Machine Tool Axis Locking for Simpler Multi-Axis Program Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools face challenges in efficiently transferring part programs across different machines due to increasing geometric complexity and the need for cost-effective, simple control units, particularly in regions with legal restrictions, while maintaining compatibility and reducing computational effort.
Innovation Solution
A method that temporarily blocks at least one rotary axis, allowing for simplified coordinate transformation by reducing the number of degrees of freedom, and uses a control unit with a reduced number of processable machine axes to execute part programs, including coordinate transformations and adaptations for machining positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of machine axes is increased to machine geometrically complex components, then manufacturing capability is improved, but control unit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control problem by separating the coordinate transformation function from the main control unit. The workpiece coordinate system transformation is handled independently through a separate transformation unit or post-processor, allowing the main control unit to remain simple while still supporting complex multi-axis machining operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary coordinate transformation layer between the part program and the machine tool axes. This transformation unit acts as a mediator that converts programs written in a standardized coordinate system into machine-specific control commands, enabling compatibility without requiring complex control units on all machines.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex high-performance control units are used to handle coordinate transformations, then part program execution capability is improved, but availability is reduced due to legal restrictions and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the coordinate transformation functionality from the main control unit and implements it as a separate, standalone transformation unit. This allows the core control unit to remain simple and widely available, while the transformation capability is added as an independent component that can be implemented in software or hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal coordinate transformation approach that can be applied to any machine tool regardless of its native control system. By establishing a standardized workpiece coordinate system and transformation methodology, the same transformation principles can be used across different machine types, making the solution universally applicable without requiring proprietary complex control units.
3Manufacturing precision
If coordinate transformation is performed for all machine axes including rotary axes, then positioning accuracy is improved, but computational effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs coordinate transformation in a predetermined sequence, establishing the workpiece coordinate system before machining operations begin. By pre-defining the transformation relationships and locking certain axes during transformation calculations, the system reduces real-time computational requirements while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic approach to coordinate transformation where the transformation scope is adjusted based on the current machining context. Certain rotary axes are locked or excluded from transformation calculations when not needed, reducing computational effort dynamically while maintaining accuracy when those axes are actively used.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a method (100) for operating a machine tool (10) having a first number of machine axes (14), which can each be moved by a drive means (12) and can be actuated via a control unit (20). The control unit (20) is designed such that, relative to a reference point (27) on the machine tool (10), it carries out a coordinates transformation (33) around a second number of machine axes (14). The method (100) comprises a first step (110) which involves providing a parts program (30) for the machining of a workpiece by means of the machine tool (10). A second step (120) involves determining at least one axis of rotation (13) from among the machine axes (14) and blocking the determined at least one axis of rotation (13) for actuations. The method (100) comprises a third step (130) which involves determining control commands (35) for a plurality of machine axes (14), excluding the at least one axis of rotation (13) determined in the second step (120). In a fourth step (140), the at least one axis of rotation (13) determined in the second step (120) is brought into a machining position (28) and a corresponding rotational movement (26) is determined.