JP6868081B2 - Conversion computer - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a technique for converting an NC program for numerical control (NC).

In recent years, by inputting an NC program to an NC cutting machine, an workpiece (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a work) may be machined.

For example, in Patent Document 1, "The NC program apparatus 1 preliminarily sets a machining shape required for a workpiece 5 according to a specification of machining conditions including a machining start point, a machining end point, and a size of an end mill E to be used. The calculation of the predicted value of the cutting resistance applied to the end mill E that is fed and moved along the feed path assumed in this fixed machining cycle by replacing it with a predetermined fixed machining cycle is determined between the predetermined appropriate value and the predetermined value. The feed path of the end mill E is determined including the feed rate in each part by repeating until the comparative evaluation result of the above is obtained. "

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2003-263208

In the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, high machining accuracy is achieved by changing the feed rate and the depth of cut while the tool is in contact with the workpiece (referred to as a workpiece in the present application), but as a result, the workpiece A step is generated on the cutting surface due to correction during cutting.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to use an NC program to ensure appropriate machining accuracy while avoiding the occurrence of a step on the cutting surface of a workpiece due to correction during cutting. The purpose is to provide technology for converting into programs.

The NC program conversion processing method according to one aspect is an NC program conversion processing method that converts a pre-correction NC program to generate a corrected NC program, and is based on a plurality of blocks in the pre-correction NC program before correction. The non-contact part tool path, which is the path where the tool of the processing machine that executes the NC program does not come into contact with the workpiece during the processing corresponding to the block, is specified, and the non-contact block, which is the block where only the non-contact part tool path is the path, is specified. The tool path correction amount in the tool radial direction in the machining process of the workpiece according to the succeeding block, which is one or more blocks following the non-contact block, is determined, and the tool path is corrected by the tool path correction amount before the succeeding block. Create a block containing the description for correction.

According to the present invention, the NC program can be converted into an NC program capable of ensuring appropriate machining accuracy.

FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of a processing processing system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a conversion computer according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a conversion input screen according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of a download confirmation screen according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the conversion process according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a shape of the work according to the embodiment before cutting. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a target shape of the work according to the embodiment after cutting. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a shape of the work according to the embodiment during cutting. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the description of the NC program before correction according to the embodiment and the path of the tool in the cutting process of the corresponding workpiece. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a description of the corrected NC program according to the embodiment and a tool path in the cutting process of the corresponding workpiece.

The embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments described below do not limit the invention according to the claims, and all of the elements and combinations thereof described in the embodiments are indispensable for the means for solving the invention. Is not always.

<System configuration>
FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of a processing processing system according to an embodiment.

The processing system 1 includes a conversion computer 10, a plurality of NC cutting machines 20 (an example of a processing machine), and a plurality of on-site computers 30. The conversion computer 10, the plurality of NC cutting machines 20, and the plurality of on-site computers 30 are connected via the network 40. The network 40 may be a wired network or a wireless network. In the present embodiment, the NC cutting machine 20 and the on-site computer 30 are arranged at each of the place A and the place B, and the conversion computer 10 is arranged at the place C. The conversion computer 10 may be arranged at either the place A or the place B. Further, a plurality of NC cutting machines 20 and a plurality of on-site computers 30 may be arranged at the same place.

The conversion computer 10 converts an NC program for a certain NC cutting machine 20 (NC program for conversion source: NC program before correction) into an NC program for another NC cutting machine 20 (NC program for conversion destination: after correction). The process of converting to NC program) is executed. Details of the conversion computer 10 will be described later.

The on-site computer 30 is a computer operated by an on-site worker, and is composed of, for example, a PC (Personal Computer) including a processor, storage resources, and the like. In FIG. 1, the site referred to here is typically a place where the NC cutting machine 20 is installed (for example, in a factory, a building, a floor, etc.). However, if the on-site computer 30 is used for displaying the screen of the conversion computer 10, it may be used in a place other than the place where the NC cutting machine 20 is installed.

In the following description, the on-site computer 30 is in charge of the download processing and screen display of the converted NC program, the screen display of the conversion input screen, etc., and the conversion computer 10 is in charge of the actual conversion processing. It is explained as an example. However, although the convenience is somewhat reduced, the roles (including some roles) that each computer is in charge of can be exchanged or integrated with each other. Further, the conversion computer 10 may be composed of a plurality of computers. Therefore, in the following description, the term "conversion system" may be used. The system includes one or more computers (on-site computer 30 or conversion computer 10), and is a system that performs processing in charge of the conversion computer 10 and the on-site computer 30 described below. A part of the processing realized by the on-site computer 30 may be omitted.

The NC cutting machine 20 is, for example, a machining center, and includes a main body 22 that executes machining processing, an NC controller 21 that controls machining processing of the main body 22, and one or more tool sets used in the main body 22. A tool magazine 25 is provided as an example of an accommodating portion capable of accommodating the tool TL.

Each tool magazine 25 has a plurality of slots (SL: 25a, 25b, 25c) capable of accommodating one tool TL.

The NC controller 21 controls the machining process of the main body 22 and the tool replacement process according to the NC program stored inside.

The main body 22 includes a processing head 23, a stage 24, and a tool replacement 26 as an example of the replacement. The processing head portion 23 includes a spindle on which a tool TL can be mounted and which can be rotated. The processing head unit 23 may be the spindle itself. The stage 24 is movable on which the workpiece W to be machined is placed. The tool changing unit 26 removes the tool TL from the processing head unit 23 and accommodates it in an empty slot of the tool magazine 25. Further, the tool changing unit 26 takes out the tool TL from the slot of the tool magazine 25 and attaches it to the processing head unit 23. An example of the tool changing unit 26 is a change arm (also referred to as an ATC arm) of an automatic tool changing device (ATC). The tool magazine 25 described above is also a component of the automatic tool changing device. The NC program can internally describe a series of instructions (called a code or a word in which parameters are added to the code in the NC program terminology) meaning a tool change instruction, and the tool change instruction is described in the tool magazine 25. Contains a slot number that indicates the location of the slot (meaning later). The tool changing unit 26 takes out the tool TL from the slot specified by the slot number included in the parameter of the tool changing instruction according to the instruction of the NC controller 21 that has read the tool changing instruction, and attaches the tool TL to the processing head unit 23.

In the NC cutting machine 20, the number of tool TLs that can be accommodated in the tool magazine 25 is limited, but one or more tool sets 50 are prepared in advance, and the tool magazine 25 is prepared according to the machining process to be executed. By exchanging the tool set housed in, various machining processes can be supported.

In the present embodiment, the tool TL includes a blade portion TLa such as an end mill, a drill, and a cutting tool for cutting the work W, and a holder TLb for mounting the blade portion TLa on the processing head portion 23. However, for example, when the cutting tool portion TLa can be mounted on the processing head portion 23 as it is, the holder TLb may not be included, and at least the cutting tool portion TLa may be included.

In the following description, the existence including at least a machining machine that has been machined using the NC program to be converted (that is, an NC program for conversion source) and a tool set corresponding to the machining machine will be described. Sometimes called "conversion source environment". Further, the existence including at least a processing machine scheduled to be machined using the converted NC program (that is, an NC program for conversion destination) and a tool set corresponding to the processing machine is called a "conversion destination environment". Sometimes. In the conversion source environment and the conversion destination environment, a physical or logical existence included in each place (for example, the temperature, temperature sensor, humidity, humidity sensor of the place, or a processing machine is installed in the place. Floors, buildings that make up the place) may be included. The "tool set corresponding to the processing machine" includes a tool set stored in the tool magazine of the processing machine and a tool set that may be stored and used in the tool magazine in the future. The tool set, which typically corresponds to the machine, is installed in the same location as the machine.

Next, the conversion computer 10 will be described in detail.

FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a conversion computer according to an embodiment.

<< Hardware >>
The conversion computer 10 is, for example, a personal computer or a general-purpose computer. The conversion computer 10 includes a CPU 11 as an example of a processor, a network interface 12 (abbreviated as Net I / F in the figure), a user interface 13 (User I / F in the figure), a storage resource 14 as an example of a storage unit, and a storage resource 14. Includes an internal network connecting these components.

The CPU 11 can execute the program stored in the storage resource 14. The storage resource 14 stores a program to be executed by the CPU 11, various information used in this program, an NC program used by the NC cutting machine 20, and the like. The storage resource 14 may be, for example, a semiconductor memory, a flash memory, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like, and may be a volatile type memory or a non-volatile type memory.

The network interface 12 is an interface for communicating with an external device (for example, a field computer 30, an NC controller 21 of an NC cutting machine 20, etc.) via a network 40.

The user interface 13 is, for example, a touch panel, a display, a keyboard, a mouse, or the like, but may be another device as long as it can accept operations from a worker (user) and display information. The user interface 13 may be composed of these a plurality of devices.

<< Data, etc. >>
The storage resource 14 stores the processing machine configuration information 1421, the tool set information 1422, the individual tool information 1423, the conversion source NC program 1424, the conversion destination NC program 1425, and the conversion history information 1426. The storage resource 14 may store information other than this. The details of each data and program are explained from the next paragraph. In addition, each information or some items of each information may be omitted.

* Processing machine configuration information 1421. The processing machine configuration information 1421 is configured as, for example, a table that stores information about each NC cutting machine 20. The processing machine configuration information 1421 includes each information shown below for each NC cutting machine 20.
(A1) Identifier (processing machine ID) of NC cutting machine 20. As the processing machine ID, the identifier of the NC controller 21 or the network address of the NC controller 21 may be substituted.
(A2) Model number of NC cutting machine 20.
(A3) Installation location of NC cutting machine 20.
(A4) Usage record of NC cutting machine 20, for example, usage time.
(A5) The temperature of a predetermined portion of the NC cutting machine 20. The predetermined portion may be the spindle of the NC cutting machine 20 or the stage 24.
(A6) Information on the rigidity of a predetermined portion of the NC cutting machine 20 (for example, Young's modulus of the portion, amount of deflection, etc.). The predetermined portion may be the spindle of the processing head portion 23 of the NC cutting machine 20 or the stage 24.
(A7) The shape of a predetermined portion of the NC cutting machine 20. The shape of the predetermined portion may be the length of the spindle of the NC cutting machine 20 or the length of the stage 24.
(A8) The maximum number of tools that can be accommodated in the tool magazine 25, that is, the number of slots.
(A9) Offset value set according to aging and installation environment. This offset value is a value used to finely correct the coordinates when moving the tool in the NC program, and is a value used to correct a situation such as the stage being slightly tilted due to aged deterioration. ..
(A10) Manufacturer, model number, etc. of NC controller 21. The NC controller 21 may have a slightly different description format of the NC program depending on the manufacturer and model number, and is used to determine such a situation.
(A11) Rattling of components such as the spindle and stage, movement accuracy (for example, stage backlash amount, etc.), linearity, flatness, translation, vibration width and vibration frequency during device operation.

In the present embodiment, the information of (a1), (a2), (a4), (a5), (a8), (a9), and (a10) can be obtained from, for example, the NC controller 21 of the NC cutting machine 20. On the other hand, (a3), (a6), (a7), and (a11) are acquired from the input information by the operator. The method of acquiring information is not limited to this, and at least a part of (a1), (a2), (a4), (a5), (a8), (a9), and (a10) depends on the operator. The information may be acquired from the input information via the user interface 13, and the information that can be acquired from the NC controller 21 in (a3), (a6), (a7), and (a11) may be acquired. It may be acquired from the NC controller 21. The information acquired from the NC controller 21 may also be acquired from an alternative device (for example, another computer or the sensor itself).

* Tool information (tool set information 1422 and individual tool information 1423)
The tool set information 1422 is information for managing a group (set) composed of one or more tool TLs. The tool set information 1422 is a set of tool set identification information (tool set ID), identifiers of one or more tool TLs constituting the set, or model numbers.

The individual tool information 1423 is information about each tool. The individual tool information 1423 includes each information shown below.
(B1) Tool TL identifier (tool ID: for example, serial number, etc.). As the identifier of the tool TL, if the individual ID is given to the blade portion TLa or the holder TLb, it may be the value, and if it is not attached, the CPU 11 that executes the configuration information acquisition program 1412 It may be given automatically.
(B2) Model number of tool TL (example of tool specific information). For example, the model numbers of the blade portion TLa and the holder TLb that make up the tool TL. When the tool TL is composed of only the blade portion TLa, only the model number of the blade portion TLa may be used. Further, when the blade portion TLa is composed of a plurality of parts, the model numbers may be all of them or some of them.
(B3) Material, shape, rigidity (Young's modulus, deflection amount, etc.), usage history, temperature, etc. of the tool TL (for example, the blade portion TLa and the holder TLb, respectively). Here, since the rigidity changes depending on the material and shape of the tool TL, this information is also information on the rigidity. Unless otherwise specified, the term "shape" refers to the length and the length of the blade portion TLa protruding from the holder TLb (cutlery) in addition to the three-dimensional shape and cross-sectional shape generally indicated by drawings and CAD data. It is assumed that typical values obtained from the shape such as the protrusion length), the thickness of the blade portion TLa, and the linearity of the blade portion TLa are also included.
(B4) Information (position information, slot number) of the arrangement position (slot) of the tool magazine 25 in which the tool should be accommodated.
In the present embodiment, the information (b1) to (b4) is acquired from the input information by the operator via the user interface 13, for example, but the information can be acquired from the NC controller 21. May be obtained from the NC controller 21.

* The conversion source NC program 1424 is an NC program used for machining in the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 (referred to as the conversion source NC cutting machine 20). The conversion source NC program 1424 is adjusted to the characteristics and state of the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 in order to maintain the processing accuracy of the target object obtained by the processing by the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 at a predetermined accuracy. May be tuned.

* The conversion destination NC program 1425 is an NC program obtained by converting the conversion source NC program 1424 so as to match the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 (referred to as the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20). .. If the conversion process is not performed on any of the conversion source NC programs 1424, the conversion destination NC program 1425 does not exist.

* The conversion history information 1426 is information that manages the history of conversion processing when the conversion source NC program 1424 is converted into the conversion destination NC program 1425. The conversion history information 1426 is, for example, information in which identification information that identifies the conversion process is associated with various information (input information, etc.) used during the conversion process.

In addition, the following information may be stored in the storage resource 14.
* Work W information. This information is, for example, information such as shape data before machining of the work W, material, rigidity, and machining target shape data of the work W. The machining target shape data is data indicating the target shape when machining by the NC program. If the work W can be machined to the target shape, it means that the error is zero.
* Information on the pre-conversion environment or conversion destination environment other than the processing machine configuration information 1421, tool set information 1422, and individual tool information 1423. In order to clarify this information, it may be called "other pre-conversion environment information" or "other pre-conversion environment information".

<Program that runs on the conversion computer>
<< Conversion program 1411 >>
The conversion program 1411 executes the following processing by being executed by the CPU 11. Here, the conversion unit is configured by the CPU 11 executing the conversion program 1411.
* The conversion program 1411 converts various information input to the conversion input screen 100 into the processing machine configuration information 1421 and the tool set when the conversion start button 120 of the conversion input screen 100 (see FIG. 3) described later is pressed. Various information reflected in the information 1422 and the individual tool information 1423 and input to the conversion input screen 100, and information on the conversion destination environment included in the processing machine configuration information 1421, the tool set information 1422, and the individual tool information 1423. Alternatively, based on the information of the conversion source environment, the conversion process of converting the conversion source NC program 1424 to be converted into the conversion destination NC program 1425 is executed, and the obtained conversion destination NC program 1425 is converted into the storage resource 14. Store.

In the conversion process of converting the conversion source NC program 1424 to the conversion destination NC program 1425, for example, the conversion program 1411 is used by the rigidity of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 or the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20. Based on the information about the rigidity of the tool TL of the tool set 50, the data obtained by changing or adding the instruction of the conversion source NC program 1424 is referred to as the conversion destination NC program 25. It should be noted that the commands to be added or changed include tool diameter compensation, tool length compensation, tool wear compensation, feed rate, or cutting speed, so that a large number of machining operations such as an increase in the number of times the workpiece W is machined by the tool TL can be performed. You may avoid changing. However, an instruction (for example, an instruction corresponding to trial cutting) that increases the number of times the work W is processed may be added.

Further, in the conversion process of converting the conversion source NC program 1424 into the conversion destination NC program 1425, the conversion program 1411 includes the NC controller 21 of the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 and the NC of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20. When at least a part of the description format for the NC program is different from that of the controller 21, the NC controller 21 of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 is used for the part where the description format is different in the description of the NC program for the conversion source. Convert to the description format for. As a result, the NC controller 21 of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 can perform the machining process without any trouble.

The conversion program 1411 contains, as a comment, the processing machine ID of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 and each tool TL of the tool set specified to be used by the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 in the conversion destination NC program 1425. The model number (or identifier) and the arrangement position information (slot number) of each tool TL may be described. For example, as a comment, "MC2: SL1: ML7x, ..." may be described. Here, MC2 is a processing machine ID, SL1 is a slot number, and ML7x is a model number of a mill. By referring to this comment, it is possible to grasp which NC cutting machine 20 the conversion destination NC program 1425 targets and what kind of tool should be stored in which slot. Further, in the NC program 1425 for the conversion destination, the use of each tool TL designated to be used and the arrangement position information of each tool TL may be described as comments. By adding such a comment, the amount of data in the conversion destination NC program 1425 will increase, but since it can always be managed integrally with the conversion destination NC program, the unexpected NC cutting machine 20 and tool TL are mistaken. You can reduce the use. In the following description, the comment explained in this paragraph may be referred to as "conversion destination device or tool comment".

Further, the conversion program 1411 stores the conversion processing ID (conversion history ID) as a comment in the conversion destination NC program 1425, and the conversion history ID and various information input to the conversion input screen 100. The conversion history information 1426 associated with and is stored in the storage resource 14. By matching the conversion history ID stored as a comment in the conversion destination NC program 1425 with the conversion history information 1426, various values considered at the time of conversion can be grasped, and the processing by the conversion destination NC program 1425 can be performed. It is possible to investigate the cause when the accuracy is insufficient. In the following explanation, a comment like this paragraph may be called a "history comment".

In addition, it is conceivable that the conversion process by the conversion program 1411 is performed multiple times. For example, it is a case where it is desired to convert the NC program 1425 for the conversion destination converted the first time for another NC cutting machine 20 or a tool set. In such a case, the above-mentioned "conversion destination device or tool comment" and "history comment" may exist in the conversion destination NC program 1425 by the amount of the conversion multiplicity. However, it is preferable to keep only those comments generated by the last conversion and delete those comments before that. Especially in the "conversion destination device or tool comment", the only thing the operator should see is the comment given in the last conversion.

* After the conversion process, the conversion program 1411 displays the download confirmation screen 200 (see FIG. 4) described later, and when the download button 210 is pressed, the conversion destination NC program 1425 is converted to the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20. Is transmitted to the on-site computer 30 at the location of the NC controller 21 or the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20.

<< Configuration information acquisition program 1412 >>
The configuration information acquisition program 1412 executes the following processing by being executed by the CPU 11. Here, the rigidity information receiving unit is configured by the CPU 11 executing the configuration information acquisition program 1412.
* The configuration information acquisition program 1412 acquires various information related to the NC cutting machine 20 from the NC controller 21. The information to be acquired includes the above-mentioned information (a1), (a2), (a4), (a5), (a8), (a9), and (a10).
* The configuration information acquisition program 1412 displays the conversion input screen 100 on the user interface 13, and various information from the operator via the conversion input screen 100 (information about the NC cutting machine 20 acquired from the operator ((((). (a3), (a6), (a7), and (a11)), and information on the tool set 50 (information on (b1) to (b4))) are acquired.

* When the required information is not input or is not appropriate (when the information is old) on the conversion input screen 100, the configuration information acquisition program 1412 places an alert symbol (in the vicinity of the information input area). "!" Etc.) is displayed. The configuration information acquisition program 1412 presses, for example, the conversion start button 120 of the conversion input screen 100 so that the execution of the conversion process is not started when the necessary information is not input or is not appropriate. It may be displayed as an impossible state. By doing so, it is possible to appropriately suppress the execution of the conversion process when an error occurs in the conversion.

* The configuration information acquisition program 1412 selects and inputs in the conversion destination environment based on the information of the conversion source environment (that is, the information of the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 and the information about the tool set 50 of the conversion source NC cutting machine 20). Performs filtering processing such as setting the input value in the area to an appropriate value or narrowing down the selection candidates that can be selected by pulling down. For example, the configuration information acquisition program 1412 narrows down only tool sets having the same number of tools as the number of tools of the tool set selected in the conversion source environment as tool set selection candidates at the conversion destination.

Next, the conversion input screen 100 displayed by the configuration information acquisition program 1412 will be described in detail.

<Input screen for conversion>
FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a conversion input screen according to an embodiment. The conversion input screen 100 is, for example, a screen composed of the following drawing areas, and each area includes a screen object for input or display.
* Environment area before conversion 100B. This area contains screen objects for inputting or displaying the pre-conversion environment.
* Conversion destination environment area 100C. This area contains screen objects for inputting or displaying the destination environment.
* Processing information area 100A. This area contains screen objects for inputting or displaying information related to information independent of the pre-conversion environment and the conversion-destination environment.

The processing information area 100A includes the following. In the following description, the term "area" for display and input is used, but this refers to a screen object for display or an area including a screen object for input.
* File name input area 101 for inputting the file name of the NC program to be converted (conversion source).

The pre-conversion environment area 100B includes the following.
* Conversion source processing machine designation area 102 for selecting and designating the processing machine ID and configuration information of the conversion source NC cutting machine 20.
* Conversion source processing machine information input area 103 for inputting various information regarding the conversion source NC cutting machine 20.
* Conversion source tool set designation area 104 for selecting and designating a tool set used in machining processing according to the conversion source NC program in the conversion source NC cutting machine 20.
* Conversion source tool information input areas 105, 106, 107 for inputting information about each tool included in the tool set.

The conversion destination environment area 100C includes the following.
* Conversion destination processing machine designation area 110 for selecting and designating the processing machine ID and configuration information of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20.
* Conversion destination processing machine information input area 111 for inputting various information about the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20.
* Conversion destination tool set designation area 112 for selecting and designating a tool set to be used in machining processing according to the conversion destination NC program in the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20.
* Conversion destination tool information input areas 113, 114, 115 for inputting information about each tool included in the tool set.
* Conversion start button 120 that accepts the start of conversion processing from the conversion source NC program to the conversion destination NC program.

The above area division is an example. For example, the file name input area 101 may be regarded as a part of the pre-conversion environment together with the tool set TL in the conversion source environment, and may be included in the pre-machining environment area 100B, or conversely, may be collectively included in the machining information 100A. .. In this figure, the above-mentioned "work W information", "other pre-conversion environment information", and "other conversion destination environment information" input or display area is not shown. However, by displaying these areas on this screen, information input may be accepted or information may be displayed. The work W information may be included in the area 100A. It is preferable if the information of the work W has a small change in each environment. On the other hand, when the shape of the work W before processing differs depending on the environment, such an input or display area may be included in the area 100B or the area 100C. As the shape data, a screen object for designating a file name in which the shape data is stored may be used as in the area 101 of FIG.

The conversion source processing machine information input area 103 is allowed to input information that needs to be input by the operator (conversion source processing machine required input information), for example, the above-mentioned information (a6), (a7), and (a11). This is an area for displaying information that has already been acquired and for inputting correction information.

In the conversion source tool information input areas 105, 106, 107, information that needs to be input by the operator (conversion source tool request input information), for example, the above-mentioned information (b3), (b4), etc. may be input or already. This is an area for displaying the acquired information and inputting correction information. In the present embodiment, the conversion source tool information input area 105 is an input area corresponding to the tool of TL1 of the conversion source tool set designation area 104, and the conversion source tool information input area 106 is the conversion source tool set designation area 104. It is an input area corresponding to the tool of TL2, and the conversion source tool information input area 107 is an input area corresponding to the tool of TL3 of the conversion source tool set designation area 104.

The conversion destination processing machine information input area 111 is used to input information that needs to be input by an operator, for example, the above-mentioned information (a6), (a7), and (a11), or information that has already been acquired. This is an area for displaying and inputting correction information.

In the conversion destination tool information input areas 113, 114, 115, information that needs to be input by the operator, for example, the above-mentioned information (b3) and (b4), or the like, or information that has already been acquired is displayed. This is an area for inputting correction information. In the present embodiment, the conversion destination tool information input area 113 is an input area corresponding to the tool of TL1 of the conversion destination tool set designation area 112, and the conversion destination tool information input area 114 is the conversion destination tool set designation area 112. It is an input area corresponding to the tool of TL2, and the conversion destination tool information input area 115 is an input area corresponding to the tool of TL3 of the conversion destination tool set designation area 112. The positions in the conversion destination tool information input areas 113, 114, 115 indicate the position information (slot number) of the tool magazine 25 in which each tool should be placed, but the slot number in which each tool is placed is the conversion destination tool information. The same slot number as the input area 113, 114, 115 in which the same or the same type of tool is arranged may be set in advance. As the slot number for arranging each tool, the operator may input an arbitrary slot number. In this case, it is necessary to appropriately arrange the corresponding tool in the slot of the input slot number.

In the conversion input screen 100, selection candidates are displayed in the conversion source processing machine information input area 103, the conversion source tool set designation area 104, the conversion destination processing machine designation area 110, the conversion destination tool set designation area 112, and the like. The pull-down button 130 is arranged, and when the pull-down button 130 is pressed, selection candidates in the corresponding area are displayed so as to be selectable.

Further, on the conversion input screen 100, when there is no input in the area where input is required, or when the displayed information is information acquired before a predetermined period from the present time, etc. , Alert symbol 131 is displayed. According to this alert symbol 131, the worker can grasp that the information is missing or out of date, and that the necessary information needs to be input or additional measurement needs to be performed. ..

As described in part in the above description, the user of this screen does not have to input text in the pre-conversion environment area 100B and the conversion destination environment area 100C each time conversion is performed. For example, the information stored in the storage resource 14 by the conversion computer 10 is stored in advance before the display on this screen, the information stored in advance is displayed on this screen, and the information is selected by the user interface 13. You may. In such a case, the display on this screen may be omitted for some information regarding the pre-conversion environment or the conversion destination environment. However, the alert symbol 131 is displayed in the vicinity of the text displayed inside the areas 102, 104, 110, and 112 (for example, next to the text), and the information belonging to the processing machine or tool set is insufficient. It may suggest that it is old. Based on these suggestions, the user of this screen can confirm that the items selected before the start of conversion cannot be converted, or even if they are converted, the processing accuracy after conversion may decrease, so that the conversion process takes time. Is more suitable when

Next, the download confirmation screen 200 displayed by the conversion program 1411 will be described in detail.

<Download confirmation screen>
FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of a download confirmation screen according to the embodiment.

The download confirmation screen 200 has a conversion history ID display area 201 that displays a conversion history ID that identifies the executed conversion process, and conversion destination processing machine information that displays the processing machine ID and configuration information of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20. The display area 202, the conversion destination tool set display area 203 for displaying the tool set ID of the tool set used in the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20, and the model number of the tool constituting the tool set, and the conversion destination NC cutting machine. The tool placement position display area 204 for displaying the placement position information (slot number) of each tool in the tool magazine 25 of 20 and the NC program 1425 for conversion destination are displayed on the NC controller 21 or the site of the NC cutting machine 20 at the conversion destination location. It includes a download button 210 that accepts an instruction to cause the computer 30 to download.

According to this download confirmation screen 200, the arrangement position information (slot number) of each tool in the tool magazine 25 of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 is displayed, so that the tool TL used by the operator is incorrect in the tool magazine 25. It is possible to appropriately prevent the placement in the slot.

Here, to explain in line with a specific situation, in the machining process, different tools may be used in a plurality of processes such as roughing, semi-finishing, and finishing. In this case, as partially explained, the NC program describes the position information (slot number) of the tool magazine 25 containing the tools used in each process. Which tool is arranged in which slot in the tool magazine 25 can be arbitrarily determined in each of the NC cutting machines 20. Therefore, it is possible that tools for performing the same process between the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 and the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 are arranged in slots having different numbers in the tool magazine 25. .. For example, if the conversion processing NC program is used as it is on the assumption that the slots in the tool magazine 25 of the tool used in the same process in the conversion source and the conversion destination have the same number, the same number is used. If different types of tools are accommodated in the slots, completely different tools are used, which may damage the work W or the tool TL. In particular, in a busy season or the like, misplacement of tools is likely to occur, and there is a high possibility that such a situation will occur.

On the other hand, as described above, according to the download confirmation screen 200, the slot number of each tool in the tool magazine 25 of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 is displayed, so that the tool TL to be used is in the wrong slot. It is possible to prompt the operator to confirm that the tool TL has not been placed, and it is possible to reduce the situation where the tool TL is placed in the wrong slot.

A download screen such as this screen may be integrated with the screen of FIG. 3 described above. However, when the conversion process takes time, it is preferable that the download screen shown in FIG. 4 can be provided separately from the conversion start button screen shown in FIG. This is because, after starting the conversion process, the screen user can close the screen and perform another work. The advantages of dividing the other screens are as described in this embodiment.

Next, the processing operation by the conversion computer 10 will be described.

(Process 1) The configuration information acquisition program 1412 (strictly speaking, the CPU 11 that executes the configuration information acquisition program 1412) can be acquired from the NC controller 21 of each NC cutting machine 20 connected via the network 40. Various information regarding the NC cutting machine 20 (for example, (a1), (a2), (a4), (a5), (a8), (a9), and (a10)) is acquired. It should be noted that this process does not have to be performed every time the process 2 and subsequent processes described below are performed.

(Process 2) Next, the configuration information acquisition program 1412 displays the conversion input screen 100 (see FIG. 3), and accepts the following designation via the conversion input screen 100.
* Designation of NC program 1424 for conversion source, which is the conversion target.
* Designation of information (processing machine ID) that identifies the NC cutting machine 20 (conversion source NC cutting machine) that was processing the work W by the conversion source NC program 1424.
* Designation of information (tool set ID) that identifies the tool set used in the machining process by the NC program 1424 for the conversion source.
* Information that identifies the NC cutting machine (conversion destination NC cutting machine 20) that newly performs the cutting of the work W by the conversion destination NC program 1425 converted from the conversion source NC program 1424 (processing machine ID). Designation of.
* Designation of information (tool set ID) that identifies the tool set used in the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20.
At the same time, the configuration information acquisition program 1412 includes various information ((a3), (a6), (a7), and (a11)) regarding the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 and the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20, and the conversion source. Input (direct input or selective input) of information (information of (b1) to (b4)) about the tool set 50 used in the NC cutting machine 20 and the tool set 50 used in the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20. Accept.

(Process 3) When the conversion start button 120 is pressed, the configuration information acquisition program 1412 transmits a conversion start instruction to the conversion program 1411. Here, the conversion start instruction includes various information input (direct input or selective input) to the conversion input screen 100.

(Process 4) When the conversion program 1411 receives the conversion start instruction, it reads the designated conversion source NC program 1424 (pre-correction NC program) and includes the information included in the conversion start instruction (at least the conversion destination NC cutting machine). 20 or, based on the information on the rigidity of the tool set used in the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20, the conversion source NC program 1424 is converted into the conversion destination NC program 1425 (corrected NC program) and converted. The NC program 1425 for conversion destination is stored in the storage resource 14.

(Process 5) Next, the conversion program 1411 displays the download confirmation screen 200 (see FIG. 4). As an alternative to automatically displaying the download confirmation screen 200 after the completion of the process 4, the download confirmation screen 200 may be displayed according to the operation of the on-site computer 30 on the computer. After that, when the download button 210 is pressed, the conversion program 1411 transfers the conversion destination NC program 1425 to the site where the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 NC controller 21 or the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 is located. It is transmitted to the computer 30.

For example, when the conversion destination NC program 1425 is to be transmitted to the NC controller 21, the conversion destination NC program 1425 received by the NC controller 21 is stored, and the conversion destination NC program is stored in the subsequent processing. The 1425 becomes executable. On the other hand, when the conversion destination NC program 1425 is to be transmitted to the on-site computer 30, the on-site computer 30 stores the conversion destination NC program 1425. After that, by storing the conversion destination NC program 1425 of the on-site computer 30 in the NC controller 21 via the network 40 or via a recording medium or the like, the conversion destination NC program 1425 is stored in the NC controller 21. You will be able to execute it.

<Specific example of conversion processing by conversion program>
Next, a specific example of the processing operation by the conversion computer 10 will be described.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the conversion process according to the embodiment.

First, the conversion program 1411 reads all the blocks of the conversion source NC program 1424 to be processed with respect to the work area of the memory in the storage resource 14 (S11). Here, the block indicates a description portion including an instruction (address) that can be instructed to the NC cutting machine 20 at one time in the processing executed by the conversion source NC program 1424. The block contains one or more instructions (addresses) that can be instructed at the same time. Some addresses include, for example, a code indicating the type of instruction and parameters related to the content of the instruction. If the capacity of the conversion source program 1424 is too large to call all the blocks in the work area of the memory, the blocks to be read may be switched according to the progress of the process.

Next, the conversion program 1411 specifies one or more paths (referred to as non-contact partial tool paths) in which the tool does not contact the work during the process (block process) based on the instruction indicated by the block, based on the read block (S12). ). Whether or not the tool does not come into contact with the work can be specified by simulating the machining process based on the shape of the workpiece to be machined and the movement path of the tool in the block. Here, all the non-contact partial tool paths of the conversion source program 1424 may be specified, or only some non-contact partial tool paths may be specified. When the code in the block is positioning "G00" (JIS B 6314), it basically means that the tool is not in contact with the work, so the path of this block is described. It may be determined that the entire path of this block is a non-contact partial tool path without further processing.

Next, the conversion program 1411 performs loop 1 processing (S13 to S18) for each of the non-contact partial tool paths specified in step S12. In the loop 1, the initial value of the variable i is 1, and the condition for continuing the processing of the loop 1 is that the variable i is equal to or less than the number of non-contact partial tool paths specified in S12, and the variable i is the loop. 1 is added each time.

In the processing of loop 1, first, the conversion program 1411 identifies a block (referred to as a specific block) including the non-contact partial tool path [i] (the i-th path among the specified non-contact partial tool paths) to be processed. (S13).

Next, the conversion program 1411 determines whether or not the non-contact partial tool path [i] is a part of the path of the specific block (S14). As a result, when the non-contact partial tool path [i] is not a part of the path of the specific block, that is, when the entire path of the specific block is the non-contact partial tool path [i] and the specific block is the non-contact block. In (S14: N), the conversion program 1411 ends the process for the non-contact partial tool path [i] without executing the processes of steps S15 to S18.

On the other hand, when the non-contact partial tool path [i] is a part of the path of the specific block (S14: Y), the conversion program 1411 sets the specific block to at least a part of the non-contact partial tool path [i]. Is executed (for example, steps S15 to S17) to execute a process of dividing into blocks including a block having a path (for example, a non-contact block after division).

For example, when the paths of the specific block are, in order from the front, the path where the tool and the work come into contact (contact path), the non-contact partial tool path [i], and the contact path, the conversion program 1411 is the previous path. A block (divided pre-block) corresponding to the path including the contact path and the front portion of the non-contact partial tool path [i] is generated (S15), and the path of only the intermediate portion of the non-contact partial tool path [i] is generated. (Split non-contact block: split intermediate block) is generated (S16), and the block corresponding to the path including the rear part and the rear contact path of the non-contact part tool path [i] (S16). (Block after division) is generated (S17).

Further, when the paths of the specific block are the contact path and the non-contact partial tool path [i] in order from the front, the conversion program 1411 is the front side of the contact path and the non-contact partial tool path [i]. A block corresponding to the path including the portion (divided pre-block) and a block corresponding to the path of the remaining portion of the non-contact partial tool path [i] (divided non-contact block) are generated. Further, when the paths of the specific block are the non-contact partial tool path [i] and the contact path in order from the front, the conversion program 1411 is only for the front portion of the non-contact partial tool path [i]. A block corresponding to a partial path (divided non-contact block) and a block corresponding to a path including a rear portion (remaining portion) of the non-contact partial tool path [i] and a rear contact path (after splitting). Block) is generated. When there are a plurality of non-contact partial tool paths in the specific block, the same process is performed for each non-contact partial tool path by repeating the process of loop 1.

After the process of dividing the specific block is performed (for example, after the execution of S15 to S17), the conversion program 1411 divides the specific block of the work area of the memory into a plurality of blocks (for example, after the execution of the division process). It is replaced with the pre-divided block, the non-divided non-contact block, and the post-divided block) (S18).

After that, when the variable i exceeds the number of non-contact partial tool paths specified in S12, that is, when the processing of loop 1 is executed for all of the specified non-contact partial tool paths, the loop 1 is exited. The conversion program 1411 advances the process to step S19.

In step S19, the conversion program 1411 divides the entire NC program being processed in front of the non-contact block (non-contact block or divided non-contact block) to specify a plurality of block groups (block group after division). ..

Next, the conversion program 1411 performs loop 2 processing (S20 to S23) for each of the post-separation block groups specified in step S19. In the loop 2, the initial value of the variable i is 1, and the condition for continuing the processing of the loop 2 is that the variable i is equal to or less than the number of blocks after the delimiter specified in S19, and the variable i sets the loop. 1 is added each time it is performed.

In the processing of the loop 2, first, the conversion program 1411 performs the processing in the post-separation block group [i] (the i-th block group of the specified post-separation block group) of the processing target with respect to the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20. The tool path correction amount in the tool radial direction of the tool to be used is determined based on the spindle rigidity and the tool rigidity of (S20). Here, as a method of determining the tool path correction amount in the tool radial direction, the calculation may be performed in this step based on the spindle rigidity and the tool rigidity of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20, or the conversion destination NC. The tool path correction amount calculated in advance may be specified based on the spindle rigidity and the tool rigidity of the cutting machine 20. Further, when the amount of deflection of the tool during cutting in the block group after separation changes, the amount of tool path correction may be the amount of tool path correction corresponding to the maximum amount of deflection, and corresponds to the minimum amount of deflection. It may be a tool path correction amount, or may be a tool path correction amount corresponding to an average deflection amount.

Next, the conversion program 1411 generates a block (correction block) including an address for causing the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 to execute the path correction of the determined tool path correction amount (S21). Here, when the correction block is executed in the NC cutting machine 20, for example, it is a parameter different from the tool shape parameter on the memory in the NC cutting machine 20, and is a tool diameter correction address (for example, G41). , G42 (JIS B 6314)) may be used as a block for changing the value of a parameter on the memory. Here, the tool shape parameter is a parameter that is referred to as a standard when using the tool diameter correction address, and may be manually set by the user, for example. If this tool shape parameter is changed, the manually set value cannot be used, and a problem may occur when executing another NC program on the NC cutting machine 20. On the other hand, as described above, the correction block can appropriately prevent the occurrence of such a defect by changing a parameter different from the tool shape parameter. Further, in this way, since the correction block is a notation that specifies a parameter different from the tool shape parameter, the user who uses the corrected NC program can easily visually recognize and grasp the correction block. , The amount of tool path correction by the correction block can be easily grasped.

Next, the conversion program 1411 inserts the generated correction block at the beginning of the dividing block group, that is, before the non-contact block (S22). A new correction block is created, and the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 is made to execute the path correction of the determined tool path correction amount in the non-contact block without inserting the correction block in front of the non-contact block. By including the address, a block for correction may be created.

Next, the conversion program 1411 inserts a comment block (comment block) indicating that the correction block has been added before the correction block (S23).

After that, when the variable i exceeds the number of the delimited block groups specified in S19, that is, when the loop 2 process is executed for all of the specified delimited block groups, the loop 2 is exited and the conversion program is executed. 1411 advances the process to step S24.

In step S24, the conversion program 1411 stores all the created blocks in the work area as the converted NC program (conversion destination NC program 1425) in the storage of the storage resource 14.

Next, the conversion process of the conversion source NC program that performs the processing process on the specific work will be described.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a shape of the work according to the embodiment before cutting. 6 (A) shows a top view (XY plan view), FIG. 6 (B) shows a side view (YZ plan view), and FIG. 6 (C) shows a side view (XZ plan view). ..

Before cutting, the work 300 has a notch 302 formed in a part thereof and has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from above. An opening 301 having a columnar hole extending in the Z-axis direction is formed on the negative direction (right direction in FIG. 6A) of the work 300 on the Y-axis. The height of the work 300 increases as it goes in the positive direction of the X-axis.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a target shape of the work according to the embodiment after cutting. 7 (A) shows a top view (XY plan view), FIG. 7 (B) shows a side view (YZ plan view), and FIG. 7 (C) shows a side view (XZ plan view). ..

The target shape of the work 300 after cutting is such that a stepped portion 303 is formed in the vicinity of the minus side of the X-axis and the vicinity of the minus side of the Y-axis with respect to the work 300 before cutting. There is.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a shape of the work according to the embodiment during cutting. FIG. 8 shows the shape of the work immediately before reaching the target shape shown in FIG. 7. The dotted line in the figure indicates the target shape.

As shown in FIG. 8, in the work 300 before reaching the target shape, the final cutting portions 304 and 305 to be cut last remain.

Next, a description of an NC program for executing a cutting process (final cutting process) for cutting the final cutting portions 304 and 305 from the state shown in FIG. 8 of the work 300 will be described.

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the description of the NC program before correction according to the embodiment and the path of the tool in the cutting process of the corresponding workpiece. FIG. 9A shows a tool path in the final cutting process, and FIG. 9B shows a description of a portion corresponding to the final cutting process of the NC program before correction.

The NC program before correction is a block 501 that linearly moves the tool from point A to point B to cut, and a block 501 that moves the tool from point B to point C in an arc to cut. The block 502 and the block 503 for linearly moving the tool from the point C to the point D for cutting are included.

When moving the tool from point C to point D, when the tool starts moving from point C, the thickness (height) of the cutting part gradually increases, so the cutting resistance applied to the tool gradually increases. To do. After that, in the portion corresponding to the opening 301, the tool and the work do not come into contact with each other, so that the cutting resistance is eliminated. After that, when the tool passes through the portion corresponding to the opening 301, it comes into contact with the work again, and the thickness of the cutting portion is further increased, so that the cutting resistance is further increased.

According to the NC program before this correction, in the block 503 in which the tool is linearly moved from the point C to the point D for cutting, the tool width correction amount is always the same, so that the cutting resistance is close to the different point C. The cutting amount differs between the side and the side close to the D point, which deviates from the target shape and reduces the cutting accuracy.

Next, about the conversion process for converting the NC program before correction for executing the cutting process (final cutting process) for cutting the final cutting portions 304 and 305 from the state shown in FIG. 8 and the NC program after correction. explain.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a description of the corrected NC program according to the embodiment and a tool path in the cutting process of the corresponding workpiece. FIG. 10A shows a tool path in the final cutting process, and FIG. 10B shows a description of a portion corresponding to the final cutting process of the corrected NC program. In FIG. 10B, additions / changes from the NC program before correction are shown in bold and italics. In the following description, the contents of FIGS. 5 and 9 will be referred to as appropriate.

In step S12 of the conversion process shown in FIG. 5, as a non-contact portion tool path, a portion from point A to contact with the work 300 and a portion corresponding to the opening 301 are detected.

In the processing of loop 1, the block 501 is specified as a specific block for the non-contact partial tool path from the point A to the contact with the work 300, and the path in front of the non-contact partial tool path (point A to E). A block 603 corresponding to the point), a block 604 corresponding to a path (point E to point B) including a path at the rear of the non-contact partial tool path and a path in which the tool contacts the workpiece are generated, and block 501 is generated. Can be replaced with. Since the block does not include information on the start point, the block 604 is the same as the block 501 as a description.

Further, in the processing of the loop 1, the block 503 is specified as a specific block for the non-contact portion tool path of the portion corresponding to the opening 301, the path where the tool contacts the work, and the front portion of the non-contact portion tool path. Block 606 corresponding to the path (point C to point F), block 609 corresponding to the path only in the middle of the non-contact partial tool path (point F to point G), and the path behind the non-contact partial tool path. , Block 610 corresponding to the path (point G to point D) including the path where the tool comes into contact with the work is generated and replaced with block 503.

After that, in step S19, the block 603 which is a non-contact block and the block group (block group after division) separated in front of the block 609 are specified. That is, blocks 603 to 606, and blocks 609 and 610 are specified as a post-separation block group.

In the loop 2, the tool path correction amount (calculated value 1 in the figure) corresponding to the machining process up to the point B is determined for the block group after the division of the blocks 603 to 606, and the correction of the tool path correction amount is determined. The block 602 (correction block) is inserted before the block 603, and the comment block 601 (comment block) indicating that the correction block is inserted before the block 602 is inserted. With this configuration, since the block 602 that performs the correction is executed before the block 603 in which the tool does not come into contact with the work, it is possible to prevent the tool path from being corrected during cutting, which is caused by the correction during cutting. It is possible to appropriately prevent the occurrence of steps on the work.

Further, in the loop 2, for the block group after the division of the block 609 and the block 610, the tool path correction amount (calculated value 2 in the figure) corresponding to the machining process from the G point to the D point is determined, and this tool is used. A block 608 (correction block) for correcting the path correction amount is inserted before the block 609, and a comment block 607 (comment block) indicating that the correction block is inserted before the block 608 is inserted. With this configuration, since the block 608 that performs the correction is executed before the block 609 in which the tool does not come into contact with the work, it is possible to prevent the tool path from being corrected during cutting, which is caused by the correction during cutting. It is possible to appropriately prevent the occurrence of steps on the work. Further, according to this process, in the NC program before correction, it is possible to create an NC program capable of appropriately correcting the tool path for a part of the cutting process in the cutting process which was regarded as one block. In the cutting process, the path can be corrected in more detail, and the cutting accuracy of the workpiece is improved.

The blocks 601 to 610 created in this way serve as a part of the modified NC program corresponding to the blocks 501 to 503 of the NC program before the correction.

According to the changed NC program, the tool diameter correction amount suitable for the cutting process from point E to point B is corrected between points A and E, and the cutting process between points E and B is performed. It can be executed with appropriate accuracy, and the tool diameter correction amount suitable for the cutting process from point G to point D is corrected between points F and G, and between points G and D. Cutting process can be executed with appropriate accuracy. Thereby, the cutting accuracy for the work can be improved.

<Action / effect>
According to the above processing, the conversion source NC program tuned for the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 is converted into the conversion destination NC program in consideration of at least the information regarding the rigidity of the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20. Therefore, it is possible to improve the machining accuracy in the machining process in the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20. Further, according to the above-mentioned processing, it is possible to correct the tool path correction amount suitable for the cutting processing. Further, since it is possible to prevent the correction from being performed during cutting, it is possible to appropriately prevent the work from having a step or the like due to the correction during cutting. In addition, since one block is divided or a correction block is added by using the block of the NC program before correction, the tool path correction amount can be adjusted while effectively using the description of the NC program before correction. Since the correction can be performed, the user who has read the NC program before the correction can easily understand the NC program after the correction. Further, since a comment indicating the converted portion is added to the corrected NC program, the user's understanding of the corrected NC program can be facilitated.

<Variation>
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be appropriately modified and implemented without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Further, the processes described below may be used in combination.

<< Filtering process of conversion destination environment >>
In the filtering process by the configuration information acquisition program 1412, the following process may be performed.

* Candidates for conversion destination NC cutting machine (setting candidates or selection candidates for conversion destination processing machine designated area 110)
For example, as a candidate NC cutting machine that is set as a conversion destination NC cutting machine or narrowed down as a selection candidate thereof, another NC cutting machine 20 that includes all the functions of the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 May be. Specifically, for example, when the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 is a milling machine or a drilling machine, the candidate NC cutting machine may be used as a machining center. Further, when the conversion source NC cutting machine is a 3-axis machining center, the candidate NC cutting machine may be a 5-axis machining center.

Further, as a candidate NC cutting machine that is set as a conversion destination NC cutting machine or narrowed down as a selection candidate, an NC cutting machine that can execute all the processing steps described in the conversion source NC program 1424. May be. For example, even if the conversion source NC cutting machine is a 5-axis machining center, if all the processing processes described in the conversion source CN program 1424 can be executed by the 3-axis machining center, candidate NC cutting can be performed. The processing machine may be used as a 3-axis machining center.

Further, the NC cutting machine 20 that can be loaded with a smaller number of tools than the number of tools used in the conversion source NC program 1424 may be excluded from the candidate NC cutting machines.

* Tool set candidates (setting candidates or selection candidates for conversion destination tool set designated area 112)
When simplifying the conversion process of the NC program, the candidate of the conversion destination tool set may be a tool set having the same number of tools as the number of tools of the conversion source tool set. From the viewpoint of machining accuracy, it may be preferable to use the same number of tools as the conversion source tool set as a candidate. For example, when the conversion source uses three tools to perform conversion in the number and order of roughing steps, intermediate machining steps, and finishing steps, the number of steps such as roughing steps and finishing steps and the number of finishing steps using two tools. This is because it is difficult to obtain the same processing accuracy as the conversion source even if the order is performed. It should be noted that such a use may be stored for each tool TL, and a tool set including all uses of the tool TL included in the conversion source tool set may be a candidate.

Further, as a candidate for the conversion destination tool set, a tool set including tools of the same type as each tool of the conversion source tool set may be used. Here, the same type may have the same purpose.

Further, the tool set including the tool for which the necessary information has not been acquired in advance may be excluded from the candidates of the conversion destination tool set.

<< Slot number conversion process based on tool TL application information >>
As one method for simplifying the conversion process by the conversion program 1411, the operator using the screen of FIG. 3 uses the tool TL included in the tool set of the conversion destination environment as the conversion destination environment for the same purpose as the tool TL in the pre-conversion environment. An operator's input rule may be set to input the same slot number as the tool of. Such rules may not be followed due to worker mistakes. As a countermeasure, the configuration information acquisition program 1412 accepts inputs of applications (for example, for roughing process, intermediate processing process, and finishing process) for each tool TL included in the tool set, and stores them in individual tool information 1423. , You may use this information to solve the problem. Specifically, the program includes the correspondence between the application of the tool TL included in the tool set of the selected conversion source environment and the slot number (referred to as correspondence 1) and the tool set of the selected conversion destination environment. The application of the tool TL (conversion destination tool application) is read out, the correspondence 1 having the same application as the conversion destination tool application is searched, and the slot number of the correspondence 1 is set as the slot number of the conversion destination tool set.

<< Introduction of temporary slot number conversion processing >>
In the above-described embodiment, the conversion process is performed by the conversion program 1411 after determining which tool TL is possible for which slot number in the conversion destination environment. However, considering the machining efficiency in the conversion destination environment, it may be desired to dynamically determine the slot for storing each tool after the conversion process. For example, since the conversion process may take a long time (for example, one day), we want to start conversion immediately, but since other machining operations in the conversion destination environment are also dynamically converted, the slot number and tool TL are used at the start of conversion. This is the case when the relationship with the person cannot be determined.

As a countermeasure, the slot number of each tool input or selected on the screen of FIG. 3 is regarded as a temporary slot number, conversion processing is performed by the conversion program 1411, and then the temporary slot number is converted to the actual slot number (temporary slot number). (Called slot number conversion process) may be performed. In the following description, a program that performs temporary slot conversion processing may be referred to as a temporary slot conversion program. The temporary slot number conversion process may be performed immediately before the download is started by pressing the download button 210 on the download screen of FIG. 4, or may be executed by another program on the on-site computer 30 after the download. The information required for executing the temporary slot number conversion process, that is, the conversion information between the temporary slot number and the actual slot number (slot number conversion information) is before the execution of the temporary slot number conversion process. After the conversion process is executed by the conversion program 1411, the conversion process is stored in the conversion computer 10 or the field computer 30 by the input of the operator. The temporary slot number is preferably a number, but may be another identifier. Since the introduction of the temporary slot number conversion process can target the execution timing of the high-load or long-time process by the conversion program 1411 even before deciding which tool TL to store in each slot, the conversion is performed as a result. It can be said that it is possible to effectively use the computer resources of the computer 10.

The temporary slot number assigned to the tool TL in the tool set selected as the conversion destination environment may be determined as follows before the conversion process is started by the conversion program 1411. In either case, the relationship between the defined tool TL and the temporary slot number is stored in the individual tool information and referred to during the slot number conversion process.
* The order in which the tool TLs are arranged in the selected tool set. The order may be a display order, a data storage order, or an order based on the process, but may be other.
* Assigned by the above-mentioned "slot number conversion process based on tool TL application information".

To enter the slot number conversion information, simply enter the relationship between the temporary slot number and the actual slot number into the computer, but it is difficult to enter in a situation where you do not know which tool TL the temporary slot number is intended for. .. Therefore, on the conversion information input screen, the information of the tool TL to which the temporary slot number is assigned may be displayed together on the conversion information input screen.

<< Other usage patterns of on-site computers 1 >>
Further, in the above embodiment, an example in which the conversion input screen 100 and the download confirmation screen 200 are displayed on the user interface 13 of the conversion computer 10 and input is accepted has been described, but the present invention is limited to this. Instead, the conversion input screen 100 and the download confirmation screen 200 may be displayed on one of the on-site computers 30 to accept the input. For example, the place where the conversion destination NC cutting machine 20 is located. It may be displayed on the on-site computer 30 to accept the input. Further, a part of the conversion input screen 100 is displayed on the on-site computer 30 where the conversion source NC cutting machine 20 is located to accept the input, and the remaining part of the conversion input screen 100 is converted. The input may be accepted by displaying it on the on-site computer 30 at the place where the NC cutting machine 20 is located.

<< Other conversion processing by conversion program 1 >>
The following may be performed as a process of converting the conversion source NC program 1424 into the conversion destination NC program 1425.
* (Step A1) The physical phenomenon during machining is simulated using the information of the conversion destination environment and the work W information, and the shape of the work W to be machined is predicted. The information of the conversion source environment may be used in the simulation. The simulation may be performed by a program other than the conversion program 1411.
* (Step A2) Calculation of error based on comparison between the predicted shape of the work W and the target shape of the work W.
* (Step A3) Add or change the description (tool diameter correction, tool length correction, tool wear compensation, feed speed, cutting speed, etc.) to eliminate the error to the NC program 1424 for the conversion source, and NC for the conversion destination. Store as program 1425.

<< Other conversion processing by conversion program 2 >>
The following may be performed as a process of converting the conversion source NC program 1424 into the conversion destination NC program 1425. The following steps may be combined with the above steps A1 to A3.
* (Step B1) Input the information of the conversion destination environment, the work W information, the information of the conversion source environment, and the target shape of the work W into the artificial intelligence program, and acquire the error. It should be noted that the conversion source NC program in the conversion source environment may be used as the educational data of the artificial intelligence program, or the processed shape of the work W after processing and the target shape may be input in advance together with the information of the conversion source environment. Further, as another educational data, the processed shape after machining of the work W by the NC program other than the conversion destination NC program of the conversion destination environment and the target shape may be input in advance together with the information of the conversion destination environment. The artificial intelligence program may be performed by a program other than the conversion program 1411.
* (Step B2) Add or change the description (tool diameter correction, tool length correction, tool wear compensation, feed speed, cutting speed, etc.) to eliminate the error to the NC program 1424 for the conversion source, and NC for the conversion destination. Store as program 1425.

<< Separation of screens according to the work range of the worker >>
When the place A and the place B are relatively far from each other as shown in FIG. 1, it is conceivable that different workers are assigned to each place as shown in FIG. In such a case, each worker may perform processing by the conversion source environment or conversion destination environment included in the place where each worker is placed, information on the conversion destination environment and information on the conversion source environment described in FIGS. 2 to 4. It is conceivable to be in charge of the measurement and input to the conversion computer. As a screen suitable for such a case, FIGS. 3 and 4 may be divided as follows. In the following explanation, a part of the explanation is based on the screen, but it is actually achieved by executing the program executed by each on-site computer on the CPU.

<<< Calculator for work in the conversion source environment >>>
It is conceivable that the working computer 30 in the conversion source environment displays the areas 100A (at least NC program name 101) and 100B in FIG. This is because the information to be input in these areas is relatively information obtained in the conversion source environment, so it is efficient to have the worker in the conversion source environment input the information. However, it is not necessary to display all the input areas included in the areas 100A and 100B of FIG. The information input by the work computer in the pre-conversion environment is stored in the conversion computer 10 with a predetermined identifier (hereinafter, may be referred to as a library name). It should be noted that these inputs are also useful as information that can be processed with the intended error in the pre-conversion environment.

<<< Calculator for work in the conversion destination environment >>>
It is conceivable that the working computer in the conversion destination environment displays the area 100C of FIG. This is because the information to be input in these areas is relatively information obtained in the conversion destination environment, so it is efficient to have the worker in the conversion destination environment input the information. In order to recall the contents input by the work computer 30 in the conversion source environment, the screen of the work computer in the conversion destination environment includes an area for specifying the library name described above. By doing so, the input in the conversion source environment can be appropriately specified, and the information required for the conversion process by the conversion program 1411 can be specified. However, the information of the conversion source environment is unknown only by the library name, and it is difficult to input the appropriate conversion destination environment. Therefore, on the screen of the work computer in the conversion destination environment, the input information corresponding to the library name may be displayed after the library name is specified.

The above is an example of displaying the conversion source environment and the conversion destination environment on the on-site computer. According to this example, a worker in the conversion source environment can create a conversion destination NC program 1425 that can be executed in a plurality of conversion destination environments even though one input operation is performed. In addition, even if the conversion source environment changes over time, the library name before the aged conversion may be specified and the environment after the aged change may be input as the conversion destination environment.
<<< Other >>
Further, in the above embodiment, a part or all of the processing performed by the CPU 11 may be performed by the hardware circuit. In addition, the program in the above embodiment may be installed from the program source. The program source may be a program distribution server or a non-volatile storage medium (eg, a portable storage medium).

In the above embodiment, the non-contact portion tool path in which the tool does not contact the work is detected, the NC program is divided into a plurality of block groups based on the block corresponding to the non-contact portion tool path, and the cutting of the block group is executed. The block that corrects the tool path is generated before the block to be machined. For example, the NC program is divided into a plurality of block groups based on the bending point of the cutting resistance applied to the tool, and the cutting resistance is generated. A block for performing tool path correction may be generated before the portion that becomes the turning point of.

Further, in the above embodiment, a comment indicating that the correction block has been added is added, but for example, when the block is divided, a difference from the description of the block division source is added as a comment. In addition, if a part has been changed, a comment indicating the correspondence with the state before the change may be added.

The pre-conversion NC program may be an NC program immediately after being generated from the target shape data by the CAM program and before cutting with a processing machine. For the tool set in this case, the tool data when the NC program is generated by the CAM program may be input. In addition to the above-mentioned spindle rigidity or tool rigidity, the tool path correction amount is determined by the rigidity of the work W and the amount of thermal expansion during cutting of the work W (in other words, the amount of heat shrinkage after cutting). It may be done based on.

In the above description, the machining center has been mainly described as an example of the processing machine, but other processing machines may be used as long as NC control is possible.

In the above description, data transmission / reception between the on-site computer and the conversion computer is partially omitted, but as a matter of course, data transmission / reception is performed between the on-site computer and the conversion computer. For example, when the conversion program 1411 is executed on the conversion computer, and the on-site computer performs user interface display, information display or information input by the operation, one of the processes in charge of the configuration information acquisition program on the on-site computer. The program responsible for the department is executed on the on-site computer. Then, the program responsible for the part transmits the input information to the conversion computer, or the program responsible for the part receives the display information transmitted from the conversion computer and displays the user interface. ..

1 Processing system, 10 Conversion computer, 11 CPU, 12 Network interface, 13 User interface, 14 Storage resources, 20 NC cutting machine, 21 NC controller, 25 Tool magazine, 25a, 25b, 25c slot, 26 Tool changer , 30 field computer, 50 tool set, W work, TL tool

Claims (29)

A network interface that can communicate with other computers via a network,
The memory resource that stored the program and
With the processor
It is a conversion computer that has
By executing the program, the processor:
(1) Obtain information on a plurality of processing machines or information on tools of the processing machines, and obtain information.
(2) Obtain the pre-correction NC program and the designation of the predetermined processing machines included in the plurality of processing machines.
(3) From the information in (1), the rigidity information of the predetermined processing machine or the tool of the predetermined processing machine is selected.
(4) Based on the rigidity information, a conversion process for converting the pre-correction NC program into a post-correction NC program is performed.
(5) The corrected NC program is transmitted to the other computer.
Here, the conversion process of (4) is:
(4a) A non-contact block, which is a block in which the tool of the predetermined processing machine does not come into contact with the work, is specified or generated.
(4b) Identify the subsequent block following the non-contact block,
(4c) Based on the rigidity information:
(4d1) A block including a description for changing the tool path of the succeeding block is generated before the succeeding block, or
(4d2) A description for changing the tool path of the subsequent block is added to the non-contact block.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 1.
The conversion process (4) is performed by predicting the machining shape of the work by simulating a physical phenomenon.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 1.
The conversion process of (4) is performed by acquiring a processing error by an artificial intelligence program.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 1.
Information about the processing machine
The place where the processing machine was installed,
The temperature of the processing machine,
The usage time of the processing machine,
Including information about
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 1.
As the acquisition of the pre-correction NC program in (2), the conversion computer:
(2a) Receive the pre-correction NC program,
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 1.
As the acquisition of the pre-correction NC program in (2), the conversion computer:
(2b) The CAM program generates the pre-correction NC program from the target shape data.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 1.
The conversion computer
Identify the contact block that meets the specified conditions
Before the contact block, add a description for changing the tool path of the contact block.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 1.
The description for changing the tool path of the subsequent block is tool diameter compensation, tool length compensation, tool wear compensation, feed rate, or cutting speed.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 1.
The description for changing the tool path of the subsequent block is
It is a description that is different from the tool shape parameter on the memory of the predetermined processing machine and changes the value of the parameter on the memory that affects the tool diameter correction address.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 1.
In order to obtain the designation of the predetermined processing machine in (2), the conversion computer is:
(2c) Based on the information about the plurality of processing machines, the processing machine capable of executing the pre-correction NC program is displayed as a designated candidate.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 10.
The plurality of processing machines include at least two types of processing machines.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 11.
Before the conversion of the corrected NC program in (4), the conversion computer:
(A) When the rigidity information is old, a display process indicating that the rigidity information is old is performed.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 11.
The conversion computer is:
When the processing machine without the rigidity information is designated as the predetermined processing machine, the process of suppressing the GUI operation for conversion of the corrected NC program in (4) is performed.
Calculator for conversion. The conversion computer according to claim 5.
The plurality of processing machines are distributed and arranged in a plurality of different locations.
The rigidity information regarding the processing machine is information transmitted from a computer arranged at each of the plurality of different locations.
Calculator for conversion. It is an NC program conversion processing method by a conversion computer having a network interface capable of communicating with another computer via a network, a storage resource for storing a program, and a processor.
(1) Obtain information on a plurality of processing machines or information on tools of the processing machines, and obtain information.
(2) Obtain the pre-correction NC program and the designation of the predetermined processing machines included in the plurality of processing machines.
(3) From the information in (1), the rigidity information of the predetermined processing machine or the tool of the predetermined processing machine is selected.
(4) Based on the rigidity information, a conversion process for converting the pre-correction NC program into a post-correction NC program is performed.
(5) The corrected NC program is transmitted to the other computer.
Here, the conversion process of (4) is:
(4a) A non-contact block, which is a block in which the tool of the predetermined processing machine does not come into contact with the work, is specified or generated.
(4b) Identify the subsequent block following the non-contact block,
(4c) Based on the rigidity information:
(4d1) A block including a description for changing the tool path of the succeeding block is generated before the succeeding block, or
(4d2) A description for changing the tool path of the subsequent block is added to the non-contact block.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 15.
The conversion process (4) is performed by predicting the machining shape of the work by simulating a physical phenomenon.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 15.
The conversion process of (4) is performed by acquiring a processing error by an artificial intelligence program.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 15.
Information about the processing machine
The place where the processing machine was installed,
The temperature of the processing machine,
The usage time of the processing machine,
Including information about
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 15.
As the acquisition of the pre-correction NC program in (2), the conversion computer:
(2a) Receive the pre-correction NC program,
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 15.
As the acquisition of the pre-correction NC program in (2), the conversion computer:
(2b) The CAM program generates the pre-correction NC program from the target shape data.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 15.
The conversion computer
Identify the contact block that meets the specified conditions
Before the contact block, add a description for changing the tool path of the contact block.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 15.
The description for changing the tool path of the subsequent block is tool diameter compensation, tool length compensation, tool wear compensation, feed rate, or cutting speed.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 15.
The description for changing the tool path of the subsequent block is
It is a description that is different from the tool shape parameter on the memory of the predetermined processing machine and changes the value of the parameter on the memory that affects the tool diameter correction address.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 15.
In order to obtain the designation of the predetermined processing machine in (2), the conversion computer is:
(2c) Based on the information about the plurality of processing machines, the processing machine capable of executing the pre-correction NC program is displayed as a designated candidate.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 24.
The plurality of processing machines include at least two types of processing machines.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 25.
Before the conversion of the corrected NC program in (4), the conversion computer:
(A) When the rigidity information is old, a display process indicating that the rigidity information is old is performed.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 25.
The conversion computer is:
When the processing machine without the rigidity information is designated as the predetermined processing machine, the process of suppressing the GUI operation for conversion of the corrected NC program in (4) is performed.
NC program conversion processing method. The NC program conversion processing method according to claim 19.
The plurality of processing machines are distributed and arranged in a plurality of different locations.
The rigidity information regarding the processing machine is information transmitted from a computer arranged at each of the plurality of different locations.
NC program conversion processing method. A program that causes a computer to execute the NC program conversion processing method according to any one of claims 15 to 28.

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