Numerical Controller Machining Cycle Command Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional NC program editing methods require extensive identification and editing of numerous blocks, making the process time-consuming and costly, especially when using CAD/CAM apparatuses or automatic programming systems.
Innovation Solution
A numerical controller with a single machining process recognition section, machining cycle generation section, and NC program generation section that extracts cutting conditions and machining area figures from an existing NC program to generate a machining cycle command with a reduced number of blocks, allowing for easy editing without the need for additional equipment like CAD/CAM systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional NC program editing methods are used, then all relevant blocks need to be identified and edited individually, but this makes the editing process time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual block editing operations into a single machining cycle command. By combining the functions of tool path definition, cutting conditions, and machining parameters into one integrated command structure, the system allows operators to edit entire machining processes by modifying a single command rather than numerous individual blocks, thereby dramatically reducing editing time and effort
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy or representation of the complex NC program structure through the machining cycle command. This command serves as an abstracted model that encapsulates the essential machining information without requiring operators to work with the full detailed block structure, making editing more manageable and less time-consuming
2Ease of operation
If CAD/CAM apparatus or automatic programming apparatus are introduced for editing assistance, then labor savings are achieved, but large-scale equipment must be prepared in addition to numerical controller, causing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the numerical controller itself multi-functional by enabling it to perform both traditional NC program execution and simplified program editing through machining cycle commands. This eliminates the need for separate specialized editing equipment, as the controller can handle both machining control and program modification functions within its existing architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service editing capabilities where the numerical controller assists operators in editing NC programs using its own processing power and memory resources. The controller can automatically generate, modify, and validate machining cycle commands without requiring external CAD/CAM systems, allowing the equipment to serve its own programming and editing needs
3Ease of operation
If machining cycle command is used to reduce number of blocks, then editing becomes easier, but generation of machining cycle command from existing NC program becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing function within the numerical controller that automatically translates existing NC program blocks into machining cycle command format. This intermediary layer handles the complex conversion logic, parsing individual blocks and reconstructing them into the simplified cycle command structure, thereby shielding operators from the complexity of manual translation while enabling easier editing
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a numerical controller that recognizes a range between a machining command for a tool number previously designated by an NC program for machining control and a machining command for the next tool number as a single machining process, generates a machining cycle command from the recognized single machining process, and generates an NC program in which the single machining process on the NC program is replaced by the generated machining cycle command.