therefore, if the model generation program 81 is customized and designed for each machine tool 1, the first data may consist of only the flange diameter DF and flange length LF.

[0052] FIG. 8 shows an example of holder body definition data 84. As shown in FIG. 8, the holder body definition data 84 shows the correspondence relationship between the range of shank diameters DS shown in the left column and the values ​​of body diameters DM shown in the right column. For reference, the center column in FIG. 8 shows the nominal diameters of collets 17C corresponding to the range of shank diameters DS shown in the left column. The ISO 15488 standard specifies that even collets 17C with larger nominal diameters can grip holder shanks 17S with smaller shank diameters DS. However, in the example of FIG. 8, the nominal diameters of collets 17C that can be used are set for a range of variation that is smaller than the range of variation in the diameter DIS of the insertion hole 17CIH specified in the ISO 15488 standard.

[0053] The nominal diameter of the collet 17C corresponding to the range of shank diameters DS is separately disclosed to the operator of the machine tool 1. The body diameters DM shown in the right column are described in ISO 15488 as body diameters DM using the outer diameters DN of the nuts 17N corresponding to the nominal diameters of the collets 17C in the center column as models. However, customized values ​​may be set depending on the product status of tool holders 17 available on the market. Alternatively, if it is empirically known that the converted value obtained by multiplying the outer diameter DN of the nuts 17N specified in ISO 15488 by a predetermined magnification factor is shorter than the body diameters DM of tool holders available on the market, the converted value may be set as the body diameters DM shown in the right column. The holder shape data 85 stores parameters of the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 once generated by the model generation program 81. Details of the holder shape data 85 will be described later.

[0054] When the model generation program 81 is designed for general use so that it can be commonly used in various machine tools 1, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts input from the operator of the tool interface supported by the spindle 12b, i.e., holder type information, via an input interface. FIG. 9 shows an example of a tool interface setting window 25 for accepting input from the operator of the tool interface supported by the spindle 12b. The tool interface setting window 25 includes a drop-down window 26. FIG. 9 shows an example in which the tool interface M40 is selected by a well-known method, such as clicking a mouse or touching a touch panel. In FIG. 9, the row SR corresponding to the selected M40 is highlighted. The remaining rows are displayed as rows USR without highlighting. A graphical user interface (GUI) that accepts this selection input using the input device 91a corresponds to the input interface. The tool interface setting window 25 may also allow selection using other well-known GUIs, such as check boxes, radio buttons, or drop-down windows, rather than the above selection format. Thereafter, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 obtains first data indicating the flange diameter DF and flange length LF corresponding to the input tool interface from the memory 94 (flange definition data 83). That is, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 obtains the first data from the memory 94 based on the holder type information. Note that when the model generation program 81 is customized and designed for each machine tool 1, the GUI display as shown in FIG. 9 and the process of selecting one piece of first data from the flange definition data 83 that defines multiple tool interfaces are omitted.

[0055] Next, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an operator's input of the shank diameter DS via an input interface. FIG. 10 shows an example of an input interface for the shank diameter DS of the rotary tool T1. FIG. 10 shows a tool display window 30 that displays information such as the shape of each rotary tool T1 stored in the tool data 99 in a selectable list format. The tool display window 30 includes a drop-down window 35, and the items in the drop-down window 35, from left to right, are a T number 31, a pocket number 32, a tool name 33, and a nominal diameter 34 of the tool. The tool display window 30 may display information other than the above information, and at least one of the T number 31 and the pocket number 32 may be omitted.

[0056] 10 shows an example in which a tool with T number 4 has been selected by a well-known method such as clicking a mouse or touching a touch panel. In FIG. 10, the row SR corresponding to the selected rotary tool T2 is shown highlighted. The remaining rows are displayed as unhighlighted rows USR. A GUI that accepts this selection input using the input device 91a corresponds to the input interface. The tool display window 30 may not have this selection format, but may instead allow selection using other well-known GUIs such as check boxes, radio buttons, or drop-down windows.

[0057] The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires the shank diameter DS corresponding to the tool name 33 selected in the tool display window 30 and the nominal diameter 34 of the tool from the tool data 99. Furthermore, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires second data indicating the body diameter DM corresponding to the acquired shank diameter DS from the memory 94 storing the holder body definition data 84. Furthermore, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires from the memory 94 the tool diameter DT and cutting edge angle (at least a part of the third data) corresponding to the tool name 33 selected in the tool display window 30 and the nominal diameter 34 of the tool.

[0058] Next, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an operator's input of the tool body length LM via an input interface. Fig. 11 shows an example of the input interface for the tool body length LM of the tool holder 17. Fig. 11 displays a dimension input window 40, which is part of the input interface. The dimension input window 40 includes a first text box 41 for inputting the tool length offset LT, a movement amount text box 41a for adjusting the upper limit of the numerical value in the first text box 41, a first additional text box 41b for inputting tool shape characteristics other than the tool length offset LT, a second text box 42 for inputting the holder overall length LH, a third text box 43 for displaying / editing the name of the tool holder 17, an OK button 44, a cancel button 45, and a model display screen 51.

[0059] The first text box 41 for inputting the tool length offset LT, the travel text box 41a, the first additional text box 41b for displaying tool shape characteristics other than the tool length offset LT, and the second text box 42 for inputting the holder overall length LH are text boxes into which numerical values ​​can be input. When the up or down arrow button is touched or clicked while the first text box 41 is selected, the numerical value displayed in the first text box 41 increases or decreases by the numerical value in the travel text box 41a. The numerical value in the first text box 41 can also be changed by directly inputting a numerical value. When a tool name 33 is selected, the first additional text box 41b displays parameters representing the specific shape of the tool name 33, obtained from the tool data 99. The numerical values ​​displayed in the first additional text box 41b are usually displayed in a non-changeable format, but may be editable by the operator for convenience in generating the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotary tool T1. However, even if the numerical values ​​are edited in this manner, the tool data 99 is not modified.

[0060] The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts, via an input interface, an operator's input of the holder total length LH, which is the sum of the body length LM and the flange length LF. The interface that accepts a numerical input into the second text box 42 using the input device 91a corresponds to this input interface. The processor 93 calculates the body length LM by subtracting the flange length LF from the holder total length LH. Furthermore, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts, via the input interface, an operator's input of the tool length offset LT. The interface that accepts a numerical input into the first text box 41 using the input device 91a corresponds to this input interface.

[0061] When a numerical value is entered in the second text box 42, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 sets the numerical value as the holder overall length LH, calculates the body length LM from the flange length LF and flange diameter DF in the flange definition data 83 and the holder overall length, and searches for whether a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 having the body diameter DM calculated from the shank diameter DS and the calculated body length LM is stored in the holder shape data 85. If the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 is stored in the holder shape data 85, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires the stored three-dimensional shape model HM. If the three-dimensional shape model HM is not stored in the holder shape data 85, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 based on the calculated body length LM, body diameter DM, flange length LF, and flange diameter DF. When a three-dimensional shape model HM not stored in the holder shape data 85 is generated, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 appropriately generates a holder name for the tool holder 17 to be displayed in a third text box 43 (described later) and stores the generated three-dimensional shape model HM together with the holder name in the holder shape data 85. When a numerical value is entered in the first text box 41, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 uses the numerical value as the tool length offset LT and generates a three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotary tool T1 based on the tool length offset LT and the previously determined tool diameter DT and cutting edge angle (at least a part of the third data). Note that the tool data 99 may include a recommended protrusion amount, and in that case, the recommended protrusion amount may be entered as a default value for the numerical value in the first text box 41. The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates an assembly model AM by combining the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotary tool T1 and the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17.

[0062] Specifically, the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotary tool T1 is composed of a first cylinder CC1 having a diameter equal to the tool diameter DT and a tool length offset LT. The three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 is composed of a second cylinder CC2 having a diameter equal to the body diameter DM and a height equal to the body length LM, and a third cylinder CC3 having a diameter equal to the flange diameter DF and a height equal to the flange length LF. The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 displays the assembly model AM thus generated on the model display screen 51. That is, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a signal to the display 91b to display the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 on the display 91b. The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a signal to the display 91b to display the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotary tool T1 on the display 91b. The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a signal to the display 91b to display the assembly model AM on the display 91b.

[0063] When a numerical value is entered in the second text box 42, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 displays, in the third text box 43, the holder name of the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 displayed on the display 91b, from among the holder names of the tool holder 17 stored in the holder shape data 85. Note that the third text box 43 may be omitted.

[0064] FIG. 12 shows an example of holder shape data 85. The holder shape data 85 includes the holder name of the tool holder 17, the manufacturer name of the tool holder 17, the tool interface, the flange diameter DF, the flange length LF, the body diameter DM, and the body length LM. The holder shape data 85 further includes the holder name of the tool holder 17, extension holder diameters d2, D3, and d3, the extension holder length L3, the first radius R1, and the second radius R2. The holder name may be a model number provided by the manufacturer or a name appropriately assigned by the operator. The manufacturer name can be set using an interface (fourth text box 53 in FIG. 14 ) described later. The extension holder diameters d2, D3, and d3, the extension holder length L3, the first radius R1, and the second radius R2 correspond to the lengths shown on the input instruction screen 52 in FIG. 14 described later. 12 shows a plurality of tool holders 17 associated with different tool interfaces, but this is an example of the case where the model generation program 81 is designed to be general-purpose so that it can be commonly used in a variety of machine tools 1. If the model generation program 81 is customized and designed for each machine tool 1, the holder shape data 85 does not need to include elements of the tool interface, and may include only a plurality of tool holders 17 having tool interfaces supported by the machine tool 1. Note that part of the holder shape data 85 may be created and provided in advance by the provider of the model generation program 81, the interference detection program 82, and the measurement feasibility determination program 82a.

[0065] Returning to FIG. 11 , the dimension input window 40 further includes a detail setting button 46. When the operator wants to build a model that is more detailed than the assembly model AM, the operator can press the detail setting button 46 to display an additional menu. Referring to FIG. 13 , the dimension input window 40A including the additional menu includes a tool holder selection window 47, an OK button 48, and an edit button 49 in addition to the contents displayed in the dimension input window 40. In the dimension input window 40A, the arrowhead of the detail setting button 46A is displayed in the opposite direction to the arrowhead of the detail setting button 46 in the dimension input window 40. Clicking the detail setting button 46A returns the display to the dimension input window 40 shown in FIG. 9 .

[0066] The tool holder selection window 47 displays at least one tool holder 17 having a preset body diameter DM, body length LM, flange diameter DF, and flange length LF in a selectable manner. The tool holder selection window 47 displays at least one tool holder 17 in a list format, and when one of the at least one tool holder 17 is selected by a known method such as touching or clicking, it is highlighted. When the OK button 48 is pressed, a check mark CHK is displayed on the selected tool holder. The holder name of the selected tool holder 17 is displayed in the third text box 43. The tool holder selection window 47 does not display an exact shape of the tool holder 17 having the preset body diameter DM, body length LM, flange diameter DF, and flange length LF; instead, 3D data received from the manufacturer of the tool holder 17 may be displayed. The body diameter DM, body length LM, flange length LF, and flange diameter DF of the tool holder 17, which are displayed as different shapes, are stored as the set body diameter DM, body length LM, flange diameter DF, and flange length LF as the holder shape data 85. Therefore, an assembly model AM having exactly the same shape as the tool holder 17 displayed on the model display screen 51 is used to execute an interference detection program 82 and a measurement feasibility determination program 82a, which will be described later.

[0067] When the edit button 49 is pressed, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 displays a detailed shape input screen 50. Referring to FIG. 14 , the detailed shape input screen 50 includes an input instruction screen 52, a fourth text box 53, a fifth text box 54, an OK button 55, a cancel button 56, and sixth to fifteenth text boxes 60 to 69. The input instruction screen 52 allows the user to input the length of a portion of the tool holder 17 that corresponds to the length of an indicator shown on the left side of each of the sixth to fifteenth text boxes 60 to 69. That is, as shown in the input instruction screen 52, the three-dimensional shape of the tool holder 17, which is modeled as a combination of two truncated cones, can be set via the detailed shape input screen 50.

[0068] The fifth text box 54 is a GUI that accepts input of the holder name of the tool holder 17. The fourth text box 53 is a GUI that accepts input of the manufacturer name of the tool holder 17. The fourth text box 53 and the fifth text box 54 are initially displayed blank. The sixth text box 60 is a GUI that accepts input of the flange diameter DF, and the set value of the flange diameter DF is displayed as the initial value. The seventh text box 61 is a GUI that accepts input of the flange length LF, and the set value of the flange length LF is displayed as the initial value. The eighth text box 62 is a GUI that accepts input of the body diameter DM, and the set value of the body diameter DM is displayed as the initial value. The ninth text box 63 is a GUI that accepts input of the body length LM, and the set value of the body length LM is displayed as the initial value. The tenth to fifteenth text boxes 64 to 69 are set to 0 as their initial values. In addition, when the number in the seventh text box 61, the number in the ninth text box 63, or the number in the thirteenth text box 67 is corrected, the numbers in the remaining text boxes are corrected so that the sum of these numbers becomes the number in the second text box 42.

[0069] The processor 93 that executes the model generation program 81 accepts input of at least one correction value of the flange diameter DF (D1 in FIG. 14), the flange length LF (L1 in FIG. 14), the body diameter DM (D2 in FIG. 14), and the body length LM (L2 in FIG. 14) via an input interface. The GUI that accepts numerical inputs into the sixth to ninth text boxes 60 to 63 using the input device 91a corresponds to this input interface. When the OK button 55 is pressed with the name of the manufacturer of the tool holder 17 entered in the fourth text box 53, the name of the tool holder 17 entered in the fifth text box 54, and the corresponding numerical values ​​entered in the sixth to fifteenth text boxes 60 to 69, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 newly registers a data set of the tool holder 17 having the holder name displayed in the fifth text box 54, the manufacturer of the tool holder 17 displayed in the fourth text box 53, the body diameter DM (D2), the body length LM (L2), the flange diameter DF (D1), the flange length LF (L1), the extended holder diameters d2, D3, d3, the extended holder length L3, the first R dimension R1, and the second R dimension R2 in the holder shape data 85, and closes the detailed shape input screen 50. An example of the newly registered holder shape data 85 is displayed at the bottom of FIG. It should be noted that the tool interface here is automatically inserted as a tool interface supported by machine tool 1 (for example, an interface selected by a GUI such as that shown in FIG. 9 ). When cancel button 56 is pressed, processor 93 executing model generation program 81 closes detailed shape input screen 50 without registering the data set on detailed shape input screen 50 in holder shape data 85.

[0070] When the detailed shape input screen 50 is closed, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 adds the information of the tool holder 17 newly registered in the holder shape data 85 to the tool holder selection window 47. If the information is selected and the OK button 48 is pressed, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 on the model display screen 51 based on the values ​​entered in the sixth to fifteenth text boxes 60 to 69, and regenerates the assembly model AM. That is, when at least one correction value is input, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 regenerates the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 based on the at least one correction value. The regenerated three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 is displayed on the model display screen 51. Then, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 updates the third text box 43 to the name set in the fifth text box 54.

[0071] In this way, while the assembly model AM is displayed on the model display screen 51, the assembly model AM can be regenerated by modifying the values ​​in the first text box 41 and the second text box 42, or by modifying the values ​​in the sixth to fifteenth text boxes 60 to 69, pressing the OK button 55, selecting the modified tool holder 17 in the tool holder selection window 47, and pressing the OK button 48. Therefore, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts input of at least one modified value of the flange diameter DF, flange length LF, body diameter DM, body length LM, and tool length offset LT via the input interface. Then, when at least one modified value is input, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 regenerates the assembly model AM based on the at least one modified value. After the above process is completed, when the OK button 44 is pressed, the processor 93 executes the following interference detection program 82 and measurement feasibility determination program 82a based on the assembly model AM displayed on the model display screen 51 at that time. When the cancel button 45 is pressed, the processor 93 ends the model generation program 81 without setting the assembly model AM.

[0072] <Operations of Interference Detection Program 82 and Measurement Feasibility Determination Program 82a> Next, the operations of the interference detection program 82 and measurement feasibility determination program 82a in Fig. 2 will be described. The processor 93 executing the interference detection program 82 obtains a shape model of an obstacle from the memory 94. That is, the memory 94 stores the shape model of the obstacle together with the interference detection program 82. This obstacle refers to an object other than the workpiece W placed on the machining table 11, such as a jig for fixing the workpiece W to the machining table 11. Furthermore, if the workpiece W comes into contact with the tool holder 17 or the spindle 12b, the workpiece W can also become an obstacle. The processor 93 executing the interference detection program 82 determines whether or not the assembly model AM will interfere with the shape model of the obstacle when the machine tool 1 is caused to execute a machining program 98 for driving the spindle 12b to machine the workpiece W. For example, the interference determination program 82 calculates the positions of the assembly model AM and the shape model of the obstacle at each time when the machining program 98 is executed, and determines whether the assembly model AM will interfere with the shape model of the obstacle at each time. Here, interference means contact between the assembly model AM and the shape model of the obstacle other than contact between the rotating tool T1 and the workpiece W. For example, interference also occurs when the tool length offset LT is too short and the tool holder 17 comes into contact with the workpiece W. The interference determination program 82 makes it possible to simulate in advance whether there will be interference with an obstacle when the machine tool 1 executes the machining program 98, and to check in advance by simulation the size of the tool length offset LT that will prevent the tool holder 17 from interfering with the workpiece W.

[0073] The processor 93 executing the measurement feasibility determination program 82a acquires from the memory 94 a shape model of the obstacle, including the measuring device MD that stores the tool length offset LT. When the processor 93 executing the measurement feasibility determination program 82a executes a movement program for the rotating tool T1 to cause the measuring device MD to measure the rotating tool T1, the processor 93 determines whether the shape model of the assembly model AM and the shape model of the obstacle will interfere with each other before the shape model of the rotating tool T1 reaches a predetermined position on the measuring device MD. Therefore, the memory 94 stores the movement program and the shape model of the obstacle together with the measurement feasibility determination program 82a. The predetermined position is, for example, the position of the measuring device MD where the rotating tool T1 is inserted when measuring the rotating tool T1 with the measuring device MD. The obstacle refers to, for example, an object other than a part of the measuring device MD that is provided at a predetermined position. For example, the measurement feasibility determination program 82a calculates the positions of the assembly model AM and the shape model of the obstacle at each time when the movement program is executed, and determines whether the assembly model AM will interfere with the shape model of the obstacle at each time. Here, interference means contact between the assembly model AM and an obstacle other than contact between the rotary tool T1 and a portion provided at a predetermined position of the measuring device MD.

[0074] FIG. 15 shows a conceptual diagram of the movement of the rotating tool T1 to the measuring device MD. As shown in FIG. 15, the rotating tool T1 is moved from the machine origin to the predetermined position of the measuring device MD. During this process, the rotating tool T1 is moved at high speed to an approach position near the measuring device MD and then moved at low speed from the approach position. However, if information about obstacles along the way is unknown, for safety reasons, the approach position must be set far away, or the operator must move the rotating tool T1 from the machine origin to the approach position at medium to low speeds while observing the interior of the machine, which can result in a long measurement time. However, if the measurement feasibility determination program 82a is used to simulate the movement of the rotating tool T1 in advance, it is possible to set the approach position very close to the measuring device MD or increase the movement speed from the machine origin to the approach position. This effectively reduces the measurement time.

[0075] Next, the operation of the model generation program 81 in Fig. 2 will be described in detail. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the model generation program 81 in detail. The model generation program 81, when executed by the processor 93 of the computer 90, includes instructions that cause the processor 93 to execute the processing of a model generation method shown in Fig. 16 and Figs. 17 to 18 accompanying Fig. 16. Referring to Fig. 16, in step S1 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 obtains first data representing the flange diameter DF and the flange length LF from the memory 94 (storage device).

[0076] Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing details of the operation of step S1. The processing of Fig. 17 is an example of processing when the model generation program 81 is designed to be versatile so that it can be commonly used in a variety of machine tools 1. Referring to Fig. 17, in step S11, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an input of holder type information (tool interface) from an operator via an input interface (e.g., a GUI that accepts a selection input of a tool interface using the input device 91a in the tool interface setting window 25). In step S12, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires the first data based on the holder type information (tool interface) from a memory 94 (storage device) that stores a correspondence between the holder type information (tool interface) and a flange diameter DF and a flange length LF corresponding to the holder type information (tool interface). In addition, when the model generation program 81 is customized and designed for each machine tool 1, it is preferable to obtain the first data representing the flange diameter DF and flange length LF defined by the tool interface supported by the machine tool 1 (spindle 12b) from the memory 94 (storage device).

[0077] 16 , in step S2 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 receives an input of the shank diameter DS from the operator via the input interface (a GUI that receives a selection input of the tool display window 30 using the input device 91a). In step S3 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 obtains second data representing the body diameter DM corresponding to the obtained shank diameter DS from the memory 94 (storage device) that stores the holder body definition data 84. In step S4 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 obtains third data defining the shape of the rotary tool T1 from the memory 94 (storage device) that stores the tool data 99. In step S5 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 receives an input of the body length LM from the operator via the input interface (a GUI that receives a numerical input of the dimension input window 40 using the input device 91a).

[0078] 18 is a flowchart showing the details of the operation of step S5. Referring to FIG. 18, in step S51, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 receives an input of the holder overall length LH from the operator via the input interface (a GUI that receives a numerical value input into the second text box 42 using the input device 91a). In step S52, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 calculates the body length LM by subtracting the flange length LF from the holder overall length LH.

[0079] 16 , in step S6 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 based on the body length LM acquired in step S5, the first data acquired in step S1, and the second data acquired in step S3. In step S7 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an operator's input of the tool length offset LT via an input interface (a GUI that accepts a numerical input into the first text box 41 using the input device 91a). Note that if the tool data 99 includes a recommended protrusion amount and the tool length offset LT is automatically set to the recommended protrusion amount, step S7 may be omitted. In step S8 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool T1 based on the determined tool length offset LT and the third data acquired in step S4.

[0080] In step S9 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates an assembly model AM by combining the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotary tool and the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17. In step S10 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a signal to the display 91b to display the assembly model AM (the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17) on the display 91b. In step S11 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts input of correction values ​​for at least one of the flange diameter DF, flange length LF, body diameter DM, body length LM, and tool length offset LT via the input interface (a GUI that accepts numerical input into the dimension input window 40 using the input device 91a). If no input is received (No in step S11), step S11 is repeated. When at least one correction value has been input (Yes in step S11), in step S12 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 regenerates the assembly model AM based on the at least one correction value. After step S12 is completed, the process returns to step S10. <Features and Effects of the Model Generation Method in This Embodiment> The model generation method, the model generation program 81, and the computer 90 executing the model generation program 81 according to this embodiment accept an operator's input of the shank diameter DS of the rotary tool T1, cause the processor 93 to obtain second data representing the body diameter DM corresponding to the obtained shank diameter DS from the memory 94 storing holder body definition data 84 that describes the correspondence between the shank diameter DS of the rotary tool T1 and the body diameter DM of the holder body 17MB, and use the second data to create a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17. Therefore, the model generation method, the model generation program 81, and the computer 90 that executes the model generation program 81 can generate a shape model of the tool holder 17 more easily than before.<Modifications> In the above-described embodiment, GUIs such as the tool display window 30 and the dimension input window 40 are shown as examples of input interfaces, but a different interface may be used, such as a character user interface (CUI) for setting by commands.

[0081] In the above-described embodiment, an example is shown in which the machine tool 1 is a vertical machining center, but the contents of this embodiment can also be applied to machine tools including horizontal machining centers, lathes, and additive manufacturing devices.

[0082] A dedicated processor or integrated circuit may be used to implement some or all of the logic functions of the model generation program 81, the interference detection program 82, and the measurement feasibility determination program 82a of the computer 90. The model generation program 81, the interference detection program 82, and the measurement feasibility determination program 82a may be stored not only in the memory 94 built into the computer 90 but also in a storage medium that is removable from the computer 90 and readable by the computer 90, such as a floppy disk, an optical disk, a CD-ROM or a magnetic disk, an SD card, a USB memory, or an external hard disk.

[0083] In this application, the term "comprises" and its derivatives are open-ended terms that describe the presence of elements and do not exclude the presence of other elements not listed. This also applies to the terms "have," "include," and their derivatives.

[0084] The terms "member," "part," "element," "body," and "structure" may have multiple meanings, such as a single part or multiple parts.

[0085] Ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are merely terms for identifying components and do not have any other meaning (e.g., a particular order). For example, the presence of a "first element" does not imply the presence of a "second element," and the presence of a "second element" does not imply the presence of a "first element."

[0086] Words expressing degrees, such as "substantially," "about," and "approximately," can mean a reasonable deviation that does not significantly change the final result, unless otherwise specified in the embodiment. All numerical values ​​described in this application can be interpreted to include words such as "substantially," "about," and "approximately."

[0087] In this application, the phrase "at least one of A and B" should be interpreted to include A only, B only, and both A and B.

[0088] It is apparent that various changes and modifications of the present invention are possible in light of the above disclosure, and therefore, the present invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically disclosed herein without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. A model generation method comprising: causing a processor to acquire from a storage device first data representing a flange diameter, which is a radial length with respect to a central axis of a tool holder having a flange formed around the central axis and a holder body protruding from the flange in an axial direction along the central axis and capable of mounting a rotary tool, and a flange length, which is the axial length of the flange; causing the processor to accept input from an operator of a shank diameter of the rotary tool and a body length, which is the axial length of the holder body, via an input interface; causing the processor to acquire second data representing the body diameter corresponding to the acquired shank diameter from the storage device that stores a correspondence relationship between the shank diameter and the body diameter, which is the radial length of the holder body; and causing the processor to generate a shape model of the tool holder based on the acquired body length, the first data, and the second data.

2. The model generation method according to claim 1, wherein having the processor accept input of the body length from an operator includes having the processor accept input of the total holder length, which is the sum of the body length and the flange length, from an operator via the input interface, and having the processor determine the body length by subtracting the flange length from the total holder length.

3. A model generation method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein having the processor acquire the first data includes: having the processor accept, via the input interface, input from an operator of holder type information indicating the type of tool holder that can be attached to a machine tool; and having the processor acquire the first data based on the holder type information from the storage device that stores correspondences that associate the holder type information with the flange diameter and flange length that correspond to the holder type information.

4. A model generation method according to claim 3, wherein the tool holder has a holder shank on the opposite side of the flange to the holder body in the axial direction, the spindle has a receiving hole into which the holder shank can be inserted, and whether or not the plurality of tool holders can be attached to the machine tool is determined based on whether or not the receiving hole fits the holder shank.

5. A model generation method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the body diameter is equal to the outer diameter of a nut for fixing the rotary tool to the holder body.

6. The model generation method according to claim 5, wherein the nut is configured to hold a collet that can be press-fit onto the rotary tool having the shank diameter.

7. The model generation method according to claim 6, wherein the outer diameter of the nut is determined based on the ISO 15488 standard to correspond to the size of the collet that is adapted to the shank diameter.

8. A model generation method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising the steps of: causing the processor to generate a signal to the display so as to display the shape model of the tool holder on the display; causing the processor to accept input from an operator of a correction value for at least one of the flange diameter, the flange length, the body diameter, and the body length via the input interface; and causing the processor to regenerate the shape model of the tool holder based on the at least one correction value when the input of the at least one correction value is received.

9. A model generation method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: causing the processor to accept, via the input interface, an input from an operator of a tool length offset, which is the length of extension of the rotary tool from the nut; causing the processor to acquire third data defining the shape of the rotary tool from the storage device; causing the processor to generate a shape model of the rotary tool based on the tool length offset and the third data; and causing the processor to generate an assembly model combining the shape model of the rotary tool and the shape model of the tool holder.

10. The model generation method according to claim 9, further comprising the steps of: causing the processor to generate a signal to the display to display the assembly model on the display; causing the processor to accept input of at least one correction value of the flange diameter, the flange length, the body diameter, the body length, and the tool length offset via the input interface; and causing the processor to regenerate the assembly model based on the at least one correction value when the input of the at least one correction value is received.

11. A model generation method according to claim 9 or 10; and a determination method comprising: causing the processor to acquire from the storage device a shape model of an obstacle including a measuring device that measures the tool length offset; and causing the processor to determine whether or not the assembly model and the shape model of the obstacle will interfere with each other by the time the shape model of the rotating tool reaches a predetermined position of the measurement position when a program for moving the rotating tool to cause the measuring device to measure the rotating tool is executed.

12. A determination method comprising the model generation method of claim 9 or 10, and having the processor acquire a shape model of an obstacle from the storage device, and having the processor determine whether or not the assembly model interferes with the shape model of the obstacle when the machine tool is caused to drive the spindle and execute a machining program for machining the workpiece.

13. A computer comprising: the processor configured to execute the model generation method of claims 1 to 10 or the determination method of claim 11 or 12; the storage device; and the input interface.

14. A machine tool system comprising: the computer according to claim 13; and a machine tool having the spindle to which the tool holder can be attached.

15. A computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer including said input interface, cause said computer to carry out the model generation method of claims 1 to 10 or the determination method of claim 11 or 12.

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