Remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method of web-based machine tool

Abstract

The present invention relates to a remote diagnosis system and a remote diagnosis method of a web-based machine tool, the system being connected to a remote diagnosis server through a network so that a user, a manager or an operator uses a web page of the remote diagnosis server to remotely access, through a terminal, operation information and state diagnosis information or newly generated state diagnosis information of a corresponding machine tool regardless of region, place or time, and thus can monitor the machine tool and diagnose the state thereof.

Description

Web-based remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method for machine tools

[0001] The present invention relates to a web-based remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method for a machine tool, and more particularly, to a web-based remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method for a machine tool, which are connected to a remote diagnosis server through a network, and enable a user, manager, or worker to remotely access and perform monitoring and status diagnosis of a machine tool through his or her own device without being restricted by region, place, or time, by remotely accessing the machine tool's operation information and status diagnosis information or newly created status diagnosis information through a web page of the remote diagnosis server.

[0002] In general, a machine tool refers to a machine used for the purpose of processing a metal / non-metal workpiece into a desired shape and size using an appropriate tool using various cutting or non-cutting processing methods.

[0003] Various types of machine tools, including turning centers, vertical / horizontal machining centers, gate-type machining centers, Swiss turns, electrical discharge machines, horizontal NC boring machines, and CNC lathes, are widely used in various industrial fields for their respective tasks.

[0004] In addition, the machine tool is equipped with a table on which the workpiece material is placed and transferred for processing the workpiece, a pallet for preparing the workpiece before processing, a spindle on which a tool or workpiece is combined and rotates, a tailstock for supporting the workpiece during processing, a vibration damper, etc.

[0005] Typically, in machine tools, the table, tool rest, spindle, tailstock, and oscillation unit are equipped with a transfer unit that moves along the transfer axis to perform various processing operations.

[0006] Additionally, machine tools generally use multiple tools for various processing operations, and tool magazines or turrets are used as tool storage spaces for storing multiple tools.

[0007] These machine tools use multiple tools for various processing tasks, and a tool magazine is used as a tool storage space to store multiple tools.

[0008] Additionally, machine tools are generally equipped with an automatic tool changer (ATC) to retrieve or retract a specific tool from the tool magazine under the command of the numerical control unit in order to improve the productivity of the machine tool.

[0009] Additionally, machine tools are typically equipped with an automatic pallet changer (APC) to minimize downtime. The APC automatically exchanges pallets between the workpiece processing area and the workpiece installation area. Pallets can be loaded with workpieces.

[0010] Numerical control (NC) is rapidly advancing in various types of machine tools currently in use.

[0011] Recently, machine tools equipped with computer numerical control (CNC) technology, which is a further development of numerical control (NC), are being rapidly distributed as computers equipped with numerical control (NC) are used to automatically control machine tools.

[0012] Numerical control (NC) or computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools are equipped with an operator panel. This panel contains various function switches or buttons and a monitor.

[0013] In this way, machine tools that use numerical control or computer numerical control must have an operator who creates, manages, or operates a machining program to perform machining, and must create various control programs such as machining programs or NC codes for individual control commands of the machine tool and input them into the NC control unit of the machine tool.

[0014] Unlike general computers, many special-purpose home appliances and machine tools have embedded systems or edge devices built into them to perform a given task.

[0015] Recent machine tools are equipped with a numerical control system called CNC (Computer Numerical Control), and these CNCs can control the operation of the machine tool in various ways as desired.

[0016] Today, more and more machine tool controls are required to perform machining of diverse and complex shapes or to perform rapid and precise machining of workpieces for mass production.

[0017] In this way, for mass production or precision processing, the machining status of machine tools must be continuously monitored and status diagnosis performed.

[0018] This machine tool condition diagnosis information is displayed through a monitor installed in the NC of each machine tool, and since the operator or manager must check it through the NC monitor at the site where the machine tool is installed, there are limitations in location, region, or time for the operator or manager, and this causes inconvenience to the operator and manager.

[0019] In addition, since the status diagnosis of conventional machine tools could only be confirmed through the NC monitor at the site where the machine tool was installed, there was a problem in that the safety and reliability of the machine tool were lowered because the status diagnosis of the machine tool was not performed smoothly and immediately at night, etc.

[0020] Moreover, since the status diagnosis of conventional machine tools can only be confirmed through the NC monitor at the site where the machine tool is installed, there was a problem that the processing precision was reduced and the occurrence of abnormalities increased, which increased the maintenance cost and processing cost of the machine tool.

[0021] In addition, there was a problem that mass production could not be carried out due to difficulties in automated processing as it was impossible to effectively respond to machining errors through machine tool condition diagnosis, which caused consumer dissatisfaction and reduced exports.

[0022] The present invention is to solve the above problems, and the purpose of the present invention is to provide a web-based machine tool remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method, which are connected to a remote diagnosis server through a network and monitor and diagnose the operation information and status diagnosis information or newly created status diagnosis information of the machine tool remotely through the web page of the remote diagnosis server without being restricted by region, place or time, thereby enabling a user, manager or operator to remotely access and perform monitoring and status diagnosis of the machine tool through his or her own unit, thereby promoting convenience of the user, manager or operator, improving the safety and reliability of the machine tool, and promoting automation of the machine tool by automatically processing the status diagnosis history and statistical management.

[0023] In order to achieve the object of the present invention, a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to the present invention may include: an NC control unit that collects operation information of each machine tool, generates status diagnosis information of the machine tool, and displays the operation information and the status diagnosis information; a remote diagnosis server having a web page, and connected to one or more NC control units via a network, and stores, synchronizes, and classifies operation information and status diagnosis information of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units or generates new status diagnosis information; and a terminal that is connected to the remote diagnosis server via a network, and remotely monitors the operation information and status diagnosis information of the machine tool or the newly generated status diagnosis information through the web page of the remote diagnosis server, and inputs a control command of the NC control unit of the machine tool.

[0024] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis system of a machine tool according to the present invention, the web-based remote diagnosis system of a machine tool may further include a relay unit that is connected to the NC control unit and the remote diagnosis server by network for each predetermined area, transmits operation information and status diagnosis information received from the NC control unit to the remote diagnosis server, and transmits information entered in the web page to the NC control unit.

[0025] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to the present invention, each NC control unit of the web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool may be connected by wire through each Wi-Fi kit, and each Wi-Fi kit and the relay unit may be connected wirelessly.

[0026] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools according to the present invention, each of the Wi-Fi kits of the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools may include a Wi-Fi module having a LAN port and a charging port for wired connection to the NC control unit via a LAN cable; a power supply unit for supplying power to the Wi-Fi module; and a case unit for accommodating the Wi-Fi module and the power supply unit.

[0027] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools according to the present invention, each of the Wi-Fi kits of the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools may further include a magnetic part disposed below the power supply part to detachably mount the Wi-Fi kit to each machine tool or the corresponding NC control part.

[0028] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools according to the present invention, the operation information of the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools may include at least one of sensing information generated and measured in real time during individual operation of each machine tool; NC information changed according to processing conditions for each machine tool; or equipment information specifically set for each machine tool.

[0029] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to the present invention, the status diagnosis information of the web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool may include at least one of unbalanced vibration, bearing life, vibration level, bearing defect, spindle load, tool status, thermal displacement status, or geometric error status.

[0030] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools according to the present invention, each NC control unit of the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools may include a processing unit that collects operation information of the corresponding machine tool and generates operation diagnosis information of the corresponding machine tool by a operation diagnosis program; and an HMI unit that converts the operation diagnosis information generated by the processing unit into graphs and numbers to generate HMI information, and displays the operation information, operation diagnosis information, and HMI information on a display unit of the NC control unit.

[0031] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools according to the present invention, the remote diagnosis server of the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools comprises: a database module for storing operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units, and user information capable of accessing the web page; a synchronization module for synchronizing the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units stored in the database module; a control module for classifying and analyzing the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of each machine tool synchronized through the synchronization module to generate new status diagnosis information for the corresponding machine tool, and converting the generated new status diagnosis information into graphs and numbers to generate new HMI information; an authorization module for determining whether a user can access the web page through the user information stored in the database module when access to the web page is confirmed through the terminal, and determining whether access to the web page is approved; And, in case the access to the web page is approved through the terminal according to the approval result of the approval module, the server engine module may be included which provides the web page on which the operating information and status diagnosis information of the machine tool and the HMI information are displayed, or the same information as the status diagnosis information and new HMI information newly created through the control module are displayed.

[0032] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to the present invention, the remote diagnosis server of the web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool may further include a security module that transmits a security warning alarm to an administrator terminal when the user is determined not to be a user who can connect as a result of the user determination by the approval module, or when a connection error occurs a predetermined number of times or more.

[0033] In order to achieve another object of the present invention, a web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool according to the present invention comprises the steps of: collecting operation information of each machine tool, generating status diagnosis information of the machine tool, and storing data for displaying the operation information and status diagnosis information in an NC control unit; storing data for remotely monitoring and diagnosing the machine tool through a web page in a remote diagnosis server; connecting one or more NC control units, a Wi-Fi kit, a relay unit, a remote diagnosis server, and a terminal through a network to remotely monitor the operation information and status diagnosis information or newly generated status diagnosis information of the machine tool through a web page of the remote diagnosis server and inputting a control command of the NC control unit of the machine tool; synchronizing the operation information and status diagnosis information and HMI information of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units; when access to the web page is confirmed through the terminal, determining whether the user can access the web page through user information pre-stored in the remote diagnosis server and determining whether access to the web page is approved; The method may include: providing a web page in which the same information as the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of the machine tool is displayed when access to the web page is approved through the terminal according to the approval result; and monitoring the machine tool and performing a status diagnosis through the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of the machine tool based on the web page.

[0034] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool according to the present invention, the web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool further includes a step of classifying and analyzing the operation information, status diagnosis information and HMI information of each synchronized machine tool after the synchronization step to generate new status diagnosis information for the machine tool, and converting the generated new status diagnosis information into a graph and a number to generate and control new HMI information; and when access to the web page is approved through the terminal according to the approval result, the generated new status diagnosis information can be converted into a graph and a number to additionally provide new HMI information to the web page.

[0035] In addition, in another preferred embodiment of the web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool according to the present invention, the web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool may further include a step of transmitting a security warning alarm to an administrator terminal when, after the approval step, it is determined that the user is not a user who can connect as a result of the user determination in the approval step, or when a connection error occurs a predetermined number of times or more.

[0036] The web-based remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method of a machine tool according to the present invention are connected to a remote diagnosis server through a network, and the operation information and status diagnosis information or newly created status diagnosis information of the machine tool are remotely monitored and diagnosed remotely by a user, manager or operator through his / her own unit through a web page of the remote diagnosis server without being restricted by region, place or time, thereby promoting convenience for the user, worker or operator and preventing safety accidents in advance.

[0037] In addition, the web-based remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method of a machine tool according to the present invention have the effect of improving the safety and reliability of the machine tool by allowing a user or administrator to remotely access and perform monitoring and status diagnosis of the machine tool without being restricted by region, place, or time through the web page of the remote diagnosis server.

[0038] Furthermore, the web-based remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method of a machine tool according to the present invention can diagnose the status of a machine tool by accessing remotely through various devices via the web page of a remote diagnosis server, thereby enabling prompt action in the event of a machine tool malfunction, thereby maximizing the processing precision of the machine tool, improving productivity, and reducing maintenance costs.

[0039] In addition, the web-based remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method of a machine tool according to the present invention have the effect of promoting automation of the machine tool by automatically processing status diagnosis history and statistical management.

[0040] Figure 1 shows a conceptual diagram of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 shows a conceptual diagram of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 3 illustrates a conceptual diagram of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 4 shows a configuration diagram of a remote diagnosis server of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to the present invention.

[0044] Figure 5 shows a configuration diagram of a WiFi kit of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 6 shows a status diagnosis screen of a website of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Fig. 7 shows a status diagnosis screen of a website of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 8 shows a procedure diagram of a remote diagnosis method for a web-based machine tool according to the present invention.

[0048] Hereinafter, a web-based remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method for a machine tool according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to drawings. The embodiments introduced below are provided as examples to ensure that those skilled in the art can sufficiently convey the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below and may be embodied in other forms. In addition, in the drawings, the size and thickness of the devices may be exaggerated for convenience. Like reference numbers represent like elements throughout the specification.

[0049] The present invention is capable of various modifications and embodiments. Therefore, specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects and features of the present invention, as well as the methods for achieving them, will become clear with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be implemented in various forms. In the following embodiments, the terms "first," "second," etc. are not used in a limiting sense but are used for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. Furthermore, the singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, terms such as "include" or "have" indicate the presence of a feature or component described in the specification, and do not preemptively exclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added. Furthermore, in the drawings, the sizes of components may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is shown.

[0050] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided only to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Like reference numerals designate like elements throughout the specification. The sizes and relative sizes of layers and regions in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity of description.

[0051] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments and is therefore not intended to be limiting of the present invention. In this specification, the singular also includes the plural unless specifically stated otherwise. As used herein, the terms "comprise" and / or "comprising" do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components, steps, operations, and / or elements mentioned.

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0053] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of a remote diagnosis server of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to the present invention. FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of a Wi-Fi kit of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is a status diagnosis screen of a website of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a status diagnosis screen of a website of a web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a procedure diagram of a web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool according to the present invention.

[0054] A web-based remote diagnosis system (1) for a machine tool according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the web-based remote diagnosis system (1) for a machine tool according to the present invention includes an NC control unit (10), a remote diagnosis server (40), and a terminal (50).

[0055] The NC control unit (10) collects operation information of each machine tool (M), generates status diagnosis information of the machine tool, and displays the operation information and status diagnosis information.

[0056] The NC control unit (10) controls a machine tool that processes materials.

[0057] That is, the NC control unit (10) is installed outside or inside the housing of the machine tool or adjacent to the machine tool to control the machine tool that processes the material.

[0058] These NC control units include NC (numerical control, NC) or CNC (computerized numerical control) and have various numerical control programs built in.

[0059] The remote diagnosis server (40) has a web page (47) and is connected to one or more NC control units via a network to store, synchronize, and classify the operation information and status diagnosis information of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units or to create new status diagnosis information.

[0060] Although not necessarily limited to this, the remote diagnosis server can be configured as a big data server.

[0061] The terminal (50) is connected to the remote diagnosis server via a network and can remotely monitor the operation information and status diagnosis information of the machine tool or newly created status diagnosis information through the web page of the remote diagnosis server and input control commands of the NC control unit of the machine tool.

[0062] Accordingly, the web-based remote diagnosis system of a machine tool according to the present invention is connected to a remote diagnosis server through a network, and the operation information and status diagnosis information of the machine tool or newly created status diagnosis information are remotely monitored and diagnosed remotely by a user, manager or worker through his / her own unit through the web page of the remote diagnosis server without being restricted by region, place or time, thereby promoting convenience of the user, worker or manager and preventing safety accidents in advance.

[0063] In addition, these terminals (50) mean one or more computers or other electronic devices used by the person in charge of the machine tool, the operator, the user, and / or the maintenance person or the seller of the machine tool to remotely access the web page (47) of the remote diagnosis server and monitor and diagnose the status of the machine tool.

[0064] For example, the terminal may include all kinds of handheld-based wireless communication devices such as PCS (Personal Communication System), GSM (Global System for Mobile communications), PDC (Personal Digital Cellular), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access)-2000, W-CDMA (W-Code Division Multiple Access), Wibro (Wireless Broadband Internet) terminals, or may include a computer, laptop computer, smart phone, mobile phone, PDA, tablet PC, or any other device operable to communicate with the NC control unit via a remote diagnosis server.

[0065] However, the terminal (50) is not limited thereto, and may include various other elements such as processing logic that runs on various machines, interprets and executes commands stored in a plurality of memories, and processes that display graphic information through a user graphic guidance program for a graphical user interface (GUI) on an external input / output device.

[0066] Additionally, the terminal may be connected to input devices (e.g., mouse, keyboard, touch-sensitive surface, etc.) and output devices (e.g., monitor, screen, etc.).

[0067] That is, these terminals may include portable terminals, such as smart phones, digital broadcasting terminals, mobile phones, PDAs (personal digital assistants), PMPs (portable multimedia players), navigation devices, tablet PCs, wearable devices, and smart glasses, which have programs or applications installed for remote control of machine tools.

[0068] Additionally, the terminal may be configured as a device equipped with a program for remote control of a machine tool based on wired / wireless communication, such as a personal computer such as a desktop PC, laptop computer, or ultrabook, which is a fixed terminal. In particular, the terminal may be configured as a smart phone equipped with a communication unit, a camera, a microphone, and a touch screen.

[0069] Additionally, applications executed by the terminal may include web browsers, web applications running in a web browser, word processors, media players, spreadsheets, image processors, security software, or others.

[0070] A network refers to a connection structure that enables information exchange between each node, such as an NC control unit (10), a remote diagnosis server (40), and / or a terminal (50), and examples of such a network include, but are not limited to, a 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) network, an LTE (Long Term Evolution) network, a WIMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access) network, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), a Wireless LAN (Wireless Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), a PAN (Personal Area Network), a Bluetooth network, a satellite broadcasting network, an analog broadcasting network, and a DMB (Digital Multimedia Broadcasting) network. In addition, the NC control unit (10), the remote diagnosis server (40), and the terminal (50) may be connected via Ethernet or serial communication, as needed, but are not limited thereto.

[0071] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the web-based remote diagnosis system (1) of a machine tool according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention may further include a Wi-Fi kit (20) and a relay unit (30).

[0072] Each of the above NC control units (10', 10 2 , 10 3 , 10 4 ,,,,10 N ) is for each WiFi kit (20', 20 2 , 20 3 , 20 4 , 20 N ) are connected by wire, and each of the above Wi-Fi kits (20', 20 2 , 20 3 , 20 4 , 20 N) and one above relay unit (30', 30) per designated area 2 ) is connected wirelessly, preferably via a local wireless network (Wi-Fi).

[0073] In this way, each NC control unit and each Wi-Fi kit are connected by wire, and the Wi-Fi kit is connected to the relay unit via Wi-Fi, thereby preventing inconvenience caused by wiring for each machine tool, maximizing space utilization, and reducing the installation cost and time required to install separate wires.

[0074] The relay unit (30) is connected to the NC control unit and the remote diagnosis server by network for each predetermined area, transmits the operation information and status diagnosis information received from the NC control unit to the remote diagnosis server, and transmits the information entered in the web page to the NC control unit.

[0075] That is, preferably, the relay unit is formed as a router, and is divided into a first factory zone (A) and a second factory zone (B) within a specific location, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, and in the first factory zone (A), one machine tool (M'), one NC control unit (10') that controls the machine tool, and one Wi-Fi kit (20') connected to the NC control unit (10') via a wire are connected to the relay unit (30') installed in the first factory zone via a network, and this relay unit is again connected to the remote diagnosis server (40) via a network.

[0076] Preferably, the relay unit and the remote diagnosis server are connected via a VPN network to enhance security, thereby preventing external access other than by users stored in the database module described below, preventing information leaks, and promoting stable operation to improve consumer and user satisfaction.

[0077] Additionally, the second factory area (b) has three machine tools (M 2 , M 3 , M 4) and three NC control units (10) that are connected to each of these three machine tools and control the machine tools. 2 , 10 3 , 10 4 ) and 3 NC control units and 3 Wi-Fi kits (20) by wire 2 , 20 3 , 20 4 ) are each connected, and the three Wi-Fi kits are connected to only one relay unit (30 2 ) is connected through a network, and the relay unit is connected to the remote diagnosis server through the network.

[0078] In this way, even if there are multiple NC control units and multiple Wi-Fi kits corresponding to each of the predetermined areas, only one relay unit is installed per predetermined area, thereby reducing installation costs and installation time and maximizing space utilization, thereby promoting convenience for workers.

[0079] Accordingly, the web-based remote diagnosis system for machine tools according to the present invention can diagnose the status of machine tools remotely through various devices by accessing the web page of the remote diagnosis server, thereby enabling rapid action in the event of a machine tool malfunction, thereby maximizing the machining precision of the machine tool, improving productivity, reducing maintenance costs, and promoting automation of the machine tool by automatically processing the status diagnosis history and statistical management.

[0080] As illustrated in FIG. 5, each Wi-Fi kit (20) of the web-based remote diagnosis system (1) of a machine tool according to the present invention includes a Wi-Fi module (21), a power supply unit (22), a case unit (23), and a magnetic unit (24).

[0081] The Wi-Fi module (21) is equipped with a LAN port and a charging port for wired connection to the NC control unit via a LAN cable. Additionally, a power connection confirmation lamp, which indicates the power connection status when the Wi-Fi module is powered on, is positioned on the top of the Wi-Fi module to enhance visibility for the operator and improve installation convenience.

[0082] The power supply unit (22) supplies power to the Wi-Fi module. Preferably, the power supply unit may be formed in the form of a rechargeable and reusable battery.

[0083] In this way, since the power supply unit is formed in the form of a battery, the Wi-Fi kit can be installed on each NC control unit without installing a separate power cable, etc., and the Wi-Fi kit can be installed quickly and easily on existing machine tools, maximizing compatibility and work convenience.

[0084] The case (23) accommodates the Wi-Fi module and the power supply unit. The case prevents the Wi-Fi module and the power supply unit from being contaminated with foreign substances in the environment where the machine tool is installed.

[0085] The magnetic portion (24) is positioned below the power supply portion to allow the Wi-Fi kit to be detachably attached to individual machine tools or corresponding NC control units. In this way, one-touch attachment is possible via the magnetic portion, maximizing installation convenience.

[0086] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the NC control unit (10) of the web-based machine tool remote diagnosis system (1) according to the present invention includes a processing unit (11), an HMI unit (12), and a display unit (13).

[0087] The processing unit (11) collects the operation information of the machine tool and generates the status diagnosis information of the machine tool using the status diagnosis program.

[0088] The HMI unit (12) converts the status diagnosis information generated by the processing unit into graphs and numbers to generate HMI information, and displays the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information on the display unit (13) of the NC control unit.

[0089] The NC control unit can be implemented using at least one of ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), DSPs (digital signal processors), DSPDs (digital signal processing devices), PLDs (programmable logic devices), FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays), controllers, micro-controllers, microprocessors, and other electrical units for performing functions.

[0090] Additionally, the NC control unit may be equipped with a storage unit for storing necessary programs or data.

[0091] These storage devices may be various storage devices such as ROM, RAM, EPROM, flash drive, hard drive, etc., and may also be web storage that performs the storage function of data storage on the Internet.

[0092] The display unit (13) displays driving information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information, and can receive and display control commands input to the terminal as needed. The display unit may include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a flexible display, a 3D display, and an e-ink display.

[0093] In addition, although not necessarily limited thereto, the display unit may be formed in the form of a touch screen and installed on the housing, case, or one side of the machine tool to display various function switches or buttons and various types of information.

[0094] The operation information of the web-based remote diagnosis system and remote diagnosis method for machine tools according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention may include at least one of sensing information generated and measured in real time during individual operation of each machine tool, NC information changed according to processing conditions for each machine tool, or equipment information specifically set for each machine tool.

[0095] Sensing information can be used as time-series continuous data to infer processing status or predict processing quality.

[0096] For example, the most representative sensing information includes acceleration, current, and voltage signals from the feed shaft motor and main spindle motor. This sensing information is the ultimate measurable data, resulting from factors such as the structural characteristics of the machine tool, the specific process variables of the machining process, and the dynamic frequency response of the drive system (servo motor, feed shaft, main spindle) that drives the equipment.

[0097] NC information includes various parameters that determine the responsiveness of the servo motor, tools and material offsets related to the process, machine drive coordinates, current machining program information such as machining cutting amount, spindle rotation speed, feed axis feed speed, and machining path, with limited settings depending on the machine tool.

[0098] Equipment information is the unique information of the machine tool, such as the natural frequency of the machine tool structure.

[0099] As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the condition diagnosis information may include at least one of unbalanced vibration, bearing life, vibration level, bearing defect, spindle load, tool condition, thermal displacement condition, or geometric error condition.

[0100] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the remote diagnosis server (40) of the web-based machine tool remote diagnosis system (1) according to the present invention includes a database module (41), a synchronization module (42), a control module (43), an approval module (44), a server engine module (45), and a security module (46).

[0101] The database module (41) stores the operation information, status diagnosis information, HMI information, and user information that can access the above web page of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units.

[0102] These database modules can be various storage devices such as ROM, RAM, EPROM, flash drive, hard drive, etc., and can also be web storage that performs the storage function of data storage on the Internet.

[0103] The synchronization module (42) synchronizes the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units stored in the database module.

[0104] The control module (43) classifies and analyzes the operation information, status diagnosis information and HMI information of each machine tool synchronized through the synchronization module to create new status diagnosis information for the machine tool, and converts the created new status diagnosis information into graphs and numbers to create new HMI information.

[0105] The control module classifies the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of each synchronized machine tool through the synchronization module, collects analysis data, etc. through big data, and automatically creates new status diagnosis information for the machine tool through machine learning by supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. The newly created status diagnosis information can be converted into graphs and numbers to create new HMI information.

[0106] Accordingly, by providing accurate analysis and results for monitoring and status diagnosis of machine tools, the accuracy of status diagnosis of machine tools can be improved, processing precision can be maximized, and the safety and reliability of machine tools can be improved.

[0107] When access to the web page is confirmed through the terminal, the approval module (44) determines whether the user can access the web page through the user information stored in the database module and decides whether to approve access to the web page.

[0108] These saved users may be workers or managers of the company or factory where the machine tool is installed, or may consist of vendors who perform maintenance on the machine tool or managers of the machine tool manufacturer.

[0109] Saved user information can be stored in the database module in the form of an ID and password. This enhances security by pre-storing user information and maintaining security.

[0110] When access to the web page is approved through the terminal according to the approval result of the approval module, the server engine module (45) provides the approved user terminal with the web page (47) on which the operating information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of the machine tool received from the corresponding NC control unit synchronized by the synchronization module are displayed, or the status diagnosis information and new HMI information newly created through the control module are displayed.

[0111] Accordingly, a user whose access has been properly approved can remotely monitor and diagnose the machine tool's status through a webpage, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, by simply and quickly accessing the operating information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information displayed on the display of the NC control unit of the machine tool remotely through the webpage, regardless of region, place, or time, and by remotely performing monitoring and status diagnosis of the machine tool, the convenience of the user, worker, or manager is promoted, safety accidents are prevented in advance, the safety and reliability of the machine tool is improved, and the automation of the machine tool is promoted by automatically processing the status diagnosis history and statistical management.

[0112] The security module (46) transmits a security warning alarm to the administrator terminal if the user is determined by the above-mentioned authorization module to be ineligible for access, or if access errors occur more than a predetermined number of times. This enhances security, protecting information and enhancing consumer satisfaction.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 8, a web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool according to the present invention will be described. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool consists of an NC data storage step (S1), a remote diagnosis data storage step (S2), a network connection step (S3), a synchronization step (S4), a control step (S5), an approval step (S6), a web page provision step (S7), a monitoring and remote diagnosis step (S8), and a security alarm step (S9). In each step, the specific control process or control principle of the device and the configuration or content are the same as those of the web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool of the specification of the present invention, and thus, the following description will focus on the unique points of the web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool with reference to FIG. 8.

[0114] For each machine tool, the operation information of the machine tool is collected, the status diagnosis information of the machine tool is generated, and the data for displaying the operation information and status diagnosis information is stored in the NC control unit.

[0115] After the NC data storage step (S1), data for remote monitoring and diagnosis of the machine tool is stored in a remote diagnosis server via a web page.

[0116] After the remote diagnosis data storage step (S2), the operation information and status diagnosis information of the machine tool or newly created status diagnosis information are remotely monitored through the web page of the remote diagnosis server, and one or more NC control units, a Wi-Fi kit, a relay unit, a remote diagnosis server, and a terminal are connected to a network to input control commands of the NC control unit of the machine tool.

[0117] After the network connection step (S3), the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units are synchronized.

[0118] After the synchronization step (S4), the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of each synchronized machine tool are classified and analyzed to create new status diagnosis information for the machine tool, and the new status diagnosis information is converted into graphs and numbers to create and control new HMI information.

[0119] After the control step (S5), if access to the webpage is confirmed through the terminal, whether the user can access is determined through user information stored in the remote diagnosis server, and whether access to the webpage is approved is determined.

[0120] After the approval step (S6), if access to the web page is approved through the terminal based on the approval result, the web page is provided, which displays the same information as the machine tool operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information received from the synchronized NC control unit.

[0121] After the approval step (S6), if the user is determined to be not a user who can access based on the approval result, or if an access error occurs more than a certain number of times, a security warning alarm is sent to the administrator terminal.

[0122] After the web page provision step (S7), the machine tool is monitored and status diagnosis is performed based on the web page, using the operating information and status diagnosis information of the machine tool.

[0123] In addition, by classifying and analyzing the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of each synchronized machine tool in the control stage, new status diagnosis information for the machine tool is generated, and when the generated new status diagnosis information is converted into graphs and numbers to generate new HMI information, the generated new status diagnosis information is converted into graphs and numbers to additionally provide new HMI information on the above web page.

[0124] In this way, the web-based remote diagnosis method of a machine tool according to the present invention is connected to a remote diagnosis server through a network, and the operation information and status diagnosis information of the machine tool or newly created status diagnosis information are remotely monitored and diagnosed remotely by a user, manager or operator through his / her own unit without being restricted by region, place or time through the web page of the remote diagnosis server, thereby promoting convenience of the user, worker or operator, preventing safety accidents in advance, and improving the safety and reliability of the machine tool.

[0125] In addition, by accessing the remote diagnosis server's webpage remotely through various devices and performing status diagnosis of machine tools, rapid action can be taken when a machine tool malfunction occurs, thereby maximizing the processing precision of the machine tool, improving productivity, reducing maintenance costs, and promoting automation of the machine tool by automatically processing status diagnosis history and statistical management.

[0126] In addition, the embodiments of the present invention described above may be implemented in the form of program commands that can be executed through various computer components and recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. The computer-readable recording medium may include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., either singly or in combination. The program commands recorded on the computer-readable recording medium may be specially designed and configured for the present invention or may be known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specifically configured to store and execute program commands, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories. Examples of program commands include not only machine language codes generated by a compiler, but also high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. Hardware devices may be changed into one or more software modules to perform processing according to the present invention, and vice versa.

[0127] The specific implementations described in the present invention are exemplary embodiments and do not limit the scope of the present invention in any way. For the sake of brevity, descriptions of conventional electronic components, control systems, software, and other functional aspects of the systems may be omitted. In addition, the lines connecting or connecting members between components illustrated in the drawings are merely representative of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections, and may be replaced or represented as various additional functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections in an actual device. In addition, unless specifically mentioned as “essential,” “important,” etc., a component may not be absolutely necessary for the application of the present invention.

[0128] Furthermore, although the detailed description of the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be understood by those skilled in the art or having ordinary knowledge in the art that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and technical scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to the contents described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be defined by the claims.

[0129] <Explanation of symbols>

[0130] 1: Remote diagnostic system

[0131] 10: NC control unit

[0132] 20: WiFi Kit

[0133] 30: Relay Department

[0134] 40: Remote Diagnosis Server

[0135] 50: Terminal

Claims

1. NC control unit that collects operation information of each machine tool, generates status diagnosis information of the machine tool, and displays operation information and status diagnosis information; A remote diagnosis server having a web page, connected to one or more NC control units via a network, storing, synchronizing, and classifying operation information and status diagnosis information of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units, or creating new status diagnosis information; and A web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool, characterized by including a terminal that is connected to the remote diagnosis server through a network and can remotely monitor the operation information and status diagnosis information or newly created status diagnosis information of the machine tool through the web page of the remote diagnosis server and input control commands of the NC control unit of the machine tool.

2. In paragraph 1, A web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool, characterized in that it further includes a relay unit that is connected to the NC control unit and the remote diagnosis server by network for each predetermined area, transmits operation information and status diagnosis information received from the NC control unit to the remote diagnosis server, and transmits information entered in the web page to the NC control unit.

3. In paragraph 2, A web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool, characterized in that each of the NC control units is connected by wires through each WiFi kit, and each of the WiFi kits and the relay unit are connected wirelessly.

4. In paragraph 3, Each of the above WiFi kits, A WiFi module having a LAN port and a charging port for wired connection via a LAN cable to the NC control unit above; A power supply unit that supplies power to the above Wi-Fi module; and A web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool, characterized in that it includes a case that accommodates the above Wi-Fi module and the above power supply unit.

5. In paragraph 4, Each of the above WiFi kits, A web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool, characterized in that it includes a magnetic part disposed at the lower part of the power supply part and detachably mounting the WiFi kit to an individual machine tool or a corresponding NC control part.

6. In paragraph 1, The above driving information is, Sensing information generated and measured in real time during the individual operation of each machine tool; NC information that changes according to the processing conditions for each machine tool; or A web-based remote diagnostic system for machine tools, characterized in that it includes at least one of the following equipment information that is specifically set for each machine tool:

7. In paragraph 1, A web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool, characterized in that the above condition diagnosis information includes at least one of unbalanced vibration, bearing life, vibration level, bearing defect, spindle load, tool condition, thermal displacement condition, or geometric error condition.

8. In paragraph 1, Each of the above NC control units, A processing unit that collects the operation information of the machine tool and generates the status diagnosis information of the machine tool through a status diagnosis program; and A web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool, characterized by including an HMI unit that converts status diagnosis information generated by the processing unit into graphs and numbers to generate HMI information, and displays operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information on the display unit of the NC control unit.

9. In paragraph 1, The above remote diagnosis server, A database module that stores operation information, status diagnosis information, HMI information, and user information that can access the above web page of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units; A synchronization module that synchronizes the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units stored in the above database module; A control module that classifies and analyzes the operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of each machine tool synchronized through the above synchronization module to create new status diagnosis information for the machine tool, and converts the created new status diagnosis information into graphs and numbers to create new HMI information; When access to the webpage is confirmed through the terminal, an approval module that determines whether the user can access the webpage through the user information stored in the database module and determines whether to approve access to the webpage; and A web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool, characterized in that it includes a server engine module that provides the web page on which the operating information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of the machine tool received from the corresponding NC control unit synchronized by the synchronization module are displayed, or the same information as the status diagnosis information and new HMI information newly generated through the control module are displayed, when access to the web page is approved through the terminal according to the approval result of the approval module.

10. In paragraph 9, The above remote diagnosis server, A web-based remote diagnosis system for a machine tool, characterized in that it further includes a security module that transmits a security warning alarm to an administrator terminal when the user is determined not to be a user permitted to connect as a result of the user determination by the above-mentioned approval module or when a connection error occurs more than a predetermined number of times.

11. A step of collecting operation information of each machine tool, generating status diagnosis information of the machine tool, and storing data for displaying the operation information and status diagnosis information in the NC control unit; A step of storing data for remotely monitoring and diagnosing the machine tool through a web page in a remote diagnosis server; A step of connecting one or more NC control units, a Wi-Fi kit, a relay unit, a remote diagnosis server, and a terminal to a network to remotely monitor the operation information and status diagnosis information of the machine tool or newly created status diagnosis information through a web page of a remote diagnosis server and to input control commands of the NC control unit of the machine tool; A step of synchronizing the operation information, status diagnosis information and HMI information of each machine tool received from one or more NC control units; When access to the webpage is confirmed through the terminal, a step of determining whether the user can access the webpage through user information stored in the remote diagnosis server and determining whether to approve access to the webpage; A step of providing the webpage in which the same information as the machine tool operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information received from the synchronized NC control unit is displayed when access to the webpage is approved through the terminal according to the approval result; and A web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool, characterized by comprising a step of monitoring and performing a status diagnosis of the machine tool through operation information, status diagnosis information, and HMI information of the machine tool based on the above web page.

12. In paragraph 11, After the above synchronization step, A step of classifying and analyzing the operation information, status diagnosis information and HMI information of each synchronized machine tool to create new status diagnosis information for the machine tool, and converting the created new status diagnosis information into graphs and numbers to create and control new HMI information; further comprising; A web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool, characterized in that when access to the web page is approved through the terminal according to the approval result, new status diagnosis information generated is converted into graphs and numbers and new HMI information is additionally provided to the web page.

13. In paragraph 11, After the above approval step, A web-based remote diagnosis method for a machine tool, characterized in that it further includes a step of transmitting a security warning alarm to an administrator terminal when it is determined that the user is not a user who can access through the above-mentioned approval step or when an access error occurs more than a predetermined number of times.

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