NC Program Path Splitting for Cooperative Multi-Machine Machining

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current CNC techniques cannot generate machine-specific machining programs for multiple machines to work cooperatively on a single workpiece, limiting their ability to operate efficiently and accurately.

Innovation Solution

A numerical control method that divides a single machining program into multiple machine-specific programs based on machining paths, required accuracy, acceleration/deceleration time constants, and frequency components, allowing machines to operate cooperatively while avoiding interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a single machining program is used for multiple machines, then the programming process is simple, but the machines cannot operate cooperatively to improve productivity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecooperative machining capabilityVSAvoidprogram generation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides a single machining program into multiple machine-specific sub-programs, assigning different machining paths to different machines. This segmentation enables cooperative machining while maintaining manageable program complexity through automated division based on machine capabilities and workpiece features.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a numerical control device as an intermediary that automatically generates machine-specific programs from a single master program. This intermediary system handles the complexity of program distribution and coordination, allowing machines to operate cooperatively without requiring manual program creation for each machine.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If machining paths are divided among multiple machines, then cooperative machining efficiency improves, but program generation and coordination complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemachining efficiencyVSAvoidprogram coordination complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the overall machining path into multiple sub-paths assigned to different machines based on their capabilities and the workpiece geometry. This segmentation enables parallel processing and improved efficiency while the system automatically manages the distribution logic.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes parameters such as machining path coordinates, feed rates, and tool selections to generate machine-specific programs from a single source program. This parameter-based adaptation allows efficient program generation for multiple machines without requiring complete program rewriting.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If machine-specific programs are generated manually, then program accuracy can be optimized, but the time and effort required increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemachining accuracyVSAvoidprogram preparation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary analysis of the workpiece geometry and machine capabilities before generating machine-specific programs. This preliminary action includes identifying machining features, selecting appropriate tools, and determining optimal paths, which automates the time-consuming manual optimization process while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The numerical control device automatically generates and optimizes machine-specific programs without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by analyzing its own capabilities and the workpiece requirements, then producing optimized programs that maintain machining accuracy while eliminating manual program preparation time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Loss of time

If multiple machines operate simultaneously, then cycle time is reduced, but interference between machines may occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecycle timeVSAvoidmachining safety

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary interference analysis before generating machine-specific programs. The system checks for potential collisions between machines based on their machining paths, positions, and movements, and adjusts the programs in advance to prevent interference while maintaining simultaneous operation for reduced cycle time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The numerical control device incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor machine positions and operations in real-time. When potential interference is detected, the system provides feedback to adjust machine operations or timing, ensuring safe simultaneous operation while maintaining productivity benefits.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11307555B2Numerical control method and processing device

Publication Date: 2022.04.19 FANUC LTD

AI summary

To provide a numerical control method and a processing device capable of generating a plurality of machine-specific machining programs, from one machining program to a single workpiece. A numerical control method is to be executed by a computer. The numerical control method includes a generating step of dividing, into a plurality of paths, a machining path of an original NC program for a machine configured to machine a single workpiece, corresponding to contents of machining to the workpiece in the original NC program, and of generating, on the basis of the respective divided machining paths, individual NC programs for machines corresponding to the respective machining paths.