Modular Machine Tool I/O Network With IEEE 1588 Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data processing and transmission systems for machine tools are inflexible, bulky, and prone to noise interference, leading to accuracy issues and installation difficulties, with centralized intelligence systems being oversized and distributed intelligence systems failing to provide effective synchronization and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A modular data processing and transmission system using a multipolar cable network with a master unit and slave units, where slave units are positioned near devices to reduce noise and cables, and a synchronization method using the IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol to synchronize clocks and data transmission, allowing for flexible configuration and improved reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If centralized intelligence data processing and transmission systems are used, then data processing capability is improved, but device size and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the data processing functionality into multiple independent intelligent I/O devices distributed throughout the machine tool, rather than using a single centralized processing unit. Each I/O device can independently process data locally, reducing the need for complex centralized processing and extensive cable connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If devices are positioned in polluted environment, then operational flexibility is improved, but noise interference and measurement accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a multipolar cable system with integrated shielding and filtering as an intermediary between the polluted environment and the control system. This intermediary protects against noise and interference while allowing devices to remain in their operational positions, maintaining flexibility without sacrificing measurement accuracy.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If distributed intelligence architecture is used, then operational signals are transmitted closer to devices, but synchronization reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic synchronization signals transmitted through the multipolar cable network to maintain time coordination among distributed intelligent I/O devices. This periodic action ensures that despite the distributed architecture, all devices remain synchronized, maintaining reliability while benefiting from reduced noise interference.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cables and connectors are used for connecting devices, then connection flexibility is improved, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate cable connections into a single multipolar cable that integrates multiple signal paths, power supply, and communication channels. This consolidation maintains the flexibility to connect multiple devices while dramatically reducing installation time by eliminating the need to install and configure multiple separate cables.
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A data processing and transmission system (1) for a numerical control unit (2) adapted to control a machine tool (3), comprises at least one input channel (4) adapted to a transit of operational signals from or to devices present in the machine tool, electronic circuits configured to process the operational signals to make available on an output interface (5) control signals for the numerical control unit, a multipolar cable (8) having a first and a second end, each provided with a multipolar connector (9), a master unit having the output interface, a main processor, a memory and at least one socket (7A) configured to be coupled to one of the multipolar connectors, one or more slave units (6), each provided with at least one external port (6A) defining the input channel, a memory, a secondary processor, and provided also with a first socket (6B) and a second socket (6C), configured to be coupled at least to a first or a second connector of the multipolar connectors in order to interconnect the slave unit at least with the master unit. The master unit has a clock and each slave unit has its own clock. The main processor divides a data transmission time interval into a plurality of time slots an uniquely assigns to each slave unit a corresponding time slot of said plurality of time slots. The secondary processor of each slave unit is set to transmit data through the multipolar cable only within the respective time slot. Each slave unit can be connected to another slave unit to define a modular structure.