Forming Machine Axis Programming Without NC Block Editing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-axis forming machines require programming knowledge for operators to make minor interventions in the NC program flow, as they need to access and modify NC blocks, which can be complex and unintuitive.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allow operators to create movement sequences using position-related motion parameters without requiring knowledge of CNC programming, eliminating the need for time constraints and allowing flexible programming of axis movements, with features like an axis selection menu, motion law menu, and graphical representation of movement sequences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If operators access and modify NC blocks to make interventions in the NC program flow, then programming flexibility is achieved, but programming knowledge is required and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary interface between the operator and the NC program. Instead of directly accessing NC blocks, operators interact with a simplified programming interface that automatically generates and manages the underlying NC code. This intermediary layer translates intuitive operator inputs into precise machine control commands, eliminating the need for operators to understand complex programming syntax while maintaining full programming flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy or representation of the NC programming interface that mirrors the essential functionality without the complexity. Operators work with a user-friendly interface that replicates the core programming capabilities through intuitive elements like icons, menus, and graphical representations, rather than requiring direct manipulation of raw NC blocks. This copied interface provides the same adaptability at a much lower complexity level.
2Measurement precision
If operators manually program movement sequences using traditional NC blocks, then precise control is achieved, but time consumption increases and intuitiveness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring standardized movement sequences and control parameters that can be directly selected and applied. Instead of programming each movement from scratch, operators can choose from pre-defined templates and patterns that already contain optimized control logic. The system automatically adapts these preliminary configurations to the specific task requirements, significantly reducing programming time while maintaining precise control through the underlying detailed NC code generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables precise control through parameter changes rather than structural programming modifications. Operators can achieve different movement sequences by adjusting numerical parameters such as speed, acceleration, position, and timing, rather than rewriting program logic. This parameter-based approach maintains control precision while dramatically reducing the time and effort required to program complex movements, as the same program structure can be adapted to different tasks simply by changing parameters.
3Reliability
If time constraints are specified for axis movements, then synchronized control is achieved, but flexibility in programming is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control where time constraints and synchronization parameters can be adjusted in real-time based on operational requirements. The system allows operators to define flexible timing relationships between different axes, enabling synchronized control when needed while maintaining the ability to modify timing parameters dynamically during operation. This dynamic approach provides both the reliability of synchronized control and the flexibility to adapt to changing production requirements without reprogramming.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for programming the control of a forming machine which has a plurality of controllable machine axes, a control device for the coordinated control of movements of the machine axes and an operator unit (300) with an associated display unit (310) for operating the forming machine comprises the following steps: displaying a selection menu (AAM) with graphical symbols for machine axes of the forming machine; receiving an input for selection of a machine axis to be programmed; displaying an axial movement menu (ABM) containing options for the input of movement parameters for definition of a course of movement of the selected machine axis; receiving inputs for definition of movement parameters; displaying an axial movement coordination menu (ABKM) containing options for the input of coordination parameters for definition of a coordination of courses of movements of machine axes; receiving inputs for definition of values for coordination parameters. The steps can be implemented by a programming system of the forming machine. Inputs can be made by an operator.