DE2237142A1 - ARRANGEMENT FOR THE MANUFACTURING OF COMPONENTS OF A DEFINED SHAPE IN TWO LEVELS - Google Patents

Description

International Computers. Mmited, ICE House, Putney, liondon S:. ¥ .15

England

Arrangement for manufacturing components of a defined shape in

two levels" .

The invention "relates to arrangements for" or in connection with the production of components with a defined shape in two dimensions.

In the development of numerically controlled machine tools, e.g. milling machines and drilling machines, considerable efforts have been made. Such machines come with precautions provided to move one or more tools and around the by a recording element, usually a punched one Paper tape to be controlled workpiece to an object more defined Edit shape in two dimensions.

The use of numerically controlled machine tools is in

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With regard to the profitability of the production of the finished ^ "Machined objects are beneficial to their use but another problem with it, namely the generation of a corresponding control band from the normal data sources, e.g. a construction drawing. Various solutions have been proposed to provide a calculator to perform the conversion of the raw design data in the form required by the control band. These consist of two separate ones Sharing »namely a device in order to present the data to the computer in an acceptable form, and in providing one corresponding computer program for processing this data.

Me data can be obtained through direct digital representation of the construction drawing to be introduced. The drawing is laid down on the drawing board of a drawing machine and the operator brings a marking device with important points the drawing one after the other in congruence, for example the ends of lines and the center of circular areas. Every time when the marker is aligned with a point, the operator presses an enter key and the coordinates of the Points, which are expressed in digital form in relation to a data item, are introduced into the computer. On the other hand, the data can be entered entirely through a keyboard · For example, the operator reads from the Draw the eel run and the end of a straight line and lead the corresponding coordinates using the keyboard, where he also scans appropriate codes to indicate that the coordinates are connected by a straight line.

When all the data to 'input' in. the calculator · available ·, are ,,. they must be processed by the program so that; the··· ;. . . · Coordinates. And other information in tool movement data

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for recording on "the control tape. Such Programs are usually written in a special programming language written, e.g. "APT" or "20, L", so that it is also necessary to provide a translator (compiler) which it enables "the program to run on a particular computer model can be driven.

From the above it follows that the preparation of a control tape is not easy and a considerable knowledge of the respective programming language as well as a knowledge of all facilities, which are available in the respective program. As a result, such arrangements are in use not suitable by the persons who are responsible for operating the numerically controlled machine, for which the control belt is to be prepared.

There is a need for numerically controlled production of components with a precisely defined profile in two dimensions, i.e. the type of component that is formed from a flat plate or strip can. There is also a need in the manufacture of the Tool molds for use with press tools and in particular with IPinstance presses. .

This need has been met to some extent by a numerically controlled machine which is below the name Agiecut DEM 15 is on the market. The machine has a servo-controlled work table, its position in two Dimensions can be precisely controlled by a punched tape. That. Cutting element is a wire that runs between rollers with a controlled speed is wound '. Between the wire and a workpiece lying on the workbench an electrical potential is applied, causing spark erosion

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occurs. This machine ka nn complex shapes with a high degree of precision cut. However, it is still necessary to manufacture the corresponding control belt, as is also the case for other numerically controlled machines.

According to the invention, in an arrangement for producing a component of a certain shape in two planes with a Computer, a remote keyboard connected to the computer, which can be operated in such a way that data is introduced into the computer, which correspond to the shape of the component, with a first data recording device which is connected to the computer and is arranged in the vicinity of the keyboard and provides a visible, legible display for the keyboard operator, with a second data recording device, which is connected to the computer and arranged in the vicinity of the keyboard, as well as an encoded record, and with a numerically controlled machine tool acting on the encoded record responds and produces a component of the specific shape, suggested that the computer execute repetitive cycles, in each of them

(a) the computer the first recording device in

operates to display a query for a segment type and accept a definition of the segment type from the keyboard,

(b) the computer operates the first recording device in such a way that a sequence of requests for Data is brought to the display, which correspond to the respective defined segment type, and the data accepts every request from the keyboard before generating the next request in the sequence, and

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(c) when recording all data required for the respective segment type, the computer (2) the movement of the machine tool (12) "calculates, which is required to "calculate the segment of the component" the second recording device "is actuated to produce an encoded record defining such movement and the beginning initiates the next cycle.

In a further embodiment of the invention, "in an arrangement to generate a control record for the actuation of a numerically controlled machine tool that objects "certain Produces shape in two dimensions, with a computer, a remote, manually operated data input device, which is connected to the computer, a first, remote data recording device, the is connected to the computer and which can be operated so that it is a visible, readable display for the keyboard operator results, with a second data recording device connected to the computer and operable to generated the control record, suggested that the computer run repetitive cycles in each of them

(a) the computer the first recording device in operated to display a query for a segment type and a definition of the segment type takes off from the keyboard,

(b) the computer in the first recording device operated in such a way that a sequence of requests for data is displayed, that of the respective correspond to the defined segment type and accept data assigned to each request from the keyboard,

before generating the next query in the sequence, and

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(c) "when including all data required for the respective Segment type are required, the computer calculates the movement of the tool that is required is to produce the segment of the component actuated the second recording device to a BawPart of the tax record, which is a defines such a movement, generates it, and initiates the start of the next cycle.

The invention is adjusted in conjunction with the drawing described using an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1 shows a cam which represents the selection of the segment types, and

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an embodiment of the invention.

The invention is hereinafter described in connection with an electrical discharge machine of the type Agiecut DEM 15 for the production of Objects with a special, two-dimensional shape that are cut from a flat sheet or the like. Described. However, the invention can be used in connection with other types of numerically controlled machines as well who are able to produce two-dimensional shapes, Regardless of whether they are made using spark erosion technology or other known processes, e.g. flame cutting work.

The numerically controlled control record is generated by using a computer. The invention enables the recording to be made by people who are not familiar with computer technology, e.g. from the operator of the numerically controlled machine, and it is useful a relatively simple input / output connector

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Device 1 to be provided on the floor in business premises can be used; this device is with one at more distant Place standing computer 2 over a telephone line or another data transmission connection 3 is coupled. Since the creation of the numerically controlled records usually represents a low burden on the computer, it is sensible for economic reasons to use a computer arrangement which works in simultaneous operation so that the computer can also perform other functions, e.g. Inventory control, production planning and the like. If he not with the creation of numerically controlled tax records is concerned.

A suitable form of input / output terminal device 1 consists of a teleprinter 4 and a strip punch 5 which are connected to a telephone line via a conventional modulator / demodulator 6 or to a telegraph line. The other end of the line is connected to the computer 2 via a second modulator / demodulator 7. The connection device Λ provides the following devices:

(A) a keyboard 8, with the help of which the operator can transfer information into the computer 2,

(b) a printer 9 for producing a printed record 10 by means of the information from the Computer 2 can be displayed in a visible and legible form for the operator. Preferably, the printer 9 is also operated by the keyboard 8, so that the printed record 10 contains a complete record of the flow of information to and from computer 2,

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(c) a strip punch 5 to achieve the numerically controlled control record 11 under control of the information coming from the computer 2.

To obtain a control record 11, the operator poses first establish the connection to the computer 2 and then write identification codes on the keyboard 8, which ensure that the necessary programs, the storage, etc. are available for use by the connection device 1, as is usual with simultaneous operation. When the process has been initiated, the connection device prints the Request "minimum radius". As a result of limitations in machining technology and the duration of the machining process mechanical components are corners that are conventionally pointed in construction drawings, such as e.g. Point A in the figure, made in practice with a small radius. The operator selects an appropriate minimum Value for this radius, where it is the respective. material to be processed, the limitations of the respective tool and the like. considered. The operator assumes that a radius of 0.0249 cm is appropriate and abandons this value the keyboard 8. This value is transferred to the computer 2 and stored so that every time a radius occurs during is calculated in later sections of the program, the calculation must be checked against this minimum value can.

If you start from this value of the minimum radius, the computer causes the connection device to send the second request "Ratation angle" prints out. This refers to a relocation all introduced data by a selected angle relative to the reference point chosen for introductory purposes

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has been. This can be necessary so that a component is adapted to the workbench while the operator is Orientation of the component can use that in the drawing

he
is shown from which / starting from. In the case of the component shown in the figure, no such rotation is required and accordingly the operator enters a value of zero via the keyboard. .

The next request printed by the terminal device is "first egg ent, element type". The operator must build up the desired shape by making a sequence of selected ones Segments can be selected, with each different segment being given a type number for definition. There are three basic segment types, a straight line, an arc in Clockwise direction and an arc in counterclockwise direction, which are types 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Any type will by reference to the way in which it is specified, divided. For example, a line type becomes 1.0 through the coordinates of a point on the line together with the angle of the line relative to the X-axis, a line type 1,1 specified by the coordinates of two points on the line, and a Line type 1,2 through the angle and the perpendicular offset of the line with respect to a specified point. Of course you can a particular segment on any of several different ones available ways may be specified, but in general one of the ways will be the simplest and for the operator with regard to the information given by a specific construction drawing be most expedient.

It is first necessary to make a decision about a reference point and axes in relation to which the coordinates and angles are to be measured. These will

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chosen so that the reading of the various values from the drawing is simplified. In this example, the Point O is selected as the reference point and the X and Y axes are as shown. However, it doesn't matter if for example point P is chosen as the reference point and line AP is chosen as the X-axis; the calculation of the center points however, this would make the arcs more difficult.

Digitally represented graphic arrangements use self-contained definitions for segments. For example, can a definition consisting of the coordinates of the start and end points of the segment together with the type of line that where points connect, e.g. a straight line or a circular arc with a given center point and Radius. With the present arrangement, this would not be satisfactory, since it would be difficult for the operator to do the To determine the coordinates of point A e.g. from the drawing. Instead, some form of open definition is used, where the end of a segment is specified as the point at which the segment intersects with the next segment having. In this way, the operator does not need to determine the coordinates of point A, because this is clearly defined as Intersection of a line at a given angle through the point P can be defined with an arc of a circle, which at the Place O is centered with a given radius. Because the length of these lines is not defined, it is possible, however, that there are two intersections and the desired location is therefore defined as the first or second interface, usually the movement is counterclockwise.

It is also necessary to decide where

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should be started on the component. A useful point is the point S. Thus, the first segment is an arc in the counterclockwise direction, and accordingly the operator hits the "3" key depending on the query to define the element type. The next. Request is "X center point". The coordinates of the center of the arc are X * 0, X »0, so that the operator activates the keyboard for this query and the next, which is ^M X center". The next query is "Eadius" and the operator inputs the value 0.406. The drawing shows the dimensions as they appear on a construction drawing to illustrate how the operator is able to derive the various data expressions.

Since this is the first element, it is necessary to define the starting point. As a result, the next query is "angle". The angle is measured from the positive X-axis counterclockwise so that the operator enters the value "90", which indicates that the starting point S is on the X-axis. ·

The data necessary to define the first segment have now been introduced, so the next query is "next element, element type". The next segment lies between points A and B. Since the coordinates of point P are given, the segment can be considered a part of a Type 1 element, i.e. a line with a given angle that passes through a known point. Accordingly if the operator enters "1", the computer then follows with requests for the coordinates of the point and the Angle of the line in a similar way as already described. The next request is "first interface". At this

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At the 1st stage, the first element has effectively been defined as a circle so that the line defined as the second element intersects the upper right quadrant and the lower left quadrant. Since it is common to go counterclockwise from the starting point, the desired intersection point at point B is the first and the operator enters "yes". The final query for this element is "Radius Transition". This enables the operator to specify the radius of the curve that connects the first and the second element at point B, thus yielding, for example, ⁿ OfD98M- ⁿ , a value that is greater than the value of the minimum radius.

The data introduced are now sufficient to fully define the position of point B and thus the first element. Therefore, the computer now calculates the coordinates of point B and then the set of coordinates that is required to achieve the To move the workbench of the numerically controlled machine so that the cutting element is effectively from the point S to Position B - moved along the required arc. The maximum deviation due to the setting restrictions of the machine is printed out together with the control data so that the operator can check that the deviation does not exceed the desired tolerances on the component. If the deviation is sufficiently low, the operator enters "yes" and the control data are read into the strip punch so that they recorded as the first printout on the control tape. Eventually the length of the circumference of the first segment printed out on the connection device and saved.

The next cycle is started by the terminal device printing out ^{the query "next element, element type 1".}

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-13- ■ -

This cycle follows the same scheme as the previous cycle, with the operator defining the element type and then responds to the requests for the corresponding definition data. The calculator then calculates the location of the next one Intersection, the control movements for generating the second segment and the deviation. The control data are punched in, if the deviation is acceptable and the length of the circumference of the first two segments is calculated.

If the discrepancy is unacceptable, the operator can delete the entry relating to the element by that he writes "no". He then re-introduces the data for this element, changes one or more of the values, e.g. the transition radius, and tries to achieve an acceptable deviation.

This also provides a branch point for any error correction, e.g. a writing error by the operator. Similar cycles are reported until all segments of the component have been treated and the starting point S has been reached again is. The complete control belt 11 is now prepared and can be transferred directly to the Agiecut machine 12, due to the addition of introduction data that standardized can be to bring the tool to the selected starting point.

The main advantage of the arrangement of the present invention over prior art arrangements is that the running approximation for the segments of the component in turn enables the problem to be expressed in simple sets of queries that do not require programming skills on the part of the operator, as well as checking the calculations for the control band

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every step enabled, making a jint developable for the first time Ribbon can be made.

The normal operating system of the Hechner provides the type of connection given above. Thus, the essential precautions for dealing with the numerical control problem are those for generating a series of cycles beginning with a query for an element type and selecting an appropriate set of data queries and calculation programs depending on the response. Another advantage dev current approach is that only a relatively small amount of data needs to be stored at a certain time, namely .the which refers to a pair of adjacent elements.

Additional properties can be the basic form of the invention Arrangement as described above can be added. If, for example, the shape of the component is fully defined, the center of stress can be calculated. If the thickness and mechanical Properties of the material of the component are specified, the amount of pressure that is required to manufacture the component, can be calculated, and from this and from operating data for the practical form, the costs for the production of each component, the number of τοπ components, that are made every day, etc. are estimated.

In the embodiment described above, the operator can determine all the necessary data from the drawing. This is but not always like that. For example, it is quite common to develop a shape made up of two spaced arcs,

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of which details are given and consists of a line segment that is tangent to both arcs. So enough the data from the drawing are not used for the operator to process the requests that are assigned to a line element, to answer. A set of special calculation programs can be provided to meet these requirements. if the operator has finished entering the data for the first sheet, he sees that he does not have enough data to define the next element. He calls up the corresponding calculation program by hitting e.g. "GaIc 5", introduces the data that is available and receives the data back from the computer in a form that is suitable for use in connection with the arrangement, E.g. the coordinates of the point of tangency with the first arc and the angle of the line.

The connection device is as from a teleprinter and a strip of Io rather described. The basic demands However, that is just a connection between the operator and the computer is provided and that the control data is recorded in a form suitable for use by the numerically controlled .machine are suitable. As a result, the connector can have a visible cathode ray display with a permanent copy and a stack of magnetic tapes with a more complicated design.

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Claims (1)

2237H2 \ 6 7.TZ -16- Patent to sayings / ^ Arrangement for the production of a component of a certain shape in two planes with a computer, a remote keyboard connected to the computer, which can be operated in such a way that data corresponding to the shape of the component are introduced into the computer a first data recording device which is connected to the computer and is arranged in the vicinity of the keyboard and provides a visible, readable display for the keyboard operator, with a second data recording device which is connected to the computer and in the vicinity of the keyboard is disposed, and results in an encoded recording, and with a numerically controlled machine tool, responsive to the encoded recording, and a component of the predetermined shape made, _{characterized%} that the computer (2) executes repeated cycles, each in which (a) the computer (2) actuates the first recording device (9) in such a way that a request (10) for a segment type (SB) and a Accepts the definition of the segment type from the keyboard (8), (b) the computer (2) operates the first recording device (9) in such a way that a sequence of requests (10) is displayed for data corresponding to the respective defined segment type, and the data corresponding to each request & ^us & ^er keyboard (8) accepts before the next query of the poIge is generated, 209886/0977 (c) when recording all data required for the respective segment type, the computer (2) the Movement of the machine tool (12) "calculated that is required to "calculate the segment of the component, the second recording device (5) "is actuated to produce an encoded record (11) defining such movement and the Initiates the beginning of the next cycle. Arrangement for generating a control record for the; · Operation of a numerically controlled machine tool which produces objects of a certain shape in two dimensions, with a computer, a remote, manually operated data input device which is connected to the computer, a first, remote data recording device , which is connected to the computer and which is operable so that it gives a visible, readable display for the ^ the keyboard operator, with a second Datenaufnahmvorrihtung which is connected to the computer and operable so that ax generates the control record, thereby characterized in that the computer (2) executes repetitive cycles, in each of which (a) the computer (2) the first recording device (9) operated to display a request (10) for "a segment type (SB) and a definition der.Segmenttype from the keyboard (8) accepts, (b) the computer (2) the first recording device (9) operated in such a way that a sequence of requests (10) for data is displayed, which correspond to the respective defined segment type, and which each request from the keyboard (8) assigned data before the next request is generated by the FoI ^ e, and 209806/0977 2237U2 (c) when recording all data required for the respective segment type, the computer (2) the movement of the tool (12) is calculated which is required to move the segment of the component z * u, the second recording device (5) is actuated to record a part of the control record (11), which defines such a movement, and initiates the start of the next cycle. 3. Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that for each segment the computer (2) receives data which define the segment (SB) with respect to a reference point (0). 4. Arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that after receiving the on the two adjacent segments (SB, BA) of the component-related data of the computer (2) the coordinates of the interface (B) between the two Segments to be recorded on the encoded record (11) calculated. 5. Arrangement according to one of claims 1-4, characterized by * records that the computer (2) the deviations of the shape produced by the tool (12) under control of the coded record (11) would be calculated from the desired form that it would be the first recording device (9) in operated in such a way that the deviation is displayed and that in dependence on a signal from the Keyboard (8), which accepts the deviation, the computer (2) operates the second recording device (5) in such a way, that the coded record (11) is generated. 209886/0977 6. Arrangement according to one of claims 1-5, characterized in that that the computer (2} stores data which indicate an offset of the segments relative to a reference point the tool in comparison to the data recorded by the computer (2) from the fastatur (8). 7. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 - 6, characterized in that that the computer (2) accepts data from the keyboard (8), and stores the constraints on the shape of the component to be produced by the tool (12), defined, and that if the shape, the data defining the segments (SB, BA) of the component outside these limits, the computer (2) operates the first recording device (9) in such a way that the Information is displayed indicating that the recorded data is unsatisfactory, and a Locks actuation of the second recording device (5). 2093 86/09? 7