NC Program Conversion for Unified Machine Tool and Robot Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing numerical control devices require separate programming for machine tools and robots, limiting the ability to control robots using numerical control programs.
Innovation Solution
A numerical control device with a control computation unit that converts numerical control programs into robot programs, allowing the device to control both machine tools and robots using a unified programming language.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate programming languages are used for machine tools and robots, then each can be controlled by its dedicated program, but the robot cannot be controlled by numerical control programs and separate robot programs must be created
Solution Approach 1:
The numerical control device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can control both machine tools and robots using a single unified programming language. The control computation unit includes a program conversion mechanism that translates robot control commands within the NC program into robot-executable instructions, eliminating the need for separate programming languages while maintaining compatibility with both systems.
2Ease of operation
If separate robot programs are created in addition to numerical control programs, then the robot can be controlled, but the operational efficiency decreases due to dual programming requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of machine tools and robots into a single unified numerical control program. Instead of maintaining separate NC programs and robot programs, the system allows both machine tool commands and robot control commands to coexist within one NC program file. The control computation unit automatically identifies and converts robot control commands, enabling simultaneous control of both systems through a single program while improving operational efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a unified programming language is implemented for both machine tools and robots, then robot control using NC programs becomes possible, but program conversion mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The control computation unit acts as an intermediary between the unified NC program and the robot control system. It contains a program conversion mechanism that automatically identifies robot control commands within the NC program and converts them into appropriate robot-executable instructions. This intermediary function enables unified programming while handling the necessary translations transparently, reducing the complexity burden on the user.
Data Source
AI summary
A numerical control device includes a control computation unit that controls a machine tool and a robot by using an NC program defined in a first coordinate system, the control computation unit includes a storage unit that stores the NC program including a first command, which is a command for the machine tool described in a first programming language, and a second command, which is a command for the robot described in the first programming language, and a program converting unit that converts the second command into a third command, which is a robot program used for controlling the robot, and the control computation unit controls the machine tool by using the first command and controls the robot by using the third command.