JP2024060340A - Injection molding system and method for remote control of injection molding machine - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide an injection molding system that allows remote control of an injection molding machine and easily ensures the quality of molded products. [Solution] An injection molding system 101 includes an injection molding machine 1, shape data acquisition means L12 that acquires and transmits shape data of molded products made by the injection molding machine 1, a remote image display device R11 that is connected to the shape data acquisition means L12 via a data communication line N1 and displays the shape data transmitted from the shape data acquisition means L12 via the data communication line N1, and a remote controller R3 that is connected to the injection molding machine 1 via a control communication line N2 and remotely controls the settings of the injection molding machine 1 via the control communication line N2. [Selected Figure] Figure 1B

Description

The present invention relates to an injection molding system and a method for remotely controlling an injection molding machine.

Systems for remotely controlling injection molding machines are known. Patent Document 1 discloses a system for remotely controlling an injection molding machine installed in a clean room by a computer installed outside the clean room.

JP 2013-237192 A

When operating an injection molding machine, it is common for an operator to directly operate the injection molding machine. This allows the operator to directly check the quality of the molded product, and if a defective product is discovered, the operator can adjust the settings of the injection molding machine. However, in the future, due to social factors, it is thought that there will be an increased need to remotely control injection molding machines and a shortage of skilled operators. In these cases, it may become difficult to properly check the quality of the molded product.

The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an injection molding system that allows remote control of the injection molding machine and makes it easy to ensure the quality of the molded product.

The injection molding system according to one embodiment includes a shape data acquisition means for acquiring shape data of a molded product produced by an injection molding machine, a remote image display device for displaying the shape data via a data communication line, and a remote controller for remotely controlling the injection molding machine via a control communication line.

This disclosure makes it possible to provide an injection molding system that allows remote control of the injection molding machine and makes it easy to ensure the quality of the molded product.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an injection molding system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1B is a functional relationship diagram of the injection molding system shown in FIG. 1A. 1 is a schematic front view of an injection molding machine according to a first embodiment; FIG. 2B is a schematic top view of the injection molding machine shown in FIG. 2A. 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating an example of information added to shape data. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating other examples of information added to shape data. FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of an injection molding system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 4B is a functional relationship diagram of the injection molding system shown in FIG. 4A. FIG. 13 is a schematic configuration diagram of an injection molding system according to a third embodiment. FIG. 5B is a functional relationship diagram of the injection molding system shown in FIG. 5A. FIG. 13 is a schematic configuration diagram of an injection molding system according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 6B is a functional relationship diagram of the injection molding system shown in FIG. 6A.

First Embodiment
<Overall composition>
Fig. 1A shows the overall configuration of an injection molding system 101 according to the first embodiment, and Fig. 1B shows a functional relationship diagram of the injection molding system 101 according to the first embodiment. The installation location of the injection molding system 101 is roughly divided into an area where an injection molding machine 1 is installed (hereinafter referred to as a local area LA) and an area where the injection molding machine 1 is remotely controlled (hereinafter referred to as a remote area RA).

The distance between the local area LA and the remote area RA is not limited, and for example, the local area LA and the remote area RA may be different areas in the same building. The remote area RA is, for example, the office of the manufacturer or owner of the injection molding machine 1. There is a local operator LP in the local area LA, and there is a remote operator RP in the remote area RA.

The local area LA and the remote area RA are connected by a data communication line N1 and a control communication line N2. There are no particular limitations on the communication line, and it may be either a dedicated line or a line provided by a telecommunications carrier. In this embodiment, the data communication line N1 and the control communication line N2 are separate communication lines from a functional standpoint, but they may also be a single common line.

<Configuration of injection molding machine 1>
Here, the schematic configuration of the injection molding machine 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2A. The injection molding machine 1 is generally composed of a clamping device 2 that clamps a mold M, and an injection device 3 that heats, melts, and injects the material to be injected. The injection molding machine 1 also includes an automatic removal device 4 for molded products, a safety mechanism 5 (see Fig. 2B), and a control unit 6.

<Clamping device 2>
The mold clamping device 2 includes a fixed platen 22 fixed on a bed 21 and having a fixed mold M1 attached thereto, a mold clamping housing 23 slidable on the bed 21, and a movable platen 24 slidable on the bed 21 and having a movable mold M2 attached thereto. The fixed platen 22 and the mold clamping housing 23 are connected by a plurality of tie bars 25. A mold clamping mechanism 26 for opening and closing the mold M is provided between the movable platen 24 and the mold clamping housing 23. The mold clamping mechanism 26 is composed of a toggle mechanism. Although not shown in the figure, the mold clamping mechanism 26 may be composed of a direct pressure type mold clamping mechanism, that is, a hydraulic mold clamping cylinder.

<Injection device 3>
The injection device 3 is provided on a base 31. The injection device 3 includes a cylinder 32, a screw 33 housed in the cylinder 32, and a drive mechanism 34 for driving the screw 33. The screw 33 is driven to rotate and in the axial direction X by the drive mechanism 34. The drive mechanism 34 is covered with a cover 35. A hopper 36 for supplying the material to be injected is provided near the rear end of the cylinder 32. The hopper 36 includes a material supply opening 36A through which the material to be injected is supplied. An injection nozzle 37 for injecting the material is provided at the tip of the cylinder 32.

The injection device 3 is equipped with a nozzle touch device 38. The nozzle touch device 38 advances the injection device 3, so that the injection nozzle 37 touches the sprue bush M3 of the mold M. The nozzle touch device 38 connects the drive mechanism 34 and the fixed platen 22. The nozzle touch device 38 is composed of, for example, a mechanism using a hydraulic cylinder or a mechanism using a ball screw.

<Automatic removal device 4>
An automatic removal device 4 for the molded product is provided on the upper surface of the fixed platen 22. The automatic removal device 4 has an arm 41 that grips and moves the molded product. After the mold M is opened, the arm 41 removes the molded product from the mold M and transports it to a predetermined location while gripping the molded product.

<Safety mechanism 5>
2B, a safety mechanism 5 is provided on the front side (the side where the local operator LP approaches) of the attachment part of the mold M of the injection molding machine 1. The safety mechanism 5 has a door 51 that can move in the axial direction X. The door 51 covers the mold M when the injection molding machine 1 is in operation, and can move in the axial direction X to move away from the attachment part of the mold M when the injection molding machine 1 is stopped. The safety mechanism 5 prevents the local operator LP from approaching (including contacting) the injection molding machine 1, particularly the mold M, during operation, to protect the local operator LP. The door 51 is controlled by a control unit 52. The control unit 52 has an air circuit (not shown) and operates the door 51 by air pressure. The control unit 52 is provided with an operation unit 53 for the operator to open and close the door 51.

<Major facilities in local area LA and remote area RA>
1A and 1B, the local area LA is provided with an injection molding machine 1, shape data acquisition means L12 for acquiring shape data of a molded product P produced by the injection molding machine 1, and a local computer L2. The remote area RA is provided with a remote image display device R11 for displaying the shape data acquired by the shape data acquisition means L12, a remote computer R2, and a remote controller R3 for remotely controlling the injection molding machine 1.

The shape data acquisition means L12 and the remote image display device R11 are connected by a data communication line N1 via a local computer L2 and a remote computer R2, which will be described later. The remote controller R3 is installed near the remote image display device R11 and is connected to the injection molding machine 1 via a control communication line N2. In addition to these pieces of equipment provided in the local area LA and remote area RA, the injection molding system 101 also includes a data communication line N1 and a control communication line N2. Each piece of equipment will be described below.

<Local attachment L1>
The local harness L1 can be attached to the head (meaning the part above the neck) of a person (local operator LP). The local harness L1 has the following devices and means.
An imaging device L11 (shape data acquisition means L12) that photographs the molded product P and acquires shape data
A communication means L13 for transmitting shape data acquired by the imaging device L11 to the remote image display device R11 via the data communication line N1.
Local image display device L14
Voice communication device L15

The imaging device L11 is a specific example of the shape data acquisition means L12. From the viewpoint of miniaturization, it is preferable that the imaging device L11 is equipped with an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor). The shape data may be either a still image or a video, or may be numerical data such as the dimensions of a specified location. The shape data acquisition means L12 is not limited to this as long as it is capable of acquiring shape data or image data of the molded product P, and for example, an automatic dimension measuring device or a distance measuring device using laser light may also be used.

The local wearable device L1 may be a glasses-type device (so-called smart glasses), a goggle-type device, or the like, and is not limited as long as it has the above functions. By using the local wearable device L1, the local operator LP can use both hands for other purposes, improving work efficiency. The local operator LP removes the molded product P from the automatic removal device 4, places it in a specified position (such as on a desk), and photographs the molded product P with the imaging device L11.

The communication means L13 transmits the shape data acquired by the imaging device L11 to the remote image display device R11 via the data communication line N1. The communication means L13 is preferably a wireless system, and it is possible to use a system using a short-range wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or a wireless LAN such as WI-FI (registered trademark).

The local image display device L14 can be an image display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence display, but since it uses the information addition means 22 described below, it is preferable that it has an augmented reality (AR) function. By using the AR function, it is possible to display other information superimposed on an actually captured image. The voice communication device L15 only needs to have the same functions as a so-called hands-free phone, and there are no limitations on the configuration as long as it has a microphone and speaker.

<Local computer L2>
The local computer L2 is composed of a PC, a tablet terminal, or the like, and is wirelessly connected to the local mounting fixture L1. The local computer L2 includes a communication means L21 for communicating with the remote computer R2, and controls the local mounting fixture L1. The local computer L2 is interposed between the local mounting fixture L1 and the data communication line N1, and relays data transmitted from the local mounting fixture L1 and data transmitted to the local mounting fixture L1. When the local mounting fixture L1 is directly connected to the data communication line N1, the local computer L2 can be omitted.

<Remote attachment R1>
The remote wearing equipment R1 can be worn on a person's head, and includes a remote image display device R11. The remote image display device R11 is connected to a shape data acquisition means L12 (an image capture device L11 of the local wearing equipment L1) via a remote computer R2 and a data communication line N1. The remote image display device R11 displays the shape data acquired by the image capture device L11 online. An example of the remote wearing equipment R1 is VR goggles, but is not particularly limited as long as it includes an image display device.

The remote attachment R1 has a voice communication device R12. The local attachment L1 also has a voice communication device L15, so two-way communication is possible between the local operator LP and the remote operator RP. For example, the remote operator RP can transmit voice instructions to change the orientation of the molded product P or to change the magnification of the image. In addition, the shape data acquired by the imaging device L11 is simultaneously displayed on the local image display device L14 and the remote image display device R11. This allows the local operator LP and the remote operator RP to share information (the same image data) about the appearance of the molded product P. Therefore, the remote operator RP can more accurately grasp the shape and condition of the molded product P while talking to the local operator LP using the voice communication device R12.

<Remote computer R2>
The remote computer R2 is composed of a PC, a tablet terminal, or the like, and is connected to the shape data acquisition means L12 via the data communication line N1. The remote computer R2 is wirelessly connected to the remote attachment R1. The remote computer R2 transmits the shape data acquired by the shape data acquisition means L12 and transmitted via the data communication line N1 to the remote attachment R1. The remote computer R2 can also display the shape data acquired by the imaging device L11 on the display of the remote computer R2.

<Information adding means R22>
The remote computer R2 has an information adding means R22 that generates information-added shape data 61 by adding information to shape data as shown in Figures 3A and 3B. The information is, for example, text information. The text information may be in any format, including short sentences and tabular documents. The information may be image information such as drawings and photographs. The information adding means R22 may be provided as a program or application of the remote computer R2, but may also be provided independently of the remote computer R2. The remote computer R2 has a communication means L21 for communicating with the local computer L2 and the remote attachment R1.

Figure 3A shows an example of shape data with information. Shape data 62 representing the shape of the molded product P and text information 63 are displayed superimposed on the remote image display device R11. Although not shown in the figure, the same image displayed on the remote image display device R11 is also displayed on the local image display device L14 at the same time as the remote image display device R11.

Figure 3A shows an example in which a remote operator RP checks the shape data of a molded product P and finds a defect in the molded product P. The remote operator RP inputs instructions (text guidance) to the remote computer R2 to zoom in and photograph the lower part of the molded product P in order to observe the defect. The information adding means R22 recognizes the input text and generates information-added shape data 61 by superimposing shape data 62 and text information 63. The remote computer R2 transmits the information-added shape data 61 to the remote mounting fixture R1 and also to the local mounting fixture L1 via the data communication line N1.

The text information 63 can be shared between the local operator LP and the remote operator RP, so the possibility of transmitting information accurately and reliably is increased. In particular, when the information is complex, the text information 63 can be used to transmit the information more reliably than the voice communication devices R12 and L15. In addition, since the data capacity of the text information 63 is smaller than that of voice data, the load on the data communication line N1 is also limited. The content of the text information 63 is not limited, and may be not only instructions on the shooting method but also operation guidance for the injection molding machine 1 (for example, setting the cylinder pressure to XX MPa). The text information 63 may be selected by the remote operator RP from a list of fixed phrases. When it is difficult to make a call using the voice communication devices R12 and L15 due to surrounding noise, the text information 63 can also be used as an alternative to the voice communication devices R12 and L15. The local computer L2 may be equipped with a similar information adding means R22.

Figure 3B shows another example of shape data with information. Shape data 62 representing the shape of molded product P and graphic information 64 are displayed superimposed on the remote image display device R11. The graphic information 64 is information for identifying a part of molded product P. Such information can be generated, for example, by the remote operator RP drawing a circle or arrow on the screen of the remote computer R2 with a mouse or stylus pen.

If the remote operator RP recognizes the possibility of a defect in the molded product P in a specific part of the shape data, he or she can draw a circle or an arrow on that part and communicate this as visual information to the local operator LP. At this time, the remote operator RP can use the voice communication device R12 to send instructions to enlarge the part or to change the direction of the photograph. The information may include both text information 63 and graphic information 64. This allows the remote operator RP to send instructions regarding photographing using the above-mentioned text information 63.

<Biometric information acquisition device L3>
The injection molding system 101 has a biometric information acquisition device L3 that can be worn by a wearer (local operator LP) who wears the local attachment L1. The biometric information acquisition device L3 is attached directly to the body of the local operator LP or to the clothes worn by the local operator LP, but may be attached to the local attachment L1. The biometric information acquisition device L3 acquires biometric information (eye behavior, blood pressure, pulse rate, etc.) of the local operator LP. The remote computer R2 has a biometric information receiving unit R23 that receives the biometric information acquired by the biometric information acquisition device L3 via the data communication line N1. By using the biometric information management system, the remote operator RP can monitor the physical condition of the local operator LP.

<Safety Mechanism 5 of Injection Molding Machine 1>
The local operator LP photographs the molded product P, but may not operate or adjust the settings of the injection molding machine 1. For this reason, when the local operator LP approaches the stopped injection molding machine 1, the injection molding machine 1 may start operating in response to a command from the remote controller R3, which may result in an unexpected accident. For example, when the local operator LP operates the operation unit 53 to release the safety mechanism 5 (e.g., by opening the door 51) and approaches the injection molding machine 1, the injection molding machine 1 may start operating.

As shown in Figures 1B and 2B, the injection molding system 101 has a detection means 54 that detects an operation to release the safety mechanism 5 while the injection molding machine 1 is in operation. An example of the detection means 54 is an ultrasonic sensor. The ultrasonic sensor has an ultrasonic transmitter and receiver, and is positioned near the safety mechanism 5 so that the ultrasonic waves emitted from the transmitter hit the door 51 when it is closed.

The injection molding machine 1 further has an emergency stop means 55 that stops the operation of the injection molding machine 1 when a release operation is detected by the detection means 54. The emergency stop means 55 is provided, for example, in the control unit 6. When the detection means 54 detects that the safety mechanism 5 has been released (for example, the door 51 has been opened), it transmits a signal to the control unit 6 of the injection molding machine 1. The control unit 6 receives this signal, and if the injection molding machine 1 is in operation, it activates the emergency stop means 55 to stop the injection molding machine 1.

To prevent the injection molding machine 1 from being restarted unexpectedly, it is preferable that the emergency stop means 55 be released and/or the injection molding machine 1 be restarted only by the control unit 6 (and not by the remote controller R3). When only the local operator LP operates the injection molding machine 1, the control unit 6 may be set not to accept remote commands from the remote controller R3, and the emergency stop means 55 may not be activated.

In an alternative example, the injection molding machine 1 has a safety mechanism 5 that prevents people from approaching, and a blocking means 56 that blocks the release operation of the safety mechanism 5 while the injection molding machine 1 is in operation. The blocking means 56 is connected to the operation unit 53 of the safety mechanism 5. When the operation unit 53 is locked by the blocking means 56, the manual release operation of the operation unit 53 is disabled, and when the operation unit 53 is in an unlocked state, the manual release operation of the operation unit 53 is permitted. The locking/unlocking of the operation unit 53 by the blocking means 56 may be performed by electrical means or mechanical means. The blocking means 56 can be controlled by the control unit 6 of the injection molding machine 1, the control panel (not shown) of the safety mechanism 5, the remote controller R3, or the like.

<Sound collecting means L4>
The injection molding system 101 has a sound collecting means L4 that collects sounds generated from the injection molding machine 1, and a speaker R13 that outputs the sounds acquired by the sound collecting means L4. The sound collecting means L4 is, for example, a microphone, and is provided in the local area LA, preferably in the vicinity of the injection molding machine 1. The speaker R13 is provided in the remote mounting fixture R1, but may be a speaker built into the remote computer R2 or an external speaker connected to the remote computer R2.

The sound acquired by the sound collection means L4 is transmitted to the remote computer R2 via the data communication line N1, and the remote computer R2 transmits the received sound to the speaker R13. The remote operator RP can detect abnormalities or signs of abnormalities in the injection molding machine 1 based on the operating sounds of the injection molding machine 1, and change the settings of the injection molding machine 1 via the remote controller R3 as necessary.

<Shape comparison system>
The injection molding system 101 has a shape information storage unit R24 that stores three-dimensional design shape information of the molded product P, and a difference extractor R25 that extracts the difference between the shape data and the three-dimensional design shape information. The shape information storage unit R24 and the difference extractor R25 are provided in the remote computer R2, but may be provided in a server connected to the remote computer R2. The difference extractor R25 is connected to the shape data acquisition means L12 via a data communication line N1. The difference extractor R25 compares the shape data acquired by the shape data acquisition means L12 with the three-dimensional design shape information and extracts the difference between them. This makes it easier to identify defective parts of the molded product P, and the degree of the defect can be more accurately grasped.

The three-dimensional design shape information is, for example, 3D CAD data of molded product P. Because the shape data is two-dimensional, it cannot be directly compared with the three-dimensional design shape information. Therefore, the remote computer R2 adjusts the orientation of the three-dimensional design shape information to generate a view similar to that seen from the direction in which the shape data was photographed. By matching the scale of this view and the shape data and overlaying them on the screen, it is possible to extract as differences parts that are in the shape data but not in the view, and parts that are in the view but not in the shape data. For example, burrs that have occurred on molded product P are extracted as the former difference, and sink marks that have occurred on molded product P are extracted as the latter difference.

<Remote controller R3>
The remote controller R3 remotely controls the injection molding machine 1 via the control communication line N2, and in particular remotely adjusts the settings of the injection molding machine 1. The remote operator RP determines appropriate settings with the remote controller R3 based on the shape and state of the molded product P grasped by the remote image display device R11 and the shape comparison system, and the operating sounds of the injection molding machine 1 collected by the sound collection means L4, and transmits them to the injection molding machine 1. The settings of the injection molding machine 1 include the pressure inside the cylinder, the axial X position of the screw 33 during injection, and the like.

Second Embodiment
Fig. 4A shows the overall configuration of an injection molding system 201 according to the second embodiment, and Fig. 4B shows a functional relationship diagram of the injection molding system 201 according to the second embodiment. Descriptions of the same configuration and effects as those of the first embodiment will be omitted. In this embodiment, a local operator LP is not required. The remote operator RP can photograph and observe the molded product P and adjust the settings of the injection molding machine 1 by himself, so that the operation of the injection molding machine 1 can be continued even when the local operator LP is absent.

In addition, the local attachment L1 associated with the local operator LP shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the detection means 54, emergency stop means 55, and blocking means 56 of the safety mechanism 5 shown in Figure 2B, and the biometric information acquisition device L3, biometric information reception unit R23, voice communication devices R12 and L15, and information addition means R22 shown in Figures 1A and 1B can also be omitted. Therefore, the configuration of the injection molding system 201 is simplified compared to the injection molding system 101.

The injection molding system 201 has an operation control unit R26 connected to the shape data acquisition means L12 via a data communication line N1. The operation control unit R26 can be provided, for example, as a program or application of the remote computer R2, but can also be provided independently of the remote computer R2.

The shape data acquisition means L12 includes a manipulator L16 and an imaging device L17. These devices are provided in the local area LA. The shape data acquisition means L12 may include an automatic dimension measuring device 17A. The manipulator L16 is connected to the local computer L2 wirelessly or by wire. The manipulator L16 has the function of moving the automatic removal device 4 to remove the molded product P from the automatic removal device 4, and gripping the molded product P to change its posture. The manipulator L16 is remotely controlled by the remote computer R2 via the local computer L2 and the data communication line N1.

The manipulator L16 has an articulated arm L16B with a gripping portion L16A at its tip. As shown by arrow A1 in FIG. 4A, the arm L16B rotates, allowing the manipulator L16 to transport the removed molded product P to the front of the imaging device L17. Furthermore, as shown by arrows A2 to A4, the manipulator L16 can perform articulation, rotation, and oscillating movements to correct the position and orientation of the molded product P.

The imaging device L17 photographs the molded product P that has been removed from the automatic removal device 4 and grasped by the manipulator L16 to obtain shape data. The imaging device L17 is preferably equipped with an imaging element such as a CCD or CMOS. The imaging device L17 is fixed, but may be mobile. It is particularly preferable that the angle around the optical axis is adjustable (swivel function). The imaging device L17 has wireless or wired communication means L18, and the imaging device L17 is connected to the local computer L2 by the communication means L18. The communication means L18 transmits the acquired shape data (image data) to the remote image display device R11 via the local computer L2 and the data communication line N1.

When an automatic dimension measuring device 17A is provided, it is preferable to connect the automatic dimension measuring device 17A to the local computer L2 so that the dimension measurement values are transmitted to the local computer L2. The acquired shape data (dimension data) is transmitted from the local computer L2 to the remote image display device R11 via the data communication line N1.

The operation control unit R26 can control the automatic removal device 4, the manipulator L16, the imaging device L17, and the communication means L18 via the data communication line N1. The operation control unit R26 first sends a command to the automatic removal device 4 to remove the molded product P from the mold. Next, the operation control unit R26 sends a command to the manipulator L16 to remove the molded product P from the automatic removal device 4, grasp the molded product P, and transport it to the front of the imaging device L17. The operation control unit R26 sends a command to the imaging device L17 to take an image of the molded product P grasped by the manipulator L16. The operation control unit R26 sends a command to the communication means L18 to transmit the acquired shape data to the remote image display device R11 via the remote computer R2.

The remote operator RP observes the shape and dimensions of the molded product P displayed on the remote image display device R11, and if necessary, sends a command from the operation control unit R26 to the manipulator L16 to adjust the position and posture of the molded product P. If a defect is confirmed in the molded product P, the remote operator RP operates the remote controller R3 to adjust the settings of the injection molding machine 1, in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

Third Embodiment
Fig. 5A shows the overall configuration of an injection molding system 301 according to the third embodiment, and Fig. 5B shows a functional relationship diagram of the injection molding system 301 according to the third embodiment. Explanations of the same configurations and effects as those of the first embodiment will be omitted. In this embodiment, as in the second embodiment, the local operator LP is not required. In addition, this embodiment is similar to the second embodiment except that the shape data acquisition means L12 is realized by the flying object L19, and therefore explanations of the same configurations and effects as those of the second embodiment will be omitted.

The shape data acquisition means L12 is an air vehicle L19 such as a drone. The air vehicle L19 is provided in a local area LA. The air vehicle L19 is connected to a local computer L2 wirelessly or by wire. The air vehicle L19 is equipped with an imaging device L110 that photographs the molded product P to obtain shape data. The imaging device L110 has wireless communication means L111, and the imaging device L110 is connected to the local computer L2 by the communication means L111. Therefore, the communication means L111 transmits the acquired shape data to the remote image display device R11 via the local computer L2 and the data communication line N1. The imaging device L111 is preferably equipped with an imaging element such as a CCD or CMOS.

The operation control unit R26 can control the flying object L19, the imaging device L110, and the communication means 111 via the data communication line N1. When the automatic removal device 4 removes and holds the molded product P from the injection molding machine 1, the operation control unit R26 sends a command to the imaging device L110 to capture a video of the surroundings. The operation control unit R26 sends a command to the communication means L111 to transmit the captured video to the remote image display device R11 via the remote computer R2. The operation control unit R26 controls the flight of the flying object L19. The remote operator RP moves the flying object L19 to the vicinity of the molded product P while watching the video displayed on the remote image display device R11.

When the remote operator RP determines that the flying object L19 has reached a suitable photographing position, the operation control unit R26 sends a command to the imaging device L110 to photograph the molded product P. The operation control unit R26 sends a command to the communication means L111 to transmit the acquired shape data to the remote image display device R11 via the remote computer R2. The remote operator RP then adjusts the settings of the injection molding machine 1 in the same manner as in the second embodiment.

The flying object L19 does not need to be installed near the injection molding machine 1 except when it is in use, which helps to prevent cluttering around the injection molding machine 1. Furthermore, if multiple injection molding machines 1 are installed in the local area LA, the flying object L19 can be shared by these injection molding machines 1.

Fourth Embodiment
Fig. 6A shows the overall configuration of an injection molding system 401 according to the fourth embodiment, and Fig. 6B shows a functional relationship diagram of the injection molding system 401 according to the fourth embodiment. In this embodiment, like the second and third embodiments, a local operator LP is not required. Here, this embodiment will be described as a modified example of the third embodiment. Description of the same configuration and effects as those of the third embodiment will be omitted. The injection molding system 401 has a setting adjustment unit R27 that determines recommended settings for the injection molding machine 1 based on the feature quantities of the molded product P (for example, dimensions of burrs and sink marks).

The injection molding system 401 also has a remote controller operation unit R28 that operates the remote controller R3 to adjust the settings of the injection molding machine 1 based on the recommended settings determined by the setting adjustment unit R27. The remote controller operation unit R28 can be provided as a program or application of the remote computer R2, but can also be provided independently of the remote computer R2.

The setting adjustment unit R27 has a receiving means R271 that receives the characteristic quantities of the molded product P, an estimation model R272 that estimates recommended settings, and an output means R273 that outputs the recommended settings to the remote controller operation unit R28. These are provided in the remote computer R2, but the estimation model R272 may be stored in a server connected to the remote computer R2.

The estimation model R272 (trained model) is stored in the setting adjustment unit R27, and outputs recommended settings based on the features of the molded product P. That is, the estimation model R272 accepts the features of the molded product P as input, and outputs recommended settings. The features are extracted from image data captured by the imaging device L110 of the flying object L19. A dimension measuring device similar to the automatic dimension measuring device 17A of the second embodiment may be provided, and the dimension data acquired by the dimension measuring device may be used as the feature values. Alternatively, an imaging device may be provided on the arm 41 of the automatic removal device 4, and the dimension data acquired by the imaging device may be used as the feature values.

The recommended settings are sent to the remote controller operation unit R28, which automatically remotely operates the remote controller R3 based on the recommended settings. Note that the remote controller operation unit R28 may be omitted, and the remote operator RP may operate the remote controller R3, as in the first to third embodiments.

According to this embodiment, since it is not necessary for the remote operator RP to determine the settings of the injection molding machine 1, even a remote operator RP with low skill level can remotely control the injection molding machine 1. The remote operator RP can also determine the settings himself/herself by referring to the recommended settings. The remote operator RP can also be omitted. This embodiment can also be used for operator training. By undergoing appropriate machine learning, the estimation model R272 can generate a highly accurate recommended model that reflects the know-how of a skilled operator.

This embodiment can also be combined with the first or second embodiment. When combined with the first embodiment, the feature amount can be extracted, for example, from numerical data or image data acquired by the imaging device L11 of the local mounting fixture L1. When combined with the second embodiment, the feature amount can be extracted, for example, from dimensional measurement values of the automatic dimension measuring device 17A. Furthermore, when combined with the second embodiment, the local operator LP is not required, and the injection molding machine 1 can be set up and operated only by the less skilled remote operator RP.

Although several embodiments have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. For example, the remote attachment R1, the remote computer R2, and the remote controller R3 are provided in close proximity to each other in the remote area RA (e.g., in the same room), but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment.

For example, the remote mounting device R1 and the remote computer R2 may be provided in a different area from the remote controller R3, and the remote computer R2 and the remote controller R3 may be connected by a communication line. The remote controller R3 can be remotely controlled by the remote computer R2 via the communication line. For example, the remote controller R3 may be installed in an office, and the remote mounting device R1 and the remote computer R2 may be installed in the home of a remote operator RP who operates the remote controller R3. With this configuration, the remote operator RP can remotely control the settings of the injection molding machine 1 without having to go to the office.

(Additional Note) This specification includes the following disclosure.
[Configuration 1]
An injection molding machine;
A shape data acquisition means for acquiring shape data of a molded product produced by the injection molding machine;
a remote image display device connected to the shape data acquisition means via a data communication line and displaying the shape data transmitted from the shape data acquisition means via the data communication line;
a remote controller connected to the injection molding machine via a control communication line and remotely controlling the injection molding machine via the control communication line;
An injection molding system having:
[Configuration 2]
a local wearing device that is equipped with the shape data acquisition means and can be worn on a person's head,
The local attachment includes:
an imaging device for photographing the molded product to obtain the shape data;
2. The injection molding system according to claim 1, further comprising: a communication means for transmitting the acquired shape data to the remote image display device via the data communication line.
[Configuration 3]
a biometric information acquisition device that can be worn by a wearer of the local wearing device and that acquires biometric information of the wearer;
a biometric information receiving unit that receives the biometric information acquired by the biometric information acquisition device via the data communication line;
3. The injection molding system of claim 2, further comprising:
[Configuration 4]
a remote wearing tool that can be worn on a person's head and has the remote image display device;
The local attachment has a local image display device,
4. The injection molding system of configuration 2 or 3, wherein the local image display device and the remote image display device simultaneously display the shape data captured by the imaging device.
[Configuration 5]
an information adding means for generating information-added shape data by adding information to the shape data;
5. The injection molding system of configuration 4, wherein said remote image display device and said local image display device simultaneously display said information-enabled shape data.
[Configuration 6]
6. The injection molding system of embodiment 5, wherein the information comprises text information.
[Configuration 7]
7. The injection molding system of claim 5 or 6, wherein the information includes graphical information for identifying a portion of the molded part.
[Configuration 8]
8. The injection molding system of any one of configurations 4 to 7, wherein the local mounting fixture and the remote mounting fixture each have a voice communication device.
[Configuration 9]
The injection molding machine includes:
A safety mechanism to prevent people from approaching;
a detection means for detecting an operation to release the safety mechanism while the injection molding machine is in operation;
an emergency stop means for stopping operation of the injection molding machine when the release operation is detected by the detection means;
9. The injection molding system of any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising:
[Configuration 10]
The injection molding machine includes:
A safety mechanism to prevent people from approaching;
a blocking means for blocking the release operation of the safety mechanism during operation of the injection molding machine;
9. The injection molding system of any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising:
[Configuration 11]
an operation control unit connected to the shape data acquisition means via the data communication line;
The shape data acquisition means
a manipulator capable of gripping the molded product removed from the injection molding machine and changing the posture of the molded product;
an imaging device for photographing the removed molded product to obtain the shape data;
The injection molding system according to configuration 1, wherein the imaging device includes a communication means for transmitting the acquired shape data to the remote image display device via the data communication line, and the operation control unit is capable of controlling the manipulator, the imaging device, and the communication means via the data communication line.
[Configuration 12]
an operation control unit connected to the shape data acquisition means via the data communication line;
and an aircraft equipped with the shape data acquisition means,
the shape data acquisition means includes an imaging device that photographs the molded product to acquire the shape data, the imaging device includes a communication means that transmits the acquired shape data to the remote image display device via the data communication line,
2. The injection molding system according to claim 1, wherein the operation control unit is capable of controlling the flying object, the imaging device, and the communication means via the data communication line.
[Configuration 13]
a setting adjustment unit that determines recommended settings for the injection molding machine based on the shape data;
a remote controller operation unit that operates the remote controller so as to adjust the settings of the injection molding machine based on the recommended settings obtained by the setting adjustment unit;
13. The injection molding system of any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising:
[Configuration 14]
The setting adjustment unit is
A receiving means for receiving a feature amount;
an estimation model that estimates the recommended settings from the feature amount;
an output means for outputting the recommended settings to the remote controller operation unit;
14. The injection molding system of claim 13, further comprising:
[Configuration 15]
a sound collecting means for collecting sounds generated from the injection molding machine;
a speaker that outputs the sound acquired by the sound collecting means via the data communication line;
15. The injection molding system of any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising:
[Configuration 16]
A shape information storage unit that stores three-dimensional design shape information of the molded product;
a difference extractor connected to the shape data acquisition means via the data communication line and configured to extract a difference between the shape data acquired by the shape data acquisition means and the design shape information;
16. The injection molding system of any one of claims 1 to 15, comprising:
[Configuration 17]
17. The injection molding system of any one of configurations 1 to 16, wherein the remote controller is installed in the vicinity of the remote image display device.
[Method 1]
A method for remotely controlling an injection molding machine, comprising the steps of:
(a) acquiring shape data of a molded product produced by an injection molding machine using a shape data acquiring means, and transmitting the shape data to a remote image display device via a data communication line;
(b) displaying the shape data transmitted from the shape data acquisition means on the remote image display device; and (c) remotely controlling the injection molding machine by a remote controller connected to the injection molding machine via a control communication line.

LIST OF SYMBOLS 1 Injection molding machine 5 Safety mechanism 54 Detection means 55 Emergency stop means 56 Prevention means 101, 201, 301, 401 Injection molding system L1 Local attachment L3 Biometric information acquisition device L4 Sound collection means L11, L17, L110 Imaging device L12 Shape data acquisition means L13, L18, L111 Communication means L14 Local image display device L15 Voice communication device L16 Manipulator L19 Aircraft N1 Data communication line N2 Control communication line R1 Remote attachment R3 Remote controller R11 Remote image display device R13 Speaker R22 Information addition means R23 Biometric information reception unit R24 Shape information storage unit R25 Difference extractor R26 Operation control unit R27 Setting adjustment unit R271 Reception means R272 Estimation model R273 Output means R28 Remote controller operation unit

Claims (18)

An injection molding machine;
A shape data acquisition means for acquiring shape data of a molded product produced by the injection molding machine;
a remote image display device connected to the shape data acquisition means via a data communication line and displaying the shape data transmitted from the shape data acquisition means via the data communication line;
a remote controller connected to the injection molding machine via a control communication line and remotely controlling the injection molding machine via the control communication line;
An injection molding system comprising: a local wearing device that is equipped with the shape data acquisition means and can be worn on a person's head,
The local attachment includes:
an imaging device that photographs the molded product to obtain the shape data;
2. The injection molding system according to claim 1, further comprising: a communication means for transmitting the acquired shape data to the remote image display device via the data communication line. a biometric information acquisition device that can be worn by a wearer of the local wearing device and that acquires biometric information of the wearer;
a biometric information receiving unit that receives the biometric information acquired by the biometric information acquisition device via the data communication line;
3. The injection molding system of claim 2, comprising: a remote wearing tool that can be worn on a person's head and has the remote image display device;
The local attachment has a local image display device,
The injection molding system of claim 2 , wherein the local image display and the remote image display simultaneously display the shape data captured by the imaging device. an information adding means for generating information-added shape data by adding information to the shape data;
5. The injection molding system of claim 4, wherein said remote visual display and said local visual display simultaneously display said informative shape data. The injection molding system of claim 5, wherein the information includes text information. The injection molding system of claim 5, wherein the information includes graphical information for identifying a portion of the molded product. The injection molding system of claim 4, wherein the local mounting fixture and the remote mounting fixture each have a voice communication device. The injection molding machine includes:
A safety mechanism to prevent people from approaching;
a detection means for detecting an operation to release the safety mechanism while the injection molding machine is in operation;
an emergency stop means for stopping operation of the injection molding machine when the release operation is detected by the detection means;
9. The injection molding system according to claim 1 , further comprising: The injection molding machine includes:
A safety mechanism to prevent people from approaching;
a blocking means for blocking the release operation of the safety mechanism during operation of the injection molding machine;
9. The injection molding system according to claim 1 , further comprising: an operation control unit connected to the shape data acquisition means via the data communication line;
The shape data acquisition means
a manipulator capable of gripping the molded product removed from the injection molding machine and changing the posture of the molded product;
an imaging device that photographs the removed molded product to obtain the shape data;
2. The injection molding system according to claim 1, wherein the imaging device includes a communication means for transmitting the acquired shape data to the remote image display device via the data communication line, and the operation control unit is capable of controlling the manipulator, the imaging device, and the communication means via the data communication line. an operation control unit connected to the shape data acquisition means via the data communication line;
and an aircraft equipped with the shape data acquisition means,
the shape data acquisition means includes an imaging device that captures an image of the molded product to acquire the shape data, the imaging device includes a communication means that transmits the acquired shape data to the remote image display device via the data communication line,
The injection molding system according to claim 1 , wherein the operation control unit is capable of controlling the flying object, the imaging device, and the communication means via the data communication line. a setting adjustment unit that determines recommended settings for the injection molding machine based on the shape data;
a remote controller operation unit that operates the remote controller so as to adjust the settings of the injection molding machine based on the recommended settings obtained by the setting adjustment unit;
9. The injection molding system according to claim 1 , further comprising: The setting adjustment unit is
A receiving means for receiving a feature amount;
an estimation model that estimates the recommended settings from the feature amount;
an output means for outputting the recommended settings to the remote controller operation unit;
14. The injection molding system of claim 13, comprising: a sound collecting means for collecting sounds generated from the injection molding machine;
a speaker that outputs the sound acquired by the sound collecting means via the data communication line;
9. The injection molding system according to claim 1 , further comprising: A shape information storage unit that stores three-dimensional design shape information of the molded product;
a difference extractor connected to the shape data acquisition means via the data communication line and configured to extract a difference between the shape data acquired by the shape data acquisition means and the design shape information;
9. The injection molding system according to claim 1 , further comprising: The injection molding system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the remote controller is installed near the remote image display device. A method for remotely controlling an injection molding machine, comprising the steps of:
(a) acquiring shape data of a molded product produced by an injection molding machine using a shape data acquiring means, and transmitting the shape data to a remote image display device via a data communication line;
(b) displaying the shape data transmitted from the shape data acquisition means on the remote image display device; and (c) remotely controlling the injection molding machine by a remote controller connected to the injection molding machine via a control communication line.

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