Tool system and tool

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of enabling various operations to be performed on a workpiece. A tool system (1) comprises an output shaft, a motor (31), a drive control unit (231), a clutch unit, and a detecting unit (232). The drive control unit (231) controls the motor (31) on the basis of preset operation settings to rotate the output shaft. The clutch unit performs a disengagement operation for transitioning from a transmitting state in which torque is transmitted to the output shaft to a disengaged state in which torque is not transmitted to the output shaft. The detecting unit (232) detects the number of rotations of the output shaft in one operation from the time at which the start of rotation or the rotational load of the output shaft is detected until the rotation stops due to a predetermined condition being satisfied. The predetermined condition is satisfied when the number of rotations or the rotation time from the time at which the start of rotation or the rotational load of the output shaft is detected reaches a preset set value, or when the clutch unit performs the disengagement operation.

Description

Tool system and tool

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a tool system and a tool, and more particularly to a tool system and a tool used for a workpiece to be processed.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a rotary tool including motor control means, a tool for screwing, rotation angle detection means, tightening determination means, and screw length determination means. The motor control means controls the rotation and stop of the motor. The tool for screwing rotates when the rotational output of the motor is transmitted through an impact mechanism.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-221372

[0004] By the way, in a tool system including a rotary tool (tool) as described in Patent Document 1, it is desired to enable various operations on a workpiece to be processed.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a tool system and a tool that enable various operations on a workpiece to be processed.

[0006] A tooling system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a system for use on a workpiece including one or more workpiece groups. The tooling system comprises an output shaft, a motor, a drive control unit, a clutch unit, and a detection unit. A cutting tool can be attached to the output shaft. The motor rotates the output shaft. The drive control unit controls the motor based on a preset operation setting to rotate the output shaft. The clutch unit performs a shut-off operation when the torque transmitted from the motor to the output shaft exceeds a predetermined torque, transitioning from a transmission state in which the torque is transmitted to the output shaft to a shut-off state in which the torque is not transmitted to the output shaft. The detection unit detects the number of rotations of the output shaft in one operation from the time when the rotation of the output shaft starts or rotational load is detected until the rotation stops due to the fulfillment of a predetermined condition. The predetermined conditions are met when the number of rotations of the output shaft since the start of rotation reaches a preset number of rotations, when the number of rotations of the output shaft since the time the rotational load is detected reaches the preset number of rotations, when the rotation time of the output shaft since the start of rotation reaches a preset time, when the rotation time of the output shaft since the time the rotational load is detected reaches the preset time, or when the clutch unit performs the disengagement operation.

[0007] A tool according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a tool used for a workpiece that includes one or more workpiece groups. The tool comprises an output shaft, a motor, a drive control unit, a clutch unit, and a detection unit. A tip tool can be attached to the output shaft. The motor rotates the output shaft. The drive control unit controls the motor based on a preset operation setting to rotate the output shaft. The clutch unit performs a shut-off operation when the torque transmitted from the motor to the output shaft exceeds a predetermined torque, transitioning from a transmission state in which the torque is transmitted to the output shaft to a shut-off state in which the torque is not transmitted to the output shaft. The detection unit detects the number of rotations of the output shaft in one operation from the time when the rotation of the output shaft starts or rotational load is detected until the rotation stops due to the fulfillment of a predetermined condition. The predetermined conditions are met when the number of rotations of the output shaft since the start of rotation reaches a preset number of rotations, when the number of rotations of the output shaft since the time the rotational load is detected reaches the preset number of rotations, when the rotation time of the output shaft since the start of rotation reaches a preset time, when the rotation time of the output shaft since the time the rotational load is detected reaches the preset time, or when the clutch unit performs the disengagement operation.

[0008] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a tool system according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the tools included in the tool system. Figure 3 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the tool system. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the tools included in the tool system.

[0009] Preferred embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Common elements in the embodiments described below are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of common elements may be omitted. The embodiments and modifications described below represent only a portion of the various embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described below can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of this disclosure are achieved. It is also possible to combine the configurations of the embodiments and modifications as appropriate.

[0010] The figures described herein are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in each figure do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0011] (1) Overview First, an overview of the tool system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0012] The tool system 1 (or tool 2) is used for workpieces that include one or more workpiece groups. The tool system 1 comprises multiple tools 2.

[0013] In this embodiment, "work object" refers to an object or part (location) that is the target of work using tool 2. "Work object group" refers to a group of work objects that are the target of work using one of the multiple tools 2. In other words, the work object group that is the target of work using the first tool 2 among the multiple tools 2 is a different work object group from the work object group that is the target of work using the second tool 2 among the multiple tools 2. That is, a work object may include multiple work object groups. Note that a work object group may include only one work object. Furthermore, in this embodiment, "work object group" refers to a group of work objects that are worked on with the same operation settings. One or more work object groups may include, for example, a first work object group that is worked on with a first operation setting of one tool 2, which is tool 2a, and a second work object group that is worked on with a second operation setting of one tool 2, which is tool 2a. In other words, one or more work object groups may include multiple work object groups that are worked on with different operation settings of one tool 2.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the tool 2 comprises an output shaft 33 (see Figure 2), a motor 31, a drive control unit 231, a clutch unit 322 (see Figure 2), and a detection unit 232.

[0015] The output shaft 33 can be fitted with a cutting tool X1.

[0016] The motor 31 rotates the output shaft 33.

[0017] The drive control unit 231 controls the motor 31 based on a preset operation setting, and rotates the output shaft 33.

[0018] The clutch unit 322 performs a shut-off operation when the torque transmitted from the motor 31 to the output shaft 33 exceeds a predetermined torque, transitioning from a transmission state in which torque is transmitted to the output shaft 33 to a shut-off state in which torque is not transmitted to the output shaft 33.

[0019] The detection unit 232 detects the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 in one operation from the time it detects the start of rotation of the output shaft 33 or rotational load until it stops due to the fulfillment of predetermined conditions. Here, the predetermined conditions are met when the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 from the start of rotation reaches a preset number of rotations, when the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 from the time it detects rotational load reaches a preset number of rotations, when the rotation time of the output shaft 33 from the start of rotation reaches a preset time, when the rotation time of the output shaft 33 from the time it detects rotational load reaches a preset time, or when the clutch unit 322 performs a disengagement operation.

[0020] According to the tool system 1 of this embodiment, the rotation of the output shaft 33 stops when the number of rotations or rotation time of the output shaft 33 reaches a set value (set number of rotations or set time), or when the clutch unit 322 performs a disengagement operation. In other words, in the tool system 1 of this embodiment, the termination conditions for the rotation operation (one operation) of the output shaft 33 can be made different, so it is possible to perform various operations on the workpiece, such as tightening operations such as screw tightening, screwing operations, forming holes in the workpiece, and tapping operations in holes in the workpiece.

[0021] (2) Details The detailed configuration of the tool system 1 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0022] (2.1) As shown in the diagram 1 of the tool system configuration, the tool system 1 according to this embodiment comprises a plurality of tools 2 and a communication device 9. The plurality of tools 2 include tools 2a and tools 2b. The basic configurations of each of tools 2a and 2b are common to each other. In the following description, when tools 2a and 2b are not distinguished, each of tools 2a and 2b may simply be referred to as "tool 2".

[0023] The tool system 1 according to this embodiment is used, for example, in an assembly line where an operator using a tool 2 performs assembly work on multiple workpieces. In particular, in this embodiment, as an example, multiple tools 2 are arranged in the operator's workspace. The operator uses the multiple tools 2 to perform various operations on the workpieces.

[0024] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the workpiece includes multiple workpiece groups. In this embodiment, the multiple workpiece groups include a workpiece group that is the target of work using tool 2a and a workpiece group that is the target of work using tool 2b.

[0025] (2.2) Configuration of the communication device The communication device 9 in this embodiment functions as a management device that manages multiple operations on a workpiece using multiple tools 2.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1, the communication device 9 comprises a communication unit 91, a storage unit 92, and a processing unit 93.

[0027] The communication unit 91 includes an interface capable of communicating with each of the multiple tools 2. "Communicable" as used in this disclosure means that information can be exchanged directly or indirectly via a network or repeater, etc., by an appropriate communication method, such as wired or wireless communication. The communication unit 21 in this embodiment is connected to a network via a mobile phone network provided by a telecommunications carrier. "Mobile phone network" as used in this disclosure includes 3G (third generation) lines, LTE (Long Term Evolution) lines, 4G (fourth generation) lines, or 5G (fifth generation) lines. In this embodiment, the communication device 9 and the multiple tools 2 are connected by signal lines. The communication unit 91 in this embodiment communicates with the multiple tools 2 via wired communication through the signal lines. However, the communication unit 91 and at least one of the multiple tools 2 may be configured to communicate wirelessly.

[0028] The storage unit 92 is a semiconductor memory such as an electrically rewritable flash memory, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), or EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory). Note that the storage unit 92 is not limited to semiconductor memory; it may also be a hard disk drive or the like.

[0029] The memory unit 92 of this embodiment stores work procedure information indicating the work procedure. In this embodiment, "work procedure" means the procedure for multiple operations performed on a workpiece using multiple tools 2. The work procedure specifies the order in which operations are performed on each workpiece group included in the workpiece, the designation of the tools 2 to be used for operations on each workpiece group, and the operating conditions of the tools 2 to be used for operations on each workpiece group. In other words, the work procedure information includes order information indicating the order in which operations are performed on each workpiece group, designation information specifying the tools 2 to be used for operations on each workpiece group, and operating condition information indicating the operating conditions of the tools 2 to be used for operations on each workpiece group.

[0030] The processing unit 93 primarily consists of a computer system having one or more processors and memory. The functions of the processing unit 93 are realized when the processor of the computer system executes a program recorded in the memory or storage unit 92 of the computer system. The program may be recorded in the memory or storage unit 22, provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card.

[0031] The processing unit 93 manages multiple operations on a workpiece using multiple tools 2. Based on the work procedure information, the processing unit 93 outputs work instructions to the multiple tools 2. More specifically, based on the work procedure information and completion signals received from the multiple tools 2, the processing unit 93 transmits permission signals to the multiple tools 2 to authorize the operation.

[0032] (2.3) Tool Configuration The multiple tools 2 in this embodiment are arranged in the worker's workspace, for example, on a dedicated rack. Based on the work procedure, one of the multiple tools 2 is selected by the worker, and the selected tool 2 is used for work on the workpiece. In this embodiment, we illustrate the case in which two tools 2, tool 2a and tool 2b, are used for work on one workpiece. However, one tool 2 may be used for work on one workpiece, or three or more tools 2 may be used. Also, in this embodiment, the basic configuration of tool 2a and tool 2b is common to each other. However, there may be differences in configuration, such as tool 2a being a simple electric screwdriver while tool 2b is an impact tool with an impact mechanism. In this embodiment, each of tool 2a and tool 2b is assumed to have a tip tool X1 attached. The type (screwdriver, wrench, or drill, etc.) or size of the tip tool X1 attached to each of tool 2a and tool 2b may be different.

[0033] As shown in Figure 1, the tool 2 comprises a motor 31, an operating unit 4, a notification unit 5, a changeover switch 6, and a lever 7. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the tool 2 further comprises a housing 20, a transmission mechanism 32, an output shaft 33, a signal connector 25, and a power connector 24. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the tip tool X1 is not included in the configuration of the tool 2, but the tool 2 may include the tip tool X1 in its configuration.

[0034] In this disclosure, the direction parallel to (alongside) the axis Ax1 of the output shaft 33 is defined as the up and down direction. The direction from the output shaft 33 towards the motor 31 is defined as the up direction, and the direction from the motor 31 towards the output shaft 33 is defined as the down direction.

[0035] In this disclosure, "orthogonal (perpendicular)" means not only a state where the angle between two objects is exactly 90 degrees, but also a state where the two objects intersect within a certain range of difference. In other words, the angle between two orthogonal objects falls within a certain range of difference from 90 degrees (for example, 10 degrees or less). That is, in this disclosure, "orthogonal" includes cases where the angle between two objects is between 80 degrees and 100 degrees. Similarly, in this disclosure, "parallel" means not only a state where two objects do not intersect exactly, but also a state where two objects are aligned within a certain range of difference. For example, in this disclosure, "parallel" includes a state where the inclination of one object relative to the other is 10 degrees or less. That is, in this disclosure, "parallel" includes cases where the angle between one object and the other is between -10 degrees and 10 degrees.

[0036] The housing 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape extending in the vertical direction. In this disclosure, "cylindrical" may include cylindrical, elliptical, and rectangular cylindrical shapes.

[0037] The housing 20 houses the motor 31 and the transmission mechanism 32. The housing 20 has a first main body 201, a second main body 202, and a third main body 203.

[0038] The first main body portion 201 is formed in the shape of a rectangular tube with an upper surface. The lower surface of the first main body portion 201 is a circular opening. The second main body portion 202 protrudes downward from the lower end of the first main body portion 201. The second main body portion 202 is formed in the shape of a cylinder. The second main body portion 202 houses the motor 31 and a part of the transmission mechanism 32.

[0039] Multiple protrusions are formed on the side surface of the second main body 202. These multiple protrusions project outward from the side surface of the second main body. The second main body 202 functions as a gripping part for the worker to hold. In addition, the multiple protrusions function as an anti-slip feature when the worker grips the second main body 202.

[0040] The third main body portion 203 protrudes downward from the lower end of the second main body portion 202. The third main body portion 203 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The third main body portion 203 houses a part of the transmission mechanism 32 and a part of the output shaft 33.

[0041] The signal connector 25 is provided on the upper surface of the housing 20 (first main body portion 201). A signal line is connected to the signal connector 25. The signal line is a line that connects the tool 2 and the communication device 9. The tool 2 exchanges permission signals with the communication device 9 via the signal line. It is not essential that the tool 2 is equipped with the signal connector 25. For example, the tool 2 may be equipped with a communication unit that can communicate wirelessly with the communication device 9 instead of the signal connector 25.

[0042] The power connector 24 is provided on the upper surface of the housing 20 (first main body portion 201). The power connector 24 is positioned to be aligned with the signal connector 25 in the left-right direction, which is perpendicular to the vertical direction. A power line is connected to the power connector 24. The power line is a line that connects the tool 2 to an external power source. In this embodiment, the tool 2 is supplied with power from an external power source via the power line. It is not essential that the tool 2 has a power connector 24. For example, the tool 2 may have a mounting portion to which a battery pack can be attached instead of a power connector 24.

[0043] The motor 31 converts the electric power supplied from an external power source into a rotational driving force (torque). The motor 31 is, for example, an inner rotor type brushless motor. The rotor of the motor 31 rotates about a rotation axis parallel to the vertical direction.

[0044] The transmission mechanism 32 is disposed below the motor 31 in the internal space of the housing 20 (the second main body portion 202). The transmission mechanism 32 is a mechanism that transmits the torque generated by the motor 31 to the output shaft 33. The transmission mechanism 32 of the present embodiment includes a speed reduction mechanism 321 and a clutch portion 322.

[0045] The speed reduction mechanism 321 is, for example, a planetary gear mechanism. The speed reduction mechanism 321 converts the rotational speed and torque of the motor 31 into the rotational speed and torque required for the tightening operation.

[0046] When the torque transmitted from the motor 31 to the output shaft 33 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined torque, a blocking operation is performed to shift from a transmission state in which the torque is transmitted to the output shaft 33 to a blocking state in which the torque is not transmitted to the output shaft 33. The clutch portion 322 of the present embodiment has a mechanical clutch mechanism. However, the clutch portion 322 may be realized by, for example, an electronic clutch.

[0047] The output shaft 33 is disposed below the transmission mechanism 32. The torque generated by the motor 31 is transmitted to the output shaft 33 via the transmission mechanism 32. When the rotor of the motor 31 rotates, the output shaft 33 rotates about the axis Ax1.

[0048] A tip tool X1 such as a driver bit is detachably configured at the tip (lower end) of the output shaft 33. For example, when a driver bit is attached to the output shaft 33, operations such as tightening or loosening a fastening member can be performed by rotating the driver bit while the driver bit is applied to the fastening member (such as a screw).

[0049] The control unit 4 receives input from the operator (user). The control unit 4 has multiple (three in the example in Figure 2) operation buttons 41. The multiple operation buttons 41 are located on the front of the first main body 201 (housing 20). By operating the multiple operation buttons 41, settings such as the rotation speed of the output shaft 33 (or motor 31) are configured.

[0050] Furthermore, the operation unit 4 (multiple operation buttons 41) accepts operations to set the judgment conditions used for pass / fail judgment performed by the judgment unit 235, which will be described later, and the number of work objects included in the work object group to which the judgment conditions are applied in the pass / fail judgment.

[0051] For example, the operation unit 4 (multiple operation buttons 41) accepts operations to set a first judgment condition used for pass / fail judgment performed by the judgment unit 235 for each operation on the first work target group, and the number of work targets included in the first work target group. The operation unit 4 also accepts operations to set a second judgment condition used for pass / fail judgment performed by the judgment unit 235 for each operation on the second work target group, and the number of work targets included in the second work target group.

[0052] Furthermore, the operation state of the operation unit 4 (multiple operation buttons 41) includes a first state in which it accepts operations and a second state in which it does not accept operations. Switching between operation states is performed by a predetermined operation, such as simultaneously pressing two or more operation buttons 41 included in the multiple operation buttons 41. Depending on how the tool system 1 is used, it may be undesirable for the operator to be able to change the operation settings. With the tool 2 of this embodiment, the operation unit 4 can be set to the second state in advance by an administrator or the like, thereby preventing the operator from changing the operation settings of the tool 2.

[0053] The notification unit 5 (display unit) has a first notification unit 51 (first display unit) and a second notification unit 52 (second display unit). The first notification unit 51 is provided on the front of the first main body 201 (housing 20). The first notification unit 51 is implemented using a two-digit seven-segment LED (Light Emitting Diode). For example, the first notification unit 51 displays the number of workpieces for which work using the tool 2 has been completed. The second notification unit 52 is provided on the side circumference of the third main body 203, and the second notification unit 52 is implemented using a cylindrical LED. For example, the second notification unit 52 lights up or flashes to indicate which of the multiple tools 2 is to be used for work on the workpiece.

[0054] The changeover switch 6 is located on the side (right side) of the first main body 201 (housing 20) in the left-right direction. The changeover switch 6 is a switch that switches the rotation direction of the output shaft 33 (or motor 31) between clockwise and counterclockwise.

[0055] Lever 7 is located on the side (left side) of the first main body 201. Lever 7 is a switch (or operating part) for controlling the on / off operation of the motor 3. Lever 7 has an initial position and an on position, and the motor 31 operates when the operator pushes or pulls lever 7 to the on position.

[0056] As shown in Figure 1, the tool 2 further comprises a communication unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a processing unit 23.

[0057] The communication unit 21 includes an interface that can communicate with the communication device 9. In this embodiment, the communication unit 21 communicates with the communication device 9 via a signal line using a wired connection. However, the communication unit 21 and the communication device 9 may be configured to communicate wirelessly.

[0058] The storage unit 22 is an electrically rewritable semiconductor memory such as ROM, RAM, or EEPROM, such as flash memory. The storage unit 92 is not limited to semiconductor memory; it may also be a hard disk drive or the like.

[0059] The memory unit 22 of this embodiment stores multiple setting information related to operation settings. Each of the multiple setting information includes information on the judgment conditions used for good or bad judgment performed by the judgment unit 235 described later (for example, the set rotation speed, set time, or whether the clutch unit 322 performed a disengagement operation), information on the direction of rotation, and information on the number of work objects included in the work object group.

[0060] The processing unit 23 primarily consists of a computer system having one or more processors and memory. The functions of the processing unit 23 are realized when the processor of the computer system executes a program recorded in the memory or storage unit 22 of the computer system. The program may be recorded in the memory or storage unit 22, provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card.

[0061] The processing unit 23 includes a drive control unit 231, a detection unit 232, a notification control unit 233, a recording processing unit 234, and a determination unit 235.

[0062] The drive control unit 231 controls the motor 31 based on a preset operation setting, thereby rotating the output shaft 33. The operation setting is based on setting information or operations performed on the operation unit 4 (operation button 41).

[0063] In this embodiment, the drive control unit 231 can switch the rotation direction of the output shaft 33 between clockwise and counterclockwise. More specifically, the drive control unit 231 controls the rotation direction of the output shaft 33 to one of clockwise or counterclockwise directions based on the operation of the changeover switch 6 or the setting information.

[0064] In this embodiment, when the tool 2 is used for tightening screws, the drive control unit 231 reverses the rotation of the output shaft 33 before rotating it forward at the start of rotation. This suppresses galling during screw tightening. Here, "forward rotation" in this embodiment is one of the two directions, clockwise and counterclockwise, determined before the work is performed based on the operation of the changeover switch 6 or the setting information. "Reverse rotation" is the opposite direction of the one of the two directions, clockwise and counterclockwise, determined before the work is performed based on the operation of the changeover switch 6 or the setting information. For example, if the changeover switch 6 is set to clockwise based on the operation of the changeover switch 6 or the setting information, then clockwise rotation is forward rotation and counterclockwise rotation is reverse rotation.

[0065] The drive control unit 231 rotates the output shaft 33 until predetermined conditions are met when the lever 7 is operated. For example, if the work is tightening screws, the predetermined condition is usually that the clutch unit 322 has engaged. If the work is screwing screws into the workpiece, the predetermined conditions are usually that the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 from the start of rotation reaches a preset number of rotations, the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 from the time the rotational load is detected reaches a set number of rotations, the rotation time of the output shaft 33 from the start of rotation reaches a preset time, or the rotation time of the output shaft 33 from the time the rotational load is detected reaches a set time. This allows various tasks such as tightening and screwing to be performed using the tool 2.

[0066] The detection unit 232 detects the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 (or motor 31) in a single operation, from the time it detects the start of rotation or rotational load of the output shaft 33 (or motor 31) until rotation stops due to the fulfillment of predetermined conditions. The detection unit 232 also detects the start and end of rotation of the output shaft 33 (or motor 31) based on the current flowing to the motor 31, or the output of a photoelectric encoder, magnetic encoder, etc. The detection unit 232 also detects the rotational load based on the output signal output by the torque sensor provided by the tool 2.

[0067] In this embodiment, the detection unit 232 calculates the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 by multiplying, for example, the rotational speed of the output shaft 33 (or motor 31) as defined in the operation settings and the rotational time during which the output shaft 33 was rotating (for example, the time during which the lever 7 was retracted). However, the detection unit 232 may also detect the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 (or motor 31) using a photoelectric encoder or a magnetic encoder, etc.

[0068] Furthermore, the detection unit 232 detects the number of operations, which is the number of times one operation is performed from the time it detects the start of rotation or rotational load of the output shaft 33 (or motor 31) until the rotation stops due to the fulfillment of predetermined conditions. Based on the detected number of operations and the information on the number of workpieces included in the workpiece group, the detection unit 232 counts the number of workpieces for which work has been completed. In other words, the detection unit 232 counts the number of workpieces for which work has been completed when it detects that work has been completed on all workpieces included in the workpiece group for which work is performed using the tool 2.

[0069] The notification control unit 233 controls the notification unit 5. In this embodiment, the notification control unit 233 controls the illumination of at least one of the first notification unit 51 and the second notification unit 52. For example, if the number of operations detected by the detection unit 232 is 1 or more and less than the number of work objects included in the work target group, the notification control unit 233 causes the notification unit 5 (for example, the second notification unit 52) ​​to continuously execute a notification indicating that work is in progress. In other words, when work is in progress on one work target group, the notification control unit 233 controls the illumination of the second notification unit 52 to notify the worker that there is still work remaining on one work target group.

[0070] Furthermore, the notification control unit 233 causes the notification unit 5 to issue a notification regarding the number of workpieces counted by the detection unit 232 (count notification). More specifically, the notification control unit 233 notifies the operator of the number of workpieces counted by the detection unit 232 by controlling the first notification unit 51 (7-segment LED) to light up. This has the advantage that it is easier for the operator to grasp the number of workpieces that have been completed.

[0071] The recording processing unit 234 performs recording processing. More specifically, the recording processing unit 234 stores the operation settings set based on the operation of the operation unit 4 as setting information in the storage unit 22.

[0072] For example, the recording processing unit 234 associates information on the judgment conditions set based on the operation of the operation unit 4 with information on the number of work objects included in the work object group, and stores this information in the storage unit 22. This makes it possible to automatically set the operation settings by reading the setting information stored in the storage unit 22 when working with the tool 2, thereby reducing the effort required to set the operation settings for each work content (i.e., for each work object group).

[0073] Furthermore, the recording processing unit 234 stores in the storage unit 22 a combination of first setting information, which associates information on the first determination condition with information on the number of work objects included in the first work object group, and second setting information, which associates information on the second determination condition with information on the number of work objects included in the second work object group, both of which are set based on operations on the operation unit 4. For example, when using a single tool 2 to perform work on a first work object group and a second work object group included in a workpiece, the assembly line alternates between performing work on the first work object group and working on the second work object group using the single tool 2. With the tool 2 of this embodiment, since the first setting information and the second setting information are combined (associated) and stored in the storage unit 22, it is possible to alternately switch between operation settings based on the first setting information and operation settings based on the second setting information. This further reduces the effort required to set operation settings for each work content (i.e., each work object group).

[0074] The determination unit 235 performs a pass / fail judgment for each operation from the moment it detects the start of rotation or rotational load of the output shaft 33 until the rotation stops due to the fulfillment of predetermined conditions, determining whether the work has been completed successfully based on the determination conditions. This allows the unit to notify the worker if the work has not been completed successfully, for example, by issuing a notification if the work has not been completed successfully.

[0075] The judgment conditions vary depending on the work performed. For example, if the work is screw tightening, the judgment conditions are that the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 since the start of rotation has reached a preset number of rotations, the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 since the rotational load was detected has reached a preset number of rotations, the rotation time of the output shaft 33 since the start of rotation has reached a preset time, or the rotation time of the output shaft 33 since the rotational load was detected has reached a preset time. As described above, in tightening work, the rotation of the output shaft 33 usually stops when the clutch unit 322 performs a disengagement operation. The judgment unit 235 determines that the tightening work has been completed successfully if the number of rotations or rotation time detected by the detection unit 232 has reached a preset value. On the other hand, the judgment unit 235 determines that the tightening work has not been completed successfully if the number of rotations or rotation time detected by the detection unit 232 has not reached a preset value (for example, if the lever 7 is no longer operated during the work).

[0076] Furthermore, if the work is a screw-threading operation in which screws are threaded into the workpiece, the determination conditions are that the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 since the start of rotation has reached a preset number of rotations, the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 since the time the rotation load of the output shaft 33 was detected has reached a set number of rotations, the rotation time of the output shaft 33 since the start of rotation has reached a set time, or the rotation time of the output shaft 33 since the time the rotation load of the output shaft 33 was detected has reached a set time. As described above, in a screw-threading operation, the rotation of the output shaft 33 usually stops when the number of rotations or the rotation time reaches a preset value. The determination unit 235 determines that the screw-threading operation has been completed normally if the number of rotations or the rotation time detected by the detection unit 232 has reached a preset value. On the other hand, the determination unit 235 determines that the screw-threading operation has not been completed normally if the number of rotations or the rotation time detected by the detection unit 232 has not reached a preset value (for example, if the clutch unit 322 performs a disengagement operation, or if the lever 7 is no longer operated during the operation).

[0077] (3) Operation of the tooling system Next, the operation of the tooling system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 3.

[0078] The communication device 9 determines which tool 2 the worker will use from among several tools 2 based on the work procedure information (step S1). In the example in Figure 3, tool 2a is determined to be the tool 2 the worker will use. The communication device 9 transmits a permission signal to tool 2a to authorize the work (step S2). Tool 2a, upon receiving the permission signal, illuminates (lights up or blinks) its second notification unit 52, for example. Also, tool 2a, upon receiving the permission signal, becomes capable of rotation. Conversely, other tools 2, such as tool 2b, which have not received the permission signal, are in a state where rotation is not possible.

[0079] The worker selects the tool 2a whose second notification unit 52 is emitting light from among the multiple tools 2, and operates the lever 7 to cause the tool 2a to perform a rotational movement (for example, a tightening movement) (step S3). Then, the worker uses the tool 2a to perform work on the remaining work object included in the work object group (one remaining in the example of Figure 3) (step S4).

[0080] When tool 2a detects that it has completed work on all work objects included in the work target group, it transmits a completion signal to the communication device 9 (step S5). Upon receiving the completion signal, the communication device 9 again determines which tool 2 the worker will use from among the multiple tools 2 based on the work procedure information (step S6). In other words, the communication device 9 determines which tool 2 the worker will use from among the multiple tools 2 based on the work procedure information and the completion signal received from the multiple tools 2 (tool 2a in the example of Figure 3). In the example of Figure 3, tool 2b is determined to be the tool 2 the worker will use.

[0081] The communication device 9 transmits a permission signal to the tool 2b to authorize the operation (step S7). Upon receiving the permission signal, the tool 2b illuminates, for example, the second notification unit 52 (lights up or flashes). The tool 2b that has received the permission signal becomes capable of rotation. Conversely, other tools 2, such as tool 2a, that have not received the permission signal remain in a state where rotation is not possible.

[0082] The worker selects tool 2b whose second notification unit 52 is emitting light from among several tools 2, and operates the lever 7 to cause tool 2b to perform a rotational operation (for example, a tightening operation) (step S8). When tool 2b detects that the work has been completed on all work objects included in the work object group, it transmits a completion signal to the communication device 9 (step S9).

[0083] Subsequently, the communication device 9 transmits a permission signal to one of the multiple tools 2, based on the work procedure information and the completion signals received from the multiple tools 2, to authorize the work. This allows the work using the multiple tools 2 to be performed on the workpiece.

[0084] Note that the sequence diagram shown in Figure 3 is merely an example, and the order of processing may be changed as appropriate, or processes may be added or deleted as appropriate.

[0085] (4) Tool Operation Next, the operation of one of the tools 2 included in the group of tools 2 will be described with reference to Figure 4.

[0086] First, tool 2 receives a permission signal from the communication device 9 (step S1). When tool 2 receives a permission signal from the communication device 9, it notifies the worker that it is tool 2 to be used for the work by, for example, illuminating (lighting up or flashing) the second notification unit 52.

[0087] Next, the tool 2, having received the permission signal, accepts an operation on the operating unit 4 (step S2). In the example in Figure 3, the case where the operation setting is set based on the operator's operation on the operating unit 4 is illustrated. The tool 2 determines the operation setting based on the operator's operation on the operating unit 4 (step S13). Then, the tool 2 performs a rotational operation (for example, a tightening operation) based on the operator's operation on the lever 7 (step S14).

[0088] When tool 2 completes an operation, it determines whether the work has been completed successfully (step S15). If tool 2 determines that the work has not been completed successfully (step S15: No), it notifies the worker that the work has not been completed successfully by, for example, illuminating the second notification unit 52 in a red light pattern. The worker then uses tool 2 again to perform the work on the same work target (step S14). On the other hand, if tool 2 determines that the work has been completed successfully (step S15: No), it notifies the worker that the work has been completed successfully by, for example, illuminating the second notification unit 52 in a green light pattern. Then, tool 2 determines, based on the work procedure information, whether there is a next task, that is, whether the work target group includes a work target for which the work has not been completed (step S16). If tool 2 determines that there is no next task (step S16: No), it performs the process in step S22. On the other hand, if tool 2 determines that there is a next task (step S16: Yes), it starts continuous notification by, for example, illuminating (lighting up or blinking) the second notification unit 52 (step S17). Furthermore, a continuation notice is a notification to inform workers that there is still work remaining for a particular work group.

[0089] Next, tool 2 executes the processes of steps S18 to S20. Note that the processes of steps S18 to S20 are the same as those of steps S14 to S16, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0090] In step S20, if tool 2 determines that there is no further work to be done (step S20: No), it terminates the continuation notification by, for example, turning off the second notification unit 52 (step S21). Then, tool 2 increments the number of workpieces for which work has been completed by 1 (step S22). Tool 2 increments the number of workpieces displayed on the first notification unit 51 (7-segment LED) by 1. Then, tool 2 transmits a completion signal to the communication device 9 (step S23). After this, tool 2 waits until it receives a permission signal from the communication device 9.

[0091] Note that the flowchart shown in Figure 4 is merely an example, and the order of processing may be changed as appropriate, or processes may be added or deleted as appropriate.

[0092] (5) Modifications The following lists modifications of the above embodiments.

[0093] (5.1) Modification 1 The tool system 1 can perform various operations on the workpiece according to the operation settings. For example, the tool 2 of Modification 1 has an automatic forward / reverse switching function. The drive control unit 231 of the tool 2 controls the motor 31 so that the output shaft 33 alternately performs one clockwise movement and one counterclockwise movement. When the tool 2 operates by executing the automatic forward / reverse switching function, the predetermined conditions for stopping rotation are that the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 since the start of rotation reaches a preset number of rotations, the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 since the time the rotation load of the output shaft 33 was detected reaches a preset number of rotations, the rotation time of the output shaft 33 since the start of rotation reaches a preset time, or the rotation time of the output shaft 33 since the time the rotation load of the output shaft 33 was detected reaches a preset time.

[0094] For example, tool 2 is fitted with a threading tap tip tool X1 and is used for threading operations to form threads in a screw hole. Tool 2 in modified example 1 has an automatic forward / reverse switching function, allowing it to operate by repeatedly performing one forward rotation and one reverse rotation. This has the advantage that, for example, when threading operations are performed in which threads are formed with one forward rotation and then the tip tool X1 is removed from the screw hole with one reverse rotation, there is no need to manually set the operation to change the direction of rotation.

[0095] When the tool 2 operates using the automatic forward / reverse switching function, the determination unit 235 determines that the work has been completed successfully if, in the pass / fail determination, the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 from the start of rotation reaches a preset number of rotations, the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 from the time the rotational load of the output shaft 33 is detected reaches a preset number of rotations, the rotation time of the output shaft 33 from the start of rotation reaches a preset time, or the rotation time of the output shaft 33 from the time the rotational load of the output shaft 33 is detected reaches a preset time. In addition, the determination unit 235 determines that the work has not been completed successfully if the clutch unit 322 performs a disengagement operation. If the determination unit 235 determines in the pass / fail determination that the work has not been completed successfully, the notification control unit 233 causes the notification unit 5 (for example, the second notification unit 52) ​​to execute a notification indicating that the work has not been completed successfully. In tasks such as checking the quality of the screw threads, if the output shaft 33 is subjected to such a load that the clutch unit 322 disengages, there is a high possibility that the screw cutting operation has not been completed successfully. With tool 2 of modified example 1, it is possible to perform quality control judgments during tasks such as thread cutting or checking the quality of threads, and to notify the worker of the result of the quality control judgment.

[0096] (5.2) Modification 2 In the tool 2 of Modification 2, the notification control unit 233 causes the notification unit 5 to issue a notification indicating that the work is incomplete when the number of operations detected by the detection unit 232 is less than the number of work objects included in the work target group, and a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of work on the work target group. For example, if the work on one work target group is not completed within a predetermined time, the tool 2 notifies the worker that the work is incomplete by illuminating the second notification unit 52 in a red light pattern. This helps to reduce the chances of missing work.

[0097] In addition, in the modified example 2, the tool 2 enters a locked state where operation to the lever 7, etc., is disabled if the number of operations detected by the detection unit 232 is less than the number of work objects included in the work target group, and a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of work on the work target group.

[0098] (5.3) Modification 3 The tool 2 can perform the functions of the tool 2 described in the above embodiment and Modifications 1 to 2, such as continuous notification, count notification, or good / bad judgment, even in counterclockwise operations such as tightening work on reverse threads.

[0099] For example, the drive control unit 231 controls the motor 31 so that the rotational speed during one counterclockwise operation is the set rotational speed.

[0100] For example, the detection unit 232 detects the number of rotations of the output shaft 33 in a single operation, from the time it detects the start of rotation or rotational load of the output shaft in a counterclockwise direction until it stops due to the fulfillment of a predetermined condition.

[0101] For example, the determination unit 235 performs a pass / fail determination based on the determination conditions to determine whether the operation was completed successfully after each counterclockwise movement.

[0102] According to the tool 2 of modified example 3, functions such as continuous notification, count notification, or pass / fail judgment can be performed even in counterclockwise operations such as tightening on reverse threads, enabling a wider range of operations.

[0103] (5.4) Other Modifications Functions equivalent to those of the tool system 1 (or tool 2) according to the above embodiments and modifications 1 to 3 may be embodied in a control method, a (computer) program, or a non-temporary recording medium on which the program is recorded.

[0104] The implementing entity of the tool system 1 (or tool 2) or control method in this disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system mainly consists of a processor and memory as hardware. The function of the implementing entity of the tool system 1 or control method in this disclosure is realized by the processor executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive that is readable by the computer system. The processor of the computer system consists of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or large-scale integrated circuits (LSIs). The integrated circuits such as ICs and LSIs referred to herein are named differently depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, VLSIs (Very Large Scale Integrations), or ULSIs (Ultra Large Scale Integrations). Furthermore, FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or logic devices capable of reconfiguring internal junctions or circuit compartments within the LSI, can also be used as processors. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated onto a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips may be integrated into a single device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller also consists of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits or large-scale integrated circuits.

[0105] Furthermore, it is not essential for the tool system 1 to have multiple functions integrated into a single housing; the components of the tool system 1 may be distributed across multiple housings. Moreover, at least some of the functions of the tool system 1, for example, some of the functions of tool 2, may be realized by the cloud (cloud computing), etc.

[0106] In the above embodiment, at least some of the functions of the tool system 1, which are distributed across multiple devices, may be consolidated into a single housing. For example, some of the functions of the tool system 1, which are distributed across the tool 2 and the communication device 9, may be consolidated into a single housing.

[0107] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the tool system 1 comprises multiple tools 2. However, the tool system 1 may also be configured to comprise only one tool 2.

[0108] The tool 2 may be configured such that the operation of the motor 31 is switched on or off when the tip tool X1 is pushed toward the motor 31.

[0109] In the above embodiment, the case where tool 2 is an electric tool was described, but tool 2 is not limited to an electric tool; it may also be an air tool having an air motor (drive unit) that operates using compressed air (power) supplied from an air compressor as a power source.

[0110] Each of the tools 2 and communication device 9 in the above embodiment can be sold on the market independently.

[0111] (Modes) As is clear from the embodiments and modifications described above, the tool system (1) according to the first mode is a system used for workpieces that include one or more workpiece groups. The tool system (1) includes an output shaft (33), a motor (31), a drive control unit (231), a clutch unit (322), and a detection unit (232). A cutting tool (X1) can be attached to the output shaft (33). The motor (31) rotates the output shaft (33). The drive control unit (231) controls the motor (31) based on a preset operation setting and rotates the output shaft (33). The clutch unit (322) performs a shut-off operation to switch from a transmission state in which torque is transmitted to the output shaft (33) to a shut-off state in which torque is not transmitted to the output shaft (33) when the torque transmitted from the motor (31) to the output shaft (33) exceeds a predetermined torque. The detection unit (232) detects the number of rotations of the output shaft (33) in a single operation from the time it detects the start of rotation of the output shaft (33) or rotational load until it stops due to the fulfillment of predetermined conditions. The predetermined conditions are met when the number of rotations of the output shaft (33) from the start of rotation reaches a preset number of rotations, when the number of rotations of the output shaft (33) from the time it detects rotational load reaches the above preset number of rotations, when the rotation time of the output shaft (33) from the start of rotation reaches a preset time, when the rotation time of the output shaft (33) from the time it detects rotational load reaches the above preset time, or when the clutch unit (322) performs a disengagement operation.

[0112] This embodiment makes it possible to perform various operations on the workpiece.

[0113] In the tool system (1) according to the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the drive control unit (231) can switch the rotation direction of the output shaft (33) between clockwise and counterclockwise. The detection unit (232) detects the number of rotations in the above counterclockwise operation.

[0114] This embodiment allows for more work to be done.

[0115] The tool system (1) according to the third embodiment further comprises an operating unit (4) that receives an operation to set the rotational speed of the output shaft (33) in the first or second embodiment. The drive control unit (231) can switch the rotational direction of the output shaft (33) between clockwise and counterclockwise. The drive control unit (231) controls the motor (31) so that the rotational speed in the above operation in counterclockwise is the set rotational speed.

[0116] This embodiment allows for more work to be done.

[0117] In the tool system (1) according to the fourth embodiment, in any of the first to third embodiments, the drive control unit (231) can switch the rotation direction of the output shaft (33) between clockwise and counterclockwise. The drive control unit (231) reverses the rotation of the output shaft (33) before rotating it forward when the rotation of the output shaft (33) begins.

[0118] According to this embodiment, the occurrence of gnawing can be suppressed.

[0119] The tool system (1) according to the fifth embodiment further comprises a notification control unit (233) that controls the notification unit (5) in any of the first to fourth embodiments. The work target group is a group of work targets in which work is performed with the same operation settings. The detection unit (232) detects the number of operations for the above-mentioned operation. The notification control unit (233) causes the notification unit (5) to continuously execute a notification indicating that work is in progress if the number of operations detected by the detection unit (232) is 1 or more and less than the number of work targets included in the work target group.

[0120] According to this embodiment, it is possible to notify the worker that the work for a particular group of tasks has not been completed.

[0121] In the tool system (1) according to the sixth embodiment, in the fifth embodiment, the drive control unit (231) can switch the rotation direction of the output shaft (33) between clockwise and counterclockwise. The work target group is a group of work targets that are worked on by the above counterclockwise operation.

[0122] This embodiment allows for more work to be done.

[0123] The tool system (1) according to the seventh embodiment further comprises a notification control unit (233) that controls the notification unit (5) in any of the first to sixth embodiments. The work target group is a group of work targets that are worked on with the same operation settings. The detection unit (232) detects the number of operations for the above-mentioned operation. Based on the detected number of operations and the number of work targets included in the work target group, the detection unit (232) counts the number of work objects for which work has been completed. The notification control unit (233) causes the notification unit (5) to execute a notification regarding the number of work objects counted by the detection unit (232).

[0124] In this configuration, it is easier for the worker to keep track of the number of processed objects that have been completed.

[0125] In the tool system (1) according to the eighth embodiment, in the seventh embodiment, the predetermined conditions are met when the number of rotations since the start of rotation of the output shaft (33) reaches the set number of rotations, when the number of rotations since the time the rotational load of the output shaft (33) is detected reaches the set number of rotations, when the rotation time since the start of rotation of the output shaft (33) reaches the set time, or when the rotation time since the time the rotational load of the output shaft (33) is detected reaches the set time.

[0126] According to this embodiment, operations such as threading can be performed using a tool (2).

[0127] The tool system (1) according to the ninth embodiment further comprises, in any of the first to eighth embodiments, an operation unit (4), a recording processing unit (234), and a determination unit (235). The operation unit (4) receives operations from the user. The recording processing unit (234) performs recording processing. The determination unit (235) performs a pass / fail determination for each operation, determining whether the work has been completed successfully based on determination conditions. The work target group is a group of work targets that are worked on with the same operation settings. The operation unit (4) receives operations to set the determination conditions used for pass / fail determination and the number of work targets included in the work target group to which the determination conditions apply in pass / fail determination. The recording processing unit (234) associates the information on the determination conditions and the information on the number of work targets included in the work target group, which have been set based on the operations on the operation unit (4), with each other and stores them in the storage unit (22).

[0128] This embodiment reduces the effort required to set up operation settings for each task.

[0129] In the tool system (1) according to the tenth embodiment, in the ninth embodiment, one or more work target groups include a first work target group on which work is performed with a first operation setting, and a second work target group on which work is performed with a second operation setting. The operation unit (4) receives operations to set a first judgment condition used for good or bad judgment performed by the judgment unit (235) for each operation on the first work target group, a second judgment condition used for good or bad judgment performed by the judgment unit (235) for each operation on the second work target group, the number of work targets included in the first work target group, and the number of work targets included in the second work target group. The recording processing unit (234) stores in the storage unit (22) a combination of first setting information, which associates information on the first judgment condition with information on the number of work targets included in the first work target group, and second setting information, which associates information on the second judgment condition with information on the number of work targets included in the second work target group, based on the operations on the operation unit (4).

[0130] This configuration further reduces the effort required to set up operation settings for each task.

[0131] The tool system (1) according to the eleventh embodiment further comprises, in the tenth embodiment, an operating unit (4) that receives an operation to set the rotational speed of the output shaft (33). The operating state of the operating unit (4) is a first state in which an operation to the operating unit (4) is received, and a second state in which an operation to the operating unit (4) is not received.

[0132] According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the operator from changing the operating settings of the tool (2).

[0133] In the tool system (1) according to the twelfth embodiment, in any of the first to eleventh embodiments, the drive control unit (231) can switch the rotation direction of the output shaft (33) between clockwise and counterclockwise. The drive control unit (231) controls the motor (31) so that the output shaft (33) alternates between the above-mentioned clockwise operation and the above-mentioned counterclockwise operation.

[0134] This embodiment has the advantage that it does not require manual operation settings to change the direction of rotation.

[0135] In the tool system (1) according to the 13th embodiment, in the 12th embodiment, the predetermined conditions are met when the number of rotations since the start of rotation of the output shaft (33) reaches the set number of rotations, when the number of rotations since the time the rotational load of the output shaft (33) is detected reaches the set number of rotations, when the rotation time since the start of rotation of the output shaft (33) reaches the set time, or when the rotation time since the time the rotational load of the output shaft (33) is detected reaches the set time.

[0136] The tool system (1) according to the 14th embodiment further comprises a notification control unit (233) that controls the notification unit (5) in any of the first to 13th embodiments. The work target group is a group of work targets in which work is performed with the same operation settings. The detection unit (232) detects the number of operations for the above-mentioned operation. The notification control unit (233) causes the notification unit (5) to execute a notification indicating that the work is incomplete if the number of operations detected by the detection unit (232) is less than the number of work targets included in the work target group, and a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of work for one or more work target groups.

[0137] According to this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the number of work errors.

[0138] The tool system (1) according to the 15th embodiment further comprises a notification control unit (233) and a determination unit (235) in any of the first to 14th embodiments. The notification control unit (233) controls the notification unit (5). The determination unit (235) performs a pass / fail determination for each operation to determine whether the work has been completed successfully. In the pass / fail determination, the determination unit (235) determines that the work has been completed successfully if the number of rotations of the output shaft (33) since the start of rotation reaches the set number of rotations, if the number of rotations of the output shaft (33) since the time the rotation load was detected reaches the set number of rotations, if the rotation time of the output shaft (33) since the start of rotation reaches the set time, or if the rotation time of the output shaft (33) since the time the rotation load was detected reaches the set time. In the pass / fail determination, the determination unit (235) determines that the work has not been completed successfully if the clutch unit (322) performs a disengagement operation. If the determination unit (235) determines in the pass / fail judgment that the work has not been completed successfully, the notification control unit (233) instructs the notification unit (5) to issue a notification indicating that the work has not been completed successfully.

[0139] According to this embodiment, for example, even in operations such as threading, a quality judgment can be made and the result of the quality judgment can be notified to the worker.

[0140] Configurations other than those in the first embodiment are not essential to the tool system (1) and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0141] The tool (2) according to the 16th embodiment is a tool used for workpieces that include one or more workpiece groups. The tool (2) comprises an output shaft (33), a motor (31), a drive control unit (231), a clutch unit (322), and a detection unit (232). A tip tool (X1) can be attached to the output shaft (33). The motor (31) rotates the output shaft (33). The drive control unit (231) controls the motor (31) based on a preset operation setting and rotates the output shaft (33). The clutch unit (322) performs a shut-off operation to switch from a transmission state in which torque is transmitted to the output shaft (33) to a shut-off state in which torque is not transmitted to the output shaft (33) when the torque transmitted from the motor (31) to the output shaft (33) exceeds a predetermined torque. The detection unit (232) detects the number of rotations of the output shaft (33) in a single operation from the time it detects the start of rotation of the output shaft (33) or rotational load until it stops due to the fulfillment of predetermined conditions. The predetermined conditions are met when the number of rotations of the output shaft (33) from the start of rotation reaches a preset number of rotations, when the number of rotations of the output shaft (33) from the time it detects rotational load reaches the above preset number of rotations, when the rotation time of the output shaft (33) from the start of rotation reaches a preset time, when the rotation time of the output shaft (33) from the time it detects rotational load reaches the above preset time, or when the clutch unit (322) performs a disengagement operation.

[0142] This embodiment makes it possible to perform various operations on the workpiece.

[0143] 1 Tool system 2 Tool 22 Memory unit 231 Drive control unit 232 Detection unit 233 Notification control unit 234 Recording processing unit 235 Judgment unit 31 Motor 322 Clutch unit 33 Output shaft 4 Operation unit 5 Notification unit X1 Tip tool

Claims

1. A tool system for use on a workpiece including one or more workpiece groups, comprising: an output shaft to which a tip tool can be attached; a motor for rotating the output shaft; a drive control unit for controlling the motor and rotating the output shaft based on a preset operation setting; a clutch unit for performing a disconnection operation that transitions from a transmission state in which torque is transmitted to the output shaft to a disconnection state in which torque is not transmitted to the output shaft when the torque transmitted from the motor to the output shaft exceeds a predetermined torque; and a detection unit for detecting the number of rotations of the output shaft in one operation from the time when the rotation of the output shaft starts or rotational load is detected until rotation stops due to the fulfillment of a predetermined condition, wherein the predetermined condition is: when the number of rotations from the start of rotation of the output shaft reaches a preset set number of rotations; when the number of rotations from the time when the rotational load of the output shaft is detected reaches the set number of rotations; when the rotation time from the start of rotation of the output shaft reaches a preset set time; when the rotation time from the time when the rotational load of the output shaft is detected reaches the set time. Alternatively, a tool system that is satisfied when the clutch unit performs the disengagement operation.

2. The drive control unit is capable of switching the rotation direction of the output shaft between clockwise and counterclockwise, and the detection unit detects the number of rotations in the counterclockwise operation, the tool system according to claim 1.

3. The tool system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an operating unit for receiving an operation to set the rotational speed of the output shaft, wherein the drive control unit can switch the rotational direction of the output shaft between clockwise and counterclockwise, and controls the motor such that the rotational speed in one operation in the counterclockwise direction becomes the set rotational speed.

4. The drive control unit is capable of switching the rotation direction of the output shaft between clockwise and counterclockwise, and the output shaft is reversed before being rotated forward when rotation of the output shaft begins, the tool system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The tool system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a notification control unit for controlling a notification unit, wherein the work target group is a group of work targets in which work is performed with the same operation settings, the detection unit detects the number of operations for one operation, and the notification control unit causes the notification unit to continuously execute a notification indicating that work is in progress when the number of operations detected by the detection unit is 1 or more and less than the number of work targets included in the work target group.

6. The drive control unit is capable of switching the rotation direction of the output shaft between clockwise and counterclockwise, and the work target group is a group of work targets that are worked on in the counterclockwise single operation, as described in claim 5.

7. The tool system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a notification control unit for controlling a notification unit, wherein the work target group is a group of work targets in which work is performed with the same operation settings, the detection unit detects the number of operations for one operation, counts the number of work objects in which work has been completed based on the detected number of operations and the number of work targets included in the work target group, and the notification control unit causes the notification unit to execute a notification regarding the number of work objects counted by the detection unit.

8. The tool system according to claim 7, wherein the predetermined conditions are met when the number of rotations since the start of rotation of the output shaft reaches the set number of rotations, when the number of rotations since the time the rotational load of the output shaft is detected reaches the set number of rotations, when the rotation time since the start of rotation of the output shaft reaches the set time, or when the rotation time since the time the rotational load of the output shaft is detected reaches the set time.

9. The tool system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: an operation unit that receives operations from a user; a recording processing unit that performs recording processing; and a determination unit that performs a pass / fail determination for each operation, determining whether the work has been completed successfully based on determination conditions, wherein the work target group is a group of work targets on which work is performed with the same operation settings; the operation unit receives operations for setting the determination conditions used for the pass / fail determination and the number of work targets included in the work target group to which the determination conditions are applied in the pass / fail determination; and the recording processing unit stores in a storage unit the information of the determination conditions and the information of the number of work targets included in the work target group, which have been set based on the operations to the operation unit, in association with each other.

10. The tool system according to claim 9, wherein the one or more work target groups include a first work target group on which work is performed according to a first operation setting, and a second work target group on which work is performed according to a second operation setting, the operation unit receives operations for setting a first judgment condition used for the good / bad judgment performed by the determination unit for each operation of the first work target group, a second judgment condition used for the good / bad judgment performed by the determination unit for each operation of the second work target group, the number of work targets included in the first work target group, and the number of work targets included in the second work target group, and the recording processing unit stores in the storage unit a combination of first setting information, which associates the information of the first judgment condition with the information of the number of work targets included in the first work target group, and second setting information, which associates the information of the second judgment condition with the information of the number of work targets included in the second work target group, set based on the operations of the operation unit.

11. The tool system according to claim 10, further comprising an operating unit for receiving an operation to set the rotational speed of the output shaft, wherein the operating state of the operating unit includes a first state in which an operation is received by the operating unit and a second state in which an operation is not received by the operating unit.

12. The tool system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the drive control unit can switch the rotation direction of the output shaft between clockwise and counterclockwise, and controls the motor so that the output shaft alternates between the clockwise operation and the counterclockwise operation.

13. The tool system according to claim 12, wherein the predetermined conditions are met when the number of rotations since the start of rotation of the output shaft reaches the set number of rotations, when the number of rotations since the time the rotational load of the output shaft is detected reaches the set number of rotations, when the rotation time since the start of rotation of the output shaft reaches the set time, or when the rotation time since the time the rotational load of the output shaft is detected reaches the set time.

14. The tool system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a notification control unit for controlling a notification unit, wherein the work target group is a group of work targets in which work is performed with the same operation settings, the detection unit detects the number of operations for one operation, and the notification control unit causes the notification unit to execute a notification indicating that the work is incomplete when the number of operations detected by the detection unit is less than the number of work targets included in the work target group and a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of work for the work target group.

15. A tool system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising: a notification control unit for controlling a notification unit; and a determination unit for performing a pass / fail determination to determine whether the work has been completed successfully for each operation, wherein the determination unit determines that the work has been completed successfully when, in the pass / fail determination, the number of rotations from the start of rotation of the output shaft reaches the set number of rotations; the number of rotations from the time the rotation load of the output shaft is detected reaches the set number of rotations; the rotation time from the start of rotation of the output shaft reaches the set time; or the rotation time from the time the rotation load of the output shaft is detected reaches the set time; the determination unit determines that the work has not been completed successfully when the clutch unit performs the disconnection operation; and the notification control unit causes the notification unit to execute a notification indicating that the work has not been completed successfully if the determination unit determines in the pass / fail determination that the work has not been completed successfully.

16. A tool for use on a workpiece including one or more workpiece groups, comprising: an output shaft to which a tip tool can be attached; a motor for rotating the output shaft; a drive control unit that controls the motor and rotates the output shaft based on a preset operation setting; a clutch unit that performs a disconnection operation to switch from a transmission state in which torque is transmitted to the output shaft to a disconnection state in which torque is not transmitted to the output shaft when the torque transmitted from the motor to the output shaft exceeds a predetermined torque; and a detection unit that detects the number of rotations of the output shaft in one operation from the time when the rotation of the output shaft starts or rotational load is detected until rotation stops due to the fulfillment of a predetermined condition, wherein the predetermined condition is: when the number of rotations from the start of rotation of the output shaft reaches a preset set number of rotations; when the number of rotations from the time when the rotational load of the output shaft is detected reaches the set number of rotations; when the rotation time from the start of rotation of the output shaft reaches a preset set time; when the rotation time from the time when the rotational load of the output shaft is detected reaches the set time. Alternatively, a tool that is filled when the clutch unit performs the disengagement operation.

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