Machine Tool Display Control Dynamic Partitioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional machine tool display devices require pre-setting of display templates and fixed picture sizes, making it difficult for operators to easily view machining information, especially when the size of the display area needs to be adjusted, leading to reduced character sizes and impaired readability.

Innovation Solution

A control device for machine tools that allows dynamic partitioning of the display area, enabling operators to change the size and format of machining information display, including current position images with adjustable character sizes and coordinate system layouts, using a touch panel or pointing device, to ensure clear visualization of machining data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the display area size is changed to accommodate different machining information, then the adaptability of the display device is improved, but the character size is reduced and readability is impaired

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay area size adjustmentVSAvoidreadability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The display device dynamically adjusts character size based on the current display area size. When the display area is enlarged to show more machining information, the system automatically increases character size to maintain readability. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by making both the display area and character size variable rather than fixed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter of character size in response to changes in display area size. By linking these two parameters, the device ensures that when the display area is expanded to improve adaptability, the character size is simultaneously increased to preserve readability, thus resolving the technical contradiction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If display templates are pre-set with fixed picture sizes, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation is worsened when size adjustment is needed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay template structureVSAvoiddisplay size adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The display device performs automatic self-adjustment of character size when the display area size is changed. Instead of requiring manual reconfiguration of templates and character sizes, the system automatically adapts its display parameters, reducing operational complexity while maintaining ease of use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The display system transitions from static fixed-size templates to dynamic adjustable sizes. The ability to change display area size without being constrained by pre-set templates improves ease of operation, while the automatic character size adjustment prevents the system from becoming overly complex.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple display templates with different sizes are stored, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and setting time are increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay size optionsVSAvoidtemplate storage and selection
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The display device achieves multiple display size capabilities through a single universal mechanism that dynamically adjusts character size based on display area size. This eliminates the need for storing and managing multiple separate templates, thereby maintaining adaptability while reducing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring operators to select from pre-stored templates, the system automatically determines the appropriate character size based on the current display area configuration. This self-adjusting capability provides the same adaptability as multiple templates without the complexity of template management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3159759B1Control device for machine tool
Publication Date: 2019.08.28 MAKINO MILLING MASCH CO LTD
  • EP3159759B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3159759B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3159759B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A control device for a machine tool, said control device being provided with a display unit (28) that displays machining information and a display control unit (22) that generates an image to display on said display unit (28). The display control unit (22) is designed so as to divide up the display region of the display unit (28), generating a plurality of subregions (48a-48d, 50a, 50b). Via input from an operator, the sizes of said subregions (48a-48d, 50a, 50b) can be changed. The display control unit (22) changes the display format of the machining information in accordance with the machining information to be displayed and the sizes of the subregions (48a-48d, 50a, 50b).