Robotic Plasma Cutting Path Planning With Dynamic Cut Chart Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for designing processing paths in three-dimensional environments for plasma arc processing systems coupled with robotic systems are inefficient and prone to errors due to the complexity of consumable selection and path planning, requiring manual intervention and extensive data management.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that automatically determines a processing path by receiving CAD data and operating parameters, dynamically filtering cut charts to select suitable consumables and settings, and generating a processing path that accounts for plasma arc dynamics and robotic limitations, enabling optimized motion planning for plasma arc cutting systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual consumable selection and path planning methods are used, then flexibility in adjusting parameters is maintained, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic consumable selection and path planning without requiring manual intervention. The computing device autonomously processes CAD data, filters cut charts, selects consumables, and generates processing paths, making the system self-sufficient in tasks that traditionally required human operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated computational processes. Instead of manually selecting consumables and planning paths, the system uses algorithms to dynamically filter cut charts, evaluate parameters, and generate optimized processing paths automatically.
2Manufacturing precision
If extensive data management is implemented for path planning, then processing accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and processes only the necessary data elements required for accurate path planning. By dynamically filtering cut charts based on specific features and parameters, the system manages data complexity while maintaining the precision needed for accurate processing paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The path planning process is divided into distinct automated stages: CAD data reception, feature identification, cut chart filtering, consumable selection, and path generation. This segmentation manages complexity by breaking down the comprehensive data management task into manageable, automated components.
3Productivity
If automated consumable selection is implemented, then efficiency is increased, but the complexity of managing consumable libraries increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system autonomously manages the consumable library without requiring manual intervention. The computing device automatically filters cut charts, evaluates consumable options, and selects appropriate consumables based on workpiece features and processing requirements, making the library management self-service oriented.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary filtering and organization of the consumable library before the actual processing begins. By pre-processing and dynamically filtering cut charts based on workpiece characteristics, the system prepares consumable options in advance, reducing the complexity during the actual selection process.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cuts with different parameters are planned manually, then complex part processing is achieved, but the process becomes burdensome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts processing parameters for each cut based on the specific features and requirements of complex parts. Instead of manual parameter setting, the computing device automatically modifies parameters for each cutting operation, enabling versatile processing of complex geometries while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Complex part processing is divided into multiple automated cutting operations, each with parameters automatically determined by the system. The computing device segments the overall processing task into individual cuts, dynamically selecting parameters for each based on the specific features being processed, thereby managing complexity automatically.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach streamlines the process of selecting consumables and configuring plasma arc cutting systems, reducing errors and increasing efficiency by automating the selection of consumables and settings, and ensuring accurate motion planning for complex three-dimensional workpieces.
Implementation Method 1
planned motion of the plasma arc accounts for influences in plasma arc dynamics introduced to the plasma arc from operating the robotic arm in a three-dimensional environment
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention features a computer-implemented method of planning a processing path relative to a three-dimensional workpiece for a plasma arc cutting system coupled to a robotic arm. The method includes receiving input data from a user comprising (i) Computer-Aided Design (CAD) data for specifying a desired part to be processed from the three-dimensional workpiece, and (ii) one or more desired parameters for operating the plasma arc cutting system. A plurality of features of the desired part to be formed on the three-dimensional workpiece are identified based on the CAD data. The method also includes dynamically filtering a library of cut charts based on the plurality of features and the desired operating parameters to determine a recommended cut chart for processing the plurality of features. The method further includes generating the processing path based on the recommended cut chart and the plurality of features to be formed.