Workpiece Dimension Estimation from CNC Cutting Paths

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Solution Overview

Problem

Machining simulation requires operators to manually input workpiece dimensions, increasing their workload.

Innovation Solution

A dimension estimation device that calculates and estimates workpiece dimensions based on machining programs, using a calculation unit to determine maximum and minimum coordinate values along a cutting path, and an estimation unit to present these dimensions to the operator.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If machining simulation is performed with manual dimension input, then machining verification accuracy is improved, but operator workload increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemachining verification accuracyVSAvoidoperator workload

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The machining simulation device automatically extracts workpiece dimensions from the machining program itself, allowing the system to serve itself by obtaining necessary data from its own input rather than requiring external manual input from operators

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The dimension extraction function acts as an intermediary that automatically retrieves dimension information from the machining program and provides it to the simulation process, eliminating the need for operators to manually input dimensions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If manual dimension input is required, then dimension accuracy can be verified, but work efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedimension accuracyVSAvoidwork efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary extraction of dimension information from the machining program before the simulation process begins, so that accurate dimension data is already prepared and available when simulation starts, eliminating the need for manual input during the workflow

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If work instructions are checked for dimensions, then dimension correctness is ensured, but time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedimension correctnessVSAvoidtime consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces the manual mechanical process of checking work instructions with an automated information processing mechanism that extracts dimension data directly from the machining program using computational methods

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20250315026A1Dimension estimation device and computer-readable storage medium

Publication Date: 2025.10.09 FANUC LTD

AI summary

This dimension estimation device comprises: a calculation unit for calculating, on the basis of a machining program, at least either one of a maximum value and a minimum value of a coordinate value indicating a position included in a cutting path; and an estimation unit for estimating the dimensions of a workpiece prior to machining, on the basis of the at least either one of the maximum value and the minimum value calculated by the calculation unit.