Machine Tool Controller Remote I/O Setting via Mobile Terminal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional machine tool controllers lack the ability to remotely set data output and input destinations, requiring operators to physically move between the controller and server to manage data, leading to a heavy operational burden.
Innovation Solution
A remote management system comprising a remote management server connected to controllers via a predetermined connector, allowing data exchange with fixed destinations, and a mobile terminal for setting data output and input operations, enabling remote management through a network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If data management is performed using a conventional controller with fixed input/output destinations, then data exchange between controller and external storage device is reliable, but operator workload increases and data management becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
A converter device is introduced as an intermediary between the controller and external storage device. The converter translates communication protocols and manages data input/output operations, allowing the controller to communicate with external devices without requiring complex configuration or operator intervention for destination setting
Solution Approach 2:
The converter device provides universal data management capabilities that work with multiple types of external storage devices and controllers. It handles various communication protocols and data formats, making the system adaptable to different devices without increasing operational complexity
2Reliability
If external storage device is directly connected to controller via RS232C connector, then data transmission is stable, but operator must physically move between controller and server locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds a network communication dimension to the traditional direct connection model. The converter enables both direct RS232C connections for stable data transmission and network-based connections for remote operation, allowing operators to manage data from any location in the facility
3Adaptability or versatility
If controller has fixed data input/output destinations, then connection configuration is simple, but adaptability to different data management scenarios is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The converter device introduces dynamic configuration capabilities that allow data input/output destinations to be changed without physical reconnection. The system can dynamically route data between the controller and multiple external storage devices based on operational requirements, enhancing adaptability while maintaining simple connection topology
Data Source
AI summary
A remote management server serving as a remote management device is communicably connected to, via a converter, at least one controller serving as a machine tool which allows only direct connection to another device via a predetermined connector, thus exchanging data with a fixed input/output destination and which does not have a setting function of setting a data output destination and a data input destination. The controller is further communicably connected to a mobile terminal via a network. The remote management server includes an input/output control unit configured to control settings relating to data output and data input in the controller and a setting screen providing unit configured to provide the mobile terminal with a setting screen allowing input of setting information relating to the data output and the data input.