Machine Tool Parameter Reflection for Continuous Machining

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

In machine tools, changing multiple parameters during operation requires stopping the power supply, leading to disruptions and reduced productivity, as changed parameters may not be reflected correctly upon power restoration, resulting in an unfixed setting state.

Innovation Solution

A control system that includes a storage unit for changed parameters, a condition setting unit for reflecting these changes, and a reflection unit that allows parameters to be updated and displayed, enabling reflection at arbitrary timing based on the operator's intention, such as power supply changes, without necessitating continuous power interruptions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the power supply is stopped each time a parameter is changed, then the parameter change can be reflected correctly to the machine side, but the machining operation is greatly affected and productivity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter reflection accuracyVSAvoidmachining operation continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by storing changed parameters in a buffer memory before they are reflected to the machine side. This allows parameter changes to be prepared in advance and applied at appropriate timing (such as at the start of a machining cycle or when a specific condition is met) without requiring repeated power supply stops, thus maintaining both reliability and productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple parameters are changed during operation, then parameter flexibility is improved, but an unexpected power supply stop may leave the machine in an unfixed setting state

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter change flexibilityVSAvoidsetting state stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system introduces an intermediary buffer memory that temporarily holds changed parameters before they are applied to the machine side. This intermediary structure allows multiple parameter changes to be accumulated and managed safely, ensuring that all changes are applied together at a predetermined timing rather than individually during operation, thus preventing unstable intermediate states while maintaining flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms by monitoring the reflection status of parameters and detecting power supply stops. When a power supply stop is detected, the system can determine whether it was unexpected and respond appropriately (such as by restoring previous settings or alerting the operator), thus maintaining setting state stability even when multiple parameter changes are in progress

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Speed

If parameters are reflected immediately when changed, then the machine responds quickly to parameter updates, but continuous power supply stops are required which disrupts machining operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter reflection speedVSAvoidmachining operation interruption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies periodic action by reflecting parameters at predetermined intervals or specific timing points during machining operations (such as at the start of each machining cycle, when a specific program line is executed, or when a certain condition is met). This allows parameters to be updated regularly without requiring continuous power supply stops, maintaining both quick response and operational continuity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS11650568B2Control system of machine tool
Publication Date: 2023.05.16 FANUC LTD
  • US11650568B2 patent drawing
  • US11650568B2 patent drawing
  • US11650568B2 patent drawing

AI summary

To provide a control system of a machine tool that enables a changed parameter to be reflected to a machine side in an arbitrary timing according to a worker's intention. A control system of a machine tool automated by reflecting a parameter by computerized numerical control, includes a storage unit that, when the parameter is changed, stores the parameter thus changed as a changed parameter, a changed parameter reflection condition setting unit that sets a condition for reflecting the changed parameter, and a changed parameter reflection unit that, when the condition is detected, reflects the changed parameter not yet reflected.