Numerical Controller With Automatic Function Selection for Machining

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current machining systems using numerical controllers and CNC machines require operator expertise to select appropriate functions and set parameters, limiting the ability of inexperienced operators to utilize machine tools effectively and efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A CAD/CAM-CNC integrated system with a shared database that allows the numerical controller to automatically select functions and optimize parameters based on machining resource information, enabling the system to decipher machining instructions and execute tasks appropriately.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If automatic setting of machining parameters is implemented, then productivity is improved, but the ability to decide appropriate functions and select optimal machining conditions remains insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining efficiencyVSAvoidfunction selection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The numerical controller automatically decides which functions to use and selects optimal machining parameters by itself, without requiring operator intervention. The control unit reads machining instruction information, automatically determines appropriate functions from available machine tool functions, and sets optimal parameters based on the machining content and machine capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically adjusts machining parameters such as spindle speed, feed rate, and depth of cut based on the machining instruction information and available functions. The control unit changes these parameters dynamically to optimize machining performance for each specific operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If operator expertise is required for function selection and parameter setting, then manufacturing precision can be maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining accuracyVSAvoidoperator skill requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The numerical controller performs automatic function selection and parameter optimization without operator intervention. The control unit independently decides which functions to use and sets optimal parameters, eliminating the need for operator expertise while maintaining machining quality through automated decision-making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the machining instruction information as feedback to automatically adjust functions and parameters. The control unit continuously references the machining requirements and machine capabilities to make optimal decisions, ensuring precision without requiring operator knowledge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple machine tools with different functions are used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachine tool compatibilityVSAvoidsystem configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The numerical controller is designed to universally control multiple types of machine tools with different functions. The control unit can automatically decide which functions to use based on the machining instruction information and the specific machine tool being used, making the system adaptable to various machine tools without increasing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit automatically adapts to different machine tools by itself deciding which functions to use and how to configure parameters for each specific machine. This self-adjusting capability allows the system to work with multiple machine tool types without requiring complex manual configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11126158B2Numerical controller and CAD/CAM-CNC integrated system
Publication Date: 2021.09.21 FANUC LTD
  • US11126158B2 patent drawing
  • US11126158B2 patent drawing
  • US11126158B2 patent drawing

AI summary

There is provided a numerical controller capable of automatic selection of a function appropriate for a machining request and optimization of parameters, and a CAD/CAM-CNC integrated system. The numerical controller includes: a shared database storing machining resource information about the numerical controller and a machine tool; and machining instruction information including machining content information created by CAD and CAM and machining request information about a request required for machining; a machining instruction deciphering portion deciphering the machining instruction information; and a machining instruction executing portion executing the machining based on a result of decipherment by the machining instruction deciphering portion; and the machining instruction deciphering portion executes at least one of a process for judging whether the machining is possible or not based on the machining instruction information and the machining resource information, a process for deciding parameters for the machining and a process for automatically selecting a function to be used for the machining.