Numerical Controller Reference Value Counters for Cycle Time Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional numerical controllers using path table operations face increased cycle times due to indefinite auxiliary function operating times, as they either add surplus time to spindle and feed shaft operations or stop these operations during auxiliary function execution, leading to inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A numerical controller with independent reference value counters for each spindle, feed shaft, and auxiliary function, allowing for synchronized operation by stopping and restarting reference counting only during auxiliary functions with indefinite times, while maintaining continuous operation of spindles and feed shafts based on their own reference data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single shared reference time is used for all axes and auxiliary functions in path table operation, then synchronization is simplified, but cycle time increases when auxiliary functions with indefinite operating times are executed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single shared reference time into multiple independent reference value counters (first reference value counter for spindle, second reference value counter for feed shaft, third reference value counter for auxiliary function). Each counter operates independently, allowing parallel execution of spindle rotation, feed shaft movement, and auxiliary functions without mutual interference, thereby reducing cycle time while maintaining necessary synchronizations through selective waiting commands.
2Reliability
If surplus time is added to spindle and feed shaft operations to accommodate auxiliary function execution, then auxiliary functions can complete their operations, but machining efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reference time management where the third reference value counter for auxiliary functions can be independently stopped and restarted based on actual operation needs. When an auxiliary function with indefinite operating time is executed, its reference time is paused without affecting spindle and feed shaft operations. This dynamic adjustment ensures auxiliary functions complete reliably while maintaining overall machining efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If spindle and feed shaft operations are stopped during auxiliary function execution, then auxiliary function timing is accurate, but productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control system into independent reference value counters for spindle, feed shaft, and auxiliary functions. This allows each component to operate on its own timing basis. The third reference value counter for auxiliary functions can be stopped independently when executed, providing accurate timing measurement for auxiliary functions without forcing spindle and feed shaft to stop, thereby maintaining high productivity while achieving precise auxiliary function timing.
4Productivity
If independent reference value counters are provided for each spindle, feed shaft, and auxiliary function, then cycle time is reduced through parallel operation, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into three independent reference value counters (first for spindle, second for feed shaft, third for auxiliary function), each managing its own timing independently. This segmentation enables parallel operation of all components, significantly reducing cycle time. The complexity is managed through a waiting command mechanism that coordinates between counters only when synchronization is required, rather than requiring a complex centralized control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a waiting command as an intermediary mechanism that coordinates between independent reference value counters. When synchronization is needed (e.g., waiting for auxiliary function completion before resuming feed shaft operation), the waiting command acts as a mediator to pause specific counters without affecting others. This simple intermediary approach manages the complexity of multiple independent counters while maintaining high productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A numerical controller using table format data, the numerical controller including a memory which stores table format data, in which time or a position of a spindle or feed shaft serving as a reference is arranged so as to correspond to a position of a spindle or feed shaft other than the spindle or feed shaft of which position serves as a reference or an output of an auxiliary function, a reference value counter which inputs the time or the position of the spindle or feed shaft serving as a reference, wherein the position of the spindle or feed shaft other than the spindle or feed shaft of which position serves as a reference or the output of the auxiliary function is controlled.