Wireless NC Machine Tool Control via Tablet Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current NC control panels require operators to be physically present at the machine tool to confirm machine status and execute operations, making it inefficient to operate the machine tool from any location.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool operation system that enables input operations to an NC device using a tablet terminal via wireless communication with a computer, allowing command signals to be transmitted to the NC device for machine tool operations, and displaying operational statuses on the tablet terminal for remote confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed NC control panel is used for machine tool operation, then the machine tool can be operated with a dedicated control interface, but the operator must be physically present at the machine tool location which reduces operational efficiency and flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the NC control panel interface on a smartphone or tablet device. The operation screen displaying various control buttons and parameters is replicated on the mobile terminal, allowing operators to access and control machine tool functions remotely without being physically present at the fixed control panel location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a communication system as an intermediary between the mobile terminal and the NC device. The communication unit transmits operation signals from the mobile terminal to the NC device and receives status information, enabling remote control while maintaining system integration and data exchange.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the NC control panel is installed at a fixed location, then the control interface is stable and reliable, but the operator cannot confirm machine status and execute operations from any location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical connection required by fixed control panels with wireless communication technology. The mobile terminal communicates with the NC device through wireless signals, eliminating the need for physical presence while maintaining control functionality through digital signal transmission.
3Productivity
If a tablet terminal is used for remote operation, then the operator can control the machine tool from any location, but the system requires additional communication infrastructure and signal processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the mobile terminal serve multiple functions: it acts as both the control interface for sending operation signals and the display device for viewing machine status. The same touchscreen device that the operator uses to navigate is also used to monitor machine parameters, eliminating the need for separate control and monitoring systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the control panel interface, display screen, and communication capabilities into a single mobile terminal device. The operation screen, status display, and signal transmission functions are merged into the smartphone or tablet, simplifying the overall system architecture despite the added wireless communication capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
An object is to provide a machine tool operation system that enables inputs to an NC device of a machine tool by use of a tablet terminal from any location and an operation method using the system. The machine tool operation system includes an NC device, a computer connected to the NC device, and a tablet terminal that is in wirelessly communication with the computer and enables inputs and outputs of signals for the NC device via the computer. The tablet terminal includes a display unit that make to display a menu screen on a display screen, an input unit that receives an input from a user, and an input processing unit that outputs an input signal transmitted to the computer based on the input. The computer includes a signal processing unit that outputs a command signal for a machine tool operation based on the input signal. A wireless communication unit to wirelessly send and receive signals between the tablet terminal and computer, and a transmission unit to transmit signals between the computer and NC device are provided.