Photo-Based Machining Time Estimation for Sheet Metal Quotes
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing machining estimation methods require multiple days to prepare a written quotation for customers, making it impossible for salespersons to present immediate quotations for machining services.
Innovation Solution
A machining estimation apparatus and method that uses a camera to photograph a part and a dimension reference marker, generating edge data and calculating machining time based on the part's dimensions and sheet metal properties, allowing for immediate estimation and quotation presentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional CAD/CAM/simulation software process is used to estimate machining time, then accurate machining time calculation is achieved, but the process takes multiple days which delays quotation presentation to customers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses photographing to create a visual copy of the part, replacing the need for complex CAD data processing. The camera captures the part image, and image processing extracts edge data to create a simplified digital representation that suffices for machining time estimation, eliminating days of CAD/CAM work
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the essential information needed for machining time estimation from the part photograph - specifically the edge data and cutting line length. This selective extraction avoids the comprehensive but time-consuming CAD/CAM/simulation process while retaining sufficient accuracy for quotation purposes
2Reliability
If detailed CAD/CAM processing and simulation are performed to ensure accurate machining time estimation, then reliable cost calculation is achieved, but the complexity and time required for preparation increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex CAD/CAM software chains with a simple photograph-based copying method. The camera captures the part, and basic image processing extracts the necessary geometric information, dramatically reducing system complexity while maintaining sufficient reliability for estimation
Solution Approach 2:
The photographing method enables the part itself to provide the measurement information needed. By capturing the part image and extracting edge data, the system allows the part to 'self-report' its geometry, eliminating the need for external CAD models or complex measurement apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A camera photographs a part to be estimated, which is produced by cutting a sheet metal in advance, and a dimension reference marker. An image processing unit generates edge data by extracting an edge of the part photographed by the camera, and enlarges or reduces the edge data based on a size of the dimension reference marker photographed by the camera such that a size of the edge corresponds to an actual size of the part. A machining time calculation unit calculates a length of a cutting line for cutting out the part from the sheet metal based on the edge of the edge data corresponding to the actual size of the part, and calculates a machining time for producing the part by cutting the cutting line in accordance with a material and a thickness of the sheet metal.