Machine Tool Usage Assessment Using Power and Machining Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining effective machine tool usage rely on transmitting sensitive data, such as workpiece configuration and removed volume, which can compromise confidentiality, and do not accurately measure machine stress or load, particularly depending on the material being machined.
Innovation Solution
A method that calculates a machine use characteristic parameter by determining use duration and output power characteristics within the machine tool's control unit, without revealing exact machining data, to assess effective machine use and stress, using parameters like output power, use duration, and maintenance conditions, and transmitting a protected summary to an external unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If detailed machining data (workpiece configuration, removed volume) are transmitted to the provider for determining machine use, then the accuracy of machine use determination is improved, but confidential company data is exposed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential parameters needed for machine use determination (output power characteristic parameter and use duration characteristic parameter) while leaving out confidential machining data such as workpiece configuration, removed volume, and specific tool paths. This selective extraction allows accurate machine use assessment without exposing sensitive company information.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit of the machine tool acts as an intermediary that processes raw machining data locally and generates protected characteristic parameters. This intermediary function transforms detailed confidential data into aggregated usage metrics that can be safely transmitted to external providers for billing and maintenance purposes.
2Device complexity
If only removed volume is used as a measure for machine use, then data transmission is simplified, but the accuracy of wear and degeneration assessment is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameters used for machine use determination from simple removed volume to a combination of output power characteristic parameter and use duration characteristic parameter. This parameter transformation enables more accurate assessment of machine wear and degeneration by considering both the intensity (power) and duration of machine operation.
3Loss of time
If detailed machining data are collected and transmitted for service scheduling, then service timing accuracy is improved, but data security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the temporal and power-related characteristics (use duration and output power parameters) needed for accurate service scheduling, while excluding confidential machining details. This allows the provider to determine when service is needed based on actual machine stress and usage patterns without accessing sensitive workpiece or tool path information.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determination of an effective machine use of a machine tool, as well as a machine tool that is configured for this purpose. The machine tool has multiple machine axes in order to move a workpiece and/or a tool. A rotary drive drives the workpiece or the tool in order to remove material. A control unit of the machine tool determines a use duration characteristic parameter (T) and an output power characteristic parameter (L) and determines therefrom a machine use characteristic parameter (M). The use duration characteristic parameter (T) describes a duration during which the workpiece is machined by the tool. The output power characteristic parameter (L) describes the applied or required power in order to effect the material removal. The machine use characteristic parameter (M) is determined by the control unit, such that it can be transmitted to an external unit for further evaluation or processing.