JP2009282909A - Working condition generator - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve a problem wherein a worker can not know easily a technique and a process for generating a combination of working conditions, and a problem wherein the worker can not prepare or correct easily a program for generating the combination of the working conditions. <P>SOLUTION: A display 4 displays graphically shown unit computation programs, a computation procedure, and a content of a basic data that is a data of a plurality of kinds of parameters having a theoretical relation. An operation device 5 prepares or corrects the computation procedure by coupling optionally and correlating the unit computation programs prepared or corrected on a display screen of the display 4. The operation device 5 prepares or edits the basic data on the display screen, to be stored into a storage device 2. The storage device 2 stores the computation procedure and the basic data. A computer 6 executes the plurality of unit computation programs according to the computation procedure, sequentially in a correlated order. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention is a processing machine equipped with a control device that is required to set a plurality of types of processing conditions before processing, and processing that includes a plurality of types of processing conditions by inputting information related to processing that indicates processing restrictions. The present invention relates to a machining condition generation device that generates a combination of conditions.

  In a processing machine equipped with a control device that performs machining such as cutting, grinding, turning, polishing, electrical discharge machining, and water jet machining, the desired machining result such as the surface roughness before machining. Alternatively, it is required to determine a plurality of types of processing conditions suitable for processing information (hereinafter, referred to as processing requests) indicating processing limitations such as tool electrodes and workpiece materials and set them in the control device. An assembly of a plurality of types of processing conditions referred to as a processing condition sequence or a group of processing conditions is a combination of processing conditions composed of a plurality of types of processing conditions suitable for processing requirements.

  The processing conditions may be limited to specific parameters that directly affect the processing results, such as cutting conditions and electrical conditions, depending on the processing machine, but here they are set before processing for each processing. These parameters are collectively called machining conditions. In general, the machining conditions are set not by real values but by parameter values uniquely defined by the processing machine, but hereinafter, the real values are also referred to as parameter values.

  Although the types of machining conditions required to be set differ depending on the type of processing machine, it is necessary to set multiple types of processing conditions for most processing machines, and the difference in the combination of processing conditions consisting of multiple types of processing conditions Depending on machining surface roughness, machining speed (machining time), machining shape accuracy (dimension accuracy), tool wear (tool electrode consumption), and so on. The

  As the number of machining conditions required to be set increases, the number of machining condition combinations increases, so the number of machining condition combinations to be recorded as machining data corresponding to machining results and machining requests is enormous. Become. For example, in electric discharge machining, since machining is performed in a state where the tool and the workpiece are not in contact with each other, a plurality of types of machining conditions are closely related to each other and have a significant effect on the machining result. In addition, there are many types of machining conditions that cannot be expressed only by physical formulas as a relationship to machining requirements, and a slight difference in the combination of machining conditions may cause a large difference in machining results.

  For this reason, it is difficult to predict the processing result in the combination of processing conditions, and in the combination of processing conditions selected and set from the processing data of the representative processing condition combination provided by the manufacturer of the processing machine In many cases, satisfactory processing results cannot be obtained, and considerable skill is required for setting the processing conditions. Hereinafter, a method for generating a combination of machining conditions will be described using electric discharge machining as an example.

  A widely known machining condition setting device is a desired machining result and machining request inputted from machining data of a combination of a number of machining conditions stored in advance in a storage device corresponding to the machining result or machining request. This is a configuration in which a combination of machining conditions corresponding to the parameter values is searched, extracted, and set. When there is no combination of machining conditions that match the desired machining result and machining request in the accumulated machining data, a combination of a plurality of machining conditions close to the desired machining result and machining request is extracted as a candidate. . The operator selects an optimum combination of machining conditions with a short machining time expected from a combination of candidate machining conditions. Therefore, since it is possible to select and set a combination of machining conditions that satisfy a machining request including a desired machining result by simply inputting machining request data, the machining condition setting operation is facilitated (Patent Document 1). reference).

  When there is no combination of machining conditions that matches the machining requirements and machining is performed with a combination of machining conditions that are close to the machining requirements including the desired machining results, the desired machining results are often not obtained. In view of this, a machining condition setting device is conceivable in which parameter values of specific types of machining conditions in a combination of machining conditions extracted according to an inputted machining request are changed and optimized. According to such a processing condition setting device, even if there is no processing condition combination that matches the processing request in the processing data, it is relatively easy to change the processing condition combination that matches the processing request from the processing condition combination that is close to the processing request. Therefore, working efficiency is improved (see Patent Document 2).

  As a method of optimizing the combination of machining conditions by changing and adjusting the parameter values of specific types of machining conditions, the processing request data including the desired machining results entered from the machining condition combination data in the database A machining condition generation method is considered in which a combination of machining conditions in a plurality of sets is extracted and a combination of machining conditions in the middle of the combination of machining conditions is generated. According to such a machining condition generation method, a combination of machining conditions close to the machining requirements can be obtained more easily even if the database does not have machining condition combination data that matches the machining requirements. It is possible to reduce the number of processing data of combinations of processing conditions prepared in line (see Patent Document 3).

  In addition, a specific type of machining condition is determined from representative data of a specific type of machining condition corresponding to a machining request including a desired machining result as basic data, and other types of machining conditions are sequentially set according to the determined machining condition. A processing condition setting device that determines and generates a combination of processing conditions is considered. Specifically, from basic data consisting of machining current data corresponding to multiple types of machining requirements, such as machining area for each tool electrode and workpiece, machining depth, minimum side surface reduction amount, and machining surface roughness A plurality of machining currents close to the input machining requirements are extracted and learned, intermediate data of a plurality of data is obtained to determine a machining current that is a specific type of machining condition, and a predetermined calculation formula is used. On-time (discharge current pulse width) and off-time (rest time) are sequentially determined to generate a combination of machining conditions. Therefore, since the combination of the machining conditions can be determined simply by having basic data recording a specific type of machining conditions, a database in which a huge number of combinations of machining conditions are recorded is unnecessary (see Patent Document 4).

  In a machining condition setting device that generates a combination of machining conditions by sequentially determining multiple types of machining conditions, a theoretical correlation between a desired machining result and a specific type of machining condition is shown first. After determining a specific type of machining condition for the desired machining result that is input based on the data, other types of machining conditions are sequentially set based on data that shows a theoretical correlation between multiple types of similar parameters. There is a machining condition setting device that determines and generates a combination of machining conditions. Since this machining condition setting device obtains a theoretical value rather than a mere intermediate value, not only a database that records the data of the combination of machining conditions is unnecessary, but the reliability of the generated combination of machining conditions is higher, Variation in processing results can be reduced (see Patent Document 5).

JP-A-62-130131 Japanese Patent No. 2862035 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-233045 Japanese Patent No. 3231521 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 64-64723

  The machining condition generator automatically generates a combination of machining conditions when machining request data is input, so what kind of machining data and what method is used based on what theory. An operator cannot know whether a combination of machining conditions has been generated in the process. Therefore, when the processing result is not satisfactory, the operator cannot easily determine the cause. As a result, it is difficult to correct the combination of the set processing conditions, the work load is large, and the work efficiency is not good.

  In addition, regardless of the machining results, the operator cannot know the machining data, method, and process used to generate the combination of machining conditions, so that machining is performed without understanding the theory and knowledge about machining. Therefore, even if it has the experience of processing, it is not able to become familiar with processing, and processing technology does not improve.

  Without specialized knowledge of computer programming, it is difficult to create or rewrite a dedicated application software program for operating the machining condition generating apparatus. Therefore, as the process data for determining the machining data used to determine the machining conditions and the method for obtaining the parameters necessary to determine the machining conditions or the process for determining the machining conditions have evolved, specialized knowledge is required. New software must be provided by a programmer who creates or rewrites a program. However, there are few human resources who have advanced and specialized knowledge of processing technology and computer programming, and the current situation is that the processing condition generation device has not caught up with the progress of processing technology.

  In general, since the operator who operates the machine does not have specialized knowledge of computer programming, machining is performed more accurately in a process that is partially different from the process for determining the machining conditions in the machining condition generation device. Even if there is knowledge and know-how of excellent machining technology that can determine the conditions, the knowledge and know-how cannot be reflected in the machining condition generation device. Therefore, knowledge and know-how of skilled workers are not utilized, and improvement of processing technology is hindered.

  When the skilled worker sets the machining condition by directly inputting the parameter values of each type of machining condition to the control device without using the machining condition generating device, what kind of theory and knowledge the skilled worker is based on If it is not recorded in which process the machining conditions are set by using various machining data and methods, the machining technology that generates combinations of machining conditions possessed by skilled workers cannot be inherited. Does not progress.

  Processing data used by skilled workers to determine processing conditions may be recorded in a data book, or multiple methods for obtaining parameters required to determine processing conditions may be recorded in a notebook. However, since the number of machining data and calculations is large, the work of recording is very troublesome. In addition, it is troublesome for an operator to re-record by deleting or adding newly changed contents every time the machining data or method is partially changed. Skilled workers often use notebooks like a know-how book and constantly rewrite and add notes, so the latest machining data and methods are updated while the records are updated many times. It becomes confusing and difficult to understand.

  Even if machining data and methods for obtaining parameter values for each of a plurality of types of machining conditions are recorded, it is rare that a process for generating a combination of machining conditions is recorded in detail. For this reason, a worker with little experience can use the method recorded in the notebook while referring to the processing data in the data book to determine the processing conditions in order like a skilled worker and generate a combination of processing conditions. Is not easy. Even if a process for determining the machining conditions of a skilled worker is recorded, there are multiple processes with different machining data and methods, and for a worker with little experience, the machining to be performed at that time On the other hand, it is not easy to sequentially determine the machining conditions by following the optimum process, and it is difficult to reproduce the work for generating a combination of the machining conditions of skilled workers.

  In view of the above-described problems, the present invention sequentially determines a plurality of types of processing conditions by inputting desired processing results and processing request data, so that the initial processing conditions are efficient and reliable. An object of the present invention is to provide a machining condition generation apparatus that can easily know machining data, a technique, and a process used when an operator determines a machining condition in a machining condition generation apparatus that can easily generate a combination. It is another object of the present invention to provide a machining condition generation apparatus that allows an operator to more easily create or modify a program for determining machining conditions without requiring advanced and specialized knowledge of computer programming. . Specific advantages obtained with the machining condition generation apparatus of the present invention will be described in the description of the embodiments.

  The machining condition setting device according to the present invention includes a unit calculation program that calculates and outputs a parameter value corresponding to a parameter value that is input according to a calculation algorithm that is designated or created in advance, and a plurality of unit calculation programs. A display device (4) for graphically displaying an operation procedure for outputting the parameter value of the display, and one or more graphic unit operation programs created or modified on the display screen of the display device (4) An operation device (5) operable to create or modify one or more operation procedures by arbitrarily combining and associating unit operation programs of the same, and an operation procedure created or modified by the operation device (5) And a storage device (2).

  Specifically, the arithmetic algorithm is any one of basic data, a function expression, a function program, or an approximation method, which is data of a plurality of types of parameters having a theoretical correlation.

  The plurality of types of parameters may be processing requests given as information on processing that is initially required in determining the processing conditions as parameters indicating processing conditions or processing constraints.

  The basic data is a collection of representative data including sample data of a plurality of types of parameters having a theoretical correlation. Preferably, the basic data includes data of an approximate expression expressed as continuous parameter value data of a plurality of types of parameters having a theoretical correlation by aggregating a plurality of representative data. Alternatively, the basic data may be a representative parameter value of one parameter or a representative parameter value of the other parameter having a one-to-one correspondence with one parameter corresponding to a predetermined range of parameter values or It is characterized by the accumulation of data consisting of parameter values within a predetermined range.

  The display device (4) is characterized in that the parameter values of a plurality of types of parameters in the basic data are displayed in a graph.

  Preferably, the operating device (5) is characterized in that the operator can operate the basic data to be generated on the display screen of the display device (4) and stored in the storage device (2). The operating device (5) is changed, deleted or deleted by the operator changing, deleting or adding the content of the basic data stored in the storage device (2) on the display screen of the display device (4). The basic data can be operated so as to be stored in the storage device (2). The operating device (5) can be operated to select and set the approximate expression data included in the basic data from a plurality of types of approximate expression candidates on the display screen of the display device (4). It is characterized by that.

  Preferably, the operation device (5) is characterized in that the operator is operable to arbitrarily arrange one or more graphic unit operation programs on the display screen of the display device (4). To do. Further, the operation device (5) is characterized in that the operator can operate so as to designate or create and set a calculation algorithm of a unit calculation program that is made into a graphic on the display screen of the display device (4). To do.

  Preferably, the operation device (5) stores the plurality of calculation procedures in the storage device (2) in association with each other so that the operator executes a plurality of calculation procedures in a predefined order on the display screen of the display device (4). It is characterized by being operable. More preferably, the operating device (5) is operable to store in the storage device (2) an arithmetic program unit associated so that a plurality of arithmetic procedures are executed in a predefined order. It is characterized by.

  The figured unit calculation program is a block figure (10), and the figured calculation procedure is a block diagram (20) in which the block figures (10) of the unit calculation program are arbitrarily combined and associated. Features.

  More specifically, the block graphic (10) of the unit calculation program outputs at least the input parameter value (11) for acquiring the input parameter value and the specified part (12) for specifying the calculation algorithm, and the calculated parameter value. And an output portion (13).

  In particular, when there is an intermediate parameter that is a condition for changing the relationship between the parameter value to be input and the parameter to be output having a theoretical correlation, the block diagram (10) of the unit operation program is set to the intermediate parameter. It has a series part (14) which displays an intermediate parameter by making a parameter into a series. Alternatively, when the arithmetic algorithm is an approximate bisection method, the block diagram (10) of the unit arithmetic program includes a first input part (11) for acquiring input parameter values and a plurality of types of parameters. A second input part (15) for obtaining continuous parameter values obtained in accordance with basic data, a functional expression or a function program showing a theoretical correlation of the above, and a third input part for obtaining an arbitrary calculation initial value ( 16).

  Preferably, the machining condition generation device of the present invention causes a plurality of unit operation programs to be executed in an associated order according to an operation procedure corresponding to a parameter value initially given in a process for determining a machining condition. And an arithmetic device (6) for calculating and outputting the parameter values.

  More preferably, the calculation device (6) is characterized in that a plurality of calculation procedures are executed in a predefined order to generate and output a combination of machining conditions. Preferably, the arithmetic device (6) reads out arithmetic program units associated with each other so that a plurality of arithmetic procedures are executed in a predetermined order from the storage device (2) in a predetermined order. The processing program units are executed in accordance with the read order to generate a combination of machining conditions.

  The reference numerals corresponding to the drawings attached to each device are given for convenience of explanation, and the configuration of the machining condition generation device of the present invention is the specific configuration of the machining condition generation device described in the embodiment. It is not limited to the exact same configuration.

  Since the unit calculation program is a calculation program that calculates and outputs a parameter value corresponding to a parameter value input according to a calculation algorithm (calculation method) designated or created in advance, the parameter value is obtained based on a specific theory. The method is shown. In addition, the calculation procedure is a calculation program in which a plurality of unit calculation programs are combined so that they are executed in a predetermined order and outputs parameter values of the processing conditions. Is shown.

  Since the processing condition generation apparatus of the present invention is provided with a display device that displays the unit calculation program and the calculation procedure in a graphic form, the operator can visually determine the method and process for determining a specific type of processing condition. I can know. Therefore, it is easy to find the cause when it is an undesirable machining result, and the combination of machining conditions can be corrected more easily. As a result, the working efficiency is improved. In addition, since the worker can understand the theory and knowledge related to the machining and perform the machining, the worker can gain experience and become familiar with the machining. As a result, the processing technique is improved.

  Further, the machining condition generating apparatus of the present invention creates or corrects a unit operation program that is made into a graphic on the display screen of the display device, or creates an operation procedure by arbitrarily combining and associating a plurality of unit operation programs. An operation device that can be operated to correct is provided, so that an operator can create and modify a program for determining machining conditions relatively easily even without advanced and specialized knowledge of computer programming. Can be. Therefore, it is possible to quickly improve the machining condition generation device by creating or modifying techniques and processes that evolve with the progress of machining technology, or to immediately reflect the operator's unique know-how in the machining condition generation device. it can. As a result, the working efficiency is improved and the processing technique is improved.

  The machining condition generation apparatus of the present invention is not limited to a function expression, function program, or approximation method generally known as an arithmetic algorithm, but also includes basic data that is data of a plurality of types of parameters having a theoretical correlation. It can be used as an arithmetic algorithm as it is. Therefore, when a worker obtains a parameter value corresponding to a parameter value input based on a theoretical correlation between a plurality of types of parameters as a technique, the operator only needs to specify basic data as an arithmetic algorithm. Can be created. For this reason, it is not necessary to program a program that cites basic data by a function operation, so that a program for determining machining conditions can be created more easily. As a result, the working efficiency is improved.

  The calculation algorithm more specifically shows a method for obtaining the machining conditions. In particular, the basic data indicates the types of parameters having a correlation and the theory existing between a plurality of types of parameters having the correlation. Therefore, since the theoretical correlation of a specific type of parameter can be visually determined by a unit calculation program that has been made into a graphic, the type of parameter that affects the specific type of processing conditions and the specific type of processing conditions or processing It is easier to understand the theories about machining conditions and machining requirements, such as the effect of the requirements on machining. Therefore, the operator can deepen knowledge about processing. As a result, the processing technique is improved.

  When the basic data includes data of approximate expressions that represent representative data including sample data of multiple types of parameters and represent continuous parameter value data of multiple types of parameters, or representative of one parameter Of data consisting of a representative parameter value or a predetermined range of parameter values of the other parameter having a theoretical correlation with one parameter corresponding to a specific parameter value or a predetermined range of parameter values on a one-to-one basis In some cases, parameter values corresponding to parameter values for which machining data is not actually collected can be obtained within a reliable error range, so that the number of test machining can be greatly reduced, and There is an effect of reducing the burden and improving work efficiency.

  When the display device is designed to display the parameter values of multiple types of parameters in the basic data in a graph, it is easier to input the numerical values of the basic data and to know the theoretical correlation of the parameters visually Therefore, the working efficiency is improved and the processing technique is further improved.

  If the operating device can generate basic data on the display screen of the display device and store it in the storage device, it can generate and save basic data simply by entering the parameter type and numerical value, Basic data can be created more easily. In addition, since the basic data is stored in the storage device, a data book is not necessary, and it is not necessary to create basic data every time work conditions are determined, thereby reducing the burden on the operator. As a result, the working efficiency is improved.

  When the operating device can change, delete, or add the basic data on the display screen of the display device and store it in the storage device, the theory for calculating the parameter is corrected, the parameter value is corrected, or stored When the number of data being increased, the basic data is easier to edit and less prone to error. Therefore, by adding representative data with good machining results every time machining is performed, the basic data is expanded to expand the knowledge of machining technology, and newly born excellent technology or accumulated experience of skilled workers The basic data can be more easily evolved according to the theory and knowledge that are advanced in. In addition, since the basic data can be generated more easily because similar basic data can be generated by partially correcting the data from the copy of the basic data. As a result, the working efficiency is further improved and the processing technique is improved.

  Parameter values including sample data if the operation device can be operated to select and set the approximate expression data included in the basic data from a plurality of types of approximate expression candidates on the display screen of the display device It is possible to easily generate data of continuous parameter values from representative data with definite. In addition, the type of approximate expression can be selectively changed and set, and basic data can be easily reconstructed based on a new theory.

  If the operation device can arbitrarily arrange a unit calculation program that is made into a graphic on the display screen of the display device, or specify or create an operation algorithm, it can be used for visual processing theory or knowledge. It is possible to create or modify a plurality of unit calculation programs by operating the mouse and keys while grasping the above. Therefore, it is possible to more easily create or modify a program for determining the machining conditions in the machining condition generating apparatus without the need for advanced and specialized knowledge of computer programming. As a result, the working efficiency is further improved.

  The operation device associates a plurality of operation procedures to be executed in a predetermined order on the display screen of the display device and stores them in a storage device, or associates a plurality of operation procedures to be executed in a predetermined order. If the calculation program unit is stored in the storage device, it is not necessary to write down the method or process for the skilled worker to determine the machining conditions in the notebook, and the method or process is partially changed. Even if there is, it can be easily re-recorded. In addition, it is possible to flexibly edit a program that generates a combination of machining conditions by combining processes for determining each type of machining condition created separately by a plurality of workers. As a result, the working efficiency is further improved.

  In addition, the operator can select a calculation procedure or a calculation program unit to be executed first, start it, and execute it, so that a plurality of calculation procedures can be executed in a predetermined order stored. As a result, when generating a combination of machining conditions using a calculation procedure created or modified by an operator, the operator does not need to start and execute the calculation procedure in sequence, and the calculation procedure is executed. There is no mistake in the order. As a result, the working efficiency is further improved.

  When the figured unit calculation program is a block figure and the figured calculation procedure is a block diagram, the relationship and flow of the unit calculation program is displayed in a chart, so it is easier to understand visually and the machining conditions You can more easily understand the techniques and processes for determining As a result, the processing technique is further improved. In addition, since unit calculation programs and calculation procedures can be operated in block units, unit calculation programs and calculation procedures can be created or modified more easily, and programs for determining machining conditions can be created more easily. Can do. As a result, the working efficiency is further improved.

  If the unit operation program block diagram has a parameter value input part, an operation algorithm specification part, and a parameter value output part, the unit operation programs can be easily combined and the layout is easy to understand. It becomes easier to make corrections. As a result, the working efficiency is further improved.

  When there is a parameter that is a condition for changing the relationship between the parameter value of the input parameter and the output parameter having a theoretical correlation, a series part for displaying an intermediate parameter is provided, or the calculation algorithm is In the case of the bisection method of the approximation method, in addition to the first input part for acquiring the input parameter value, the second input part for acquiring the continuous parameter value and an arbitrary calculation initial value are acquired. Since the third input portion is provided, the unit calculation program can be displayed in a block diagram even when an intermediate parameter exists in the basic data or the calculation algorithm is a bisection method of the approximation method, Arithmetic procedures can be created or modified more easily. As a result, the working efficiency is further improved.

  Then, the operator can visually and easily know the method and process for sequentially determining a plurality of types of machining conditions by using a plurality of recorded operation procedures or operation program units. As a result, the knowledge, experience, and know-how of skilled workers are transmitted to inexperienced workers and the processing techniques are inherited, so that the deterioration of the processing techniques can be prevented and human resources can be trained. Therefore, there is an effect that the processing technique is further improved.

  If you have an arithmetic unit that calculates and outputs the parameter values of the machining conditions according to the calculation procedure, the skilled worker will always use the best method based on the latest theory and knowledge just by inputting the data of the machining request. Since multiple types of machining conditions are determined in order by a reliable process including know-how, all types of machining conditions are determined based on the theory to suit each machining requirement, and machining efficiency is highly reliable. It is possible to easily generate a reliable combination of initial processing conditions and obtain excellent processing results. As a result, the working efficiency is further improved and the processing technique is further improved.

  When having an arithmetic device that executes a plurality of arithmetic procedures in a predetermined order to generate and output a combination of machining conditions, the operator can generate a plurality of arithmetic procedures when generating the combination of processing conditions. There is no need to consider the order of execution. As a result, the working efficiency is further improved. In particular, in the case of having an arithmetic unit that executes arithmetic program units in a predetermined order, a parameter value necessary for generating a combination of processing conditions in each of a plurality of processing steps and determining the processing conditions is set. When it is required to obtain the calculation program unit, the operator does not need to select and execute each calculation program unit. As a result, the working efficiency is further improved.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a preferred embodiment of the processing condition generation apparatus of the present invention. The machining condition generation apparatus according to the embodiment basically has the same configuration as that of a personal computer, but may be provided in a computer numerical control device (CNC) that is arranged in parallel with the main machine of the processing machine. it can. Hereinafter, a machining condition generation apparatus that generates a combination of machining conditions in the sculpting electric discharge machining will be described as a machining condition generation apparatus according to the embodiment.

  The processing condition generation device includes an input device 1, a first storage device 2, a second storage device 3, a display device 4, an operation device 5, and a calculation device 6. FIG. 1 shows the configuration of each apparatus limited to the use of a personal computer as a machining condition generation apparatus, but restricts the use of the personal computer for purposes other than generating machining conditions. is not.

  The input device 1 of the processing condition generation device includes an operation device such as a keyboard or a mouse, a disk drive that can read data from a storage medium such as a magnetic disk or an optical disk, and a USB flash memory that can capture data from the outside ( It includes an external storage device such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus), a communication device capable of capturing data from a computer network such as a LAN adapter (LAN, Local Area Network), and a necessary input / output interface.

  The input device 1 is means for giving processing request data to the arithmetic device 6. The processing request data input from the input device 1 is temporarily stored in the second storage device 3 and appropriately read out by the arithmetic device 6. The input device 1 is means for inputting numerical data necessary when creating basic data.

  The processing request data is given as information on processing that is initially required in determining processing conditions as a parameter indicating processing constraints. The machining request may be a parameter of a machining result such as a desired machining surface roughness. The machining request is not limited to the case where the parameter value is directly input to the control device and is given, and may be obtained by being calculated from the parameter value which is not the machining request inputted to the control device.

  Machining requirements limit the machining conditions that can be used and also vary the machining results. For example, in the case of sculpting electrical discharge machining, machining requirements include expected machining results such as desired machining surface roughness, tool electrode and workpiece material, electrode reduction, machining area, machining depth, machining There are forms (processed shapes) and liquid treatment methods.

  The first storage device 2 is an auxiliary storage device that stores data such as a large-capacity hard disk drive. As the first storage device 2, a disk drive device that reads / writes data from / to a storage medium such as a magnetic disk or an optical disk can be used. Also, an external storage device such as a USB flash memory may be used, and there is no limitation as long as basic data can be stored while the power is off.

  The first storage device 2 is means for storing a plurality of types of basic data. The first storage device 2 stores data of parameters that are initially given in the process of determining the machining conditions as necessary. In the machining condition generation device of the embodiment, the first storage device 2 has a plurality of peak current values that can be obtained by first cut for each material of the tool electrode and the workpiece as parameter data given first. Data is stored along with corresponding no-load voltage and polarity data. In the case where the machining condition database is already provided, the data of the combination of a plurality of machining conditions registered in the existing machining condition database can be used when extracting the parameter data to be given first.

  The basic data is data of the parameter value of the other parameter (hereinafter referred to as the dependent parameter) having a theoretical correlation with the parameter value of the parameter of one type (hereinafter referred to as the principal parameter). It is the data which collected. Therefore, the basic data shows a theoretical correlation between a plurality of types of parameters. The plural types of parameters having a theoretical correlation include machining conditions and machining requirements.

  The theoretical correlation between multiple types of parameters is not limited to cases where there is a direct causal relationship between multiple types of parameters. This includes the case where a correlation is found that affects and determines the parameter value of the dependent parameter. Therefore, the basic data in the present invention is not an accumulation of parameter values of a plurality of parameters that have at least a theoretical correlation or a simple collection of machining data in which machining conditions and machining results are combined. When the value is determined, the parameter value of the corresponding dependent parameter is determined within a predetermined error range. Therefore, the parameter value of the dependent parameter corresponding to the parameter value of the main parameter obtained from the basic data is a theoretically correct value and has high reliability.

  The plurality of types of basic data are stored in the first storage device 2 in the form of a data file given arbitrary data file names. The basic data that shows the theoretical correlation of multiple types of parameters is not only the data that shows the correlation between multiple types of parameters in physical formulas or chemical formulas, but also the processing results expected in actual processing. Data that is theoretically correlated by experience, such as sample data.

  Basic basic data is a collection of representative data with deterministic parameter values including sample data from which the expected machining results are obtained in actual machining with multiple types of parameters that have a theoretical correlation. is there. Basic basic data is not data in which representative data is collected in a discrete manner, but can be expressed as a continuous parameter value with an appropriate approximate expression within a range that does not deviate from the theory and accuracy in the correlation of multiple types of parameters. It is data. Therefore, the basic data may include data of approximate expressions expressed as continuous parameter value data of a plurality of types of parameters having a theoretical correlation by aggregating a plurality of representative data. The basic data including the approximate expression can represent a theoretical correlation between the main parameter and the dependent parameter with a line graph.

  If the basic data contains approximate expression data that forms continuous parameter value data from representative data based on the theoretical correlation between multiple types of parameters, parameter values that do not exist in the representative data When given, it is possible to always obtain the theoretical value of the subordinate parameter corresponding to the parameter value of the main parameter value, not just the intermediate value data. In addition, since it is only necessary to provide a number of representative data that can obtain a continuous parameter value based on the theory within a practically acceptable error range, when generating basic data based on machining data, It has the advantage that reliable basic data can be created with few test processes.

  In practice, basic data regarding parameters that do not require an intermediate value has a theoretical correlation with a representative parameter value of a principal parameter or a principal parameter corresponding to a parameter value in a predetermined range on a one-to-one basis. It is an accumulation of data consisting of parameter values of dependent parameters or parameter values within a predetermined range. Such basic data can be represented by a correspondence table indicating the correlation between the subject parameter and the dependent parameter.

  In the first storage device 2, an operator creates or modifies one or more graphic unit operation programs on the display screen of the display device 4 by the operation device 5 and arbitrarily combines a plurality of unit operation programs. Create a program to determine machining conditions by creating or modifying one or more calculation procedures in association with each other, create a calculation program unit consisting of multiple calculation procedures, and determine multiple types of processing conditions in order. It is means for storing application software that is a tool for creating a program for generating a combination of machining conditions.

  A program for generating a combination of machining conditions includes a unit operation program, an operation procedure, and an operation program unit. The calculation procedure is a collection of a plurality of unit calculation programs associated with each other. The arithmetic program unit is a collection of one or more arithmetic procedures, and is associated with a plurality of arithmetic procedures so that they are executed in a predetermined order in advance. A program for generating a combination of machining conditions is stored in the first storage device 2 in units of arithmetic program units.

  The unit calculation program is a minimum unit of a program that generates a combination of machining conditions. The unit calculation program is a program block that calculates a given value according to a calculation algorithm and returns a value. The calculation algorithm in the unit calculation program of the present invention refers to a calculation method (calculation method) when calculating and outputting a parameter value corresponding to an input parameter value. The arithmetic algorithm is specifically basic data, a function formula, a function program, or an approximation method.

  The basic form unit calculation program in the embodiment calculates and outputs a parameter value corresponding to a parameter value input in accordance with basic data, a function expression or a function program specified or created in advance by inputting the parameter value. To do. When the unit calculation program inputs parameter values, not only when acquiring parameter values from outside the unit calculation program, but also when acquiring parameter values given in advance or calculated in the unit calculation program including.

  The unit calculation program is not limited to one type of parameter, and can acquire parameter values of a plurality of types of parameters. Further, the parameter value given to the unit calculation program is not limited to a single value, but includes a case of a plurality of values. Alternatively, the parameter value given to the unit calculation program includes a case where the parameter value is a continuous parameter value obtained according to basic data, a function expression, or a function program specified or created as the calculation algorithm. In addition, the parameter value that is the calculation result output from the unit calculation program is not limited to a single value, and includes a case where the parameter value is a plurality of values or a continuous parameter value.

A unit calculation program in which a basic form unit calculation program is modified includes an input parameter value, basic data, a function expression or a continuous parameter value y = f (x) obtained according to a function program and an operation initial value x _0. , X _1, and the parameter value in the function y = f (x) according to an approximation method such as a bisection method (bisection method) specified as a calculation algorithm based on the continuous parameter value and the calculation initial value a parameter value x corresponding to y (hereinafter simply referred to as an x solution for the y value), an intersection (x, y) of two consecutive parameter values, or a maximum value (vertex) x _max of consecutive parameter values Output. The output parameter value is an approximate value within a predetermined error range.

  Arithmetic procedures are a combination of multiple unit operation programs in the order in which multiple unit operation programs are linked by combining or combining outputs and inputs on the display screen with connecting lines or combining them. It is a collection (relation) of unit operation programs configured to be executed at the same time. The calculation procedure ends with a program block (end program) that executes the end of the calculation procedure, and finally outputs a parameter value to be obtained.

  When the parameter value finally obtained from the calculation procedure is the parameter value of the machining condition, basically, the parameter value of one kind of machining condition is output by one calculation procedure. When an operator executes a plurality of calculation procedures in a predetermined order, a plurality of types of machining conditions are sequentially determined, and a combination of machining conditions is obtained.

  Preferably, a plurality of calculation procedures are executed in a predetermined order. As a result, multiple types of machining conditions can be determined sequentially and a combination of machining conditions can be generated simply by starting and executing the first calculation procedure without the operator having to start and execute calculation procedures one by one. Therefore, a combination of machining conditions can be generated more reliably and easily without making a mistake in the order in which the calculation procedures are executed.

  Since the calculation procedure indicates a process for determining a machining condition including a unit calculation program indicating a method for obtaining a parameter, the calculation procedure created by the worker includes a theory for determining the machining condition of the worker, Knowledge and know-how are included. Therefore, the other operator determines the specific type of machining condition of the operator who created the calculation procedure by displaying the calculation procedure for determining the specific type of processing condition in a graphic form on the display screen of the display device. Can visually understand theory, knowledge and know-how.

  The parameter value finally obtained from the calculation procedure is temporarily stored in the second storage device 3. The parameter values stored in the second storage device 3 can be used in calculations in subsequent calculation procedures. Therefore, each time a plurality of calculation procedures are executed, parameter values of a plurality of types of machining conditions are stored in the second storage device 2, and when the execution of a series of calculation procedures is completed, the second storage device A combination of machining conditions is generated from a plurality of types of machining conditions stored in 3.

  In the embodiment, the arithmetic program unit is configured by one or more arithmetic procedures. The arithmetic program unit is associated so that a plurality of arithmetic procedures are executed in a predetermined order. In order to execute a plurality of arithmetic program units in a predetermined order defined in advance, for example, an application program that operates the machining condition generation device is programmed with a rule that defines the order in which the arithmetic program units are read in advance, Alternatively, the order for causing the arithmetic program unit to continuously execute the next arithmetic program unit is stored in the first storage device 2 in association with the data of the arithmetic program unit.

  The arithmetic program unit can be stored in the first storage device 2 as a single data file with a data file name. Therefore, a plurality of types of arithmetic program units can be stored in the first storage device 2, and can be selectively read out from the first storage device 2 in units of arithmetic program units and displayed on the display device 4 or executed. be able to. Basically, one operation program unit generates one set of machining condition combinations. However, one or more operation program units may generate one set of machining condition combinations. it can.

  A combination of machining conditions can be generated by selecting and executing one arithmetic program unit. Therefore, the operator can generate a desired combination of machining conditions simply by starting and executing a required arithmetic program unit, and can more reliably and easily generate a combination of machining conditions. Also, a plurality of calculation procedures included in the calculation program unit can be displayed on the display screen of the display device at the same time. Therefore, the operator can visually determine a series of processes that easily determine the relationship between a plurality of operation procedures and sequentially determine a plurality of types of machining conditions, and generates a combination of machining conditions. Has the advantage of systematically understanding knowledge and know-how.

  Preferably, a plurality of arithmetic program units are read from the first storage device 2 in a predetermined order, and the arithmetic program units are sequentially executed according to the read order. As a result, the operator can continuously generate a plurality of machining condition combinations by activating the first arithmetic program unit without starting the arithmetic program units one by one. When it is necessary to generate a combination of machining conditions by executing multiple operation program units, such as when it is necessary to set a combination of machining conditions for each of the machining processes from the process to the final finishing machining process. Further, it is possible to generate a combination of machining conditions without the operator having to select the calculation program units and sequentially execute them, thereby further improving the work efficiency.

  Among the calculation procedures or calculation program units are calculation procedures or calculation program units for obtaining parameter values of parameters necessary for determining a specific type of machining condition. The parameters necessary to determine the processing conditions have a theoretical correlation with a specific type of processing conditions or processing requirements.

  In the machining condition generation apparatus in the sculpting electric discharge machining according to the embodiment, for example, an arithmetic program unit for inferring the size of the discharge gap is prepared. The size of the discharge gap finally obtained from the arithmetic program unit that infers the size of the discharge gap is stored in the second storage device 3. The discharge gap is a parameter that is not a machining condition and a machining request, but the size of the discharge gap is restricted by the electrode reduction amount that is a machining request and also varies directly under the influence of the peak current value. Therefore, the size of the discharge gap is a parameter necessary for determining the peak current value, and has a theoretical correlation with the peak current value.

  A program for generating a combination of machining conditions for EDM in the embodiment includes a peak current value, an on time (discharge current pulse width), an off time (pause time), a servo reference voltage (average machining voltage), polarity, An arithmetic program unit that generates electrical conditions such as no-load voltage (power supply voltage), an arithmetic program unit that generates movement conditions such as jump speed, jump time, and swing amount, and specific types of machining such as discharge gaps An arithmetic program unit that calculates parameter values of parameters necessary for determining the conditions. Further, each type of arithmetic program unit has different arithmetic program units for the roughing process, the intermediate finishing process, and the finishing process.

  The machining condition generation device of the embodiment may store a plurality of operation program units in the first storage device 2 as a data file of one machining condition automatic generation program so as to be executed in a predefined order. it can. Therefore, by simply reading out a data file of one machining condition automatic generation program from the first storage device 2 and executing it, a combination of machining conditions in each machining process is continuously generated to create a combination of a plurality of machining conditions. Can be set. A plurality of machining condition automatic generation programs can be stored in the first storage device 2. In the present invention, for convenience of explanation, a machining condition automatic generation program that determines a combination of a plurality of machining conditions in each machining process is referred to as a project program (machining plan execution program).

  As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of operation program units included in the project program can be displayed in a tree format in the display area 70 on the display screen of the display device 4. In the machining condition generating apparatus of the embodiment, the application program is defined in advance so as to be executed in order from the arithmetic program unit on the upper side of the displayed tree. In addition, the displayed arithmetic program unit can be selectively designated and executed independently, and a graphic arithmetic procedure including a unit arithmetic program in the arithmetic program unit is provided for each designated arithmetic program unit. It can be displayed on the display screen of the display device 4.

  As described above, the unit is stored in the first storage device 2 in any unit of the calculation procedure, the calculation program unit, and the project program, and is read from the first storage device 2 and executed, and is displayed on the display screen of the display device 4. Can be displayed. The program file can be configured in any program unit. However, it is possible to set the project program as one data file when operating the machining condition generation device to generate a combination of multiple machining conditions or machining This is advantageous when the overall structure of the condition automatic generation program is understood with a diagram.

  The first storage device 2 can store a combination of machining conditions generated by a program that generates a combination of machining conditions. The combination of processing conditions stored in the first storage device 2 can be stored in a storage medium through a disk drive device or stored in a USB flash memory through a USB port. The processing condition combination data stored in the first storage device 2 can be registered by adding a processing condition number to an existing processing condition database.

  The second storage device 3 is a temporary storage device such as a volatile memory (RAM, Random Access Memory) used for calculation. The second storage device 3 may be any storage device that can temporarily store data that can exchange data with the arithmetic device 6 at high speed.

  The second storage device 3 stores processing request data input from the input device 1, data of a combination of one or more processing conditions generated by the arithmetic device 6, and calculation result data obtained by the arithmetic device 6. This is means for storing data necessary for the calculation of the calculation device 6. The second storage device 3 temporarily stores parameter values including processing result data obtained by executing the unit calculation program by the calculation device 6 and a calculation condition finally obtained by executing a calculation procedure.

  The display device 4 includes a monitor composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a display circuit that converts image data to be displayed into display data and transmits the data to the monitor. The display device 4 includes a graphic device when a graphic device such as a graphic board is added.

  The display device 4 is means for displaying the contents of the basic data. As shown in FIG. 2, the display device 4 displays basic data in a tabular format on a display screen so that an operator can input numerical data. The display device 4 can display the graph of the parameter values of a plurality of types of parameters in the basic data by switching the screen. For example, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 show a state in which the discharge gap data with respect to the ON time for each peak current value in the sculpting electric discharge machining is displayed on the display screen. Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, the display device 4 displays so that a plurality of types of approximate expression candidates can be selected.

  The display device 4 is means for graphically displaying an operation procedure that associates a unit operation program and a plurality of unit operation programs and outputs a parameter value to be finally obtained. Specifically, the figured unit calculation program is a block figure, and the figured calculation procedure is a block diagram in which block figures of the unit calculation program are arbitrarily combined and associated.

  FIG. 4 shows a state in which the block graphic 10 of the unit calculation program is displayed on the display screen of the display device 4. The basic block diagram 10 (A) of the unit calculation program includes at least an input part 11 for acquiring an input parameter value, a specifying part 12 for specifying an arithmetic algorithm, and an output part 13 for outputting the calculated parameter value. Have

  There may be a third parameter that is a condition for changing the parameter value relationship between the acquired parameter having a theoretical correlation and the output parameter. If the parameter values of the parameters that are the conditions are different, the parameter values of the output parameters corresponding to the parameter values of the acquired parameters are different even if the correlation theory is the same. A parameter that makes the parameter values of two kinds of parameters having a theoretical correlation different from each other is referred to as an intermediate parameter.

  When there is an intermediate parameter that is a condition for changing the parameter value relationship between the input subject parameter having a theoretical correlation and the output dependent parameter in the basic data, the block diagram 10 (B ) Is a block graphic in which a series part 14 for displaying intermediate parameters is added to the block graphic 10 (A) with the intermediate parameters as a series in the basic block graphic 10 (A) of the unit calculation program.

  When the unit operation program is an operation program for obtaining an x solution, intersection or maximum value for the y value in the function, the block graphic 10 (C) of the unit operation program is the same as the basic block graphic 10 (A) of the unit operation program. In the first input portion 11 for obtaining the input parameter value, continuous data values obtained according to basic data, a functional expression or a function program indicating a theoretical correlation between the input parameter and the output parameter are obtained. A second input portion 15 to be acquired and a third input portion 16 to acquire an arbitrary calculation initial value required for obtaining an approximate solution by an approximation method that is an operation algorithm are added to the block graphic 10 (A). Block shape. In the machining condition generation apparatus of the embodiment, the approximation method that is an arithmetic algorithm is defined in advance as a bisection method.

  FIG. 4 shows a state in which the operation procedure block diagram 20 is displayed on the display screen of the display device 4. For example, the operation procedure block diagram 20 shown in FIG. 4 includes an operation procedure block diagram 20 (A) for calculating an on time of a machining condition in sculpting electric discharge machining and an operation procedure block diagram 20 (B) for calculating an off time. is there. The operation procedure block diagram 20 includes one or more unit operation program block diagrams 10.

  The arithmetic procedure ends with an end program which is a program block that executes the end of the arithmetic procedure. The end program stores the parameter value to be finally calculated calculated by the calculation procedure in the second storage device 3, and then ends the execution of the calculation procedure. Since the end program inputs the parameter value finally obtained and outputs it to the second storage device 3, it is included in the unit calculation program in a broad sense. The calculation algorithm of the end program is a function program.

  The graphicized end program is a block graphic 30. The block graphic 30 of the end program is coupled by the connection line 17 so as to input the output of the block graphic 10 (D) of the unit arithmetic program that is coupled last in the block graphic 10 of the unit arithmetic program associated with each other. Then, it is arranged on the display screen of the display device 4.

  In the machining condition generation apparatus of the embodiment, numbers (numbers) that do not overlap are displayed in the block graphic 30 of the end program. It is pre-defined in application software that operates the machining condition generating apparatus so that a plurality of calculation procedures are successively executed in order from the smallest number shown in the block diagram 30 of the end program in the calculation procedure.

  For example, in the case of the arithmetic procedure shown in FIG. 4, the arithmetic procedure indicated by the arithmetic procedure block diagram 20 (A) having the smaller end program number is executed first to obtain the on-time parameter value and the second storage. It is stored in the device 3. Next, the calculation procedure shown in the calculation procedure block diagram 20 (B) having the large end program number is executed using the parameter value of the on time stored in the second storage device 3, and the parameter value of the off time is executed. Is obtained and stored in the first storage device 2.

  FIG. 4 shows a state in which an arithmetic procedure block diagram 20 (A) for calculating the on-time and an arithmetic procedure block diagram 20 (B) for calculating the off-time are displayed, but other arithmetic procedure block diagrams are shown in FIG. By operating the scroll bar 40, which is arranged outside the display screen, other operation procedure block diagrams that are not displayed can be displayed on the display screen.

  The display device 4 includes a plurality of types of machining requests, which are different types of machining requests that change basic data used as an arithmetic algorithm according to the machining request parameter values, a method for obtaining a specific type of parameter, or a process for determining machining conditions. Is displayed in the display area 50. For example, such types of machining requirements in sculpting electric discharge machining are the material (material combination) and machining shape of the tool electrode and the workpiece. The machining request displayed in the display area 50 can be arbitrarily or selectively input a parameter value, and is stored in the first storage device 2 in association with the arithmetic program unit currently displayed on the display screen. Can do.

  The display device 4 displays, in the display area 60, parameter data that is initially given in the process of determining the machining conditions. The first storage device 2 uses, for example, data of a plurality of peak current values that can be obtained by the first cut for each material of the tool electrode and the workpiece as data of parameters given first, and data of no-load voltage and polarity. Remember with. The parameter data given first is stored in a data table format. When the machining condition database already exists, the data file name of the existing machining condition database can be selectively designated in the display area 60, and the parameter data given first can be acquired from the machining condition database.

  The display device 4 displays the configuration of a project program having one or more arithmetic program units in a tree format in the display area 70 in units of arithmetic program units. A plurality of calculation procedures associated with each other are stored in the first storage device 2 in units of calculation program units, and when the data file name of the calculation program unit displayed in the display area 70 is clicked using the mouse, The arithmetic program unit is read from the first storage device 2 and the arithmetic procedure constituting the arithmetic program unit is displayed on the display screen so as to be operable.

  The operation device 5 is mainly a keyboard and a mouse. The operation device 5 according to the embodiment functionally includes the second storage device 3, the display device 4, and the arithmetic device 6. Further, the operation device 5 includes an input device 1 for inputting numerical values given when creating parameter values and basic data of machining requests.

  The operation device 5 is a calculation procedure in which an operator creates or corrects a block graphic of a unit calculation program on the display screen of the display device 4 and arbitrarily connects and associates block graphics 10 of a plurality of unit calculation programs with joint lines. Is a means of operating to create or modify. The operating device 5 is means for operating the operator so that the block graphic 10 of the unit calculation program is arbitrarily arranged on the display screen. The operation device 5 is a means for the operator to operate so as to designate or create and set the operation algorithm of the block graphic 10 of the unit operation program on the display screen of the display device 4.

  The basic data can be generated on the display screen of the display device 4 and stored in the first storage device 2 by the operation device 5. Numerical data is input from the input device 1. The operation device 5 selects basic data on the display screen of the display device 4 to read out the specific basic data stored in the first storage device 2 and changes, deletes or adds the content of the basic data. Can be.

  When the basic data includes data of approximate expressions expressed as continuous parameter value data having a theoretical correlation by collecting a plurality of representative data of a plurality of types of parameters having a theoretical correlation. The operation device 5 can be operated to select and set approximate expression data from a plurality of types of approximate expression candidates displayed on the display screen of the display device 4.

  A block of a unit calculation program having an input part 11 for obtaining at least a parameter value to which the unit calculation program made into a figure is input, a specifying part 12 for specifying an operation algorithm, and an output part 13 for outputting the calculated parameter value In the case of the figure 10, the operating device 5 allows the operator to connect the output portion 13 and the input portion 11 or the designated portion 12 and the input portion 11 on the display screen of the display device 4 by connecting lines 17. Unit calculation programs can be associated. Therefore, when the unit calculation program is the block graphic 10, the calculation procedure can be created or modified more easily.

  The operating device 5 is means for causing the operator to store a plurality of calculation procedures on the display screen of the display device 5 in association with each other so as to be executed in a predetermined order in the first storage device 2. As a method of storing calculation procedures in association with each other so that they are executed in a predetermined order, for example, numerical data indicating the order of execution for each calculation procedure displayed can be input, and calculation procedures and There is a method of storing numerical data in the first storage device 2 in association with each other.

  The operation device 5 is means for causing the first storage device 2 to store a calculation program unit that is associated so that a plurality of calculation procedures are executed in a predetermined order. The machining condition generation apparatus according to the embodiment is associated with a number assigned to an end program in an operation procedure so that the operation procedure is executed in the order from the smallest number assigned to the end program.

  The arithmetic device 6 is a central processing unit (CPU). When the calculation procedure for determining the type of machining condition to be determined first is activated, the calculation device 6 corresponds to the parameter value that is initially given in the process for determining the machining condition, according to the calculation procedure. The calculation program is executed in the associated order to calculate and output the parameter value of the machining condition.

  For example, when generating a combination of machining conditions for the rough machining step (first cut) in the sculpting electric discharge machining, the calculation procedure executed first performs a calculation for obtaining an on time with respect to a peak current value that can be obtained by rough machining. The first parameter given to the calculation procedure for determining the on-time is the peak current value. The parameter values of one or more peak current values that are initially given are read out from the processing condition database stored in the first storage device 2 by a combination of the peak current value, the no-load voltage, and the polarity. The parameter value to be given first can be given by the operator from the input device 1 before executing the program for generating the combination of machining conditions.

  The arithmetic device 6 executes a plurality of arithmetic procedures in a predetermined order defined in advance. In addition, the arithmetic device 6 reads out the arithmetic program units associated with each other so that the plurality of arithmetic procedures are executed in a predetermined order, which is read out from the first storage device 2 in the predetermined order. The calculation program unit is executed according to the above to generate a combination of machining conditions.

  Hereinafter, a process for creating or modifying a program for creating a combination of a process for creating or modifying basic data and a machining condition in the machining condition generating apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. 5 to 7 specifically show block diagrams of the unit calculation program.

  When creating the basic data, the operating device 5 is operated, and the numerical data input button is clicked by screen selection to display the basic data input screen shown in FIG. Then, numerical data is input from the input device 1 to create basic data. The number of data dimensions when there are two kinds of parameters having a theoretical correlation in the basic data is 2, and the number of data dimensions when there are three kinds of parameters is 3.

  When the number of data dimensions is 2, numerical data is input on the vertical and horizontal axes of the basic data. The vertical axis corresponds to the vertical axis when the basic data is converted into a line graph, and is the parameter value of the dependent parameter to be output. The horizontal axis corresponds to the horizontal axis when the basic data is converted into a line graph, and is the parameter value of the input main parameter.

  When the number of data dimensions is 3, numerical data is input to the vertical axis, horizontal axis, and series of the basic data. When the number of data dimensions is 3, there is an intermediate parameter that becomes a condition for changing the parameter value relationship between the main parameter and the dependent parameter having a theoretical correlation with the basic data. As a result, the parameter value of the intermediate parameter is input to the series.

  FIG. 2 shows a state in which basic data indicating the correlation of the discharge gap with respect to the ON time for each peak current value in the sculpting electric discharge machining is displayed on the display screen. The vertical axis represents the discharge gap as the dependent parameter, the horizontal axis represents the on-time as the main parameter, and the series represents the peak current value as the intermediate parameter. The on-time and the discharge gap have a correlation based on the theory that the discharge energy increases as the on-time increases, so that the discharge gap increases. In addition, since the discharge energy increases as the peak current value increases, the discharge gap expands even if the on-time is the same. Therefore, the peak current value changes the relationship between the parameter values of the on-time and the discharge gap.

  Next, the operation device 5 is operated, and the graph generation screen button shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the display device 4 by clicking the graph generation screen button in the screen selection of the machining condition generation device. Then, an approximate expression suitable for the theoretical correlation between the main parameter and the dependent parameter is selected from a plurality of approximate expression candidates displayed on the graph generation screen. Approximate expressions that can be selected as candidates are power approximation, linear approximation, logarithmic approximation, inverse logarithmic approximation, exponential approximation, hyperbolic approximation, square root approximation, cube root approximation, geometric curvature approximation, right-angle hyperbolic approximation, modified power approximation, Advantage function approximation, modified hyperbolic approximation, polynomial approximation, multivariate analysis, etc.

  Since the basic data created by selecting the approximate expression includes the data of the approximate expression, when a parameter value for which no representative data exists is given, a dependent parameter corresponding to the parameter value of the main parameter is always used. Can be obtained within a predetermined error range. Since the machining conditions are determined based on the theory as described above, it is not necessary to prepare a machining condition database in which a huge number of machining condition combinations are recorded in advance. Therefore, the number of test processings can be reduced, and there is an advantage that a highly reliable combination of processing conditions with small variations in processing results can be obtained.

  When the approximate expression is selected, the created basic data can be displayed as a graph on the display device 4 by clicking the approximate graph button. When basic data having an intermediate parameter and having a series is converted into a line graph, a line graph is formed for each intermediate parameter as shown in FIG. Therefore, there is an advantage that the operator who has input the parameter value can easily confirm whether or not the basic data is accurately created based on the correct theory.

  In addition, since the basic data is not a simple accumulation of machining data but data of a plurality of types of parameters having a theoretical correlation, the theory about machining can be known by knowing the contents of the basic data. In particular, the graph display makes it easy to visually understand the theoretical correlation between the main parameter, the dependent parameter, and the intermediate parameter, and it is possible to know the theory related to machining and enhance knowledge, so that machining technology is improved. There are advantages to doing. In addition, the knowledge and experience of skilled workers can be transmitted more effectively by other workers using the basic data created and modified by skilled workers. There are advantages.

  The created basic data is stored in the first storage device 2 as a data file by arbitrarily assigning a data file name by operating the operation device 5. The basic data stored in the first storage device 2 can be read by the arithmetic device 4 by operating the operation device 5 and displayed again on the display device 4. In addition, by operating the operation device 5 and inputting numerical data from the input device 1, the numerical values of the basic data can be changed, deleted, or added. Similarly, it is possible to change the approximate expression by operating the operating device 5 and change it, and a new line graph can be generated from the changed basic data.

  In this way, by reading and displaying the basic data in a timely manner, the worker can correct the basic data more easily and accurately, and work efficiency is improved. Then, the operator operates the operation device 5 to create basic data, and changes, adds, deletes and edits the content of the basic data to improve and enhance the accuracy of the basic data. There is an advantage that the basic data can be more easily evolved in accordance with the theory and knowledge that is constantly advancing with the accumulation of new superior theories or accumulated experience of skilled workers.

  When creating a program for determining the machining conditions, the operation device 5 is operated to display the calculation procedure creation or correction screen shown in FIG. Then, a calculation procedure for obtaining parameter values of the types of machining conditions to be determined first is created. The type of machining condition to be determined first is a type of machining condition required as a parameter value given when another type of machining condition is determined. In the machining condition generating apparatus according to the embodiment, the type of machining condition to be determined first is the on-time for a plurality of peak current values that can be obtained by first cutting for each material of the tool electrode and the workpiece.

  The calculation procedure is created by associating a plurality of unit calculation programs. In the machining condition generating apparatus of the embodiment, the processing condition generator is defined to be executed in order from the unit arithmetic program of the block graphic 10 arranged on the left side of the screen toward the unit arithmetic program of the block graphic 10 arranged on the right side of the screen. Yes. Therefore, the operator operates the operation device 5 to place the block graphic 10 of the unit calculation program to be executed first and the block graphic of the unit calculation program to be executed next on the display screen in order from the left side of the screen. Then, the output part 13 for outputting the parameter value of the block graphic 10 of the unit arithmetic program to be executed first or the specifying part 12 for specifying the arithmetic algorithm and the input part 11 for acquiring the parameter value are connected by the connecting line 17. To do.

  The block graphic 10 of the unit calculation program is roughly classified into three types according to the calculation algorithm. The basic first type unit operation program is a case where the operation algorithm is basic data stored in the first storage device 2, and as shown in FIG. 4, a basic block graphic 10 (A). Indicated by The second type of unit operation program is a case where the operation algorithm is a function expression or a function program, and is indicated by a block graphic 10 (E). The third type of unit calculation program is a case where the calculation algorithm is a predetermined approximation method, and the approximate solution to be calculated is a solution for the value, an intersection, or a maximum value. Indicated.

  When the block graphic 10 of the unit calculation program is arranged on the display screen of the display device 4, the type (unit data, function, y) of the unit calculation program to be arranged by operating the operation device 5 and the unit calculation program selection button group 80 is arranged. Click x solution, intersection, maximum value), move the pointer to the place you want to place, and click. Further, for example, when the displayed block graphic 10 is clicked, the display color of the block graphic 10 is changed from black to red so that it can be operated (active). The displayed block graphic 10 can be moved to an arbitrary position.

  When creating the first type of unit calculation program, the controller 5 is operated to click the basic data button of the unit calculation program selection button group 80, and the basic block graphic 10 is placed at an arbitrary position on the display screen. (A) is arranged. When the designation portion 12 that designates the operation algorithm of the block graphic 10 (A) arranged on the display screen as shown in FIG. 5 is double-clicked, as shown in the lower side of FIG. The basic data list screen stored and registered in 2 is displayed in a window.

  When basic data to be used for the calculation algorithm is selected from basic data that has already been created and stored in the first storage device 2, a block graphic 10 (A The data file name of the basic data is displayed in the designation portion 12). At the same time, the arithmetic unit 6 analyzes the selected basic data and searches for the main parameter, the dependent parameter, and the intermediate parameter. As a result of the search, when there is no intermediate parameter, the name of the parameter to be input is displayed on the input portion 11, and the name of the parameter to be output is automatically displayed on the output portion 13. When the intermediate parameter exists, the displayed basic block graphic 10 (A) is deformed and the series part 14 is expanded and displayed like the block graphic 10 (B) shown in FIG. The name of the intermediate parameter is automatically displayed in the series part 14.

  When creating the second type of unit operation program, the operation device 5 is operated to click the function button of the unit operation program selection button group 80, and the block graphic 10 (E) is placed at an arbitrary position on the display screen. Place. When a designation portion 12 for designating an operation algorithm of the block graphic 10 (E) arranged on the display screen as shown in FIG. 6 is double-clicked, as shown in the lower side of FIG. A window (function properties) for creating a window is displayed.

  A function expression is described with operators and variable signs widely used in mathematics. As shown in FIG. 6, the function program executes a function operation that cannot be expressed by a mathematical expression alone. A function program is created in a relatively simple programming language. For example, a simple program language cannot create an application program like an advanced program language such as C language, but can create a function program that performs simple calculations. Therefore, there is an advantage for the operator that highly specialized computer programming knowledge is unnecessary.

  Specifically, a well-known visual basic as shown in FIG. 6 is adopted as a simple programming language for creating a function program. Functional operations must be expressed using operators, variable signs, and instructions (statements) that conform to Visual Basic rules, but most of operators and variable signs are operators widely used in mathematics. And the variable sign. The basic command sentence is similar to a general language, and a program can be described by reading an operator, a variable code, a statement, or an example sentence using a support tool called a builder.

  After creating and defining a function expression or function program, enter the function expression or function program with an arbitrary function name. When the operation device 5 is operated and the OK button is clicked, the created function is stored and stored as part of the data of the operation unit program. When the function is saved and registered, the function name registered in the designated portion 12 of the block graphic 10 (E) as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed, and the function parameters (variables) are displayed in the input portion 11 and the output portion 13. Sign) is displayed.

  When creating the third type of unit calculation program, the controller 5 is operated to click the approximate solution button to be obtained by the unit calculation program selection button group 80, and the block graphic 10 ( C) is arranged. In the machining condition generation apparatus of the embodiment, the approximation method that is an arithmetic algorithm is defined in advance as a bisection method, and the type of approximate solution that can be obtained is determined as an x solution, an intersection, or a maximum value with respect to the y value. It has been. Therefore, when selecting the x solution for the y value, click the button of Y> = X, click the intersection button to select the intersection, and click the vertex button to select the maximum value.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 7, a block diagram 10 (C) of a unit calculation program for obtaining an approximate solution by the bisection method includes a first input portion 11 for acquiring a parameter value of an input main parameter, and In accordance with basic data, a function expression or a function program (hereinafter collectively referred to as a function indicating a continuous parameter value) indicating a theoretical correlation between a specification portion 12 for specifying an arithmetic algorithm and an input parameter and an output parameter A second input part 15 for obtaining the obtained continuous parameter value y = f (x), an input part 16 for inputting an arbitrary calculation initial value, and an approximate solution that is a parameter value of the output dependent parameter is output. Output portion 13 to be output.

  Since the calculation algorithm is defined by the bisection method, the type of approximate solution to be obtained is displayed in the designation portion 12 for specifying the calculation algorithm. In the case of the block graphic 10 (C) shown in FIG. 7, Y> = X (x solution for y value) is displayed as the type of approximate solution to be obtained.

  A function indicating a continuous parameter value that is a basis for obtaining an approximate solution is selectively specified from basic data stored in the first storage device 2, or a function is displayed on a screen for creating a function expression or a function program. Create and register an expression or function program. In addition, basic data, a function, or a function program specified in an operation algorithm of another unit operation program can be cited.

  In the case of designating a basic data, a function or a function program indicating a continuous parameter value specified by an arithmetic algorithm of another unit arithmetic program, the controller 5 is operated to operate another block graphic 10 (A ) Or the state of the block graphic 10 (C) shown in FIG. 7 in the state in which the function indicating the continuous parameter value is specified by clicking the right end of the designating portion 12 designating the operation algorithm of the block graphic 10 (B). The connection line 17 is drawn to the input portion 15 for acquiring the continuous parameter value, and the two unit calculation programs are combined.

  When a function indicating a continuous parameter value is specified, the arithmetic unit 6 analyzes the function indicating the specified continuous parameter value and searches for a parameter of an approximate solution to be obtained. The name of the approximate solution parameter to be obtained is automatically displayed in the output portion 13 of the approximate solution.

  In order to calculate an approximate solution by the bisection method, large and small calculation initial values that can exist between the obtained approximate solutions are required. When inputting the calculation initial value, when the operation unit 5 is operated to double-click the designation portion 12 for specifying the calculation algorithm, a window for giving the calculation initial value is displayed in a window as shown in the lower part of FIG. Therefore, an appropriate calculation initial value is estimated such that an x solution for the y value to be obtained, an approximate solution at the intersection or maximum value exists between the large and small calculation initial values, and the time required for the calculation is as short as possible. input.

  When combining and associating a plurality of unit operation programs, click the output line 13 of the block graphic 10 to be executed first and then click the connection line 17 to the input part 11 of the unit operation program to be executed next. To release. When the block graphics 10 are connected to each other by the connection line 17, they are associated in the order in which the actual unit calculation program is executed. When the output part of the block graphic 10 (D) of the unit arithmetic program connected last in the block graphic 10 and the block graphic 30 indicating the end program for executing the end of the arithmetic procedure are connected by the connection line 17, 1 Two arithmetic procedures 20 are formed.

  The number written in the block graphic 30 of the end program determines the order in which the arithmetic procedures are executed. Therefore, by operating the operation device 5 and arranging the block graphic 30 on the display screen of the display device 4 and combining it with the block graphic 10 (D), a plurality of calculation procedures are executed in a predetermined order. Associated.

  In the machining condition generation device according to the embodiment, the first storage device 2 can be recorded as a subprogram of the machining condition automatic generation program in units of arithmetic program units. Since the plurality of arithmetic procedures are associated so as to be executed in the order of the numbers of the end programs, a plurality of arithmetic procedures are simply stored in the first storage device 2 with arbitrary data file names assigned to the arithmetic program units. Arithmetic procedures are stored in an associated state so as to be executed in a predetermined order.

  The machining condition generation apparatus of the embodiment can store a plurality of operation program units in the first storage device 2 with a data file name as one project program. The project program is the main program of one machining condition automatic generation program. When the operator operates the operation device 5 to store a plurality of operation program units in the first storage device 2, the operation device 6 stores the plurality of operation program units so as to be associated in a tree format.

  A plurality of operation program units associated and stored in a tree format are displayed in the display area 70 on the display screen of the display device 4 in a tree format. Since application programs are pre-defined so that they are executed in order from the arithmetic program unit on the upper side of the displayed tree, when the project program is started and executed, the arithmetic program units are arranged in a predetermined order in a tree format. Is executed.

  When correcting the calculation procedure, the calculation program unit to be corrected is selected from the first storage device 2 by clicking the calculation program unit including the calculation procedure to be corrected displayed in the display area 70 of the display screen of the display device 4. The data is read out and displayed on the display screen shown in FIG. Then, the operation device 5 is operated to change the connection between the block graphics 10 of the unit calculation program, to activate and delete the block graphics 10, to change the calculation algorithm, or to create and add a new block graphic 10. .

  When the display screen of the display device 4 is switched to a screen for generating a combination of processing conditions, a display screen for inputting one or more types of processing requests (not shown) is displayed. When a program for generating a combination of machining conditions is executed after sequentially inputting parameter values of one or more types of machining requests that the operator is required to input, the arithmetic unit 6 executes a predetermined project program. 1 from the storage device 2 is executed.

  The arithmetic device 6 decodes and executes the project program, and first executes the first arithmetic procedure having the smallest end program number included in the upper arithmetic program unit defined in advance in a tree format. Therefore, a plurality of unit operation programs are executed in the associated order according to the operation procedure corresponding to the parameter value initially given in the process of determining the machining condition first, and the parameter value of the machining condition is calculated and output. . Then, the calculation procedures are sequentially executed in a predetermined order defined by the numbers of the end programs, and parameter values for a plurality of types of machining conditions are sequentially determined.

  The obtained parameter value of the machining condition is stored in the second storage device 3 when the calculation procedure is finished. When all the calculation procedures are completed and the execution of the calculation program unit is completed, parameter values of a plurality of types of machining conditions sequentially stored in the second storage device 3 are combined each time a plurality of calculation procedures are executed. A combination of processing conditions is generated. The generated combination of machining conditions is assigned a machining condition number and temporarily stored in the second storage device 3.

  Depending on the type of processing, a combination of processing conditions may be set for each of a plurality of processing steps in one processing. In such a case, a calculation program unit that generates a combination of machining conditions for each machining process is created. When a program for generating a combination of a plurality of machining conditions is configured by a plurality of arithmetic program units, the arithmetic device 6 executes the plurality of arithmetic program units in a tree order in a predetermined order and performs each machining step. The processing condition combinations are sequentially generated, and processing condition numbers are assigned and stored in the second storage device 3.

  By specifying and starting data file names of a plurality of operation program units displayed in the folder format in the display area 70 of the display screen of the display device 4, one operation program unit can be arbitrarily set as the first as required. Can be read out from the storage device 2 and executed alone. A combination of processing conditions generated when executed alone is temporarily stored in the second storage device 3 and can be displayed on the display device 4 in a timely manner.

  When a combination of machining conditions is described in the NC program, a combination of machining conditions generated by executing a program for generating a combination of machining conditions and temporarily stored in the second storage device 3 is extracted. Data of the combination of machining conditions including numbers is described at a predetermined position in the form of an NC program and saved together with the NC program.

  If a machining condition database already exists, a combination of one or more machining conditions that are generated by executing a project program or an arithmetic program unit and are assigned a machining condition number stored in the second storage device 3 Can be stored in addition to the machining condition database stored in the first storage device 2 together with the machining condition number. Therefore, there is an advantage that the processing condition database can be expanded without performing test processing.

  The machining condition generation apparatus of the present invention is not limited to the same configuration as the machining condition generation apparatus of the embodiment described and illustrated above, and various modifications and applications can be made without departing from the object and effect of the present invention. Is possible. For example, the operating device is not limited to a keyboard or a mouse, but may be a keypad or a touch panel on a liquid crystal display. In addition, the present invention includes parts and members having substantially the same meaning without being limited to parts, members, data, and parameters indicated by specific terms in the detailed description of the invention.

  The processing condition generating apparatus of the present invention is used in processing machines such as cutting, grinding, turning, polishing, electric discharge, and water jet processing. The present invention improves working efficiency and improves processing technology. Then, the machining condition generation device is quickly improved to follow the progress of machining technology, and the machining technology is inherited to train workers who operate the machining machine, thereby contributing to the development of the machining industry.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the processing condition production | generation apparatus of this invention. It is a top view of the display screen which shows the display state which displays the basic data in the process condition production | generation apparatus of this invention on a display apparatus in a table | surface form. It is a top view of the display screen which shows the display state which displays the basic data in the display apparatus graphically in the processing condition production | generation apparatus of this invention. It is a top view of the display screen which shows the display state which displays the structure of the arithmetic program unit in the processing condition production | generation apparatus of this invention as a figure on a display apparatus. It is a top view of the display screen which shows the figured unit calculation program whose predetermined calculation method used for a calculation is basic data. It is a top view of the display screen which shows the figured unit calculation program whose predetermined calculation method used for a calculation is a function created beforehand. It is a top view of the display screen which shows the figured unit calculation program whose predetermined calculation method used for a calculation is a predetermined approximation method.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Input device 2 1st memory | storage device 3 2nd memory | storage device 4 Display device 5 Operating device 6 Arithmetic device 10 Unit arithmetic program block figure 20 Arithmetic procedure block diagram 30 End program block figure 40 Scroll bar 80 Unit arithmetic program selection button group

Claims (21)

A calculation procedure in which a unit calculation program for calculating and outputting a parameter value corresponding to a parameter value input in accordance with a calculation algorithm designated or created in advance and a plurality of the unit calculation programs are associated with each other and outputting a parameter value of a machining condition And a display device that displays the data in a graphic form and one or more of the figured unit operation programs created or modified on the display screen of the display device to arbitrarily associate and associate the plurality of unit operation programs A processing condition generation apparatus comprising: an operation device operable to create or modify one or more of the calculation procedures; and a storage device that stores the calculation procedure created or corrected by the operation device. The processing condition according to claim 1, wherein the calculation algorithm is any one of basic data, a function expression, a function program, or an approximation method that is data of a plurality of types of parameters having a theoretical correlation. Generator. The plurality of types of parameters include a processing request given as information on processing required initially in determining the processing conditions as parameters indicating processing conditions or processing constraints. Processing condition generator. 3. The machining condition generation apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the basic data is a collection of representative data including sample data of the plurality of types of parameters. 5. The basic data includes data of an approximate expression expressed as data of continuous parameter values of the plurality of types of parameters having a theoretical correlation by aggregating the representative data. The processing condition generation device described. The basic data includes a representative parameter value of one parameter or a representative parameter value of the other parameter having a one-to-one correspondence with the one parameter corresponding to a predetermined range of parameter values, or 5. The machining condition generation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the machining condition generation apparatus is an accumulation of data including parameter values within a predetermined range. The processing condition generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the display device graphically displays parameter values of a plurality of types of parameters in the basic data. 3. The processing condition generation device according to claim 2, wherein the operation device is operable so that an operator generates the basic data on the display screen of the display device and stores the basic data in the storage device. . The operation device is configured to store the basic data changed, deleted, or deleted by an operator changing, deleting, or adding the content of the basic data stored in the storage device on the display screen of the display device. The machining condition generation device according to claim 8, wherein the machining condition generation device is operable to store the machining condition. The operation device is operable to select and set approximate expression data included in the basic data from a plurality of types of approximate expression candidates on a display screen of the display device. The processing condition production | generation apparatus of Claim 5. 2. The processing according to claim 1, wherein the operation device is operable so that an operator arbitrarily arranges one or more of the figured unit operation programs on a display screen of the display device. Condition generator. The operation device is operable so that an operator can designate or create and set the calculation algorithm of the graphic unit calculation program on a display screen of the display device. The processing condition generation device described in 1. The operation device is operable so that an operator can store a plurality of the calculation procedures on a display screen of the display device in association with each other so that the calculation procedures are executed in a predefined order and stored in a storage device. The processing condition generator according to claim 1. 14. The operation device is operable to store a calculation program unit associated with a plurality of the calculation procedures so that the calculation procedures are executed in a predetermined order in a storage device. The processing condition generation device described. 2. The figured unit operation program is a block figure, and the figured operation procedure is a block diagram in which block figures of the unit operation program are arbitrarily combined and associated. The processing condition generation device described in 1. The block diagram of the unit calculation program has at least an input part for acquiring the input parameter value, a designation part for specifying the calculation algorithm, and an output part for outputting the calculated parameter value. The processing condition production | generation apparatus of Claim 15. When there is an intermediate parameter that is a condition for changing the relationship between the parameter value of the input parameter having the theoretical correlation and the output parameter, the block diagram of the unit calculation program uses the intermediate parameter as a sequence. The machining condition generation apparatus according to claim 16, further comprising: a series part that displays the intermediate parameter as When the calculation algorithm is an approximate bisection method, the block diagram of the unit calculation program includes a first input part for acquiring the input parameter value and a theoretical correlation between a plurality of types of parameters. 2. A second input part for acquiring continuous parameter values obtained according to basic data, a function expression or a function program indicating a relationship, and a third input part for acquiring an arbitrary calculation initial value. Item 17. The machining condition generation device according to Item 16. An arithmetic unit that calculates and outputs the parameter values of the machining conditions by executing the plurality of unit arithmetic programs in the associated order according to the arithmetic procedure corresponding to the parameter values that are initially given in the process of determining the machining conditions The processing condition generation device according to claim 1. 20. The machining condition generation apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the calculation apparatus executes a plurality of the calculation procedures in a predetermined order to generate and output a combination of machining conditions. The arithmetic device reads out arithmetic program units associated with each other so that a plurality of the arithmetic procedures are executed in a predefined order from the storage device in a predetermined order, and in accordance with the readout order, 21. The machining condition generation device according to claim 20, wherein the calculation program unit is executed to generate a combination of machining conditions.

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