Adaptable Machining System with Image-Based Tool Path Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining systems struggle to adapt to work pieces with varying designs and geometries, as preprogrammed tool paths are not sufficient for high-variance features or different article designs, requiring manual reprogramming and limiting efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A digital image-based method that captures images of work pieces, identifies relevant data, and selectively modifies preprogrammed cutting tool paths based on image data, allowing for automated adaptation of machining operations without manual intervention, using a system comprising a digital imaging system, a robot, and a controller to adjust tool paths and select appropriate cutting tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If preprogrammed cutting tool paths are used for machining, then machining efficiency is improved, but adaptability to work pieces with varying designs and geometries deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically modifies preprogrammed cutting tool paths based on real-time image data analysis of work pieces. The controller automatically adjusts machining parameters and tool paths to accommodate variations in work piece geometry and design features, enabling the system to adapt to different work piece types while maintaining automated machining efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes machining parameters such as tool path offsets, cutting speeds, and tool selections based on identified work piece features from image data. By automatically modifying these parameters according to the specific work piece being machined, the system maintains high productivity while achieving adaptability to varying designs and geometries.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual reprogramming is performed to adapt to different work piece designs, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machining system performs self-service by automatically analyzing work piece image data and modifying its own tool paths and machining parameters without requiring manual intervention. The controller autonomously adapts the machining process to different work piece designs, eliminating the time-consuming manual reprogramming step while maintaining full adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from image data analysis to automatically adjust tool paths and machining parameters. The digital imaging system captures work piece features, the controller analyzes this data, and automatically modifies the machining process in real-time, creating a closed-loop system that eliminates manual reprogramming time while maintaining adaptability to different designs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple preprogrammed tool paths are created for different work piece designs, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by using a single base tool path program that can be automatically modified to handle different work piece designs. The digital imaging system and controller work together to adapt the universal tool path to specific work piece features, eliminating the need for multiple specialized preprogrammed paths while maintaining the capability to machine various designs.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using multiple static preprogrammed tool paths, the system employs one dynamic tool path that automatically adjusts based on real-time image data analysis. The controller modifies the tool path parameters dynamically according to the specific work piece being machined, reducing the number of programs needed while maintaining adaptability to different designs and geometries.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for adaptable machining includes (a) providing one or more images with a digital imaging system of each of a series of work pieces, (b) for each of the work pieces, selectively modifying a preprogrammed cutting tool path with regard to the image of the respective work piece, and (c) for each of the work pieces, performing a machining operation according to the respective selectively modified preprogrammed cutting tool path.