Machine Tool Interference Checking Using Tool Length Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools lack an efficient method to prevent unintended interference between tools, tables, jigs, and workpieces during operation, which can lead to collisions and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A control device for machine tools that includes a storage unit for working programs and tool length correction data, a control unit for relative movement of the table and spindle, a region setting unit to define an interference checking region based on tool length correction, and an interference determination unit to assess potential collisions with obstacles, allowing for real-time interference avoidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If interference checking is performed using fixed tool dimensions, then the checking process is simple, but the accuracy of interference detection is insufficient when tool length varies
Solution Approach 1:
The interference checking system dynamically adjusts the tool model dimensions based on actual tool length correction amounts. Instead of using fixed tool dimensions, the system retrieves the current tool's length correction amount from storage and uses it to generate an accurate tool model for interference checking, ensuring the detection accuracy adapts to each tool's specific characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters used for interference checking from fixed values to variable values based on tool length correction amounts. By retrieving the correction amount specific to each tool and using it to adjust the tool model parameters, the system achieves accurate interference detection without requiring complex manual reconfiguration.
2Measurement precision
If tool-specific interference checking is performed for each tool, then detection accuracy improves, but setup time increases when switching between multiple tools
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by storing tool length correction amounts and interference checking parameters in advance for each tool. When a tool is changed, the control unit automatically retrieves the pre-stored correction amount and generates the tool model without requiring manual input, thus maintaining high detection accuracy while minimizing setup time.
Solution Approach 2:
The interference checking system serves itself by automatically retrieving tool length correction amounts from storage and generating appropriate tool models without external intervention. This self-service capability eliminates manual setup operations when switching between tools, reducing setup time while maintaining accurate interference detection for each specific tool.
3Manufacturing precision
If interference checking region is set without considering tool length correction, then the setting process is quick, but the checking coverage is inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment of interference checking regions with an automated computational approach. The control unit automatically calculates and sets the interference checking region based on the tool model generated from the length correction amount, eliminating the need for manual region adjustment while achieving accurate checking coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A control device includes: a storage unit that stores a working program and a tool length correction amount; a control unit that causes a table and a spindle to relatively move on the basis of the working program and the tool length correction amount; a region setting unit that sets an interference checking region including a tool held by the spindle on the basis of the tool length correction amount; and an interference determination unit that determines whether the interference checking region interferes or not with obstacles in surroundings of the tool in a case in which the tool and the table are caused to relatively move on the basis of the working program and the tool length correction amount.