Consumable Component Life Prediction With Bayesian Machine Learning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for predicting the life of consumable components in manufacturing machines, such as tools and motors, are impractical due to the complexity of determining constants and the need for large amounts of data, leading to inaccurate predictions and high costs, especially when machining conditions frequently change.

Innovation Solution

A life predicting device using statistical machine learning optimizes a life probability model from limited data through Bayesian inference, selecting relevant data features and updating parameters in real-time, allowing for accurate prediction of component lifespan and reducing unnecessary inspections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the life equation of Taylor is used to estimate tool life, then a constant can be decided based on machining conditions, but the determination of the constant is complicated when machining conditions frequently change

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool life estimation accuracyVSAvoidconstant determination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical calculation method of Taylor's life equation with a neural network-based system. The neural network automatically learns the relationship between machining conditions and tool life from historical data, eliminating the need for manual constant determination and complex calculations when conditions change.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The neural network system performs self-learning and self-adjustment by automatically updating its internal parameters based on observed machining data. This allows the system to adapt to changing machining conditions without requiring manual intervention or recalculation of constants.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If life estimation is performed according to machining time and number of times of machining, then a rule of thumb can be applied, but the life cannot be predicted at high accuracy when machining conditions frequently change

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveestimation method simplicityVSAvoidlife prediction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the estimation approach by changing from simple counting parameters (time, number of operations) to a comprehensive set of machining condition parameters. The neural network processes multiple input parameters simultaneously, capturing the complex relationships between varying machining conditions and tool life while maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If cluster analysis is performed to improve life prediction accuracy, then a highly accurate estimation can be achieved, but a large amount of consolidated data are necessary

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool life estimation accuracyVSAvoiddata quantity requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The neural network is pre-trained with initial data to establish baseline knowledge about tool life relationships. This preliminary learning enables the system to provide accurate predictions even when the amount of new consolidated data is limited, as the pre-trained network can generalize from its initial training.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If data are collected at any time to check component state tendency, then a real operation state estimation can be performed, but a large-capacity storage is necessary

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent life prediction reliabilityVSAvoiddata storage capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The system extracts and processes only the essential features and parameters from the collected machining data that are most relevant to predicting component life. By focusing on key features rather than storing and processing all raw data, the system achieves reliable predictions with reduced storage requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS11402817B2Life predicting device and machine learning device
Publication Date: 2022.08.02 FANUC LTD
  • US11402817B2 patent drawing
  • US11402817B2 patent drawing
  • US11402817B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A machine learning device included in a life predicting device observes, as a state variable, life related data related to a life of a consumable component, creates a probability model of a service life for replacement of the consumable component on the basis of the life related data, and predicts, using the created probability model, the service life for replacement of the consumable component based on the life related data.