Machining Parameter Recommendations from Aggregated In-Process Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current machining technologies face challenges in pre-process identification of suitable tool and process parameters for machining operations, often relying on conservative and trial-and-error methods due to uncertainty and lack of data-driven recommendations for new applications, especially for nickel-based superalloys.

Innovation Solution

A machining parameter recommendation system that utilizes a database and machine learning algorithms for outlier detection, data augmentation, and clustering to provide near-optimal starting parameters for CNC machines, considering objectives like cycle time reduction and tool life improvement, without requiring access to tool wear information or life models.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If conventional trial and error methods are used for machining parameter selection, then the process can be simple to implement, but the productivity is low and tool life is reduced due to overly conservative parameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of parameter selectionVSAvoidmachining efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary data collection and analysis during idle periods or between machining operations. Historical machining data is aggregated and processed in advance to build predictive models, so that when parameter selection is needed, the system can quickly provide optimized recommendations without requiring real-time trial and error testing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates virtual copies of successful machining parameter sets from historical data and simulates their performance for new material-tool combinations. By copying and adapting proven parameter configurations rather than starting from conservative defaults, the system achieves high productivity while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Reliability

If data aggregation from multiple sources is performed, then the reliability of parameter recommendations is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple data collection points

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of parameter recommendationsVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs a universal data aggregation framework that can interface with multiple data sources (CNC controllers, tool databases, material specifications, sensor networks) through standardized protocols. This multi-functional architecture allows the same core processing engine to handle diverse input sources without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces intermediate data normalization and validation layers that mediate between heterogeneous data sources and the core analysis engine. These intermediaries standardize data formats, filter noise, and validate consistency, enabling reliable aggregation from multiple sources while containing complexity in modular components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If continuous learning methods are implemented, then the productivity improves through optimized parameters, but the loss of time increases for data processing and model updates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining efficiencyVSAvoiddata processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements periodic batch processing of machining data at scheduled intervals rather than continuous real-time processing. During these periodic updates, aggregated data is used to refine predictive models, while between updates the system operates with current model versions. This approach captures continuous learning benefits while minimizing interruption to productive operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary data validation, filtering, and preprocessing in real-time as data arrives, preparing it for later batch processing. This preliminary action reduces the computational burden during intensive model training periods, allowing faster updates and reducing the time loss associated with continuous learning operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20240069525A1Machining parameter recommendations using in-process machining data aggregation
Publication Date: 2024.02.29 UT BATTELLE LLC
  • US20240069525A1 patent drawing
  • US20240069525A1 patent drawing
  • US20240069525A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Historical in-process machining information can be used to make machining process parameter recommendations. The disclosed systems and methods enable continuous learning for machining parameter selection using aggregated in-process machining information. The systems and methods save in-process machining data in a database using a standardized format, use data augmentation outlier detection, aggregation, and clustering algorithms to make machining process parameter recommendations and expected cut time predictions based on user inputs. The system can include a front-end dashboard to facilitate visualization and interpret results.