Processing system, information processing device, cutting plotter, processing method, and program

Abstract

Provided are a processing system, an information processing device, a cutting plotter, a processing method, and a program that make it possible to easily set a cutting plotter parameter.　A processing system 10 comprises a cutting plotter 12 and an information processing device 14. The information processing device 14 acquires a parameter input value for making the cutting plotter 12, which includes a cutting tool, perform desired processing on a workpiece 20 and, on the basis of the acquired parameter input value, displays a workpiece cross-sectional diagram 42 that schematically represents a vertical cross-section of the workpiece 20 during or after processing at a display 30. The information processing device 14 transmits the parameter input value to the cutting plotter 12 as a setting value for the cutting plotter 12. The cutting plotter 12 performs processing on the workpiece 22 in accordance with the setting value set by the information processing device 14.

Description

Processing system, information processing device, cutting plotter, processing method, and program

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing system, an information processing device, a cutting plotter, a processing method, and a program.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Processing devices such as cutting plotters that perform processes such as cutting on sheet-shaped media are widely used.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a processing device that cuts a medium to be cut by moving a pen block based on cutting data and controlling the operation of pressing and pulling a cutting pen against the medium.

[0004] JP 2014-97563 A

[0005] As described in Patent Document 1, in order to process a medium into a desired shape by selectively pressing or pulling away a cutting tool such as a cutting pen, it is necessary to set various parameters.

[0006] However, there are a wide variety of parameter settings, and the types of parameters to be set vary depending on the type of cutting tool, so users need to rely on their intuition and experience to accurately set the parameters to cut the media into the desired shape.

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a cutting system, an information processing device, a cutting plotter, a cutting method, and a program that allow for easy setting of cutting plotter parameters.

[0008] The processing system of the first aspect of the present invention comprises an information processing device having an acquisition means for acquiring input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter having a cutting tool to perform desired processing on a medium, a display control means for displaying on a display a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the medium during or after processing based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means, and a setting means for setting the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​for the cutting plotter, and the cutting plotter for processing the medium according to the setting values ​​set by the setting information processing device.

[0009] With this configuration, the processing state of the medium in the depth direction is visualized as a vertical cross section, making it easier for the user to imagine the final product obtained by processing the medium, making it easier to set the parameters of the cutting plotter.

[0010] In the above-described processing system, the vertical cross-sectional view may display a base provided between the table of the cutting plotter and the medium. With this configuration, when processing a relatively deep area in the vertical direction, the user can recognize the presence of the base, making it easier to set parameters.

[0011] In the above processing system, the longitudinal cross-sectional view of the medium may be displayed in different ways depending on the type of the medium. This configuration allows the user to intuitively set parameters. The type of medium refers to the material, structure, etc. of the medium. The structure refers to differences such as cardboard and corrugated cardboard.

[0012] In the above processing system, recommended values ​​of the parameters according to the type of the medium may be displayed. With this configuration, parameter setting becomes easy.

[0013] In the processing system, if the medium is cardboard, the corrugations of the cardboard may be displayed in the longitudinal cross section. With this configuration, it is easier for a user to understand the direction of the corrugations when the medium is cardboard.

[0014] In the above-mentioned processing system, a plurality of standard drawings that differ depending on the input value of the parameter may be prepared in advance as the longitudinal cross-sectional view, and the display control means may select one of the plurality of standard drawings based on the input value of the parameter acquired by the acquisition means.

[0015] In the above-described machining system, the user can select a part of the parameters shown on the vertical cross-sectional view displayed on the display and visually adjust the part, and the input value of the parameter may change according to the vertical cross-sectional view after the adjustment. With this configuration, the user can intuitively set the parameters.

[0016] In the machining system, one of a plurality of preset fixed values ​​may be selected as the input value of at least some of the parameters. With this configuration, parameter setting is simplified.

[0017] In the above processing system, the user may be able to enlarge and display the longitudinal cross-sectional view. With this configuration, the user can easily check the details of the longitudinal cross-section of the processed medium.

[0018] The machining system may further include a notification unit that issues a warning when the input value of the parameter falls within a preset value that requires user attention. This configuration can reduce parameter setting errors.

[0019] In the above processing system, the longitudinal cross-sectional view may display a processing position in a planar direction of the medium. This configuration makes it easier to set parameters.

[0020] In the above processing system, the desired processing may be a V-cut.

[0021] In the above processing system, the V-cut may be any one of a single cut that performs one cut, a double cut that performs two cuts to form a V-shape, and a triple cut that performs three cuts to form a V-shape. With this configuration, it is possible to set parameters according to the type of V-cut.

[0022] In the processing system, the vertical cross-sectional view may be displayed in a manner that the area to be cut out from the medium and other areas are displayed in different ways. With this configuration, the user can visually grasp the area to be cut out from the medium.

[0023] In the above processing system, the longitudinal cross-sectional view may display the order of processing for the medium. With this configuration, the user can visually grasp the order of processing for the medium.

[0024] In the machining system, when an input value of a predetermined parameter is acquired, recommended values ​​of the other parameters corresponding to the acquired input value may be displayed on the display. With this configuration, parameter setting becomes easier.

[0025] In the above processing system, information indicating the origin position in the depth direction of the medium may be displayed together with the longitudinal cross-sectional view on the display 30. This configuration can reduce parameter setting errors.

[0026] An information processing device of a second aspect of the present invention comprises an acquisition means for acquiring input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter having a processing tool to perform desired processing on a medium, a display control means for displaying on a display a longitudinal cross-sectional view that schematically shows the longitudinal cross-section of the medium during or after processing based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means, and a setting means for setting the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​of the cutting plotter.

[0027] A cutting plotter of a third aspect of the present invention comprises an acquisition means for acquiring input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter having a cutting tool to perform desired processing on a medium, a display control means for displaying on a display a vertical cross-sectional view that schematically shows the vertical cross-section of the medium during or after processing based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means, a setting means for setting the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​for the cutting plotter, and a processing means for processing the medium based on the parameters set by the setting means.

[0028] A fourth aspect of the processing method of the present invention includes a first step in which an acquisition means acquires input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter having a cutting tool to perform the desired processing on a medium; a second step in which a display control means displays on a display a longitudinal cross-sectional view that schematically shows the longitudinal cross-section of the medium during or after processing based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means; and a third step in which a setting means sets the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​for the cutting plotter.

[0029] A fifth aspect of the program of the present invention causes a computer to function as an acquisition means for acquiring input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter having a cutting tool to perform desired processing on a medium, a display control means for displaying on a display a vertical cross-sectional view that schematically shows the vertical cross-section of the medium during or after processing based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means, and a setting means for setting the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​for the cutting plotter.

[0030] An object of the present invention is to provide a cutting system, an information processing device, a cutting plotter, a cutting method, and a program that allow for easy setting of cutting plotter parameters.

[0031] 1 is a schematic diagram of a machining system according to an embodiment; FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a parameter setting screen according to an embodiment; FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram related to parameter setting by an information processing device according to an embodiment; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a workpiece according to an embodiment when a single cut is performed on the workpiece, where (A) is a case where the V-cut Z-remaining amount is 0.1 mm or more, and (B) is a case where the V-cut Z-remaining amount is 0 mm or less; FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a workpiece according to an embodiment when a double cut is performed on the workpiece, where (A) is a case where the V-cut Z-remaining amount is 0.1 mm or more, and (B) is a case where the V-cut Z-remaining amount is 0 mm or less; FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a workpiece according to an embodiment when a triple cut is performed on the workpiece, where (A) is a case where the V-cut Z-remaining amount is 0.1 mm or more, and (B) is a case where the V-cut Z-remaining amount is 0 mm or less; FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of parameter setting processing according to an embodiment; FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a workpiece according to another embodiment;

[0032] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A processing system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. 1 is a schematic overall view of the processing system 10 according to the present embodiment.

[0033] The processing system 10 includes a cutting plotter 12 and an information processing device 14 .

[0034] The cutting plotter 12 is a processing device that performs various processes on a sheet-like medium (hereinafter referred to as a "workpiece") 22 placed on a table 20 using a cutting tool.

[0035] The cutting plotter 12 includes a head 26 to which a plurality of cutting tools are attached. The head 26 moves relative to a workpiece 22 placed on a table 20 (for example, in the X and Y directions), and the cutting tools perform processing on the workpiece 22.

[0036] Types of cutting tools include, for example, V-cut, pen, eccentric cut, flat blade, roller, router, reciprocating, and the like.

[0037] In this embodiment, the desired processing performed by the user is, for example, a V-cut, which can be one of a single cut, a double cut, which is a V-shaped cut made by two cuts, and a triple cut, which is a V-shaped cut made by three cuts.

[0038] The information processing device 14 is a desktop or laptop computer equipped with a display 30 such as a liquid crystal display for displaying images and an input device 32 such as a keyboard or mouse for receiving various inputs, and is communicably connected to the cutting plotter 12. The information processing device 14 may also be a portable information processing device such as a smartphone or tablet terminal equipped with a touch panel display. The processing system 10 may include one or more information processing devices 14.

[0039] The information processing device 14 sets parameters that the cutting plotter 12 uses to perform desired processing on the workpiece 22. The information processing device 14 then transmits the parameter setting values ​​to the cutting plotter 12 along with processing data that indicates the shape to be cut out of the workpiece 22, the positions at which holes will be drilled in the workpiece 22, and the like. The processing data is expressed as a plan view corresponding to the XY plane. The cutting plotter 12 drives the cutting tool to process the workpiece 22 based on the parameter setting values ​​and the processing data. The processing data may be created by the information processing device 14, or processing data created by another information processing device may be input to the information processing device 14.

[0040] 2 shows a parameter setting screen 40 displayed on the display 30. The information processing device 14 of this embodiment displays, on the display 30, a workpiece cross-sectional view 42, which is a vertical cross-sectional view that schematically shows a vertical cross-section of the workpiece 22 after machining, in addition to the parameter setting screen 40 based on input values ​​of parameters (hereinafter referred to as "parameter input values"). In other words, the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 shows the machining state of the workpiece 22 in the depth direction.

[0041] 2, the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 is displayed at the top of the parameter setting screen 40, but this is just one example, and the display position of the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 may be other positions within the parameter setting screen 40. Furthermore, the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 may be displayed on the display 30 without being included in the parameter setting screen 40.

[0042] In the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 shown in Figure 2, a V-cut cut line 46 is displayed as a dashed line on a workpiece diagram 44 representing the workpiece 22. In the example of Figure 2, it can be seen that the workpiece 22 will be cut by a single V-cut. In this way, the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 visualizes the machining state of the workpiece 22 in the depth direction, making it easier for the user to imagine the final product obtained by machining the workpiece 22, facilitating the setting of parameters for the cutting plotter 12.

[0043] In the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 of this embodiment, a pedestal provided between the table 20 and the workpiece 22 of the cutting plotter 12 is displayed as a pedestal view 48. The pedestal, which may be, for example, felt, is a protective material placed under the workpiece 22 to protect the surface of the table 20. Here, for example, when machining the workpiece 22 to a depth greater than the thickness of the workpiece 22, parameter setting becomes more difficult. Therefore, by displaying the pedestal view 48 in the workpiece cross-sectional view 42, the user can recognize the presence of the pedestal when machining the workpiece 22 relatively deeply in the vertical direction, making parameter setting easier. Note that in FIG. 2 , the table 20 is displayed as a table view 50. Furthermore, if a pedestal is not placed on the table 20 during actual machining, the pedestal view 48 is set not to be displayed in the workpiece cross-sectional view 42.

[0044] When machining different positions or ranges of the same workpiece 22 using different parameters, a workpiece cross-sectional view 42 is displayed according to the parameter input values ​​for each position or range. The workpiece cross-sectional view 42 in this embodiment is, for example, a still image. Further details of the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 will be described later.

[0045] 3 is a functional block diagram relating to parameter setting by the information processing device 14 of this embodiment. The information processing device 14 includes a display 30, an input device 32, a calculation unit 60, a storage unit 62, and a communication unit 64.

[0046] The calculation unit 60 is a computer such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and includes a parameter input value acquisition unit 66, a parameter display control unit 68, a parameter setting unit 70, and a warning notification unit 72. The functions of the parameter input value acquisition unit 66, the parameter display control unit 68, the parameter setting unit 70, and the warning notification unit 72 are realized by executing a program stored in a storage unit 62 included in the information processing device 14.

[0047] The parameter input value acquiring unit 66 acquires the parameter input values. As an example, the parameter input value acquiring unit 66 acquires, as the parameter input values, values ​​input by the user into the text boxes 52 of the parameter setting screen 40 via the input device 32. However, this is not limited thereto, and the information processing device 14 may read a data file in which the parameter input values ​​are written, the parameter input values ​​written in the data file may be input into the text boxes 52, and the parameter input value acquiring unit 66 may acquire the parameter input values ​​written in the data file.

[0048] As described above, the cutting tool of this embodiment performs a V-cut, for example. The parameters for the V-cut include, for example, the cutting edge angle, workpiece thickness, speed, Z position, V-cut method, V-cut Z-remaining amount, and V-cut folding width, as shown in Fig. 2. In addition, the parameters include V-cut theta correction, Z-origin setting, Z-origin offset, and, when triple cutting is selected, the amount of shift in the cutting position.

[0049] In this embodiment, "Z" indicates the vertical direction of the workpiece 22, and the Z origin is the origin in the depth direction of the workpiece 22. In this embodiment, information indicating the origin position (Z origin) in the depth direction of the workpiece 22 is displayed on the display 30 together with the workpiece cross-sectional view 42. An example of information indicating the origin position is a Z position bar 54 that is displayed parallel to the vertical direction of the workpiece 22 on the right side of the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 shown in FIG. 2. The position indicated by "0" in the Z position bar 54 is the Z origin.

[0050] Furthermore, a note regarding the Z origin setting may be displayed on the display 30. For example, the note may be, "The position of 0 varies depending on the Z origin offset of the machine." In this way, by displaying the Z position bar 54 on the display 30 together with the workpiece cross-sectional view 42, parameter setting errors by the user are reduced. In this embodiment, the Z position bar 54 and the note are displayed by pressing a predetermined button (not shown) included in the parameter setting screen 40.

[0051] In the example of FIG. 2, the bottom surface of the workpiece 22, i.e., the top surface of the base, is set as the Z origin, but this is just one example. The user can set the Z origin as desired, and for example, the top surface of the workpiece 22 may be set as the Z origin. The position of the Z origin can be changed by adjusting the Z origin offset. To ensure that the workpiece 22 is cut out accurately, the Z origin offset should be input as, for example, "1.0."

[0052] The Z position is the target position of the tip of the cutting tool relative to the Z origin, or in other words, the machining depth of the cutting tool. The V-cut Z-remaining amount is the length that is not cut relative to the bottom surface of the workpiece 22, or in other words, the thickness of the portion of the workpiece 22 that is left uncut. The V-cut Z-remaining amount is indicated by "a" in FIG. 2. Note that "b" included in the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 in FIG. 2 indicates the V-cut folding width, and numerical values ​​are displayed in "a" and "b." The parameter setting screen 40 may also have a text box 52 for inputting both the Z position and V-cut Z-remaining amount parameters, or a text box 52 for inputting only one of the parameters.

[0053] Of these parameters, the cutting edge angle may be the first parameter to be determined, and the ranges of the other parameters may be determined depending on the cutting edge angle. Note that if the created product from the machined workpiece 22 is, for example, a cube, the cutting edge angle is set to 45°.

[0054] The input value of the parameter may be selected from a plurality of preset fixed values. For example, the cutting edge angle for a V-cut may be selected from fixed values ​​such as 15°, 22.5°, 30°, and 45°. This simplifies parameter setting.

[0055] The parameters also include the type of workpiece 22. The type of workpiece 22 is, for example, plain paper or cardboard. If the workpiece 22 is cardboard, the parameters also include the corrugations of the cardboard. Either vertical or horizontal corrugations of the cardboard can be selected.

[0056] Furthermore, when the parameter input value acquisition unit 66 acquires a predetermined parameter input value, it may display the value of another parameter corresponding to the input value as a recommended value. This simplifies parameter setting. For example, if a double cut or triple cut is selected as the V-cut and the V-cut blade angle and the V-cut remaining amount are acquired as parameter input values, a recommended value for the folding width corresponding to the blade angle may be displayed on the parameter setting screen 40. In the example of FIG. 2 , if the check box 53 located to the left of the text box 52 corresponding to the V-cut folding width is unchecked, the recommended value for the V-cut folding width corresponding to the blade angle and the V-cut remaining amount is entered in the text box 52. On the other hand, if the check box 53 is checked, the user manually enters the value for the V-cut folding width. Note that when the V-cut folding width and the V-cut blade angle are acquired as parameter input values, a recommended value for the V-cut remaining amount corresponding to the V-cut folding width and the V-cut blade angle may be displayed.

[0057] The parameter display control unit 68 displays the parameter setting screen 40 on the display 30, and displays the parameter input values ​​in the text boxes 52 on the parameter setting screen 40. Furthermore, the parameter display control unit 68 of this embodiment displays the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 based on the parameter input values ​​acquired by the parameter input value acquisition unit 66.

[0058] The parameter setting unit 70 sets the parameter input values ​​as setting values ​​(hereinafter referred to as "parameter setting values") for the cutting plotter 12. Specifically, when the user presses the approval button 56 displayed on the parameter setting screen 40, the parameter input values ​​displayed on the parameter setting screen 40 are sent to the cutting plotter 12 as parameter setting values.

[0059] The warning notification unit 72 issues a warning when the parameter input value falls within a value (hereinafter referred to as the "warning set value") that is preset as requiring the user's attention. For example, the warning notification unit 72 issues a warning when the parameter input value falls within the warning set value that cuts out the workpiece 22. For example, when the V-cut is a double cut or triple cut and the V-cut Z remaining amount is input as 0 or less, the warning notification unit 72 issues a warning indicating that the workpiece 22 will be cut out. Furthermore, when an unexpected thickness or thinness is input for the type of workpiece 22 for which the workpiece thickness has been input, the warning notification unit 72 issues a warning. This makes it possible to prevent the user from setting parameters incorrectly.

[0060] As an example, the warning setting value is set as a range of values ​​that require a warning. However, the present invention is not limited to this. A range of normal values ​​may be set, and values ​​outside the set normal range may be set as the warning setting value. The warning notification unit 72 may notify the warning by, for example, displaying a pop-up message, or may display the text box 52 in which a parameter input value that is within the warning setting value range has been entered in a different color from the other parts, such as red or yellow.

[0061] The communication unit 64 transmits and receives information to and from the cutting plotter 12. The communication unit 64 of this embodiment transmits to the cutting plotter 12 processing data and parameter setting values ​​that indicate the processing details for the workpiece 22.

[0062] The storage unit 62 stores a program for executing parameter setting, image data such as a plurality of standard drawings (to be described later), and various other programs and data.

[0063] Next, the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6. FIG.

[0064] The workpiece diagram 44 constituting the workpiece cross-sectional diagram 42 is displayed in different modes depending on the type of workpiece 22. For example, the workpiece diagram 44 is displayed in a color, pattern, or the like that evokes the material of the workpiece 22. The type of workpiece 22 refers to the material and structure of the workpiece 22. The structure refers to differences such as cardboard and corrugated cardboard. This allows the user to intuitively set parameters while looking at the workpiece cross-sectional diagram 42. The display mode of the workpiece diagram 44 may be selected by the user, or may be automatically selected in advance depending on the type of workpiece 22 input as a parameter input value.

[0065] Furthermore, recommended parameter values ​​according to the type of workpiece 22 may be input as parameter input values. For example, if the workpiece 22 is cardboard, a recommended value is input as the speed input value in the text box 52. This makes it easier to set parameters. Also, by storing an input value history that associates the type of workpiece 22 with the parameter input values, more appropriate recommended values ​​according to the type of workpiece 22 may be displayed.

[0066] If the workpiece 22 is cardboard, the corrugations of the cardboard are displayed in the workpiece cross-sectional view 42. In the example of FIG. 2, multiple vertical lines in the workpiece view 44 represent the corrugations of the cardboard. If the corrugations of the cardboard are horizontal, the corrugations are displayed horizontally in the workpiece view 44. This allows the user to easily recognize the direction of the corrugations when the workpiece 22 is cardboard.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a machining position mark 58 indicating the machining position in the planar direction of the workpiece 22 is displayed on the workpiece cross-sectional view 42. The machining position is based on the machining data, and the cutting tool machines the workpiece 22 by targeting the machining position. As an example, the machining position mark 58 in this embodiment is displayed as a triangular mark whose vertex indicates the machining position. Displaying the machining position on the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 allows the user to visually set parameters.

[0068] The workpiece cross-sectional view 42 can also be enlarged. This allows the user to check the details of the longitudinal cross section of the workpiece 22 after machining. The enlarged workpiece cross-sectional view 42 may be displayed on a screen different from the parameter setting screen 40. Furthermore, instead of enlarging the entire workpiece cross-sectional view 42, the user may be allowed to select a partial area of ​​the workpiece cross-sectional view 42, and that partial area may be enlarged.

[0069] In this embodiment, a plurality of different standard drawings corresponding to the parameter input values ​​are prepared in advance as the workpiece cross-sectional view 42. The parameter display control unit 68 then selects one of the plurality of standard drawings based on the parameter input values ​​acquired by the parameter input value acquisition unit 66. Examples of the standard drawings are the workpiece cross-sectional views 42 shown in Figures 4 to 6.

[0070] Fig. 4 is a workpiece cross-sectional view 42 in which a single cut is made to the workpiece 22, and there is one cut line 46. Fig. 5 is a workpiece cross-sectional view 42 in which a double cut is made to the workpiece 22, and there are two cut lines 46. Fig. 6 is a workpiece cross-sectional view 42 in which a triple cut is made to the workpiece 22, and there are three cut lines 46.

[0071] Figures 4(A), 5(A), and 6(A) show cases where the V-cut Z-remaining amount is 0.1 mm or more, while Figures 4(B), 5(B), and 6(B) show cases where the V-cut Z-remaining amount is 0 mm or less. In this embodiment, the V-cut Z-remaining amount can be input in increments of 0.1 mm, for example. That is, when the V-cut Z-remaining amount is 0.1 mm or more, a cut is performed that does not cut out the workpiece 22, and when the V-cut Z-remaining amount is 0 mm or less, a cut is performed that cuts out the workpiece 22. Note that, when the parameter input values ​​are as shown in Figures 5(B) and 6(B), the V-cut Z-remaining amount a is displayed as a negative value, and the warning notification unit 72 issues a warning indicating that the workpiece 22 will be cut out.

[0072] Thus, in this embodiment, as an example, when the workpiece 22 is machined to be a V-cut, six types of standard diagrams are prepared depending on whether the cut is a single cut, double cut, or triple cut, and whether or not the workpiece 22 is cut out. Note that the standard diagrams are stored in the storage unit 62, as an example, and are read out from the storage unit 62 by the parameter display control unit 68 in accordance with the parameter input values.

[0073] Furthermore, the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 displays a cutout area 80, which is an area to be cut out from the workpiece 22, in a different manner from other areas. In the example of FIG. 5, the area surrounded by two cut lines 46 by a double cut (the area surrounded by double dashed lines) is the cutout area 80. In the example of FIG. 6, the area surrounded by three cut lines 46 by a triple cut (the area surrounded by double dashed lines) is the cutout area 80. The cutout area 80 is represented, for example, by a color or pattern that is different from the other areas that will not be cut out. This allows the user to visually distinguish the area to be cut out from the workpiece 22.

[0074] The workpiece cross-sectional view 42 displays the order in which the workpiece 22 will be machined. For example, in a double cut, two cuts are made to the workpiece 22. In a triple cut, three cuts are made to the workpiece 22. In the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 of this embodiment, numbers 1 to 3 are displayed in circles indicating the order in which the workpiece 22 will be machined. This allows the user to visually understand the order in which the workpiece 22 will be machined.

[0075] In this embodiment, in the six types of standard drawings shown in Figures 4 to 6, the thickness of the work drawing 44 and the angle of the cutting line 46 do not change regardless of the parameter input value, but the thickness of the work drawing 44 and the angle of the cutting line 46 may be changed depending on the parameter input value.

[0076] Furthermore, the user may be able to select and adjust various portions of the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 displayed on the display 30, and the parameter input values ​​may be changed according to the adjusted workpiece cross-sectional view 42. For example, the user may use the input device 32 to select an auxiliary line (arrow line or dashed line) indicating the V-cut Z-remaining amount a or an auxiliary line indicating the V-cut folding width b displayed on the workpiece cross-sectional view 42, and adjust the length of the selected auxiliary line to change the parameter input values ​​for the V-cut Z-remaining amount and the V-cut folding width. Alternatively, the user may select a V-cut cutting line 46 and adjust the angle of the cutting line 46 to change the parameter input value for the V-cut angle. This allows the user to intuitively set parameters.

[0077] 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of the parameter setting process executed by the information processing device 14. The parameter setting process is executed by a program stored in the storage unit 62 provided in the information processing device 14.

[0078] First, in step 100, the parameter input value acquisition unit 66 acquires a parameter input value. For example, the parameter input value acquisition unit 66 acquires, as the parameter input value, a value entered in the text box 52 for each parameter on the parameter setting screen 40. If the parameter input value falls within the range of the warning setting value, the warning notification unit 72 issues a warning.

[0079] In the next step 102 , the parameter display control unit 68 causes the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 to be displayed on the display 30 based on the parameter input values ​​acquired by the parameter input value acquisition unit 66 .

[0080] In the next step 104, the parameter input value acquisition unit 66 determines whether or not there has been a change in the parameter input value, and if the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 106, and if the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step 108. Note that also in step 104, if the parameter input value falls within the range of the warning setting value, the warning notification unit 72 issues a warning.

[0081] In step 106, the parameter display control unit 68 updates the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 in accordance with the changed parameter input value and displays it on the display 30.

[0082] In step 108, the parameter setting unit 70 determines whether or not an instruction to transmit parameters has been issued, and if the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 110, whereas if the determination is negative, the process returns to step 104. Note that the instruction to transmit parameters is issued, for example, when the user presses the approval button 56 on the parameter setting screen 40.

[0083] In step 110, the parameter setting unit 70 transmits the parameter input values ​​displayed on the parameter setting screen 40 as parameter setting values ​​to the cutting plotter 12 via the communication unit 64. It should be noted that together with the parameter setting values, machining data indicating a machining diagram is also transmitted from the information processing device 14 to the cutting plotter 12, and the cutting plotter 12 performs machining on the workpiece 22 based on these.

[0084] Although the present invention has been described above using the above-mentioned embodiment, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above-mentioned embodiment. Various changes or improvements can be made to the above-mentioned embodiment without departing from the gist of the invention, and such changes or improvements are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0085] In the above embodiment, a V-cutting tool has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other cutting tools may be used. For example, in a configuration in which the cutting tool is a reciprocating (vibration cutter), the coordinates at which the blade is raised and lowered relative to the workpiece 22, the interval at which the blade is raised and lowered relative to the workpiece 22, and the Z position of the blade are displayed on the workpiece cross-sectional view 42. Furthermore, in a case in which the cutting tool is a marking roller, the Z position of the marking roller and the like are displayed on the workpiece cross-sectional view 42. FIG. 8 is a workpiece cross-sectional view 42 in which the cutting tool is a reciprocating tool. FIG. 8 shows an example in which the reciprocating tool raises and lowers the blade along the cutting line 46, and the processing position corresponds to the coordinates at which the blade is raised and lowered. Furthermore, C in the figure represents the interval at which the blade is raised and lowered.

[0086] In the above embodiment, a form in which the work cross-sectional view 42 is a still image is described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and in order to express the processing speed by the cutting tool, the work cross-sectional view 42 may include a moving image and the processing process may be shown in a moving image.

[0087] In the above embodiment, the machining system 10 is described as being composed of the cutting plotter 12 and the information processing device 14, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the cutting plotter 12 may be equipped with a parameter input value acquisition unit 66, a parameter display control unit 68, a parameter setting unit 70, and a warning notification unit 72. The workpiece cross-sectional view 42 may be displayed on a display provided in the cutting plotter 12.

[0088] In the above embodiment, the processing device is described as a cutting plotter 12, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the processing device may be a device other than the cutting plotter 12 as long as it is a processing device that can be equipped with multiple processing tools.

[0089] (Effects of the embodiment)

[0090] (1) The machining system 10 of this embodiment comprises an information processing device 14 that includes a parameter input value acquisition unit 66 that acquires input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter 12 having a cutting tool to perform desired machining on a workpiece 22, a parameter display control unit 68 that displays on a display 30 a workpiece cross-sectional view 42 that schematically shows a vertical cross-section of the workpiece 22 during or after machining based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the parameter input value acquisition unit 66, and a parameter setting unit 70 that sets the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​for the cutting plotter 12, and a cutting plotter 12 that performs machining on the workpiece 22 in accordance with the setting values ​​set by the information processing device 14.

[0091] This allows the depthwise machining state of the workpiece 22 to be visualized as a vertical cross section, making it easier for the user to visualize the final product obtained by machining the workpiece 22, making it easier to set the parameters of the cutting plotter 12.

[0092] (2) In the machining system 10 of this embodiment, the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 may display a pedestal provided between the table 20 of the cutting plotter 12 and the workpiece 22. This allows the user to recognize the presence of the pedestal when machining relatively deep vertically, making it easier to set parameters.

[0093] (3) In the machining system 10 of this embodiment, the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 may display the workpiece 22 in different forms depending on the type of workpiece 22. This allows the user to intuitively set parameters.

[0094] (4) In the machining system 10 of the present embodiment, recommended values ​​of parameters may be displayed according to the type of workpiece 22. This makes it easier to set the parameters.

[0095] (5) In the processing system 10 of this embodiment, when the workpiece 22 is cardboard, the corrugations of the cardboard may be displayed in the workpiece cross-sectional view 42. This makes it easier for the user to understand the direction of the corrugations when the workpiece 22 is cardboard.

[0096] (6) In the processing system 10 of this embodiment, a plurality of different standard drawings corresponding to the input values ​​of the parameters are prepared in advance as the work cross-sectional diagram 42, and the parameter display control unit 68 may select one of the plurality of standard drawings based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the parameter input value acquisition unit 66.

[0097] (7) In the machining system 10 of this embodiment, the user can select and visually adjust a portion of the parameters displayed on the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 displayed on the display 30, and the input value of the parameter may change according to the adjusted workpiece cross-sectional view 42. This allows the user to intuitively set the parameters.

[0098] (8) In the machining system 10 of the present embodiment, one of a plurality of preset fixed values ​​may be selected as the input value of at least some of the parameters. This simplifies the parameter setting.

[0099] (9) In the machining system 10 of this embodiment, the user may be able to enlarge and display the workpiece cross-sectional view 42. This allows the user to easily check the details of the vertical cross section of the machined workpiece 22.

[0100] (10) The machining system 10 of the present embodiment may include a warning unit 72 that issues a warning when an input value of a parameter falls within a preset value that requires user attention. This can reduce parameter setting errors.

[0101] (11) In the machining system 10 of this embodiment, the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 may display the machining position in the planar direction of the workpiece 22. This makes it easier to set parameters.

[0102] (12) In the processing system 10 of this embodiment, the desired processing may be a V-cut.

[0103] (13) In the processing system 10 of this embodiment, the V-cut may be any of a single cut, which is a single cut, a double cut, which is a V-shaped cut made by two cuts, and a triple cut, which is a V-shaped cut made by three cuts. This allows parameters to be set according to the type of V-cut.

[0104] (14) In the machining system 10 of this embodiment, the area to be cut out from the workpiece 22 may be displayed in a different manner from other areas in the workpiece cross-sectional view 42. This allows the user to visually grasp the area to be cut out from the workpiece 22.

[0105] (15) In the machining system 10 of this embodiment, the workpiece cross-sectional view 42 may display the order in which the workpieces 22 will be machined. This allows the user to visually understand the order in which the workpieces 22 will be machined.

[0106] (16) In the machining system 10 of the present embodiment, when an input value of a predetermined parameter is acquired, recommended values ​​of other parameters corresponding to the input value may be displayed on the display 30. This makes it easier to set parameters.

[0107] (17) In the machining system 10 of this embodiment, information indicating the origin position in the depth direction of the workpiece 22 may be displayed on the display 30 together with the workpiece cross-sectional view 42. This can reduce parameter setting errors.

[0108] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 Machining system 12 Cutting plotter 14 Information processing device 22 Work (medium) 30 Display 42 Work cross-sectional view (longitudinal cross-sectional view) 66 Parameter input value acquisition unit (acquisition means) 68 Parameter display control unit (display control means) 70 Parameter setting unit (setting means) 72 Warning notification unit (notification means)

Claims

1. A processing system comprising: an information processing device having an acquisition means for acquiring input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter having a cutting tool to perform desired processing on a medium; a display control means for displaying on a display a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the medium during or after processing based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means; and a setting means for setting the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​for the cutting plotter; and the cutting plotter for processing the medium in accordance with the setting values ​​set by the information processing device.

2. The processing system according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal cross-sectional view shows a base provided between the table of the cutting plotter and the medium.

3. A processing system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the longitudinal cross-sectional view displays the medium in different ways depending on the type of the medium.

4. The processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the display shows recommended values ​​of the parameters according to the type of the medium.

5. A processing system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, when the medium is cardboard, the corrugations of the cardboard are displayed in the longitudinal cross-sectional view.

6. A processing system as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein a plurality of different standard drawings corresponding to the input values ​​of the parameters are prepared in advance as the longitudinal cross-sectional views, and the display control means selects one of the plurality of standard drawings based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means.

7. A processing system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the parameters shown on the longitudinal cross-sectional view displayed on the display are adjustable at portions selected by the user, and the input values ​​of the parameters change according to the longitudinal cross-sectional view after adjustment.

8. The machining system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one of a plurality of preset fixed values ​​is selected for the input values ​​of at least some of the parameters.

9. The processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the longitudinal cross-sectional view can be enlarged and displayed by the user.

10. A processing system according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a notification means for issuing a warning when the input value of said parameter falls within a value that has been preset as requiring the user's attention.

11. A processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the longitudinal cross-sectional view displays the processing position in the planar direction of the medium.

12. The processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the desired processing is a V-cut.

13. The processing system according to claim 12, wherein the V-cut is one of a single cut, which is a cut made once, a double cut, which is a V-shaped cut made twice, and a triple cut, which is a V-shaped cut made three times.

14. A processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the longitudinal cross-sectional view displays the area to be cut out from the medium in a different manner from other areas.

15. A processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the longitudinal cross-sectional view displays the order of processing of the medium.

16. A processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when an input value of a predetermined parameter is acquired, a recommended value of another parameter corresponding to the input value is displayed on the display.

17. A processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein information indicating the origin position in the depth direction of the medium is displayed on the display together with the longitudinal cross-sectional view.

18. An information processing device comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter having a processing tool to perform desired processing on a medium; a display control means for displaying on a display a vertical cross-sectional view that schematically shows the vertical cross-section of the medium during or after processing based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means; and a setting means for setting the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​for the cutting plotter.

19. A cutting plotter comprising: an acquisition means for acquiring input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter having a cutting tool to perform desired processing on a medium; a display control means for displaying on a display a vertical cross-sectional view that schematically shows a vertical cross-section of the medium during or after processing based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means; a setting means for setting the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​for the cutting plotter; and a processing means for processing the medium based on the parameters set by the setting means.

20. A processing method comprising: a first step in which an acquisition means acquires input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter having a cutting tool to perform desired processing on a medium; a second step in which a display control means displays on a display a longitudinal cross-sectional view that schematically shows the longitudinal cross-section of the medium during or after processing based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means; and a third step in which a setting means sets the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​for the cutting plotter.

21. A program for causing a computer to function as: an acquisition means for acquiring input values ​​of parameters for causing a cutting plotter having a cutting tool to perform desired processing on a medium; a display control means for displaying on a display a vertical cross-sectional view that schematically shows the vertical cross-section of the medium during or after processing based on the input values ​​of the parameters acquired by the acquisition means; and a setting means for setting the input values ​​of the parameters as setting values ​​for the cutting plotter.

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