Bar Feeder Parameter Updates Through the Working Machine

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional machine tool systems burden operators with the need to set multiple machining parameters separately for different apparatuses, leading to potential mistakes and increased operational complexity.

Innovation Solution

A machine tool system where the bar feeder's parameters are set and updated through the working machine's operating part, using a machining program with a parameter setting command that specifies the necessary parameters, thereby reducing operator burden and minimizing errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If parameters are set separately for each apparatus (bar feeder and working machine), then each apparatus can be controlled independently, but the operator's burden increases and mistakes may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter setting accuracyVSAvoidoperator burden
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the parameter setting function for the bar feeder into the working machine's control system. The parameter setting unit, which is part of the working machine, can now set parameters for both the working machine itself and the bar feeder, consolidating what was previously separate control operations into a unified interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The working machine's control system is enhanced with multi-functionality to control not only the working machine but also the bar feeder. The parameter setting unit can set parameters for multiple apparatuses, making the control system universal and reducing the need for separate control operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple parameters are set manually for different apparatuses, then each parameter can be customized, but the complexity of operation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter customizationVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple parameter setting operations into a single unified parameter setting unit. Instead of requiring separate operations for setting parameters on the bar feeder and working machine, both parameters are set through one integrated interface, reducing operational complexity while maintaining customization capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If parameters are set separately for bar feeder and working machine, then each apparatus can be optimized independently, but operator mistakes increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachining reliabilityVSAvoidparameter setting ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the parameter setting functions into a single unified system where the working machine's parameter setting unit can set parameters for both the working machine and bar feeder. This integration reduces the number of separate operations required, thereby reducing opportunities for operator mistakes while maintaining the ability to optimize each apparatus independently through the same interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP4354236A1Machine tool system
Publication Date: 2024.04.17 STAR MICRONICS CO LTD
  • EP4354236A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4354236A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4354236A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A machine tool system capable of decreasing the operator's burden in setting the parameters. A machine tool system 1 includes a working machine 2 capable of machining a bar W and a bar feeder 4 capable of delivering the bar W to the working machine 2 according to the machining of the bar W. The bar feeder 4 delivers the bar W in accordance with a set parameter. The bar feeder 4 updates the parameter according to parameter information transmitted from the working machine 2.