Tool Stand with Automatic Tool Data Registration and Deletion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for managing tool information in machine tools are cumbersome, particularly during tool changes, as they require manual input and handling of barcode scanners, which is troublesome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A tool stand equipped with IC tags and tag readers that automatically register and delete tool information by transmitting instructions to the machine-tool operation panel, allowing for simultaneous handling of tools to be added or removed without manual data entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual barcode scanning is used to register tool information, then tool information can be input automatically, but the operation becomes troublesome and inefficient due to temporary storage preparation and handheld scanner handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tool cart as an intermediary device that integrates the barcode reader and temporary storage functionality. The barcode reader is mounted on the tool cart, allowing the worker to simply place the tool on the cart for automatic barcode reading and information registration, eliminating the need to manually handle handheld scanners and prepare separate temporary storage locations.
2Productivity
If manual tool change procedures are used, then tool information management can be performed, but the workload increases due to deleting old tool information and registering new tool information separately
Solution Approach 1:
The tool cart is prepared in advance with the barcode reader mounted and ready for use. During tool changes, the worker simply places the new tool on the prepared tool cart, and the system automatically reads the barcode and registers the tool information without requiring separate manual operations for information management.
3Extent of automation
If barcode readers are mounted on fixed locations, then automatic reading can be achieved, but the worker must move tools to specific locations which increases operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of fixing the barcode reader to a stationary location on the machine tool, the patent makes the barcode reader mobile by mounting it on a tool cart that can be freely positioned. This dynamic positioning allows the worker to bring the reading device directly to where the tool is being handled, simplifying the operation to just placing the tool on the cart.
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
Streamlines the process of managing tool information by automating the registration and deletion of tool data, reducing the workload for operators and improving efficiency during tool changes.
Implementation Method 1
a first tool-tag reader 264 that reads first tool information from a first IC tag 120 on the first tool 101
Data Source
AI summary
A tool stand includes a first tool holder for allowing a tool to be placed thereon, a second tool holder for allowing a tool to be placed thereon, an accepting portion for accepting an instruction to read tool information on a tool placed on the first tool holder or the second tool holder, and a transmitter for (i) transmitting first tool information on a first tool placed on the first tool holder to a storage portion for storing therein tool information when the first tool information is read, and (ii) transmitting an instruction to delete second tool information on a second tool placed on the second tool holder when the second tool information is read.