JP2007326174A - Numerical control device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a numerical control device which reduces a working amount of a set-up work by an operator prior to processing a workpiece with a numerical control machine tool. <P>SOLUTION: When a numerical control device 120 controlling actions of a numerical control machine tool for machining a workpiece by separately using a plurality of kinds of tools is constituted, identification data 1 for each tool, a tool length offset quantity 3 for each tool, tool update information 5 set for each tool and indicating whether the tool is newly registered, and offset quantity update information 7 indicating whether the tool length offset quantity is newly inputted, are stored in a storage part 50. A measuring and verifying control part 75 for selecting a tool whose tool length offset quantity is not measured or a tool whose tool length correction quantity is not verified, on the basis of the identification data, the tool update information or the offset update information, and mounting the tool to a predetermined portion of the numerical control tool machine and moving it to a reference point is provided. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a numerical control device used for a numerically controlled machine tool.

  A numerically controlled machine tool whose operation is controlled by a numerical control device to process a workpiece into a predetermined shape is now used for manufacturing various articles. In this numerically controlled machine tool, multiple types of tools are used properly when machining a workpiece into a product of a predetermined shape or an intermediate product, and various operations such as tool replacement are automated by a numerical control device. .

  For example, when a numerically controlled machine tool processes a workpiece using a tool whose length is different from the length of the reference tool assumed when creating a program for controlling the numerically controlled machine tool, A tool that calculates an offset amount for a tool length (hereinafter referred to as “tool length”) and corrects the position of the origin of the workpiece coordinate system in accordance with the offset amount (hereinafter referred to as “tool length offset amount”). Although length compensation is performed, numerically controlled machine tools that have automated tool length offset measurement and tool length compensation have been developed.

  However, since numerically controlled machine tools that automate the measurement of the tool length offset amount are expensive, numerically controlled machine tools that manually measure the tool length offset amount are also widely used. Even when the measurement of the tool length offset is performed manually, the tool length correction itself is performed by a numerical controller, but in general, the operator of the numerically controlled machine tool uses a gauge after the tool length correction is performed. The actual tool length compensation amount is measured and verified.

  Since the operation control of a numerically controlled machine tool by a numerical control device is diverse, normally, for the convenience of the user, the contents of commands from the numerically controlled device to the numerically controlled machine tool are attached to the numerically controlled device. Displayed on the display. For example, in Patent Document 1, when a coordinate system is set, a value obtained by subtracting the tool length correction amount from the coordinate system setting instruction value is stored in the Z-axis execution register, and the Z-axis command is not corrected while correcting the Z-axis command value of the numerical control program. A numerical control device is described in which a Z-axis command value for a numerically controlled machine tool is matched with a Z-axis command value displayed on an operation panel by inputting the value into a register.

JP-A 63-278742

  However, regardless of whether or not the measurement of the tool length offset amount is automated, in the conventional numerical control device, a tool that requires measurement of the tool length offset amount among a plurality of tools used for machining a workpiece, that is, It is not possible to automatically select a tool whose tool length offset amount has not yet been measured. For this reason, the selection of the tool is performed by an operator who operates the apparatus control device and the numerical control machine tool. Similarly, when the tool length offset amount is measured manually, the operator also selects a tool that requires verification of the tool length correction amount. For this reason, the amount of setup work that must be performed by an operator when machining a workpiece with a numerically controlled machine tool is relatively large, and the setup work requires a large amount of labor.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and it is an object of the present invention to obtain a numerical control device capable of reducing the amount of setup work that an operator must perform prior to processing a workpiece with a numerically controlled machine tool. And

  A numerical control device according to the present invention that achieves the above object is a numerical control device that controls the operation of a numerically controlled machine tool that uses a plurality of types of tools to process a workpiece into a predetermined shape. The registered identification data for identifying the tool, the tool length offset amount for each tool, and the program for defining the operation of the numerically controlled machine tool and the numerical control device are stored and set for each tool. A storage unit for storing at least one of tool update information indicating whether or not a tool is newly registered and offset amount update information indicating whether or not a tool length offset amount is newly input; Select a tool whose tool length offset amount has not been measured based on the identification data and tool update information, or select a tool length based on the identification data and offset amount update information. Select a tool that has not been verified for the correct amount, attach the selected tool to a predetermined location on the numerically controlled machine tool, and verify the reference point for measuring the tool length offset amount or verifying the tool length correction amount. And a measurement / verification control unit that moves to a reference point.

  In the numerical control device of the present invention, since the numerical control device has the above-described measurement / verification control unit, a tool whose tool length offset amount has not been measured from a plurality of types of tools and tool length correction. At least one of the tools whose quantity has not been verified is automatically selected. Therefore, the operator does not select a tool for which the tool length offset amount has not been measured or a tool for which the tool length correction amount has not been verified. Can proceed. Therefore, according to the numerical control device of the present invention, the amount of setup work that must be performed by the operator prior to machining the workpiece by the numerically controlled machine tool is reduced.

  Embodiments of a numerical control apparatus according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

  The numerical control device of the present invention controls the operation of the numerical control machine tool. The numerical control machine tool whose operation is controlled by the numerical control device includes a magazine containing a plurality of types of tools, It is preferable to include a tool changer that attaches the tool to the numerically controlled machine tool and replaces the tool attached to the numerically controlled machine tool in accordance with a command from the numerical control device.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of each of the numerical control device of the present invention and the numerically controlled machine tool whose operation is controlled by the numerical control device. The numerical control 120 shown in the figure includes an apparatus main body 100 and also includes an input unit 105 and a display unit 110 connected to the apparatus main body 100. The apparatus main body 100 includes a storage unit and a control (not shown). Part. On the other hand, the numerically controlled machine tool 200 takes out a predetermined tool from the magazine 160 in response to a command from the processing unit 150 that actually processes a workpiece, a magazine 160 that stores a plurality of types of tools, and a numerical controller 120. And a tool changer 170 attached to a predetermined portion of the machining unit 150, and the tool changer 170 also exchanges the tool attached to the machining unit 150.

  When the numerically controlled machine tool 200 is controlled by the numerical controller 120 and the tool is replaced, as described above, the tool length correction is performed according to the tool length offset amount of the tool. The numerical control device 120 and the numerical control machine tool 200 may have a function of automatically measuring the tool length offset amount (hereinafter referred to as “long offset amount automatic measurement function”), The long offset amount automatic measurement function may not be provided. When the numerical control device 120 and the numerically controlled machine tool 200 do not have the long offset amount automatic measurement function, the operator manually measures the tool length offset amount. The verification of the tool length correction amount can be omitted when the long offset amount automatic measurement function is provided, and the operator manually performs the operation when the long offset amount automatic measurement function is not provided.

  Regardless of whether or not the numerical control device 120 and the numerical control machine tool 200 have a long offset amount automatic measurement function, a reference for selecting a tool that has not been measured for the tool length offset amount and for measuring the tool length offset amount. The numerical control device 120 and the numerical control machine tool 200 automatically perform movement of the tool to the point. Similarly, the numerical control device 120 and the numerically controlled machine tool 200 automatically perform selection of a tool whose tool length correction amount has not been verified and movement of the tool to the reference point for measuring the tool length correction amount.

  For this reason, the operator does not select a tool for which the tool length offset amount has not been measured or a tool for which the tool length correction amount has not been verified, and the tool length offset amount can be measured and the tool length correction amount can be verified. Work can proceed. As a result, according to the numerical control device 120, the amount of setup work that must be performed by the operator before the workpiece is processed by the numerically controlled machine tool 200 is reduced. Hereinafter, the configuration of the numerical controller 120 that exhibits such technical effects will be described in detail.

  FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram schematically showing the configuration of the numerical controller 120 shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, the apparatus main body 100 in the numerical controller 120 includes a storage unit 50, a tool registration / change unit 55, an offset amount registration / change unit 60, a parameter setting unit 65, a program correction unit 70, a control unit 80, and the like. A mode switching unit 85 is provided, and an input unit 105 and a display unit 110 are connected to the apparatus main body 100.

  The storage unit 50 constituting the apparatus main body 100 stores data and programs used for operation control of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1), and the storage unit 50 includes a nonvolatile memory. It has the 1st memory | storage part 40 and the 2nd memory | storage part 45 which consists of volatile memory.

  The first storage unit 40 is provided with a tool data area 10 and a program area 30. Of these areas, the tool data area 10 includes identification data 1 for each tool, tool length offset amount 3 for each tool, and whether or not the tool is newly registered for each tool. The tool update information 5 and the offset amount update information 7 that are set for each tool and that indicate whether or not the tool length offset amount is newly input are stored. As the identification data 1, for example, numerical data, data corresponding to the product name, or the like is used, and as the tool length offset amount 3, data corresponding to a specific numerical value is used. As the tool update information 5 and the offset amount update information 7, for example, flags (variables) and data corresponding to characters or characters are used.

  The program area 30 includes a machining program 25 used for operation control of each of the numerical control device 120 and the numerical control machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1), and a state control program 28 (used for state control of the numerical control device 120). For example, a ladder program) is stored, and the machining program 25 includes a program (not shown) that defines operations related to workpiece machining among the operations of the numerically controlled machine tool 200, tool length measurement, An operation program 20 that defines an operation related to verification of the tool length correction amount is included. The operation program 20 includes a program 11 related to the parameter setting in the operation program 20 (indicated as “parameter setting 11” in FIG. 2), and a program 13 related to the work coordinate system setting (“coordinate” in FIG. 2). System setting 13 ”), a program 15 relating to the offset measurement (indicated as“ offset amount measurement 15 ”in FIG. 2), and a program 17 relating to tool length compensation (“ tool length compensation 17 ”in FIG. 2). Notation) and a program 19 related to verification of the correction amount (indicated as “correction amount verification 19” in FIG. 2) and the like.

  On the other hand, the second storage unit 45 stores information that defines the operation mode of the numerical controller 120. In the illustrated example, a tool confirmation mode flag 42 corresponding to a tool confirmation mode which is an operation mode under the control of the measurement / verification control unit 75 described later, and an automatic activation mode which is an operation mode for activating the operation program 20 are set. A corresponding automatic start mode flag 43 is stored. When a certain mode is specified, a flag corresponding to the mode becomes a predetermined value, for example, “1”, indicating that the mode is specified, and a flag corresponding to another mode has a predetermined value, for example, “0” indicates that the mode is not designated.

  Based on the data input from the input unit 105, the tool registration / change unit 55 registers (stores) new tool identification data 1 in the storage unit 50 or has already been registered (stored) in the storage unit 50. The identification data 1 that is present is changed. Further, the offset amount registration / change unit 60 registers (stores) a new tool length offset amount 3 in the storage unit 50 based on the data input from the input unit 105 or already registers (stores) it in the storage unit 50. The tool length offset amount 3 is changed.

  The parameter setting unit 65 sets a parameter for a predetermined system variable incorporated in advance in the operation program 20 based on the data input from the input unit 105. The program correction unit 70 allows the user to change the contents of the operation program 20 in accordance with the configuration, performance, and the like of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1), and is input from the input unit 105. The operation program 20 is corrected based on the data.

  The control unit 80 controls the operation of the numerical control device 120 and the numerical control machine tool 200 based on data and programs stored in the storage unit 50. The tool registration / change unit 55, the offset amount described above, and the like. The operation of the registration / change unit 60, the parameter setting unit 65, the program correction unit 70, and the mode switching unit 85 described later is also controlled by the control unit 80. The control unit 80 includes a processing control unit 73, a measurement / verification control unit 75, and a display control unit 77 described below.

  The machining control unit 73 operates when the operation mode of the numerical control device 120 is not the tool confirmation mode, and numerical control is performed based on a program that defines an operation related to machining of the workpiece in the machining program 25. The operation of the machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1) is controlled.

  The measurement / verification control unit 75 starts the operation when the operation mode of the numerical control device 120 is changed to the tool check mode and then further enters the automatic start mode in the tool check mode, and measures the tool length offset amount. Select a tool that has not been checked, move the tool to the reference point for measuring the tool length offset amount, select a tool that has not been verified for tool length correction amount, and verify the tool length correction amount Move to the reference point for Details of operation control of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 by the measurement / verification control unit 75 will be described later.

  The display control unit 77 constituting the control unit 80 controls the operation of the display unit 110 based on a predetermined display program (not shown) stored in the storage unit 50, and causes the display unit 110 to have a tool. A data management screen, the contents of each of the tool update information 5 and the offset amount update information 7, a screen for setting parameters in the system variables in the operation program 20, a screen for correcting the operation program 20, and the like are displayed.

  The mode switching unit 85 is controlled by the control unit 80 to perform a confirmation operation for checking whether or not a mode switching instruction signal is input to instruct switching to the tool confirmation mode or the automatic activation mode at a certain period (for example, 10 milliseconds to several milliseconds). Repeat every 10 milliseconds). However, when the control unit 80 does not recognize the operation of the mode switching unit 85 under the control of the state control program 28, the operation is suspended until the next operation cycle. When the operation is permitted by the control unit 80 and a mode switching instruction signal is input, the control unit 80 is notified that the mode switching instruction signal has been input and is stored in the second storage unit 45. Of the tool confirmation mode flag 42 and the automatic symbol mode flag 43, the value of the mode flag corresponding to the mode switching instruction signal is changed to a value indicating that the operation mode is instructed.

  As a result of mode switching by the mode switching unit 85, for example, a predetermined character or character is displayed on the display unit 110, or the apparatus main body 100 is displayed so that the operator does not mistake the current operation mode of the numerical control device 120. It is preferable to notify the operator by lighting a predetermined lamp (not shown) attached to the operator. The operation related to the display of the result of the mode switching is controlled by the control unit 80, for example.

  On the other hand, the input unit 105 is connected to the apparatus main body 100 by wire or wirelessly, and inputs identification data for each tool to be registered (stored) in the storage unit 50, data such as a tool length offset amount for each tool, It is used for inputting various instructions to the main body 100, for example, inputting instructions such as activation, feed hold, single block, override, reset, and operation mode. Specific examples of the input unit 105 include an operation panel and a management terminal.

  When the input unit 105 is connected to the apparatus main body 100 wirelessly, the apparatus main body 100 is further provided with a transmission / reception processing unit. Input of data and instructions by the input unit 105 is performed via a transmission / reception processing unit, such as a tool registration / change unit 55, an offset amount registration / change unit 60, a parameter setting unit 65, a program correction unit 70, a control unit 80, or a mode switching unit. 85.

  The display unit 110 is controlled by the display control unit 77 to set parameters in the tool data management screen, the contents of the tool update information 5 and the offset amount update information 7, and system variables in the operation program 20. Screen, a screen for correcting the operation program 20, or the operating status of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1).

  In manufacturing a desired product or intermediate product from a workpiece by controlling the operation of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1) by the numerical controller 120 having the above-described configuration, first, tool data is input as in the conventional case. The setup work is performed in the order of measurement of the tool length offset amount and verification of the tool length correction amount.

  However, as described above, the selection of a tool for which the measurement of the tool length offset amount has not been completed and the movement of the tool to the reference point for measuring the tool length offset amount are performed by the numerical control device 120 and the numerical control machine tool 200. Do it automatically. Similarly, the numerical control device 120 and the numerically controlled machine tool 200 automatically perform selection of a tool whose tool length correction amount has not been verified and movement of the tool to the reference point for measuring the tool length correction amount. Machining of the workpiece is started after the setup work is completed.

  Hereinafter, the reference numerals used in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 will be referred to as appropriate, and each process performed in the setup operation, that is, each of the tool data input process, the tool length offset amount measurement process, and the tool length correction amount verification process will be described in detail. To do.

(Tool data input process)
In the tool data input process, the identification data, the tool length offset amount, and the like are input from the input unit 105 to the storage unit 50 based on the tooling list or the like for each of a plurality of types of tools used for workpiece machining. At this time, the input of the tool length offset amount is omitted for a tool whose tool length offset amount has not yet been measured. In addition to inputting the tool data, a predetermined tool is accommodated in each pot in the magazine 160 (see FIG. 1) constituting the numerically controlled machine tool 200. These operations are performed by an operator.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a tool data management screen displayed on the display unit 110 when input of the identification data and the tool length offset amount is completed. The management screen 115 shown in the figure is provided in correspondence with the pot number in the magazine 160, the tool number which is the identification data 1 (see FIG. 2) about the tool accommodated in each pot, and this tool number. Each column of a correction number and a tool length offset amount is provided, and predetermined data is displayed in each column. The correction number is also one of the identification data 1.

  This management screen 115 is a management screen for manufacturing another product or intermediate product after manufacturing a certain product or intermediate product with the numerically controlled machine tool 200, and each tool of tool numbers 3, 4, 6, and 7 is used. Are newly adopted this time, and the remaining tools Nos. 1, 2, 5, 8, 9, and 10 are the same as those used last time. Among the newly adopted tools of tool numbers 3, 4, 6, and 7, the tool length offset amount is input only for the tool of tool number 4. Further, the tool length offset amount is re-entered by the operator for each of the tool numbers 1, 2, and 8. There is no data change for each of the tool numbers 5, 9, and 10.

  The tool update information 5 (see FIG. 2) for each of the tool numbers 3, 4, 6, and 7 newly adopted this time is newly registered by entering or overwriting the tool number on the management screen 115. It is automatically set to information indicating that it has been done. Also, the offset amount update information for each of the tool numbers 1, 2, 4 and 8 to which the tool length offset amount has been input this time is automatically set to information indicating that the offset amount has been newly input. Is done. On the other hand, for each of the tool numbers 5, 9, and 10 whose data is not changed, the tool update information 5 is information indicating that it is not newly registered, and the offset amount update information 7 includes the tool length offset amount. This is information indicating that it is not newly input.

  FIG. 4 is a chart showing a list of examples of tool data corresponding to the display contents on the tool data management screen 115 shown in FIG. In the illustrated example, the memory address in the tool data area 10 (see FIG. 2) corresponds to the tool number and the correction number, and the tool update is performed for each of the tool numbers 1, 2, 5, 8, 9, and 10. The information is set to a flag “0”, that is, information indicating that it is not newly registered, and the tool update information for each tool number 3, 4, 6, 7 is flag “1”, that is, new Is set to information indicating that it is registered. Also, the offset amount update information for each of the tool numbers 1, 2, 4 and 8 is set to the flag “1”, that is, information indicating that the tool length offset amount is newly input, and the tool number The offset amount update information for each of the tools 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 10 is set to flag “0”, that is, information indicating that the tool length offset amount is not newly input.

  When system variables that can be arbitrarily set by the user are incorporated in the operation program 20 in advance, the parameters before starting the measurement of the tool length offset amount in the tool length offset amount measurement step described below will be described. A parameter is set to the system variable by the setting unit 65 and the input unit 105.

(Tool length offset measurement process)
In the tool length offset amount measuring step, the operation of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 is controlled by the measurement / verification control 75 (see FIG. 2) to select a tool whose tool length offset amount has not been measured, and the tool length of the tool. After moving to the reference point for measuring the offset amount, the tool length offset amount of the tool is measured automatically or manually.

  In shifting from the tool data input process to the tool length offset amount measuring process, a predetermined mode switching instruction signal is input from the input unit 105 to the apparatus main body 100, and the numerical control apparatus is operated by the mode switching unit 85 (see FIG. 2). The operation mode of 120 is set to the tool check mode, and then the automatic start mode is set in the tool check mode. When the operation mode of the numerical control device 120 becomes the tool confirmation mode, the measurement / verification control unit 75 reads the operation program 20 (see FIG. 2), and thereafter, when the operation mode is switched to the automatic activation mode while maintaining the tool confirmation mode, The verification control unit 75 starts operation.

  The measurement / verification control unit 75 that has started the operation first determines the tool length offset based on the identification data 1, the tool update information 3, and the offset amount update information 7 (see FIG. 2) stored in the tool data area 10. Identification data 1 (tool number or correction number; see FIG. 4) corresponding to a tool whose quantity has not been measured is selected. That is, the identification data 1 in which the tool update information is set to the flag “1” and the offset amount update information is set to the flag “0” is selected.

  Each time one piece of identification data 1 corresponding to a tool whose tool length offset amount has not been measured is selected, the identification data 1 and the program 15 relating to the offset amount measurement (offset amount measurement 15; FIG. 2) The control of the numerical control machine tool 200 is controlled on the basis of the reference), and the tool corresponding to the identification data 1 is taken out from the pot of the magazine 160 (see FIG. 1) and is attached to a predetermined position of the numerical control machine tool 200. Then, it is moved to a reference point for measuring a predetermined tool length offset amount.

  For a tool in which both the tool update information flag and the offset amount update information flag are set to “1”, such as the tool of tool number 4 shown in FIG. Since there is a high possibility that the long offset amount is input, the measurement / verification control unit 75 can be configured so as to be excluded from the measurement target of the tool length offset amount.

  When each of the numerical control device 120 and the numerical control machine tool 200 has the long offset amount automatic measurement function, the tool length offset amount of the tool is determined by moving the tool to the reference point. It is automatically measured by the numerical controller 120, and the result is stored in the storage unit 50 (see FIG. 2) in association with the tool identification data 1. When either the numerical control device 120 or the numerical control machine tool 200 does not have the long offset amount automatic measurement function, the operator moves the tool up to the reference point and then The tool length offset amount is measured manually, and the result is stored in the storage unit 50 in association with the tool identification data 1.

  When the tool length offset amount is stored in the storage unit 50 in this way, or when the measurement / verification control unit 75 selects identification data 1 corresponding to a tool whose tool length offset amount has not been measured, the tool length offset amount is selected. Tool update information 5 (see FIG. 2) is automatically set to information indicating that measurement of the tool length offset amount is unnecessary, for example, flag “0”. When the tool length offset amount is measured by the long offset amount automatic measurement function, verification of the tool length correction amount for this tool can be omitted, so that the offset amount update information 7 for the tool at a desired time. The measurement / verification control unit 75 is configured such that (see FIG. 2) is automatically set to predetermined information, that is, information indicating that verification of the tool length correction amount is unnecessary, for example, the flag “0”. The

  FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of tool movement when measuring a tool length offset amount by a numerical control device having a long offset amount automatic measurement function and a numerically controlled machine tool. In the example shown in the figure, a contact sensor 215 is arranged on a table 210 constituting a numerically controlled machine tool. The work W is arranged on the table 210.

The tool 220 whose tool length offset amount is to be measured is mounted at a predetermined position of the numerically controlled machine tool (the lower end of the spindle 225 in the illustrated example) at the tool position TP. The spindle 225 on which the tool 220 is mounted moves down to above the reference point RP ₁ for measuring the tool length offset amount and then descends. When the tool 220 reaches the reference point RP ₁ , that is, when the spindle 225 descends until the tip of the tool 220 contacts the upper surface of the contact sensor 215, a predetermined signal is sent from the contact sensor 215 to the measurement / verification control unit 75 (see FIG. 2). The measurement / verification control unit 75 that has received the signal stops the movement of the spindle 225. The numerical control device 120 calculates the tool from the machine coordinates of the upper surface of the contact sensor 215, the machine coordinates of the spindle 225 when the tool 215 reaches the reference point RP ₁ (upper surface of the contact sensor 215), and the length of the reference tool. The long offset amount OV is automatically calculated and stored in the storage unit 50 in association with the identification data of the tool 220.

(Tool length compensation amount verification process)
In the tool length correction amount verification step, the operation of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1) is controlled by the measurement / verification control 75 (see FIG. 2) to select the tool whose tool length correction amount has not been verified. The tool is moved to a reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount, and then the tool length correction amount of the tool is manually measured and verified.

  At this time, the measurement / verification control unit 75 verifies the tool length correction amount based on the identification data 1, the tool update information 3, and the offset amount update information 7 (see FIG. 2) stored in the tool data area 10. Identification data 1 (tool number or correction number; see FIG. 4) corresponding to a tool that has not been completed is selected. That is, the identification data 1 whose offset amount update information is set to the flag “1” is selected.

  Each time one piece of identification data 1 corresponding to a tool whose tool length correction amount has not been verified is selected, numerical control is performed based on the tool length offset amount 3 (see FIG. 2) corresponding to the identification data 1. The position of the origin of the workpiece coordinate system on the machine tool 200 is changed, and the numerically controlled machine tool 200 is based on the identification data 1 and a program 19 for verifying the correction amount (correction amount verification 19; see FIG. 2). The tool corresponding to the identification data 1 is taken out from the pot of the magazine 160 (see FIG. 1) and mounted at a predetermined position of the numerically controlled machine tool 200, and a predetermined tool length correction amount verification is performed. Move to the reference point. The operator manually verifies the tool length correction amount after the tool has moved to the reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount.

  When the measurement / verification control unit 75 selects identification data 1 corresponding to a tool whose tool length correction amount has not been verified as described above, the offset amount update information 5 (see FIG. 2) of the tool is Information indicating that verification of the length correction amount is unnecessary, for example, a flag “0” is automatically set.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of tool movement when verifying the tool length correction amount. Since all the structural members shown in the figure have already been described with reference to FIG. 5, the same reference numerals as those used in FIG.

Tool 220 the tool length compensation amount is verified, it descends after moving is mounted on the lower end of the numerical control machine tool spindle 225 in the tool position TP to above the reference point RP ₃ in the tool length compensation amount for verification. The movement of the spindle 225 is determined by the numerical controller 120 (see FIG. 2) when the tool 220 reaches the reference point RP ₃ , for example, when the tip of the tool 220 has reached a point 50 mm above the upper surface of the workpiece W. Stop at the moment. The tool length correction amount CV is obtained when the operator manually measures the distance between the tip of the tool 220 and the upper surface of the workpiece W using a gauge or the like. The operator compares this measured value with the above-described tool length offset amount to verify whether the tool length correction is performed correctly. As already described, when the tool length offset amount is measured by the long offset amount automatic measurement function, the tool length correction amount verification step can be omitted.

  As described above, when the desired product or intermediate product is manufactured from the workpiece by controlling the operation of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1) by the numerical control device 120, the tool data input, Although the setup work is performed in the order of measurement of the tool length offset amount and verification of the tool length correction amount, the operator selects a tool for which the tool length offset amount has not been measured or a tool for which the tool length correction amount has not been verified. Measurement work of the tool length offset amount and verification work of the tool length correction amount can be advanced without selecting by themselves. For this reason, according to the numerical control device 120, the amount of setup work that must be performed by the operator before the workpiece is processed by the numerically controlled machine tool 200 is reduced.

  The specifications of the operation program 20 (see FIG. 2) used in the numerical control device 120 that exhibits such technical effects can be appropriately selected. Hereinafter, an example of a source program that is the basis of the operation program 20 will be described.

  FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a source program that is the basis of the operation program 20 used in the numerical controller 120. The source program 20S shown in the figure is either when the numerical control device 120 and the numerical control machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1) each have the long offset amount automatic measurement function or not. The contents of the program are defined by substituting system variables # 10000 to # 10008 into common variables.

  System variable # 10000 is used to call a parameter that specifies whether or not to automatically measure the tool length offset, and system variable # 10001 is used to call a parameter that specifies whether or not to verify the tool length compensation amount. Is for. For a tool whose tool length offset amount is automatically measured, verification of the tool length correction amount can be omitted.

  System variable # 10004 is used to call a tool change command, and system variable # 10005 is used to call a parameter that specifies which work coordinate system to use from a plurality of predetermined work coordinate systems. Is. System variable # 10006 is for calling a parameter defined for the verification position (reference point) of the tool length correction amount, and system variable # 10007 is for calling a program end command. System variable # 10008 is used to call a parameter defined for the measurement position (reference point) of the tool length offset amount.

  System variable # 10002 is the tool number (compensation number) of the tool for which the tool length offset amount has not been measured, and system variable # 10003 is the tool number (compensation number) of the tool whose tool length compensation amount has not been verified. These are read from the tool data area 10 (see FIG. 2) by the measurement / verification control unit 75 and stored in the operation program 20. Further, system variables other than system variables # 10002 and # 10003 are set by parameter setting unit 65 based on the input from input unit 105.

  Each block of sequence numbers N120 to N210 in the source program 20S is for automatically measuring the tool length offset amount of a tool for which the measurement of the tool length offset amount has not been completed. Each block of sequence numbers N310 to N390 is a block for moving a tool whose tool length correction amount has not been verified to the reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount. One tool is corrected for the tool length. The numerical control device 120 (measurement / verification control unit 75; see FIG. 2) is set to be in a block stop state after the movement to the reference point for quantity verification is completed.

  Operation control of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1) by the control device 120 when measuring the tool length offset amount based on the source program 20S having the above-described configuration, and the tool length correction amount based on the source program 20 The operation control of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1) by the control device 120 at the time of verification is similar to each other. In the following, a specific example of the operation control of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 by the control device 120 when verifying the tool length correction amount will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. The description of the operation control of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 by the control device 120 when measuring the long offset amount will be omitted.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure when the operation mode of the numerical controller 120 is switched to the tool confirmation mode by the mode switching unit 85. As described above, the mode switching unit 85 repeatedly performs the operation of confirming whether or not the mode switching instruction signal has been input at a constant cycle. However, under the control of the state control program 28, the control unit 80 (see FIG. 2) When the operation of the mode switching unit 85 is not recognized, the operation is paused until the next operation cycle.

  When the operation of the mode switching unit 85 is permitted in step S210 shown in the figure, the mode switching unit 85 determines whether or not a mode switching instruction signal instructing switching to the tool confirmation mode is input in step S212. . When a mode switching instruction signal for instructing switching to the tool confirmation mode is input, the measurement / verification control is performed by informing the measurement / verification control unit 75 that the instruction signal has been input in step S214. The search and reading of the operation program 20 (see FIG. 2) by the unit 75 is started. On the other hand, in step S216, a searching signal indicating that the operation program 20 is being searched is output to the display control unit 77 (see FIG. 2). Thereafter, in step S218, the tool confirmation mode flag 42 is turned on, that is, changed to a value indicating that the tool confirmation mode is designated. Thereby, the operation mode of the numerical controller 120 is switched to the tool confirmation mode.

  The display control unit 77 that has received the searching signal in step S216 causes the display unit 110 to display characters or characters indicating that the operation program 20 is being searched, or turns on a predetermined lamp. When it is determined in step S212 that the mode switching instruction signal is not a signal for instructing mode switching to the tool confirmation mode, the process is terminated, and the operation for confirming whether or not the mode switching instruction signal has been input is performed again at a constant cycle.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the measurement / verification control unit 75 in the tool confirmation mode. The measurement / verification control unit 75 receives state control based on the state control program 28 (see FIG. 2), and periodically (for example, 10 milliseconds) at a time permitted under control based on the state control program 28. Operate.

  When the operation of the measurement / verification 75 is permitted in step S220 shown in the figure, the measurement / verification control unit 75 determines whether or not the reset signal is turned off in step S222, and the reset signal is turned off. If so, the process proceeds to step S230 to determine whether or not the automatic start mode is set. Then, when it is determined that the automatic start mode is set, the process proceeds to step S240. In other words, whether or not the processing for one block (one block in the operation program 20) has been interrupted at the previous operation. For example, it is determined whether or not the processing for one block has been completed. When it is determined in step S240 that the processing for one block has been completed, the process proceeds to step S242 to read the next block, and the description content of the block is analyzed in step S244, and then in step S246, the one block is processed. After executing the process, the operation in one operation cycle is finished.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S222 that the reset signal has not been turned off, the process proceeds to step S224, where a processing operation for ending the automatic start mode is performed regardless of whether the automatic start mode is set. In step S226, an instruction to turn off the automatic start mode flag 43 (see FIG. 2), that is, a value indicating that the automatic start mode is not specified is sent to the mode switching unit 85, and then the operation of one operation cycle is finished. To do.

  If it is determined in step S230 that the automatic start mode is not set, the process advances to step S232 to determine whether or not a mode switching instruction signal for the automatic start mode is input. When it is determined that the mode switching instruction signal is not input, the operation of one operation cycle is terminated. When it is determined that the mode switching instruction signal is input, the automatic start mode flag 43 is turned on in step S234. That is, after an instruction to change to a value indicating that the automatic activation mode is designated is sent to the mode switching unit 85, the operation in one operation cycle is ended.

  When it is determined in step S240 that the process for one block has not been completed, the process proceeds to step S246, where the process for one block that has not been completed is executed, and then the operation in one operation cycle is completed.

  When the operation mode of the numerical controller 120 is the tool confirmation mode, the measurement / verification control unit 75 (see FIG. 2) performs an operation program by performing the processing for one block in step S246 over a predetermined number of operation cycles. 20 (see FIG. 2) are sequentially executed, thereby controlling the operations of the numerical controller 120 and the numerically controlled machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1). Hereinafter, the reading of one block in step S242 shown in FIG. 9, the program analysis of one block in step S244, and the execution of processing for one block in step S246 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. explain.

  10 to 11 are flowcharts showing an example of control from reading of one block to execution of processing for one block performed by the measurement / verification control unit 75. In the examples shown in these drawings, first, it is determined in step S250 (see FIG. 10) whether or not system variable # 10000 is described in one read block. When it is determined that the system variable # 10000 is described, the process proceeds to step S251, where the contents of the block are analyzed, and parameters that determine whether the tool length offset amount is automatically measured based on the analysis result are determined. After calling, the operation of one operation cycle is finished. If it is determined in step S250 that system variable # 10000 is not described, the process proceeds to step S253.

  In step S253, it is determined whether or not system variable # 10001 is described in one read block. If it is determined that system variable # 10001 is described, the process proceeds to step S254 to analyze the contents of the block. Then, after calling a parameter defined as to whether or not to verify the tool length correction amount based on the analysis result, the operation in one operation cycle is terminated. If it is determined in step S253 that the system variable # 10001 is not described, the process proceeds to step S256.

  In step S256, it is determined whether or not system variable # 10004 is described in one read block. If it is determined that system variable # 10004 is described, the process proceeds to step S257 to analyze the contents of the block. Then, after calling the tool change command based on the analysis result, the operation in one operation cycle is finished. If it is determined in step S256 that the system variable # 10004 is not described, the process proceeds to step S260.

  In step S260, it is determined whether or not system variable # 10005 is described in one read block. If it is determined that system variable # 10005 is described, the process proceeds to step S261 to analyze the contents of the block. Then, after calling the parameter for designating the workpiece coordinate system based on the analysis result, the operation in one operation cycle is finished. If it is determined in step S260 that the system variable # 10005 is not described, the process proceeds to step S263.

  In step S263, it is determined whether or not system variable # 10006 is described in one read block. If it is determined that system variable # 10006 is described, the process proceeds to step S264 and the contents of the block are analyzed. Then, after calling a parameter defined for the verification position of the tool length correction amount based on the analysis result, the operation in one operation cycle is finished. If it is determined in step S263 that the system variable # 10006 is not described, the process proceeds to step S266.

  In step S266, it is determined whether or not system variable # 10007 is described in one read block. If it is determined that system variable # 10007 is described, the process proceeds to step S267 to analyze the contents of the block. Then, after calling the program end command based on the analysis result, the operation of one operation cycle is finished. If it is determined in step S266 that system variable # 10007 is not described, the process proceeds to step S270 (see FIG. 11).

  In steps S270 to S298 shown in FIG. 11, the measurement / verification control unit 75 selects a predetermined tool, that is, a tool that has not been measured for the tool length offset amount or a process that has not been verified for the tool length correction amount. Is a step. When selecting these tools, it is first determined in step S270 whether or not system variable # 10002 or # 10003 is described in one read block.

  When it is determined in step S270 that the system variable # 10002 or # 10003 is not described in one read block, the operation of one operation cycle is ended. On the other hand, when it is determined that the system variable # 10002 or # 10003 is described, the process proceeds to step S272, and the tool update information for each tool is set as one record, and an index is assigned to the head position. In step S274, the offset amount update information for each tool is set as one record, and an index is assigned to the head position.

  Thereafter, each of the tool update information and offset amount update information of each tool specified by the identification data 1 stored in the tool data area 10 is read out by one tool per one operation cycle. The identification data 1 (tool number) corresponding to the tool for which reading of the tool update information and offset amount update information has been completed is initialized with, for example, “0 (zero)” in step S276 so as not to be read again.

  After performing the above step S276, it is determined in step S278 whether or not the tool update information and the offset amount update information have been read for all the tools specified by the identification data 1. Ends the operation of the operation cycle. On the other hand, when there is a tool that has not been read, the tool update information for the first tool among the tools is read in step S280, and the offset amount update information is read in step S282, and the process proceeds to step S284.

  In step S284, it is determined whether or not system variable # 10002 is described in one read block. If it is determined that system variable # 10002 is described, the process proceeds to step S286, and the tool update read in step S280 is read. It is determined whether or not the information flag is “1” and the offset amount update information flag read in step S282 is “0”. A tool update information flag of “1” means that a tool corresponding to the tool update information is newly registered, and an offset amount update information flag of “0”. This means that the tool length offset amount of the tool corresponding to the offset amount update information is not newly input.

  When the determination condition in step S286 is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S288 to clear the tool update information of the tool, that is, the tool update information flag of the tool is set to “0”, and then the process proceeds to step S290 and the tool is updated. Read identification data 1 (tool number). That is, the identification data 1 (tool number) corresponding to one tool whose tool length offset amount has not been measured is read out. Thereafter, the operation in one operation cycle is finished.

  On the other hand, when the determination condition is not satisfied in step 286, it is considered that the offset amount of the tool is newly input and it is considered unnecessary to measure the tool length offset amount and verify the tool length correction amount. The tool update information is cleared, that is, step S298 for setting the tool update information flag of the tool to “0” is performed, and then the process returns to step S278 described above.

  If it is determined in step S284 that the system variable # 10002 is not described, the system variable # 10003 is described in one read block, and therefore the offset amount update information flag of the tool is described. In step S294, it is determined whether or not “1” is “1”. When it is determined that the flag is not “1”, the offset amount of the tool is not newly input and it is considered that verification of the tool length correction amount is unnecessary, and the process returns to step S278 described above. When it is determined in step S294 that the flag is “1”, the offset amount update information is cleared in step S296, that is, the offset amount update information flag of the tool is set to “0” in step S296. The process proceeds to the above-described steps S288 and S290 in sequence, and thereafter the operation of one operation cycle is finished. At this time, the identification data 1 (tool number) read in step S290 is the identification data 1 (tool number) corresponding to one tool whose tool length offset amount has not been verified.

  When the identification data 1 (tool number) corresponding to the tool whose tool length offset amount has not been measured is read in step S290 described above, the measurement / verification control unit 75 performs the tool length offset of the tool in the next operation cycle. Control to automatically measure the quantity. Further, when the identification data 1 (tool number) corresponding to a tool for which the measurement of the tool length correction amount has not been completed is read in the above-described step S290, the tool length correction amount for the tool is verified in the next operation cycle. Take control. Here, the control for verifying the tool length correction amount will be specifically described.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control by the measurement / verification control unit 75 when verifying the tool length correction amount. In the example shown in the figure, first, in step S300, it is determined whether or not a G500 command (see FIG. 7), which is one of commands for designating a control operation mode, is described in one read block. When it is determined that is not described, the operation in one operation cycle is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the G500 command is described, the process proceeds to step S302, and the tool length offset amount of the tool whose tool length correction amount is to be verified is read from the storage unit 50 (see FIG. 2).

  In step S304, which is performed following step S302, a modal work origin offset amount set in advance for specifying a work coordinate system for verifying the tool length correction amount is read, and then the process proceeds to step S306. After calculating the coordinates of the reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount, the operation in one operation cycle is finished. The coordinates of the reference point are calculated from the coordinate position specified by the G500 command, the tool length offset amount read in step S302, and the workpiece origin offset amount read in step S304.

  The measurement / verification control unit 75 attaches a tool whose tool length correction amount is to be verified to a predetermined location (main shaft in the following example) of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 (see FIG. 1) in the subsequent operation cycle. Until the reference point calculated in step S306 is reached, the spindle of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 is moved. The operator manually measures the tool length correction amount after the movement of the spindle is completed, and verifies whether the tool length correction amount is a correct value. After the verification is completed, a verification end signal is input from the input unit 105 to the apparatus main body 120 (see FIG. 2).

  If necessary, a verification end signal can be input to the apparatus main body 120 before the verification of the tool length correction amount is completed to stop the control for verification. If the numerical control device 120 is provided with a function for stopping the control for verification in the middle, for example, when verifying that the tool length correction amount is significantly wrong in the process of verifying the tool length correction amount, etc. Can be stopped and the process can proceed to verification of the tool length correction amount of the next tool, so that it is easy to shorten the time required for the setup work.

  FIG. 13 shows a measurement / verification control unit 75 for moving a tool to a reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount after the tool to be verified for the tool length correction amount is mounted at a predetermined position of the numerically controlled machine tool. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the control by. In the example shown in the figure, first, it is determined in step S310 whether or not a verification end signal has been input. If it is determined that a verification end signal has not been input, the process proceeds to step S312 and the spindle of the numerically controlled machine tool 200. Is moved toward the reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount within the range of the distance that can be moved in one operation cycle.

  Next, in step S314, it is determined whether or not the tool has reached the reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount. If not, the operation for one operation cycle is terminated. If the tool has reached the reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount, the process proceeds to step S316 to determine whether or not the G500 command (see FIG. 12) has been executed. When the G500 command has not been executed, the operation of one operation cycle is terminated. When the G500 command has been executed, an instruction to turn off the automatic start mode flag 43 (see FIG. 2) is issued in step S318. After giving to 85 (see FIG. 2), the operation of one operation cycle is finished. At this time, the measurement / verification control unit 75 is in a block stop state.

  The verification of the tool length correction amount is performed when the tool reaches the reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount and the measurement / verification control unit 75 is in the block stop state. The measurement / verification control unit 75 in the block stop state restarts when the mode switching instruction signal or the verification end signal instructing switching to the automatic activation mode is input again, and the operation program 20 (see FIG. 2). Is read.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S310 that the verification end signal is input, the process proceeds to step S320, and it is determined whether or not the G500 command has been executed. Then, when the G500 command has not been executed, the operation of one operation cycle is ended, and when the G500 command has been executed, the process proceeds to step S322.

  In step S322, the measurement / verification control unit 75 determines whether or not the block is in a stopped state. If the measurement / verification control unit 75 determines that the block is in a stopped state, an instruction to turn on the automatic activation mode flag 43 is issued in step S324. The operation of one operation cycle is finished after a read request for the next block is made. If it is determined in step S322 that the block is not stopped, the current spindle position coordinate is set as the start point coordinate at the time of program analysis in step S326, and then the next block is requested to be read in step S328. End the cycle operation.

  When the operation program 20 is based on the source program 20S shown in FIG. 7, when the verification of the tool length correction amount is completed for all the tools, the spindle of the numerically controlled machine tool 200 is automatically returned to the machine coordinate origin. It is.

  As described above, specific examples of the operation program 20 used in the numerical controller 120 with reference to FIGS. 7 to 13, the operation mode switching by the mode switching unit 85, and the control by the measurement / verification control unit 75 in the tool confirmation mode. Although described, the numerical control device of the present invention is not limited to the specific example described with reference to FIGS.

  As described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6, the numerical control device of the present invention has a tool length offset amount among a plurality of tools used when a workpiece is machined into a predetermined shape by a numerically controlled machine tool. It is only necessary to automatically select a tool that has not been measured and a tool whose tool length correction amount has not been verified, and move the tool to a predetermined reference point. Furthermore, at least one of a plurality of tools that have not been measured for the tool length offset amount and a tool that has not been verified for the tool length correction amount is automatically selected, and the tool is set to a predetermined reference point. It may be one that can be moved to.

  A numerical controller that automatically selects only one of the tools for which the tool length offset amount has not been measured and the tools for which the tool length correction amount has not been verified, and moves the tool to a predetermined reference point. For example, it is obtained by deleting the automatic selection function of the other tool from the above-mentioned numerical control device that automatically selects both tools and moves each of the tools to a predetermined reference point. Description is omitted. In addition, various modifications, modifications, combinations, and the like are possible for the numerical control device of the present invention.

It is a block diagram which shows roughly an example of each of the numerical control machine tool of this invention and the numerical control machine tool by which operation | movement is controlled by this numerical control apparatus. It is a functional block diagram which shows roughly the structure of the numerical control apparatus shown in FIG. It is the schematic which shows an example of the management screen of the tool data displayed on the display part of the numerical control apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a chart showing a list of examples of tool data corresponding to display contents on a tool data management screen shown in FIG. 3. It is the schematic which shows an example of the movement of a tool when measuring a tool length offset amount with the numerical control apparatus which has a long offset amount automatic measurement function, and a numerical control machine tool. It is the schematic which shows an example of the movement of a tool when verifying a tool length correction amount. It is the schematic which shows an example of the source program used as the basis of the operation program used with the numerical control apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows a procedure when the operation mode of a numerical control apparatus is switched to the tool confirmation mode by the mode switching part shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the measurement / verification control part when the numerical control apparatus shown in FIG. 2 is a tool confirmation mode. 3 is a flowchart showing a part of an example of control from reading of one block to execution of processing for one block performed by the measurement / verification control unit shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a remaining part of the example illustrated in FIG. 10 in an example of control from reading of one block to execution of processing for one block performed by the measurement / verification control unit illustrated in FIG. 2. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control performed by a measurement / verification control unit illustrated in FIG. 2 when verifying a tool length correction amount. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control performed by a measurement / verification control unit illustrated in FIG. 2 when moving a tool to be verified for tool length correction amount to a reference point for verifying tool length correction amount.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Identification data 3 Tool length offset amount 5 Tool update information 7 Offset amount update information 20 Operation program 25 Machining program 28 State control program 50 Storage part 65 Parameter setting part 70 Program correction part 75 Measurement / verification control part 85 Mode switching part 105 Input Unit 120 Numerical control device 200 Numerical control machine tool 220 Tool W Workpiece RP ₁ Reference point RP for measuring tool length offset amount ₂ Reference point for verifying tool length correction amount

Claims (5)

A numerical control device that controls the operation of a numerically controlled machine tool that uses a plurality of types of tools to process a workpiece into a predetermined shape,
The identification data registered for each of the plurality of types of tools to identify the tool, the tool length offset amount for each tool, and a program for defining the operation of the numerical control machine tool and the numerical control device are stored. Tool update information that is set for each tool and indicates whether or not the tool is newly registered, and offset amount update information that indicates whether or not the tool length offset amount is newly input A storage unit storing at least one of
Based on the identification data and the tool update information, select a tool that has not been measured for the tool length offset amount, or verify the tool length correction amount based on the identification data and the offset amount update information. A non-existing tool is selected, and the selected tool is mounted at a predetermined position of the numerically controlled machine tool, and moved to a predetermined reference point for measuring a tool length offset amount or a reference point for verifying a tool length correction amount. A measurement and verification control unit;
A numerical control device comprising: The program includes system variables;
The numerical control apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a parameter setting unit configured to set a predetermined parameter in the system variable based on input data.   The numerical control device according to claim 1, wherein the measurement / verification control unit operates only when an operation mode of the numerical control device is a tool confirmation mode.   The numerical controller according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the block is stopped when the tool has been moved to the reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount.   The control by the measurement / verification control unit can be stopped in the middle of moving the tool to the reference point for verifying the tool length correction amount. Numerical control unit.

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