Machine Tool NC Program Reuse via Dual Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
In machine tool control systems, manually input operation NC programs are deleted after execution, requiring operators to re-input them, which is time-consuming and error-prone, and existing solutions only store one MDI program, necessitating repeated creation of similar programs.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus for machine tools that includes a first program storage for machining NC programs, a second program storage for operation NC programs with features to compare and store identical programs, and a display system to list and execute previous operation NC programs, reducing the need for manual re-input and allowing easy reuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If operation NC programs are deleted after execution to free memory, then memory management is efficient, but operators must re-input programs increasing time consumption and error risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a copy of the executed operation NC program and stores it in the program storage unit. This allows the program to be reused without re-inputting, while the original program memory is freed. The copying mechanism resolves the contradiction by preserving program data in a reusable format without occupying active program memory space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary storage of operation NC programs in the program storage unit after execution. By preparing and storing program copies in advance, the system enables quick retrieval and reuse, eliminating the need for operators to re-input programs and reducing time consumption.
2Reliability
If operators manually re-input operation NC programs from scratch, then program accuracy can be verified, but productivity decreases and human errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
By storing copies of executed operation NC programs in the program storage unit, the system allows operators to retrieve and reuse programs without manual re-input. This maintains program accuracy through direct copying while significantly improving productivity by eliminating repetitive typing and reducing human errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service functionality by automatically storing and managing operation NC programs after execution. The program storage unit serves itself by retaining program data for future retrieval, reducing operator burden and eliminating the need for manual program recreation.
3Quantity of substance
If only one MDI program is stored in memory, then memory usage is optimized, but multiple operation NC programs cannot be retained for reuse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides program storage into two distinct segments: active program memory for current operations and a program storage unit for archived operation NC programs. This segmentation allows the system to optimize active memory usage while providing extensive storage capacity for multiple program copies, enabling both memory optimization and program reuse.
Solution Approach 2:
The program storage unit acts as an intermediary between active program memory and the operator. It stores copies of executed programs and provides them for retrieval, serving as a bridge that enables program reuse without consuming active program memory space, thus resolving the contradiction between memory optimization and program versatility.
4Quantity of substance
If operation NC programs are not stored, then storage space is conserved, but operators face increased burden and time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates copies of operation NC programs and stores them in the program storage unit. This copying approach conserves active program storage space while providing operators with easy access to previously executed programs, significantly improving operator convenience without sacrificing storage efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts operation NC programs from active program memory after execution and stores them in the separate program storage unit. This extraction process frees up active memory space while making programs available for future retrieval, balancing storage conservation with operator convenience.
Data Source
AI summary
In order to facilitate reuse of an NC program for operation that has been executed in the past, this control device for a machine tool that drives the machine tool by executing an NC program is provided with: a first program storage unit that identifies an NC program for machining using a program name or program number and stores said program; a second program storage unit that stores an NC program for operation each time an operator executes an NC program for operation that is input manually; and a display unit that lists a plurality of NC programs for operation stored in the second program storage unit and displays said programs.