Vision-Guided Nozzle Control for Cutting Fluid Targeting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools lack a direct and reliable method to determine whether cutting fluid is applied to the cutting point during machining, relying on pre-acquired relation data for nozzle angle adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A numerical control device equipped with a vision sensor that acquires image data to determine the application of cutting fluid by analyzing the shape of the fluid's path, using pattern matching or machine learning to assess whether the fluid reaches the cutting point, and adjusts the nozzle position and attitude accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-acquired relation data between nozzle angle and injection path is used for each cutting tool, then the nozzle angle can be adjusted according to cutting tool specifications, but there is no direct method to determine whether cutting fluid is actually applied to the cutting point
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical control system (which adjusts nozzle angle based on pre-stored relation data for each cutting tool) with an optical detection system (vision sensor) that directly observes whether cutting fluid reaches the cutting point. This substitution enables direct visual confirmation of fluid application effectiveness without relying on indirect mechanical adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The vision sensor acts as an intermediary between the nozzle control device and the cutting point, providing real-time visual feedback about cutting fluid application. This intermediary enables the determination unit to directly assess whether cutting fluid reaches the cutting point, bridging the gap between nozzle positioning and actual fluid delivery effectiveness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the machine tool adjusts the nozzle angle based on pre-stored relation data for arbitrary cutting tools, then the system can adapt to different cutting tools, but it cannot directly detect whether the cutting fluid reaches the cutting point
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces indirect mechanical adjustment methods with direct optical detection. Instead of relying on pre-programmed nozzle angle adjustments for different cutting tools, the vision sensor directly captures images to determine whether cutting fluid reaches the cutting point, providing precise visual measurement regardless of cutting tool variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The vision sensor creates a visual copy (image) of the cutting process, capturing the actual path of cutting fluid and its interaction with the cutting point. This optical copy enables accurate assessment of fluid application effectiveness without physical interference with the machining process.
3Ease of operation
If the machine tool positions the injection nozzle to an intended position, then the nozzle can be oriented toward the cutting point, but there is no feedback mechanism to confirm actual fluid application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a visual feedback mechanism where the vision sensor continuously monitors the cutting process and provides real-time information about cutting fluid application. The determination unit processes this visual feedback to confirm whether cutting fluid actually reaches the cutting point, creating a closed-loop control system that enhances application reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The vision sensor serves as an intermediary that bridges the gap between nozzle positioning and cutting fluid application verification. It provides direct visual evidence of fluid delivery effectiveness, enabling reliable determination without complex mechanical feedback mechanisms.
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
Enables direct and reliable determination of cutting fluid application at the cutting point, eliminating the need for pre-stored angle data and manual adjustments, and allowing for adaptive nozzle control regardless of cutting tool changes.
Implementation Method 1
a visual sensor (for example, a vision sensor 5 to be described below) photographs a cutting fluid (for example, a cutting fluid F to be described below) jetted from an injection nozzle
Data Source
AI summary
To provide a numerical control device capable of directly determining whether or not a cutting fluid is applied to a cutting point. A numerical control device includes a determination unit configured to make, on a basis of image data acquired when a vision sensor photographs a cutting fluid jetted from an injection nozzle toward a cutting point, determination of whether or not the cutting fluid is applied to the cutting point, and an instruction unit configured to issue an instruction to a nozzle control device configured to control a position and an attitude of the injection nozzle on a basis of a result of the determination of the determination unit.