Tool-Holder Barcode Mapping for Safe CNC Tool Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing numerical control machines for machining workpieces are inefficient in tool mapping, prone to safety hazards due to incorrect tool coupling, and limited in compatibility with different types of tool cribs, particularly requiring time-consuming chip-based identification systems and being incompatible with linear tool cribs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system using two-dimensional barcodes, such as QR Codes, on tool-holders for identification, coupled with an optical reading device, allowing for rapid and accurate tool mapping and verification across various types of tool cribs, including linear and circular, ensuring safe and correct tool coupling with the mandrel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a chip-based identification system is used in prior art machines, then tool-holder identification can be performed, but the time taken for each chip to be read is excessive and the system is incompatible with linear tool cribs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical chip-based identification system with an optical barcode reading system. Barcodes are printed directly on tool-holders and read optically by a reading device, eliminating the need for physical chip insertion and pneumatic reading mechanisms. This substitution enables compatibility with both linear and circular tool cribs while significantly reducing identification time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the identification medium from physical chips to optical barcodes. This parameter change allows for non-contact, rapid reading of tool-holder identification data. The barcode can be read from a distance using optical reading devices, eliminating the time-consuming process of chip insertion and mechanical reading, and enabling universal compatibility with different tool crib configurations.
2Reliability
If prior art identification systems are used, then tool mapping can be performed, but it is not possible to verify correct tool-holder coupling with the mandrel, creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the reading device reads the barcode on the tool-holder after it has been coupled to the mandrel. The logic control unit compares the read barcode information with the required tool information from the machining program. This feedback loop provides verification of correct tool coupling, preventing unsafe machining operations while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pneumatic identification systems are used in prior art machines, then tool identification can be detected, but the system is limited to rotary circular tool cribs and cannot accommodate linear tool cribs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal identification system using barcodes and optical reading devices that can accommodate both linear and circular tool cribs. The barcode identification method is not dependent on the rotational motion required by pneumatic systems, allowing the same identification approach to work with any tool crib configuration. This multi-functional approach eliminates the limitation to rotary circular tool cribs while keeping the system relatively simple.
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 solution enables fast and safe machining by facilitating quick tool identification and verification, ensuring the correct tool is used, and is compatible with multiple types of tool cribs, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an optical reading device, allowing for rapid and accurate tool mapping and verification
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is a machine (M, M', M", M''') for machining workpieces made in wood, plastic, metal, fiberglass, glass and the like, comprising a logic control unit provided with at least one predetermined program for machining said workpieces, at least one tool-holder (32), to which a tool (33) can be coupled for machining said workpieces according to said machining program, said tool-holder (32) being provided with at least one identification means (324) comprising information, at least one tool crib (4, 4a, 4b, 4c) for housing said at least one tool-holder (32), when not in use, said machine (M, M', M", M''') comprising a reading and writing device (5, 5', 5") of said information in said at least one identification means (324) of said at least one tool-holder (32), designed to detect said information and send it to said logic control unit for determining the association and the coupling between said tool (33) and said at least one tool-holder (32) necessary for performance of the machining program by said tool (33) coupled with said at least one tool-holder (32), said information in said at least one identification means (324) also comprising the machining data of said tool (33), said reading and writing device (5, 5', 5") being able to update said machining data of said tool (33), and said reading and writing device (5, 5', 5") being movable with respect to said tool crib (4, 4a, 4b, 4c). The invention also relates to a method for operation of the machine.