CNC Machining Simulation With 3D Finite Difference Visualization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing CNC machining simulators are limited in visually representing the overall differences in machining results, as they typically superimpose results with a specific machining point as a reference, failing to provide a comprehensive view of the finite differences in machining outcomes.

Innovation Solution

A machining simulator that generates 3D models from CNC programs, specifies a common reference position, superimposes multiple 3D models, calculates and displays finite differences using Boolean operations or ray tracing, and controls the display of these models to visually represent the overall machining result differences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple CNC programs are superimposed with a specific machining point as reference, then the difference at that specific point can be visually known, but the overall finite difference of the machining result cannot be comprehensively visualized

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevisualization accuracy of machining differenceVSAvoidcomplexity of superimposition method

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from 2D CNC program text comparison to 3D machining result visualization. By generating 3D models from machining results and superimposing them in three-dimensional space with proper alignment, the system enables comprehensive visualization of overall finite differences rather than being limited to specific points or numerical comparisons.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates visual copies of machining results in the form of 3D models. Multiple 3D models representing different CNC program outcomes are generated and superimposed, allowing visual comparison of the actual machining differences rather than interpreting numerical data or text differences.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Loss of information

If CNC programs are compared by displaying multiple programs, then program differences can be seen, but machining results and their visual differences cannot be known

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinformation about machining result differencesVSAvoidease of understanding machining differences

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical/text-based CNC program comparison with a visual simulation system. Instead of comparing G-code or numerical data directly, the system simulates the machining process to generate 3D models and visually displays the differences, making it intuitive to understand machining result variations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses color coding to highlight differences in the superimposed 3D models. Regions where machining results differ between programs are displayed in different colors, enabling quick visual identification of finite differences without requiring detailed numerical analysis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

3Manufacturing precision

If numerical control simulator is used to simulate machining process, then machining results can be visually known, but comprehensive overall finite difference visualization is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of machining result representationVSAvoidcomplexity of simulation system

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the machining result comparison into distinct 3D models for each CNC program, then superimposes them with alignment to a common reference position. This segmentation allows independent accurate representation of each program's outcome while enabling comprehensive comparison through superimposition.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple 3D models representing different machining results into a single superimposed visualization. By combining the models in three-dimensional space with proper alignment, the system presents a unified view that shows both individual results and their differences simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11656599B2Machining simulator and storage medium encoded with machining simulation program

Publication Date: 2023.05.23 FANUC LTD

AI summary

A machining simulator that virtually executes a CNC program to simulate a machining result, includes: a 3D model generating unit that virtually executes a plurality of CNC programs to generate a 3D model from respective machining results obtained; a reference position specifying unit that specifies a predetermined coordinate common to a generated plurality of 3D models as a reference position; a superimposed model generating unit that generates a superimposed model in which a plurality of 3D models is superimposed at the reference position; a finite difference model generating unit that generates a finite difference model obtained by taking a finite difference of the 3D models included in the superimposed model generated; and a display control unit that controls display of at least one of the superimposed model generated and the finite difference model.