Machine Tool Anomaly Detection with RUL Prediction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting machine tool wear and predicting maintenance or replacement needs in manufacturing shops lack accuracy, often leading to either unnecessary downtime or catastrophic failures due to unreliable prediction tools.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that collects operational data from machine tools, uses a modified Interactive Closest Point algorithm to register tool paths, and combines particle filter-based prognostic algorithms with multiple machine learning anomaly detection methods to predict tool wear and spindle bearing failures, providing warnings for timely maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional prediction tools are used for machine tool wear detection, then the system is simple to implement, but the prediction accuracy is low leading to unnecessary downtime or catastrophic failures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprediction accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the machine tool into multiple components (spindle, tool holder, cutting tool) and monitors each component's operational parameters separately. This segmentation allows for more precise anomaly detection at the component level while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces operational data as an intermediary between the machine tool and the prediction system. By collecting and analyzing operational data (vibrations, temperatures, loads) as intermediate indicators, the system achieves high prediction accuracy without requiring direct complex interaction with all machine components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If operational data collection and analysis is implemented, then prediction accuracy improves, but data processing requirements and system complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanomaly detection reliabilityVSAvoiddata processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-defining anomaly thresholds and prediction models based on historical operational data. This preliminary configuration reduces real-time data processing complexity while maintaining high detection reliability, as the system only needs to compare current data against pre-established criteria.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The machine tool system performs self-service through automated operational data collection and self-diagnosis. The system automatically monitors its own components, detects anomalies, and generates maintenance alerts without requiring external intervention, thereby improving reliability while keeping the operational interface simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Loss of time

If frequent monitoring is performed to detect anomalies early, then maintenance timing is optimized, but system resource consumption and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedowntime reductionVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements periodic monitoring at strategically determined intervals rather than continuous monitoring. By analyzing operational data at regular intervals and triggering detailed analysis only when anomalies are detected, the system reduces energy consumption while maintaining optimal maintenance timing and minimizing downtime.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS11237539B2System and method for operational-data-based detection of anomaly of a machine tool
Publication Date: 2022.02.01 GENESEE VALLEY INNOVATIONS LLC
  • US11237539B2 patent drawing
  • US11237539B2 patent drawing
  • US11237539B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A self-aware machine platform is implemented through analyzing operational data of machining tools to achieve machine tool damage assessment, prediction and planning in manufacturing shop floor. Machining processes are first identified by matching similar processes through an ICP algorithm. Machining processes are further clustered by Hotelling's T-squared statistics. Degradation of the machining tool is detected through a trend of the operational data within a cluster of machining processes by a monotonicity test, and the remaining useful life of the machining tool is predicted through a particle filter by extrapolating the trend under a first-order Markov process. In addition, process anomalies across machines are detected through a combination of outlier detection methods including SOMs, multivariate regression, and robust Mahalanobis distance. Warnings and recommendations are flexibly provided to manufacturing shop floor based on policy choice.