Tool-Type Mist Collector Switching in Machine Tools

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Solution Overview

Problem

Vibration from a mist collector in a machine tool can affect machining accuracy, particularly in precision machining.

Innovation Solution

A control device that acquires the type of tool being used, determines whether to activate or deactivate the mist collector based on the tool type, and controls the mist collector accordingly to prevent vibration interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the mist collector operates continuously to collect mist, then mist collection effectiveness is improved, but vibration affects machining accuracy and machine precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemist collection effectivenessVSAvoidmachining accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The mist collector operation is made dynamic rather than static. The control device changes the operational state of the mist collector based on real-time machining conditions, switching between ON and OFF states to balance mist collection needs with vibration control requirements for different tool types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The operational parameter of the mist collector (ON/OFF state) is changed based on tool type detection. The control device detects the tool type and adjusts the mist collector's operational state accordingly, changing the system parameter from a fixed continuous operation to a variable conditional operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If the mist collector is turned OFF during precision machining, then machining accuracy is maintained, but mist collection effectiveness is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining accuracyVSAvoidmist collection effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Different operational states are applied locally to different machining scenarios. Instead of a uniform continuous operation, the mist collector receives localized control decisions based on the specific tool type being used, allowing optimal performance for each machining condition

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS20250282015A1Control device, machine tool, and control method
Publication Date: 2025.09.11 FANUC LTD
  • US20250282015A1 patent drawing
  • US20250282015A1 patent drawing
  • US20250282015A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A control device for a machine tool comprises: an acquisition unit that acquires the type of a tool used for machining a machining object; a determination unit that determines, on the basis of the type of the tool, whether the operation of a mist collector is permitted or prohibited; and a collector control unit that turns ON the mist collector if it is determined that the operation of the mist collector is permitted, and turns OFF the mist collector if it is determined that the operation of the mist collector is prohibited.