Machining Time Estimation Across Multiple NC Machine Configurations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining time estimating apparatuses for numerically-controlled machine tools can only estimate machining times for a single mechanical configuration, making it difficult to compare and collectively estimate machining times across multiple configurations, thereby hindering efficient machining time reduction operations.
Innovation Solution
A machining time estimating apparatus that calculates machining times for multiple numerically-controlled machine tools based on NC commands and mechanical configuration-time data, using a mechanical configuration-time data storage unit, an NC command data counting unit, and a mechanical configuration difference time calculation unit to account for configuration-dependent machining times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional machining time estimating apparatuses are used, then machining time can be estimated for a single mechanical configuration, but it becomes difficult to compare and collectively estimate machining times across multiple configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The estimation system is designed to handle multiple mechanical configurations through a universal interface. The mechanical configuration identification unit automatically detects which machine tool configuration is being used, and the estimation unit applies appropriate estimation methods based on the identified configuration, enabling the system to serve multiple configurations without requiring separate estimation systems for each
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary data structure called 'machining time estimation data' that serves as a common representation for machining times across different mechanical configurations. This intermediary layer allows comparisons between configurations by normalizing the estimation results into a unified format that can be collectively analyzed
2Measurement precision
If machining time estimation is performed for each mechanical configuration separately, then accurate estimation for that configuration is achieved, but efficient comparison and collective estimation across configurations is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification of the mechanical configuration before executing the detailed estimation. The mechanical configuration identification unit prepares the estimation process by determining which configuration is present, allowing the system to then apply the most appropriate estimation method for that specific configuration, thereby maintaining high accuracy while streamlining the overall process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the estimation results from multiple mechanical configurations into a single set of machining time estimation data. By combining the identification of configuration-specific parameters with the estimation of machining times into a unified data structure, the system enables efficient comparison across configurations while preserving the accuracy benefits of configuration-specific estimation
Data Source
AI summary
A machining time estimating apparatus is stored with mechanical configuration-time data, which are control parameters relating to respective machining times of a plurality of numerically-controlled machine tools, and is provided with a machining time estimation unit, configured to estimate the machining time required for machining performed based on an NC command in a first one of the plurality of numerically-controlled machine tools, and a mechanical configuration difference time calculation unit configured to calculate machining times required for machining performed based on the NC command in the other ones of the plurality of numerically-controlled machine tools than the first numerically-controlled machine tool, based on the respective mechanical configuration-time data of the plurality of numerically-controlled machine tools.