Machining Program Block Grouping for Simplified CNC Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information processing apparatuses for machining programs lack an automated block grouping function, requiring manual predefined processes, which decreases visibility and increases input operations for long machining programs.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with a grouping condition registration unit, a grouping determination unit, and a group display operation unit that automatically groups consecutive blocks based on predefined conditions such as modal information or macro sentences, enabling simplified display and switching between display and non-display modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual predefined processes are used for grouping blocks, then grouping functionality is provided, but user burden and input operations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines grouping units by analyzing modal information and macro sentences in the machining program itself, without requiring users to manually predefined processes. The grouping determination unit autonomously identifies consecutive blocks that should be grouped based on programmed conditions, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating manual configuration burden.
Solution Approach 2:
Grouping conditions are registered in advance in the grouping condition registration unit, allowing the system to perform automatic grouping when machining programs are created, edited, or displayed. This preliminary setup enables automated grouping functionality without requiring users to define processes at the moment of use.
2Loss of information
If long machining programs are displayed without grouping, then all blocks are visible, but visibility and operability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The machining program is segmented into grouped blocks based on analyzed conditions such as modal information and macro sentences. Consecutive blocks that share common characteristics are grouped together and displayed as single units, reducing the visual complexity of long programs while preserving all information. Users can switch between grouped and detailed views to balance visibility and comprehensibility.
3Ease of operation
If automatic grouping is implemented, then user burden is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The grouping determination unit serves multiple functions: it analyzes modal information, identifies macro sentences, determines grouping units, and registers grouping conditions. This multi-functional design consolidates what would otherwise require separate components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automatic grouping capability and reducing user burden.
Data Source
AI summary
The information processing apparatus analyzes a machining program, determines whether or not there is a block fulfilling conditions for grouping that are registered in advance in the machining program, and if present, specifies the range of blocks to be grouped according to the grouping conditions, and performs simplified display for the plurality of consecutive blocks that have been grouped on a screen.