Machine Learning Control of Thread Milling Speed and Accuracy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Machining processes, such as thread milling, require time-consuming adjustments of machining conditions like spindle speed and feed rate to achieve optimal machining time while maintaining accuracy, which can be inefficient and prolong tool lifespan.

Innovation Solution

A machine learning device and method that utilize reinforcement learning to adjust spindle speed, feed rate, and cutting parameters based on acquired state information, optimizing machining conditions through continuous learning and feedback to reduce machining time while maintaining accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional adjustment methods are used to optimize machining conditions, then machining accuracy can be maintained, but machining time increases due to time-consuming adjustments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining accuracyVSAvoidmachining time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The machine learning model enables the machining system to automatically determine optimal machining conditions (spindle speed, feed rate, cutting depth) without requiring manual adjustment by operators. The system self-optimizes by learning from historical machining data and automatically applying the learned parameters to new machining tasks, eliminating the time-consuming adjustment process while maintaining high machining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The machine learning model performs preliminary learning during a setup phase where it acquires machining data and determines optimal conditions before actual production machining begins. This preliminary action allows the system to have optimal parameters ready in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming adjustments during production while maintaining high machining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional adjustment methods are used to optimize machining conditions, then machining accuracy can be maintained, but tool lifespan decreases due to frequent adjustments and suboptimal parameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining accuracyVSAvoidtool lifespan
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The machine learning model enables automatic determination of optimal machining conditions without manual intervention, eliminating the wear and tear associated with frequent manual adjustments. The system continuously monitors machining parameters and automatically optimizes them to extend tool life while maintaining machining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The machine learning model dynamically adjusts machining parameters (spindle speed, feed rate, cutting depth) based on learned optimal conditions for specific workpiece materials and tool types. By optimizing these parameters, the system reduces unnecessary tool wear from suboptimal settings while maintaining high machining accuracy, thereby extending tool lifespan.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If manual adjustment of machining conditions is performed, then appropriate parameters can be determined, but productivity decreases due to the time required for adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining accuracyVSAvoidmachining efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The machine learning model automatically determines optimal machining conditions without requiring operator intervention, eliminating the productivity loss associated with manual adjustment time. The system learns from historical data and autonomously selects optimal parameters, significantly improving machining efficiency while maintaining high accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment process with an automated machine learning-based parameter determination system. Instead of operators manually adjusting spindle speed, feed rate, and cutting depth based on experience, the system uses learned models to automatically determine optimal parameters, thereby eliminating adjustment time and improving productivity while maintaining machining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10921774B2Machine learning devices and methods for optimizing the speed and accuracy of thread mill, inner diameter, outer shape, and surface machine tools
Publication Date: 2021.02.16 FANUC LTD
  • US10921774B2 patent drawing
  • US10921774B2 patent drawing
  • US10921774B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A machine learning device performs machine learning with respect to a numerical control device that operates a machine tool on the basis of a machining program. The machine learning device includes a state information acquisition unit configured to acquire state information including conditions of a spindle speed, a feed rate, a number of cuts, and a cutting amount per one time or a tool compensation amount, and a cycle time of cutting a workpiece, and machining accuracy of the workpiece; an action information output unit configured to output action information including modification information of the condition; a reward output unit configured to output a reward value in reinforcement learning on the basis of the cycle time and the machining accuracy; and a value function updating unit configured to update an action value function on the basis of a reward value, the state information, and the action information.