Generalized Kinematics Library for Machine Tool Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machine tool control systems face challenges in efficiently managing complexity and change, particularly in isolating system responsibilities and optimizing machining processes, leading to suboptimal machining accuracy and agility.
Innovation Solution
The development of an object-oriented machine tool control system with a generalized kinematics library that models various machine tool systems, allowing for real-time control of machine tool movements and interpolation methods to optimize positioning and movement planning, including the use of virtual kinematics machines to determine position information and select optimal traverse solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional machine tool control system is used, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot effectively isolate responsibilities and manage complexity, leading to poor adaptability when changes are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is divided into distinct object-oriented classes (Machine class, Kernel, PLC programs, operator programs) that can be independently modified. This segmentation allows changes to be isolated to specific components without affecting the entire system, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity through structured organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The Machine class serves as a universal component that can be customized through PLC programs and operator programs to handle different machine tool configurations and control requirements. This multi-functionality allows the same core system to adapt to various manufacturing needs without requiring complete system redesign.
2Productivity
If the control system is modified to improve adaptability, then system agility increases, but the complexity of managing and coordinating multiple components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The Machine class acts as an intermediary layer between the Kernel and the variable components (PLC programs, operator programs). This mediator coordinates interactions between components, managing complexity by providing a standardized interface that simplifies system coordination while enabling flexible modifications for improved development agility.
3Manufacturing precision
If virtual machining and measuring cell is used to predict machining errors, then machining accuracy improves, but the computational requirements and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
A virtual machining and measuring cell is created as a digital copy of the physical machining system. This virtual model allows prediction and compensation of machining errors through simulation without requiring physical trial-and-error, improving machining accuracy while managing complexity through software-based modeling rather than physical experimentation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure includes a generalized kinematics library (210) which may be used to control the motion of a machine tool system (100) and to process data for other applications, such as simulation graphics (245). Methods are disclosed to interpolate the movement of various axes of a machine tool system (100) through a machine singularity point (490).