Machining Program Generator Optimizes Sequence Scoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machining technologies face challenges in determining an optimal machining sequence that considers both machining shapes and histories, leading to potential deflection and thermal deformation issues in workpieces during processes like hole drilling and laser machining.

Innovation Solution

A program generator that analyzes machining processes, assigns scores based on machining shape conditions such as balance, size, and position, and incorporates machining history to determine an optimal sequence for executing machining processes, thereby reducing the likelihood of deflection and thermal deformation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If machining sequence is determined based only on position distance from previous machining, then positioning path can be generated, but machining shape and machining history are not considered leading to suboptimal sequences

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovePositioning path generationVSAvoidMachining sequence optimization
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the machining sequence determination from a simple positional distance metric to a comprehensive scoring system that evaluates multiple parameters including machining shape characteristics (area, perimeter, complexity), machining history (previous operations at the same location), and positional relationships. This parameter expansion resolves the contradiction by enabling optimization of manufacturing precision while maintaining ease of operation through automated scoring-based sequence selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates machining history feedback by analyzing previous machining operations at each location and using this information to inform future sequence decisions. The scoring mechanism continuously evaluates candidate sequences based on accumulated machining history, preventing suboptimal patterns like excessive thermal deformation or deflection that would arise from ignoring prior operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Device complexity

If machining processes are performed in simple sequential order, then program generation is straightforward, but deflection and thermal deformation occur due to inadequate sequence optimization

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveProgram generation simplicityVSAvoidWorkpiece dimensional stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables the machining program to self-optimize its own sequence by automatically scoring and evaluating different machining sequences based on embedded criteria for deflection and thermal deformation prevention. The program generator independently determines the optimal sequence without requiring external manual intervention, thus maintaining simplicity while improving reliability through automated consideration of workpiece dimensional stability factors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary evaluation of all possible machining sequences before final program generation by calculating scores for each candidate sequence based on machining shapes, histories, and positional relationships. This preliminary scoring action identifies and eliminates suboptimal sequences that would cause deflection or thermal deformation, ensuring reliable dimensional stability in the final programmed sequence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If continuous machining at the same workpiece portion is performed, then machining efficiency increases, but thermal deformation occurs due to temperature increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveMachining efficiencyVSAvoidMachined portion temperature
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements periodic action by intentionally inserting non-machining intervals or redirecting the machining sequence to different workpiece portions, preventing continuous machining at the same location. The scoring mechanism evaluates sequences that distribute machining operations periodically across different areas, allowing thermal dissipation while maintaining overall productivity through optimized global sequencing rather than local continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

4Device complexity

If machining sequence is determined without considering machining history, then determination process is simple, but deflection or thermal deformation may occur from repeated machining at nearby positions

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSequence determination simplicityVSAvoidMachining accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates machining history feedback by analyzing previous machining operations at each location and using this information to inform future sequence decisions. The scoring mechanism continuously evaluates candidate sequences based on accumulated machining history, preventing suboptimal patterns like excessive thermal deformation or deflection that would arise from ignoring prior operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the machining sequence determination from a simple positional distance metric to a comprehensive scoring system that evaluates multiple parameters including machining shape characteristics (area, perimeter, complexity), machining history (previous operations at the same location), and positional relationships. This parameter expansion resolves the contradiction by enabling optimization of manufacturing precision while maintaining ease of operation through automated scoring-based sequence selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP3255516B1Program generator having function of optimizing machining sequence
Publication Date: 2021.01.06 FANUC LTD
  • EP3255516B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3255516B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~4B
  • EP3255516B1 patent drawingFigure 5A~6B

AI summary

A program generator extracts at least one machining process from a machining program, analyzes the machining process, generates information regarding the machining process, gives the machining process a score based on the information regarding the machining process, and determines a sequence of the machining process based on the given score. The information regarding the machining process includes a machining shape to be formed by the machining process. The machining process is given a score based on the machining shape.