Workpiece Post-Processing Time Control for Shorter Cycle Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current post-processing methods for machined workpieces are inefficient as they do not optimize processing time based on the state of the workpiece after machining, leading to unnecessary processing times and reduced task efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a robot to convey machined workpieces to a post-processing device, where a control device acquires information on the workpiece's state and determines the optimal processing time, ensuring post-processing is performed only for that determined time, using a formula like A=B−C×D to reduce air blow time based on elapsed time, and incorporating a learning unit to optimize processing times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If post-processing is performed with a fixed processing time for all workpieces, then the process is simple to control, but unnecessary processing time is wasted reducing task efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the post-processing time variable rather than fixed. The control device adjusts the processing time dynamically based on the elapsed time from machining completion to post-processing start, ensuring optimal processing duration for each workpiece state while maintaining automated control through systematic time adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of processing time from a constant value to a variable value that depends on the elapsed time since machining. By modifying this parameter based on workpiece state information, the system optimizes productivity without requiring complex manual intervention for each workpiece.
2Reliability
If post-processing time is extended to ensure complete processing for all cases, then processing quality is maintained, but cycle time increases reducing overall efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by measuring and recording the elapsed time from machining completion before post-processing begins. This pre-measured time information is then used to determine the appropriate post-processing duration, ensuring quality requirements are met while avoiding unnecessary extended processing for workpieces that require less time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by utilizing the elapsed time information as input to determine post-processing duration. The control device receives feedback about the workpiece state (through elapsed time measurement) and adjusts the processing time accordingly, maintaining quality while minimizing cycle time through data-driven decision making.
3Productivity
If post-processing is performed on all workpieces with uniform treatment, then process consistency is maintained, but unnecessary processing is performed reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring the post-processing time to match the specific needs of each workpiece based on its elapsed time since machining. Instead of uniform treatment, each workpiece receives customized processing duration appropriate to its state, improving efficiency while maintaining necessary process consistency through systematic adjustment rather than arbitrary variation.
Data Source
AI summary
In a post-processing method for a workpiece, a workpiece machined by a machining device is conveyed by a robot, from the machining device to a post-processing device, information regarding a state, at the machining device, of the workpiece after machining is acquired, a processing time for post-processing of the workpiece by the post-processing device is determined by a control device on the basis of the information regarding the state of the workpiece after machining, and the post-processing is performed on the workpiece by the post-processing device for just the processing time that is determined.