Five-Axis CNC Cycle Setup Using Pattern and Tool-Axis Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current five-axis computer numerical control (CNC) machining systems are inflexible and error-prone due to limited machining cycle options and duplication of steps, leading to increased complexity and reliability issues in programming simultaneous five-axis movements.
Innovation Solution
A computer-aided manufacturing system that allows users to select from multiple machining patterns and tool axis orientations through separate menus, enabling the definition of tool positions and rules for approaching, departing, and linking workpiece areas, which are then converted into machine instructions for generating error-free CNC programs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple machining cycles are created to cover different machining needs, then the system can handle more machining scenarios, but the device complexity and maintenance effort increase exponentially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the machining cycle into independent modular components: machining patterns (e.g., contouring, slotting, facing) and tool axis orientations (e.g., normal to surface, fixed direction, angled). These segmented elements can be independently selected and combined, replacing the traditional monolithic machining cycle structure. This allows the system to handle diverse machining scenarios through combination rather than proliferation of complete cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal machining cycle structure that can perform multiple functions through parameter selection. Instead of having separate specialized cycles for each machining operation, a single universal cycle framework accepts different machining patterns and tool axis orientations as inputs, making it multi-functional. This universal structure reduces the total number of cycles needed while maintaining versatility across all machining scenarios.
2Ease of operation
If each machining cycle contains a small number of options to make it understandable, then the user interface is simpler, but the adaptability to handle diverse machining needs is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface is segmented into separate selection steps: first selecting a machining pattern, then selecting a tool axis orientation. This segmentation presents simple, focused options at each step rather than overwhelming the user with all possible cycle variations simultaneously. The modular structure allows users to make simple binary or categorical choices at each stage while achieving complex overall configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to the machining cycle definition by separating the traditional single-cycle concept into two independent selection dimensions: machining pattern and tool axis orientation. This dimensional separation allows the interface to maintain simplicity at each dimension while providing comprehensive coverage when dimensions are combined, effectively transforming a complex single-dimension problem into two simpler dimensions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the number of specific machining cycles is increased to cover all machining needs, then the system versatility improves, but the reliability decreases due to more internal steps and potential errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal machining cycle that can reliably handle all machining scenarios through systematic parameter selection rather than relying on numerous specialized cycles. This universal approach reduces the total number of independent code paths and internal steps, thereby reducing potential error sources. The standardized structure of the universal cycle ensures consistent error checking and validation across all machining operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes to adapt a single universal machining cycle to different machining needs. Instead of having different cycles for different operations, the system changes parameters (machining pattern selection, tool axis orientation selection) within a single reliable cycle framework. This parameter-based adaptation maintains reliability by keeping the core cycle logic unchanged while achieving versatility through configurable parameters.
Data Source
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AI summary
Computer-enabled methods and devices (102) allow for the ready set-up for machine instruction (121) generation by addressing various combinations of machining patterns (410) and tool axis orientations (430) via the selection or designation of a machining pattern and the selection or designation of a tool axis orientation via menus of a user interface (150).