JP2012218111A - Numerical control device having function of determining tool holder and tool mounting length to tool holder - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To determine a tool and a tool holder so as to have a tool mounting length as short as possible within a range having no interference.SOLUTION: The selection of a tool mounting length and a holder is instructed by using data regarding a tool shape, data regarding a holder mounting length, data regarding the shape of a machine structure, data regarding a workpiece, and data a regarding tool shape. The simulation of a working program is executed. The checking of interference between one of the tool and the tool holder and one of the machine structure, the workpiece, and the tool is started. When the checking part finds the interference during the execution of the execution of the working program, the data of the tool mounting length or the tool holer are changed on the basis of the tool data or the tool holder data. On the basis of the changed data, interference checking is executed again, and the tool holder and the tool mounting length to the tool holder are determined.

Description

  The present invention relates to a numerical control device having a function of determining a tool holder and a tool attachment length to the tool holder.

When creating a workpiece machining program (machining program) used in a numerical control device, first determine the shape of the tool (eg, ball end mill or end mill?) And its diameter, and then use it to perform machining The tool trajectory is determined. At the time of creating the machining program, the tool trajectory is created assuming that the actual tool length is infinite without considering the actual tool length. This is the same whether an operator creates a machining program or a general CAM system is used.
Since the machining program is created in this manner, as shown in FIG. 1, the machining program first has a command of a tool number (generally a T code) for specifying a tool, and then a locus for cutting. Is programmed and this is done for each tool.

As can be seen from the above, in order to actually machine a workpiece using a certain machining program, the tool assumed at the time of creation of the machining program is selected according to the tool number command specified in the machining program. There is a need. For this reason, part of the tool data (tip shape and diameter) is determined when the machining program is created, and is provided to the machine tool operator together with the machining program.
Here, in order to perform machining using a machining program on a machine tool with a numerical control device (hereinafter referred to as “machine tool”), the tool data given together with the machining program is used before machining is started. It is necessary to attach all the tools used in the machining program to an appropriate tool holder (hereinafter referred to as “holder”) and set the tool correctly on the tool changer of the machine tool. In other words, in a machine tool, a holder is interposed so that tools of various shapes can be automatically exchanged by a tool changer according to a command from a machining program and can be used for machining.

  The machining center will be described as an example (see FIG. 2). The tool 3 is mounted on the holder 2, and the magazine 7 of the tool changer 8 stores a plurality of holders 2 on which various types of tools 3 are mounted. The tool 3 stored in the state of being attached to the holder 2 in 7 is specified by the numerical controller by the tool number. A rack is also used instead of the magazine 7. The holder 2 is used for fixing various tools 3 to the spindle of the spindle head 1 via a tool changer 8. For this reason, in the case of the holder 2 used in the machining center, the shape of the spindle head 1 attached to the spindle (the attachment part 2a to the spindle) is constant, but the spindle and the tool 3 including the part for fixing the tool 3 are fixed. There are various diameters and lengths between the two. Hereinafter, the shape (diameter, length, etc.) of this part is simply referred to as a holder shape.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the actual tool 3 has a length in addition to the tip shape and diameter, and the range of the length that can be attached to the holder 2 is determined for each tool. Reference numeral 10 represents the tip shape of the tool 3, and the tip shape includes a ball shape and a square shape. Reference numeral 11 represents the diameter of the tool 3, reference numeral 12 represents the total length of the tool 3, reference numeral 13 represents the blade length of the tool 3 (length of the blade portion), and reference numeral 14 represents the minimum gripping length of the tool 3. Reference numeral 15 represents the shortest tool attachment length of the tool 3, and reference numeral 16 represents the longest tool attachment length of the tool 3. The minimum gripping length 14 is the minimum length that needs to be bitten into the holder 2 in order to fix the tool when the tool 3 is attached to the holder 2. In general, the blade length 13 ≦ the shortest tool attachment length 15, but the blade length 13 and the shortest tool attachment length 15 are shown as the same length in FIG. 3.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the holder 2 grips the tool 3 by inserting an adapter called a collet 2c into a main body called a chuck 2b. The drawing on the right side of the drawing shows a state where the collet 2c is inserted into the chuck 2b and the tool 3 is gripped. There are collet 2c corresponding to various tool diameters. A collet 2c matching the diameter of the gripped tool 3 is inserted into the chuck 2b, and the tool 3 is inserted into the collet 2c and fixed. Reference numeral 20 represents a holder diameter, reference numeral 21 represents a tool diameter, reference numeral 22 represents a holder length, and reference numeral 23 represents a tool mounting length.

The insertion length of the tool 3 into the holder 2 determines the tool mounting length (= tool protrusion amount). In order to hold the tool 3 so that the holder 2 can be processed, it is necessary to insert the tool 3 over a certain length. Further, as apparent from FIG. 4, there is a limit to the length that can be inserted. That is, the usable tool mounting length varies depending on the holder 2 (chuck 2b or collet 2c) to be used. Further, there is a compatibility relationship between the chuck 2b and the collet 2c. For example, it is necessary to use an A-type collet for an A-type chuck and a B-type collet for a B-type chuck.
That is, the operator of the machine tool selects an appropriate holder 2 (chuck 2b and collet 2c), attaches the tool 3 having the tip shape and diameter specified to the holder 2 with an appropriate length, and performs a machining program. The tool selection command and the tool 3 must be set in the magazine 7 or rack of the tool changer 8.

The appropriate holder shape and the appropriate tool mounting length are determined by the tool 3, the holder 2, the machine structure (spindle head 1, the table 6, etc.) The non-processed portion) and the jig (work fixture) must be selected so as not to cause interference (hereinafter simply referred to as “interference”) such as collision or contact between the jigs (work fixture) (see FIG. 5). Because of the process of creating the machining program described at the beginning, there is no interference if a sufficiently long tool is used. However, actual tools are long and extremely long tools are expensive. Further, when the tool attachment length is increased, the rigidity of the tool is reduced.
This is the same for the holder. Generally, the longer the holder shape is, the longer the interference is less likely to occur, but the holder is more expensive. Further, the rigidity of the holder portion is reduced.
A reduction in the rigidity of the tool or holder causes various problems such as occurrence of blurring during processing, deterioration in processing accuracy and surface quality of the processing target, adversely affecting the life of the tool itself and the life of the machine tool.
Therefore, it is ideal to perform actual machining with a holder shape that is as thick and short as possible and with a tool attachment length that is as short as possible without causing interference.

For this purpose, the machine operator grasps the shape of the object to be machined (non-machined part of the workpiece) from the drawing, analyzes the machining program to estimate the tool trajectory, or runs idle with no holder or tool attached. By grasping the tool trajectory, interference is estimated and the holder shape and tool mounting length are selected. This work is complicated with the complexity of the shape to be machined and the increase in the number of axes of the machine tool (for example, machining using a 4-axis or 5-axis machine tool).
It is difficult for machine tool operators to perform this work quickly and appropriately. In reality, it takes a long examination time and trial cutting to select the holder shape for each tool and the tool mounting length. Due to the expense and the operator of the machine tool has determined the holder shape and tool mounting length based on experience and intuition, it may cause interference in actual processing, or the holder shape that is too thin and longer than necessary to fear interference Therefore, a long tool mounting length is selected, resulting in various problems resulting from insufficient rigidity.
In order to solve this problem, the shape of the jig used in the machine tool or machining is given to the CAM system, the CAM system generates the data of the holder shape and the tool installation length, and these data are sent to the machine operator. There is what it provides (see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-156662

In the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 described in the background art, the machine operator only needs to prepare the holder according to the given data and attach the tool, and there is no burden. However, in general, a high-function CAM system capable of generating such data is expensive. Moreover, there is no guarantee that the generated holder shape and tool attachment length data can be applied to machine tools and jigs other than those assumed by the CAM system at the time of data generation. The same applies to the generated holder shape and tool mounting length.
For this reason, for example, it is impossible to deal with changes in the production site such as a failure of the machine tool that was assumed or the specified holder being unusable for some reason, using alternatives at the site. It is necessary to return to the stage of data generation of the holder shape and tool attachment length by the CAM system together with the contents of the change. Thus, while the handling by the CAM system operation is generally expensive, an operation with a high degree of freedom reflecting the situation in the field cannot be expected. Therefore, it is not suitable for relatively small-scale production.

Machining with a machine tool, in particular a machining center or a milling machine, creates a machining program assuming the type of tool (cutting tool) according to the tip shape and diameter. At the time of machining, the tool is attached to the holder, and the holder is coupled to the main shaft for machining. In recent 5-axis machines, the shape of the workpiece, the mechanical structure, and the relative trajectory of the tool and the workpiece are complicated, so it is very difficult for the operator to manually select an appropriate holder and tool mounting length. Have difficulty.
At this time, if an appropriate holder is not used with an appropriate tool mounting length (projection amount), the lower part of the holder or the spindle may interfere with the workpiece or the machine. In order to prevent interference between the holder or spindle and the workpiece, the shape of the holder should be as thin and long as possible, and the mounting length of the tool should be as long as possible.However, thin long holders and long tools are expensive and have low rigidity. It will end up.
Therefore, it is desirable to use the tool with a tool mounting length as short as possible on a holder that is as thick and short as possible without causing interference. However, when the shape of the workpiece or machine becomes complicated, it is difficult to make an appropriate selection.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a numerical control device having a function of determining a tool attachment length to a holder and a holder that can be machined with the shortest possible tool attachment length and a holder as short as possible without causing interference. It is to be.

  The invention according to claim 1 of the present application is a numerical control device having a holder for holding a tool specified by a machining program and a function for determining a mounting length of the tool to the holder, the machining program Machining program simulation unit for performing simulation of the above, data on the shape of the tool used in the machining program, tool data storage unit for storing data on the mounting length when the tool is mounted on the holder, and data on the shape of the holder A plurality of holder data storage units, a machine structure data storage unit for storing data on the shape of the machine structure, a work data storage unit for storing data on the workpiece and the shape of the jig for fixing the workpiece, Based on the data stored in the storage units, the tool and the holder If an interference is generated by the interference check unit when executing a simulation of a machining program by the machining program simulation unit, an interference check unit for checking interference with any of the machine structure, the workpiece and the jig, Based on the tool data or the holder data, the tool mounting length or the holder data is changed, and the interference check is performed again based on the changed data to determine the holder and the tool mounting length to the holder. A numerical control device having a function of determining a feature holder and a tool attachment length to the holder.

The invention according to claim 2 is characterized in that the interference check is performed until a tool change command or the end of a program, and when there is an interference, a tool attachment length or holder data is changed. A numerical control device having a function of determining a holder and a tool attachment length to the holder.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a storage unit for storing tool attachment length and tool holder data at the time of the tool change command or at the end of the program. This is a numerical control device having a function of determining the tool mounting length.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the tool data storage unit stores the tool attachment length within a usable range, and the interference check unit is the tool attachment length stored in the tool data storage unit. The holder and the holder according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the tool mounting length is gradually increased until starting with a short tool mounting length and no interference occurs. It is a numerical control device having a function of determining the tool mounting length.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the holder data storage unit stores diameter and length data of the holder units of a plurality of holders, and the interference check unit includes a plurality of holder data storage units stored in the holder data storage unit. Among the holders that can be applied to the tool for interference check, start with the holder with the holder having the largest diameter and the shortest length, and check until interference does not occur The holder and the holder according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a holder having a smaller diameter and a longer length is selected from those applicable to a tool. It is a numerical control device having a function of determining the tool mounting length.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a numerical control device having a function of determining a tool attachment length to a holder and a holder that can be machined with the shortest possible tool attachment length and a holder as short as possible without interference.

It is an example of a processing program. It is a figure explaining the outline | summary of the tool of a machining center, a holder, a tool change apparatus, and a spindle. This is an example of a tool used in a machining center. It is an example of the holder used with a machining center. It is a figure explaining the logic which determines the relationship between the length of the tool which concerns on this invention, and a holder. It is a flowchart of the process which inputs each data. It is a flowchart of the process which selects a tool attachment length and a holder (the 1). It is a flowchart of the process which selects a tool attachment length and a holder (the 2). It is a flowchart of the process which selects a tool attachment length and a holder (the 3). It is a flowchart of the process which selects a tool attachment length and a holder (the 4). It is a flowchart of the process which selects a tool attachment length and a holder (the 5). It is a flowchart of the process which selects a tool attachment length and a holder (the 6). It is a flowchart of the process which selects a tool attachment length and a holder (the 7). It is a flowchart of the process using a result. It is a figure explaining memory M1, memory M2, and memory M3. It is a figure explaining the memory M4 and the memory M5. It is a figure explaining the machine tool with a numerical control device to which the present invention is applied.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
"Outline of the present invention"
First, the outline of the present invention will be described. The present invention is a numerical controller that stores shape data related to a tool and a holder, and in a simulation when a target machining program is executed, a tool, a holder, a machine structure, a workpiece (non-working region of a workpiece), Interference check between the workpiece fixing jigs is performed, and during this interference check, data on the tool mounting length and the holder shape which does not cause interference automatically is extracted and stored, and the data is output as a result. With reference to the data of the result, the operator performs setup work necessary for actual machining. That is, the operator can easily set the tool changer after selecting the holder and adjusting the tool mounting length.

For machining, it is generally desirable to use a thick and short holder with a short tool mounting length. For machining with a certain tool number, the shortest tool mounting length and the shape data when the thickest and short holder is mounted are used. Use to start the interference check by simulation.
When the interference check is detected by the progress of the tool path due to the progress of the machining program, the progress of the machining program is temporarily stopped. Then, the tool mounting length and the holder shape are changed using the tool and holder information stored in the data. For example, the tool mounting length is increased by a unit specified in advance. From the holder in the data, a narrower one and a longer one are searched, and the holder shape is changed. If it is confirmed by interference check that interference can be avoided by changing the tool mounting length and holder shape, the simulation of the machining program once stopped is resumed.

  After changing the tool attachment length and holder shape data, for example, by one step, execution of the machining program (simulation of interference check) is resumed. This is repeated until no interference occurs, and the tool attachment length and holder shape data at the time of the tool change command are recorded as tool attachment length and holder shape data that does not cause interference with the tool. By automatically repeating this until the end of the machining program, it is possible to obtain appropriate tool mounting length and holder shape data that does not cause interference for each tool number, and the operator only has to refer to the recorded data. Appropriate processing setup can be easily performed.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the logic for determining the relationship between the length of the tool and the holder according to the present invention described above. For simplification, the tool 3 is a drill, and a two-dimensional example in which a hole 5 is formed in the workpiece 4 to be processed with the tool 3 will be described. However, the present invention can be applied to other tools.
The tool 3 in FIG. 5 is attached to the holder 2 with a sufficient length for the hole 5 to be machined. If the hole 5 is machined as it is (the spindle head 1 and the table 6 are brought close to each other), the holder 2 and the workpiece will eventually be worked. 4 interferes. If machining is continued ignoring this, the spindle head 1 will also interfere with the workpiece 4 in due course.

If the tool 3 is lengthened, these interferences can be avoided, but in that case, the tool 3 is liable to be lowered in rigidity or shake. Moreover, since the length of the tool is restricted and the length for holding the tool in the holder 2 is also necessary, there is a limit to lengthening the tool 3.
Various logics for determining the relationship between the length of the tool 3 and the holder 2 can be considered, but here it is simplified and simply 1) the length of the tool 3 → 2) the thickness of the holder 2 → 3) the holder It shall be decided in order of the length of 2.
According to 1) above, it is assumed that the length of the tool 3 is already in the limit state in FIG. Thereafter, the interference check is performed while changing the holder diameter data to a thinner one until the holder 2 does not interfere with the workpiece 4 in 2). As a result, the interference between the holder 2 and the workpiece 4 can be avoided. However, as the machining progresses, the spindle head 1 and the workpiece 4 interfere with each other. If this is detected, an interference check is performed while changing the length of the holder 2 to the longer data in 3), and finally the tool length and holder shape (diameter / length) data that does not cause interference are obtained. .

  The present invention uses the logic described with reference to FIG. 5 to store data relating to machine structures such as spindles and tables of machine tools, workpieces (workpieces), jigs (work fixtures), tools and holder shapes. Then, the presence or absence of interference between the machine structure, the workpiece, the jig, the tool, and the holder when the target machining program is executed is confirmed by calculation (simulation) using these shape data.

A method of always checking for the presence or absence of mutual interference using the above-mentioned machine structure, workpiece (work), jig (work fixture), tool and holder shape data is known (hereinafter " Referred to as "interference check"). When a machining program simulation is executed, an interference check is also performed to automatically extract and store tool attachment length and holder shape data that do not cause interference, and output the results as data. By referring to the data, the machine operator performs a tool mounting operation necessary for actual machining. (Processing setup work, ie, select the holder, adjust the tool mounting length, and then set it in the tool changer.)
Machining is generally a short tool installation length, and it is desirable to use a thick and short holder from the viewpoint of ensuring mechanical rigidity. Therefore, the shortest (shortest usable) tool installation is possible for a certain tool number. The interference check is started using the length and the tool and holder shape data when the thickest and shortest (the thickest and shortest usable) holder is mounted.

When the interference check is detected by the progress of the tool trajectory by the progress of the machining program, the progress of the tool trajectory by the machining program is temporarily stopped.
Then, using the tool and holder information stored in the data, the tool mounting length and holder shape data are changed among the data used in the interference check. (Example: Increase the tool installation length in units specified in advance. Search for a thinner or longer tool from the holder in the data and change it to the holder shape.) This tool installation length or holder If the interference check can confirm that the interference can be avoided by changing the shape, the simulation of the machining program once stopped is resumed.

  The above process is automatically repeated until no interference is detected. By repeating this process until the end of machining with the tool, it is possible to obtain tool attachment length and holder shape data that cause no interference until the end of machining using the tool. .

By automatically repeating this until the end of the machining program, it is possible to obtain appropriate tool attachment length and holder shape data for which no interference occurs for each tool number.
The data obtained by this method is the shape of the holder in which data is registered and the tool mounting length considering the use of the holder.
The tool 3 is a consumable item and needs to be prepared according to the tool designation data attached to the machining program. On the other hand, the holder 2 generally uses a general-purpose product repeatedly and is often shared by a plurality of machine tools. The holder 2 is actually composed of a chuck 2b and a collet 2c. The holder shape (diameter, length) is determined by the chuck 2b, and the tool diameter that can be held by the chuck 2b is determined by the collet 2c. The chuck 2b has an available collet 2c. That is, there is a correspondence between the chuck 2b and the collet 2c. In addition, the tool mounting length is also limited by the specifications on the chuck 2b side.
Considering these, this embodiment will be described with the following specifications.

  Assuming that the tool 3 must be obtained in accordance with the machining program, the tool 3 inputs the data of the tool (such as a usable mounting length) for each tool number. The holder 2 is divided into a chuck 2b and a collet 2c to input data of all usable individuals. Further, by adding usage status data for each individual, in addition to teaching the shape of the appropriate holder 2 (chuck 2b, collet 2c), the model number and the usage status of the individual (other Etc.?) Can also be taught.

There is a known technique for monitoring the presence or absence of interference between machine structures, workpieces, jigs, tools and holders in advance, and by constantly calculating the positional relationship between them. is there.
Hereinafter, monitoring the presence / absence of interference between the given shape data and calculation is simply referred to as interference check. Various techniques are conceivable for realizing the interference check. In the present invention, the interference check used in the present invention is publicly known because it is only necessary to know the result of the interference check (the presence or absence of interference and what interfered). It is recommended to use the interference check technique.

(1) Input of each data
The following data is stored in advance in the memory of the numerical controller.
● (a) Mechanical structure shape data
Shape data of a machine structure of a machine tool with a numerical control device (hereinafter referred to as “machine tool”) is stored in a memory included in the numerical control device.
● Holder data The following data is stored for each chuck and collet individual using the present invention, divided into chucks and collets.
(B) Chuck (b-0) ID
(B-1) Diameter (Diameter of the part between the spindle head and the tool when the spindle is mounted)
(B-2) Length (length of the part between the spindle head and the tool when the spindle is mounted)
(B-3) Minimum tool insertion length (minimum tool insertion length required for gripping)
(B-4) Longest insertion length of tool (maximum value of tool insertion length)
(B-5) Applicable collet format name
(B-6) Usage status
(B-7) Model name (c) Collet (c-0) ID
(C-1) Format name
(C-2) Applicable tool diameter range
(C-3) Usage Status When the machining program and the tool data corresponding to the machining program are obtained, the following data is stored for each tool number appearing in the machining program.

● (d) Tool shape data to be used
(D-1) Tip shape
(D-2) Tool diameter
(D-3) Minimum installation length
(D-4) Longest installation length (If not specified, set the total tool length)
(Since the holder also has length data necessary for tool gripping,
If the maximum installation length is not specified on the tool side, enter the total tool length.
Just keep it. )
(D-5) Total length ● (e) Shape data of the object to be processed Enter shape data of the non-processed area of the object to be processed at the end of processing with the tool (use the shape at the end of processing for all tools) In this embodiment, in order to enable a more strict interference check, for each tool, set the shape data of the object to be processed at the time when machining with the tool is finished, This shall be used to check interference.)
● (f) Jig shape data Enter jig shape data at the start of machining with the tool (generally the shape of the jig is constant until the end of machining, but in advanced machining, the jig is clamped with the jig as the machining progresses. Since the jig may be deformed for the purpose of machining the part that has been damaged, in this embodiment, for each tool, jig shape data at the start of machining by the tool is set, and this is used to check the interference. )

  Each of the data (a) to (f) is stored in a memory in the numerical controller. Alternatively, the data may be stored in a memory that can be referred to from a numerical controller such as a computer connected to the LAN, and the data may be shared with a numerical controller that controls other machine tools.

(2) Implementation of Tool Installation Length and Holder Selection An operator using the present invention performs the following.
(2A) Set the amount of change per trial for avoiding interference as a parameter Set the amount of change per trial when trying to avoid interference by changing the tool length when selecting the tool installation length . Set in advance with parameters. This parameter may be common to all tools or set for each tool.
(2B) Determination of necessity of initialization of memory for storing results of the present invention, that is, holder selection result and tool attachment length This is performed when the present invention is applied for a new machining program. Alternatively, the above (1) is performed when any data stored by the input of each data has been updated or changed and it is desired to reflect it.
(2C) Command start of tool attachment length and holder selection Select a mode for selecting tool attachment length and holder, specify the target machining program, and instruct its execution.

In this case, the numerical controller uses (a) the data (a) to (f) stored by the input of the data (1) to perform the simulation when the machining program is executed, Check the interference between the workpiece, jig, tool and holder.
At this time, the numerical controller monitors the tool number given by the tool change command in the machining program, and performs the following operation when a new tool number is commanded.
<1> Update the machining target and jig shape data to match the tool number.
(Update of workpiece shape data (e) and jig shape data (f))
<2> The shape data (d) of the tool to be used corresponding to the commanded tool number is fetched.
<3> The memory for storing the holder selection result and the tool attachment length is referred to. When data is already stored, the diameter data of the chuck is taken from the data. If the data has not been stored, the diameter data (b-1) of all stored chucks is searched for the one with the largest diameter. At this time, the usage status (b-6) may also be referred to so as not to select an unused one. In such a case, since the current state (usability of use) of the possessed product can be reflected, data can be obtained in consideration of whether or not immediate processing is possible with the obtained data.

<4> If there are a plurality of chucks having the same diameter in the data to be referred to, the chuck having the shortest length (b-2) is searched for and selected.
At this time, the usage status (b-6) may also be referred to so as not to select an unused one. In such a case, since the current state (usability of use) of the possessed product can be reflected, data can be obtained in consideration of whether or not immediate processing is possible with the obtained data.
<5> A collet having a model name (c-1) that matches the collet (b-5) to which the selected chuck can be applied is searched from all collets in the data, and if there is a matching collet, The tool diameter range data (c-2) applicable to the collet is used to check whether the tool diameter (d-2) of the tool currently being checked can be gripped.
At this time, the usage status (c-3) may also be referred to so as not to select an unused one. In such a case, since the current state (usability of use) of the possessed product can be reflected, data can be obtained in consideration of whether or not immediate processing is possible with the obtained data.
<6> If a pair of chuck and collet that can grip the tool is not found, among all chucks, the chuck diameter data of the chuck diameter next to the chuck diameter (b-1) checked in <3> above The chuck having is retrieved by the method <3> above, and the above <4> and <5> are repeated.

If the chuck and collet pair that can grip the tool does not exist as a result of repeating this operation, the chuck and collet that can be applied to the tool of the tool number currently being checked are the chuck and Since it does not exist in the data of the collet, there is no point to check any more, so even if there is interference until the next tool change command, proceed with the machining program without doing anything, and the above <1> Return to.
If the machining program ends without a tool change command appearing, the process proceeds to <12> described later.

<7> Check the shortest installation length when the current tool is attached to the chuck selected in <5> above. Comparing the solutions of (d-3) and “(d-5)-(b-4)”, the larger one is the shortest tool mounting length when the tool and the chuck are combined.
Tool: (d-3) Minimum installation length
: (D-5) Total length chuck: (b-4) Longest insertion length of tool (tool inserted into chuck (collet)
Maximum length that can be entered)
<8> Check the longest installation length when the chuck selected in <5> above is installed with the current tool. The solution of “(d-5)-(d-4)” and (b-3) are compared, and a value obtained by subtracting a larger value from (d-5) is the maximum attachable length.
Tool: (d-4) Longest installation length (If not specified, set the total tool length)
: (D-5) Total length
Chuck: (b-3) Minimum tool insertion length (minimum tool chuck required for gripping)
(Length inserted into the collet)
<9> Use the chuck shape selected in <5> above and the shortest tool mounting length data obtained in <7> above to perform interference checking while performing simulation when the machining program is executed. Do.

<10> When the occurrence of interference due to the progress of the machining program is confirmed by the interference check, the progress of the machining program (trajectory progression) is temporarily stopped. Then, after changing to the shape data in which the tool mounting length is increased by the amount of “change amount per trial of interference avoidance” set as the parameter in the above (2A), the result of the interference check is confirmed. This is repeated until interference is avoided.
<11> Interference occurs when the tool attachment length becomes larger than the value obtained in <8> above while the change of the tool attachment length and the interference check in <10> are repeated. It is determined whether or not the part includes a holder. (If the part where the interference occurs is the holder, it is considered that the interference occurs because of the thickness of the holder itself. Also, if the interference occurs even though the holder does not interfere, (Since mechanical structures such as the spindle head cause interference, interference cannot be avoided unless the length of the holder is made longer.)
If a holder is included in the interference, the chuck with the smallest chuck diameter next to the chuck diameter (b-1) currently used for interference check is searched from the diameter data (b-1) of all chucks. Then, the process proceeds to <4> above.
If the holder is not included in the interference, the chuck length (b-) next to this chuck among the chucks having the same diameter as the chuck (b-1) currently used for the interference check Select a chuck with 2).
If there is no chuck with a longer chuck length (b-2) than the current chuck in the same diameter chuck, the chuck with the smallest chuck diameter next to the chuck diameter (b-1) currently used in the interference check is used. A search is made to find a chuck longer than the chuck length (b-2) currently used in the interference check, and the process proceeds to <5>.

<12> When a new tool change command is issued in the progress of the machining program simulation, or when the machining program simulation is executed to the end and finished, the tool installation used for the interference check at that time The length and the shape (b-1, b-2) of the chuck are stored in the memory together with the checked tool number as the tool length and the chuck selection result.
At this time, the chuck ID (b-0) and collet ID (c-0) used for the interference check may be recorded in order to improve the convenience of the processing setup work. In consideration of the case where the holder is shared by a plurality of machine tools, it is selected according to the usage status (b-6, c-3) of the chuck and the collet selected in this selection of the holder. The situation may be updated (for example, “in use” or “selected”).
<13> After the data is stored in the memory in <12> above, if there is a continuation of the simulation of machining program execution, the flow proceeds to <1> in preparation for a situation where a new tool is instructed. This is performed until the end of the simulation of machining program execution.

(3) Utilization of results By the above-mentioned (1) input of each data and (2) selection of tool attachment length and holder, the tool attachment length and holder selection result are stored in the memory. The machine operator uses this data by referring to the contents of the holding memory on the numerical control device or by fetching and referring to the external device (such as a personal computer).
This data shows the optimum holder (chuck) diameter, length, and tool mounting length for each tool number. Since the data is easy to measure and judge, the operator can efficiently perform appropriate machining setup by performing machining setup using this data.
Even if you do not have a holder that matches the diameter and length of the obtained data, if you use a thinner and longer holder with a value as close as possible, there will be no interference (although not optimal). It can be performed.
When the chuck and collet ID (b-0, c-0) described in <12> of the above (2) is recorded, the chuck and collet data of this ID is referred to when the data is referred to. The ID itself (b-0, c-0), the format name (b-7, c-1), and the usage status (b-6, c-3) may be referred to.

If the ID or model name is known, it is easy to search for and secure a holder (chuck, collet) from within the belongings without measuring and confirming the actual product.
Further, as described in the above (1) and (2), when a plurality of machine tools are operated, the chuck and collet information are shared, and the usage status data is also updated. By including it in the operation, it is possible to determine whether or not there is a holder necessary for processing (whether or not processing can be started immediately), and it is possible to avoid searching for the holder in vain.
In addition, even when the holder cannot be started because the holder is in use, etc., the problem can be easily understood, so the necessary actions (arrangement of missing parts, confirmation of when the holder can be used, negotiation, and accompanying it) (Such as changes in delivery times and estimates).

"Explanation of Flowchart"
Hereinafter, the algorithm of the program executed by the numerical control device for controlling the machine tool with respect to (1) the input of each data, (2) the selection of the tool attachment length and the holder, and (3) the use of the result is shown in the flowchart. explain. Note that the numerals with <> and alphabets with () used in each flowchart correspond to those used in the description of “Outline of the Present Invention”.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of (1) processing for inputting each data. Hereinafter, it demonstrates according to each step.
[Step SA01] It is determined whether or not the shape data of the machine structure has been set. If it has been set, the process proceeds to Step SA03, and if it has not been set, the process proceeds to Step SA02.
[Step SA02] The shape data of the machine structure is input and stored in the memory. A memory area in which the shape data of the machine structure is stored is referred to as “memory M1”. (See Figure 9)
[Step SA03] It is determined whether or not the data of the holder has been set. If it has been set, the process proceeds to Step SA05. If not, the process proceeds to Step SA04.
[Step SA04] The holder data is input and stored in the memory. The holder data is chuck data and collet data. The memory area in which the holder data is stored is referred to as “memory M2”. (See Figure 9)
[Step SA05] For each tool number that appears in the machining program, set the tool data to be used, the workpiece shape data at the end of machining with the tool, and the jig shape data at the time of machining with the tool, and store them in the memory Then, the process ends. A memory area in which the set data is stored is referred to as “memory M3”. (See Figure 9)

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the process (2) for selecting a tool attachment length and a holder. Hereinafter, it demonstrates according to each step.
[Step SB01] The target machining program is stored in the program storage memory of the numerical controller. The area of the memory that stores the machining program is referred to as M4. (See Figure 10)
[Step SB02] A change amount per trial of interference avoidance is set (set in a parameter. If it is set and the value is acceptable, resetting is unnecessary).
[Step SB03] It is determined whether it is the first machining program or the data prepared in FIG. 6 has been changed after the previous execution. If (YES), the process proceeds to Step SB04, and (NO) In this case, the process proceeds to step SB05.
[Step SB04] The memory M5 for storing the data for selecting the tool attachment length and the holder is initialized.
[Step SB05] A mode for selecting a tool attachment length and a holder is selected, a target machining program is designated, and execution of tool attachment length and holder selection is instructed.

[Step SB06] The interference check in the simulation execution of the specified machining program is started. The presence or absence of interference among machine structures, workpieces, jigs, tools, and holders, including movement of each part due to simulation of the machining program, is stored in the memories M1 to M3 in (a) to (f). Monitoring is performed by calculation using each shape data (see FIG. 9).
[Step SB07] The target machining program stored in the memory M4 is decoded. That is, the machining program is analyzed between the command lines (blocks), and data for executing the simulation is generated.
[Step SB08] It is determined whether or not the command line (block) to execute the simulation includes a tool number command. If included, the process proceeds to Step SB09. If not included, the process proceeds to Step SB10.
[Step SB09] Of the data for interference check, the data registered for each tool number is read from the memory M3, and the data being used in the interference check is updated to the one corresponding to the commanded tool number. The data to be updated is as follows.
<1> Shape data of workpiece (e) and jig (f), <2> Shape data of tool (d)
[Step SB10] The memory M5 is referred to. Check the selected tool number selection result data.

[Step SB11] It is determined whether or not there is result data matching the tool number. If there is, the process proceeds to Step SB12, and if not, the process proceeds to Step SB13.
[Step SB12] It is determined whether or not there is a chuck diameter value in the result data matching the tool number in the memory M5. If there is, the process proceeds to Step SB14, and if not, the process proceeds to Step SB24. To do.
[Step SB13] <3> The largest value is detected from the diameter data (b-1) of all chucks in the memory M2 (the chuck data search is performed with this value). The detected data is selected, and the process proceeds to step SB15.
[Step SB14] The chuck diameter in the result data that matches the tool number in the memory M5 is fetched (this value is used for subsequent chuck data search).
[Step SB15] <4> Search all chuck data (b) in the memory M2. If there are a plurality of chucks having the same diameter data (b-1) as a result of the data search, the chuck having the shortest length data (b-2) is selected. Further, when there are a plurality of chucks having the same length data (b-2), the one having the smallest ID value is selected. )

[Step SB16] <5> Search all collet data (c) in the memory M2. The collet having the model name data (c-1) matching the applicable collet data (b-5) of the selected chuck is searched. If there is a matching collet, the collet is selected, and it is confirmed whether or not the tool diameter (d-2) of the currently checked tool can be grasped by the applicable tool diameter range data (c-2) of the collet.
[Step SB17] <6> It is determined whether a chuck / collet pair capable of gripping the tool has been selected. If it can be selected, the process proceeds to Step SB20. If it cannot be selected, the process proceeds to Step SB18.
[Step SB18] All the chuck data (b) in the memory M2 is searched to determine whether or not there is the next thin chuck data after the chuck diameter of the currently selected chuck. If there is, move to Step SB19. If not, the process proceeds to step SB24.
[Step SB19] The next smaller chuck diameter data is selected after the chuck diameter of the selected chuck. The subsequent chuck data is searched with this value.
[Step SB20] <7> Find the shortest tool installation length when the current tool is installed on the selected chuck.

[Step SB21] <8> Find the longest tool attachment length when the current tool is attached to the selected chuck.
[Step SB22] <9> The tool and holder data are changed in the interference check data.
[Step SB23] The interference check result monitoring flag is set to “1”, and the process proceeds to Step SB25.
[Step SB24] The interference check result monitoring flag is set to “0”, and the process proceeds to Step SB25.
[Step SB25] <10> A machining program simulation is executed. (If it is temporarily stopped, restart from the stop point), that is, the data decoded in step SB07 is sequentially executed in the simulation.

[Step SB26] Whether the interference check result monitoring flag is “0” or “1” is determined. If “0”, the process proceeds to Step SB38, and if “1”, the process proceeds to Step SB27. To do.
[Step SB27] The interference check is monitored.
[Step SB28] It is determined whether or not interference occurs. If interference occurs, the process proceeds to step SB29, and if no interference occurs, the process proceeds to step SB38.
[Step SB29] The movement of the axis (machining locus) by the simulation of machining program execution is stopped.
[Step SB30] The “change amount per trial of interference avoidance” set in step SB02 is added to the tool installation length currently used in the interference check.

[Step SB31] It is determined whether or not the value after addition is shorter than the longest tool mounting length obtained in Step SB21. If it is shorter, the process proceeds to Step SB32. If not, the process proceeds to Step SB33.
[Step SB32] The tool attachment length data in the interference check data is changed to the above value.
[Step SB33] <11> It is determined whether or not the holder is included in the interference occurrence site. If included, the process proceeds to Step SB34, and if not included, the process proceeds to Step SB36.
[Step SB34] All chuck data (b) in the memory M2 is searched, and a chuck having a narrower shape than the current one is selected. (This value is used to search for subsequent chuck data.)
[Step SB35] It is determined whether or not there is a chuck having a narrower shape. If there is, the process proceeds to Step SB15, and if not, the process proceeds to Step SB24.

[Step SB36] All chuck data (b) in the memory M2 is searched, and a chuck having a longer shape than the current one is selected. (This value is used to search for subsequent chuck data.)
[Step SB37] It is determined whether or not there is a chuck having a longer shape. If there is, the process proceeds to Step SB16, and if not, the process proceeds to Step SB24.
[Step SB38] It is determined whether or not the current block of the simulation is completed. If the execution is completed, the process proceeds to Step SB39. If not completed, the process returns to Step SB25.
[Step SB39] The next block of the simulation determines whether or not a new tool number command or machining program is finished. If (YES), the process proceeds to Step SB40, and if (NO), the process proceeds to Step SB25. Return.

[Step SB40] Check whether the interference monitoring result monitoring flag is “0” or “1”. If it is “0”, the process proceeds to step SB42, and if it is “1”. Control goes to step SB41.
[Step SB41] The tool number currently being processed, the tool attachment length used in the interference check, and the chuck shape are stored in the memory M5. (See Figure 10)
[Step SB42] It is determined whether or not the next block of the simulation is the end of the machining program. If not, the process returns to Step SB08, and if it is ended, the process ends.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the process using the result (3). Hereinafter, it demonstrates according to each step.
[Step SC01] It is determined whether the tool installation length and the holder (chuck and collet) selection results have been stored in the memory M5. If stored, the process proceeds to step SC02. If not stored, step SC06 is performed. Migrate to
[Step SC02] For each tool, the data of “tool attachment length” in the memory M5 (FIGS. 7-7 and 10) is acquired and displayed on the display device of the numerical controller.
[Step SC03] For each tool, the diameter and length data of the holder (chuck) in the memory M5 (FIGS. 7-7 and 10) is acquired and displayed on the display device of the numerical controller.
[Step SC04] It is determined whether or not the additional information regarding the chuck and the collet is to be displayed. If the additional information is to be displayed, the process proceeds to Step SC05. If not, the process is terminated.
[Step SC05] For each tool, refer to the memory M2 (see FIGS. 6 and 9) in (1) for the selection result (chuck and collet ID) in the memory M5 (FIGS. 7-7 and 10). Then, the chuck and the collet are displayed together with the collet ID, and the process is terminated.
[Step SC06] A warning is displayed on the display unit of the numerical controller that there is no tool installation length and holder selection result, and the process is terminated.

FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a machine tool with a numerical control device to which the present invention is applied. A CPU 111 as a processor controls the entire numerical control device 100 according to a system program stored in the ROM 112. The RAM 113 stores various data or input / output signals. Various data stored in the nonvolatile memory 114 is preserved as it is even after the power is turned off.
The graphic control circuit 115 converts the digital signal into a display signal and supplies it to the display device 116. The keyboard 117 is a means for inputting various setting data having numeric keys, character keys, and the like. The axis control circuit 118 receives a movement command for each axis from the CPU 111 and outputs an axis command to the servo amplifier 119. The servo amplifier 119 receives this movement command and drives a servo motor (not shown) of the machine tool 200. These components are connected to each other by a bus 121.

A PMC (programmable machine controller) 122 receives a T function signal (tool selection command) and the like via the bus 121 when a machining program is executed. Then, this signal is processed by a sequence program, a signal is output as an operation command, and the machine tool 200 is controlled. In response to a status signal from the machine tool 200, a necessary input signal is transferred to the CPU 111.
Further, the software key 123 whose function is changed by a system program or the like is sent to the bus 121, NC data is sent to an external device such as a storage device, or various programs and data are input from the external device into the numerical controller. An interface 124 is connected. The software key 123 is provided on the display device / MDI panel 125 together with the display device 116 and the keyboard 117.

The present invention can also be flexibly operated by reflecting the situation at the site by the operator of the machine tool. In other words, by devising the registered contents of the holder data, the following usage is possible.
<Register data only for holders that can actually be used>
In this case, the operator can perform appropriate machining setup directly and immediately with the data obtained in the present invention. (It is possible to avoid a situation where machining cannot be started even if data is obtained because the specified holder is in use elsewhere.)
<Register only one holder>
It is confirmed whether or not interference occurs during processing by the holder. If there is no interference, the optimum tool mounting length can be obtained. (If the holder shape is determined for some reason, or if you want to use a thinner one because there is no specified holder, check for interference, and the optimal (shortest) tool mounting length for that holder. Get
<Register all available holder data using a holder catalog, etc.>
If the holder shape that is not possessed is included, it can be understood that the holder needs to be obtained (or desirable) for processing. With this information, delivery dates and price estimates can be made more easily and accurately.

  In general, the holder is often shared by a plurality of machine tools in one factory. In such an environment, the holder data is centrally managed on the server to avoid the trouble of inputting the holder data every time or to each machine tool, and the usage status of the holder (whether it is empty or not). It is also conceivable to use the present invention in consideration of whether it is in use elsewhere.

  In the description of the embodiment of the present invention described above, the holder is a simple cylindrical shape, but the actually used holder includes a tapered one. There are also more complex shapes. A holder having a more complicated shape may be selected by increasing the shape data of the holder to be registered and selection processing using the holder as necessary.

  In the embodiment of the present invention described above, the interference check is performed using the shape data after processing, but the cutting simulation function (calculation is performed from the material shape before processing by the progress of the processing program by calculation). The function to obtain shape data with deleted parts removed) is used together to check the interference with the workpiece shape according to the progress of the machining program, so that more appropriate holder and tool mounting length data can be obtained. Can do.

  There may be a case where there are a plurality of combinations of holders and tool mounting lengths capable of avoiding interference. For example, when it is desired to process the bottom portion of the valley bottom shape, it can be roughly divided into a pattern in which a tool is attached to a thick and short holder for a long time and a pattern in which a tool is attached to a thin and long holder for a short time. In the embodiment of the present invention described above, since the holder is selected after selecting the tool attachment length, the obtained selection result data is a pattern in which the tool is attached to the thick and short holder for a long time. For example, when priority is given to the short tool mounting length, the tool mounting length may be selected after selecting the holder shape. In addition, when registering tool data, a parameter was added to determine whether or not priority should be given to the shortness of the tool mounting length. In the selection process of the holder and tool mounting length, the holder and tool mounting are performed in the order according to this parameter setting. You may make it perform selection of length.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Spindle head 2 Holder 2a Attachment part to a spindle 2b Chuck 2c Collet 3 Tool 4 Work 5 Hole 6 Table 7 Magazine 8 Tool changer

100 numerical control device 200 machine tool

Claims (5)

A tool holder for holding a tool specified by a machining program, and a numerical control device having a function of determining a mounting length of the tool to the tool holder,
A machining program simulation unit for simulating the machining program;
A tool data storage unit for storing data on the shape of a tool used in the machining program and data on an installation length when the tool is attached to a tool holder;
A tool holder data storage unit for storing a plurality of data related to the shape of the tool holder;
A machine structure data storage unit for storing data relating to the shape of the machine structure;
A work data storage unit for storing data relating to the shape of the jig for fixing the work and the work;
An interference check unit for checking interference between any of the tool and the tool holder and the machine structure, the workpiece and the jig based on the data stored in the storage unit;
When interference occurs by the interference check unit during simulation of the machining program by the machining program simulation unit, the tool installation length or tool holder data is changed based on the tool data or tool holder data, and the change A numerical control having a function of determining a tool holder and a tool attachment length to the tool holder, wherein the interference check is performed again based on the data and the tool holder and the tool attachment length to the tool holder are determined. apparatus.   The tool check and tool holder according to claim 1, wherein the interference check is performed until a tool change command or the end of a program, and the tool attachment length or tool holder data is changed when there is an interference. A numerical control device having a function of determining a tool mounting length.   The tool holder and the tool attachment length to the tool holder according to claim 2, further comprising a storage unit for storing the tool attachment length and the tool holder data at the time of the tool change command or at the end of the program. A numerical control device having a function of determining. The tool data storage unit stores the tool mounting length within a usable range,
The interference check unit starts using the shortest tool mounting length stored in the tool data storage unit and sequentially increases the tool mounting length until no interference occurs. A numerical control device having a function of determining the tool holder according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and a tool attachment length to the tool holder. The tool holder data storage unit stores diameter and length data of holder parts of a plurality of tool holders,
Among the plurality of tool holders stored in the tool holder data storage unit, the interference check unit can be applied to a tool for performing interference check. Starting from the state in which the holder is used, until the interference does not occur, a tool having a smaller holder diameter and a longer length is selected from those applicable to the tool to be checked. The numerical control apparatus which has a function which determines the tool attachment length to any one of 1-4, and the tool attachment to a tool holder.

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