JPH0584631A - Numerical controller and cell controller - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To input or output tool data while confirming tools to be mounted on machine actually by using, for example, personal computer. CONSTITUTION:A down load means 102 and an up load means 103 of numerical controller exchange data between a tool data master 101 in which all tool data in factory is stored and a tool data current 104 which is the tool data storage section of the numerical controller. A format conversion means converts data format of the tool data master 101 and the tool data current 104 mutually, and a tool data control means 12 reads and writes data into the tool data current 104. Consequently, it is possible to batch-control all tool data of all the tools to be mounted on the numerical control machine tool in factory at low cost.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a numerical controller and a cell controller, and more particularly to a numerical controller for controlling an NC machine tool having a plurality of tool mounting parts and at least one NC machine tool ( For example, the present invention relates to a cell controller that centrally manages mounting tools of a machining center.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art (1) FIG. 34 is a block connection diagram showing a conventional numerical control apparatus. In the figure, 31 executes a control program stored in a memory 32 to perform logical processing of the entire system. A central processing unit (hereinafter referred to as CPU) 33 is an input / output device for inputting / outputting data of a recording medium such as a paper tape, 34 is an operation panel having a key switch for inputting data or giving a command to a system,
35 is a display, 36 is a servo control circuit for moving the table of the machine tool, 37 is a high-voltage circuit on the machine side and C
It is a contact input / output interface for connecting to a control system circuit centered on the PU 31.

Next, the operation will be described. First, in the numerical control operation of the machine tool, data related to the tool is input by the key switch on the operation panel 34 in addition to the machining program. For example, it is a tool radius correction amount, a tool length correction amount, a tool life time, and the like. With these, CPU3
By the data processing according to No. 1, the tool locus is determined from the machining program and the interference check is performed.

(2) FIG. 35 is disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 1-289648.
It is a principle diagram of the conventional tool information management apparatus 30 shown by the publication. The machine tools 11-1 to 11-n have a plurality of tool attachment parts, and hold tool data relating to the tools attached to the tool attachment parts, such as a tool offset value and a tool usage time, and appropriately update the tool information management means 12. It is equipped with.

The tool information management device 30 includes each machine tool 1
It is provided with an all-tool information storage area 21 that stores all tool data relating to the tools attached to 1-1 to 11-n, and further uploads the tool data held by the machine tools 11-1 to 11-n. The upload means 22 for storing in the all tool information storage area 21 and the tool data stored in the all tool information storage area 21 are machine tools 11-1 to 11-1.
The download means 23 for downloading to 1-n and the all tool information management means 24 for deleting, adding and outputting a part of the information in the all tool information storage area 21 based on the operation of the operator are provided.

FIG. 36 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of a system including a plurality of machining centers to which the conventional tool information management device shown in the publication is applied. Although four machining centers are shown in this drawing, the same applies to less or more than this.

The host computer 91, the cell controller 92, and the machining centers 93-1 to 93-4 are independent computers (in the case of a machining center, that is, a numerical controller) equipped with an input device and a display device which can be operated by an operator. ing. The cell controller 92 monitors the processing status of the machining centers 93-1 to 93-4, and totalizes the processing results. The host computer 91 is located above the cell controller 92, and is responsible for overall factory management including automatic warehouse management.
Each of the machining centers 93-1 to 93-4 can have several hundreds of tools in a magazine at one time, and when a machining program is executed, every time a tool switching instruction in the machining program is executed. Continue processing while exchanging tools. The tool presetter 13 is an apparatus for measuring the diameter and length of a newly purchased or produced tool or a tool regenerated by exchanging the blade for the end of its life. The measurement result is sent to the cell controller 92 via a communication line. Sent.

The tool information management device 30 of FIG. 35 is realized by the hardware and software of the cell controller 92. The entire tool information storage area 21 in the tool information management device 30 is realized by a tool data area provided in a partial area of the memory included in the cell controller 92. Table 1 explains the structure of an example of the tool data area.

[Table 1] In the above table, I is an index showing the number given to each MC, and J is an index given to the tool held in each MC. Therefore, the array T_NUM (I, J) representing the tool number is the integer type data of the number of (the number of MCs) × (the maximum value of the number of mounted tools per machine), and the MC numbers are the I and J values. An array that can be stored accordingly.

Similarly, POT (I, J) is an array capable of storing the same number of integer type pot numbers according to the values of I, J. However, if J is a tool number or pot number, that is, if each data is arranged in the order of tool number or pot number, T_NUM
The area of (I, J) or POT (I, J) becomes unnecessary. The tool length LENGTH (I, J) is an array in which the data of the tool length of each tool held by each MC is stored according to the values of I, J, and the tool radius RADIUS (I, J) is for each MC.
Is an array in which the data of the tool diameter of each tool held by is stored according to the values of I and J. Tool length and tool diameter are, for example,
The data was measured by the tool presetter 13 when the tool was newly purchased or produced, or when the tool was used for a long time and was regenerated by changing the blade, and the tool was exchanged at the MC. It is data that is the basis for correcting the tool position at times. Tool life time T
L_SET (I, J) is an array in which the preset usable time of each tool held by each MC is stored according to the values of I and J, and the tool use time TL_TIM
(I, J) is an array in which the total time used for each tool held by each MC is stored according to the values of I, J. Therefore, the tool usage time TL_TIM (I,
If J) T exceeds TL_SET (I, J), then the tool has exceeded its life. The aforementioned tool length and tool diameter are referred to as offset data, and the tool life time and tool usage time are referred to as tool life data.
Although they are individually processed in C, they are collectively handled in the tool information management device 30.

(3) FIG. 37 is a schematic view of Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 62-38908.
6 is a flowchart showing an example of a conventional numerical control device for drawing a conventional tool shape disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. The entire processing routine is called every time one data of the tool data input is made. The data is set by pressing the numeric key and the sign key or the decimal point key corresponding to the value and then pressing the setting key, and this routine is started. In the figure, step 51 is a key input processing routine for converting the data string of the input key code into an actual numerical value and checking whether the numerical value is normal, and step 52 is
Reference numeral 53 is a routine for deciding and storing a position on the tool data file to which the data should be entered, and 53 is a routine for making a picture of the tool.

FIG. 38 is a flow chart showing the details of the above-mentioned routine 53. First, a figure forming process is performed by activating a figure forming routine (step 61). In this graphic processing, tool data analysis processing is executed (step 62), and graphic file creation processing is performed. Subsequently, graphic display processing is performed (step 64). In this graphic display processing, processing for setting the graphic display position is performed (step 65),
Drawing processing is performed subsequent to this setting processing (step 6).
6). In addition, 111 is a tool data file provided on the memory, 112 is the same figure file, and 113 is an area in which processing parameters for determining the specifications of other pictures are stored, which are keyed separately.

(4) FIG. 39 is shown in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 58-11484.
It is a specific example of the conventional tool life management display shown in Japanese Patent No. 2 publication. On the display screen, a tool number, a cutting use time of the tool (that is, a measurement of the cutting feed execution time when the tool of the number is selected), and a life time of the tool are displayed. Further, the display colors of these information are distinguished from green, yellow, and red as shown in the figure, and the cumulative use time of green is 90% or less of the life time, and can be sufficiently used for cutting. Yellow indicates that the usage time has exceeded 90% of the life time, and prompts the operator to prepare a spare tool. The red color indicates that the cumulative usage time has exceeded the life time, and the operator is warned that the spare tool should be replaced immediately.

(5) FIG. 40 is a principle diagram of a conventional cell controller 901. Tool management in the cell controller 901 is as follows. The same machining program 642 executed in each NC machine tool is managed by the machining program managing means 612, the T number 643 in the machining program 642 is searched by the T command searching means 613, and the output means 619 is used. Notify the operator. Further, the tool number information 6 is input by the key input means 633.
44 is input, this tool number information 644 is managed by the tool number management means 615, and the operator is notified by the output means 619. Further, the mounting tool information 640 is input by the key input means 633, managed by the magazine information management means 611, and notified to the operator by the output means 619.

[0014]

(1) In the conventional numerical control device configured as in the above-mentioned conventional technique (2), all tool data is processed by a computer above the numerical control device called a cell controller. However, there is a problem in that it costs a lot to install. Generally, the cell controller and the NC machine tool are installed at some distance from each other and the tool data is downloaded or uploaded to the numerical control device by the operation of the cell controller. Therefore, the tool actually mounted on the machine can be checked while checking the tool. I was unable to download / upload data.

(2) In the conventional numerical control device configured as in the above-mentioned conventional technique (1), setup data created by a personal computer or a CAD / CAM device or Data such as machining drawings and work instructions could not be registered and displayed on the numerical control device via a storage medium such as a floppy disk. Therefore, such information is generally input to the numerical controller by the operator's hand by a document called a setup sheet, for example. However, such a method has a problem in that it is wasteful in time, information is not accurately transmitted because it is obtained, and it is not possible to instruct the processing step in a document in a timely manner.

(3) In the conventional numerical control device configured as the above-mentioned conventional technique (3), since the tool figure is generated by calculation, some parameters must be given in advance, and Since the figure is composed of straight lines and arcs, there is a problem in that the tool shape cannot be expressed realistically.

(4) In the conventional numerical control device configured as in the above-mentioned conventional technique (4), since the tool usage time exceeds 90% of the tool life time, it is color-coded.
For example, machining for a very long time puts a heavy load on the tool, and even if it is less than 90% and the tool needs to be changed, the value of 90% cannot be changed, and the yellow warning display does not mean much. There were problems such as not trying. Also,
There is also a problem that it is difficult to visually confirm how long the usage time has reached the life time.

(5) The conventional cell controller configured as the above-mentioned conventional technique (5) has a function of automatically informing the operator of the installed tool.
It does not have a function to automatically notify the operator of necessary tools that have not been installed. Therefore, before the NC machine tool processes according to the machining program 642, the operator needs to confirm whether or not the NC machine tool is equipped with a tool necessary for machining. That is, the operator searches for the tool number corresponding to the T number 643 output by the output means 619 from the tool number information 644 output by the output means 619, and from the mounting tool information 640 output by the output means 619. It is necessary to find the magazine number and pot number in which the tool number is set, and visually confirm whether or not there is a tool in the pot of the corresponding magazine. However, such confirmation is time-consuming and error-prone.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and (1) relates to a tool for an NC machine tool of the entire factory without using a controller which is a higher order of a numerical controller such as a cell controller. Information can be collectively managed and tool data can be easily input by the operator's operation of the numerical control device. (2) Without using documents such as setup sheets, it is easy to process through a storage medium such as a floppy disk and in the machining process. On the other hand, the tool data can be input in a timely manner. (3) The tool figure can be displayed on the screen at the time of setup without giving parameters for creating the figure, etc. (4 ) The operator can specify the time to notify the operator of the replacement of the spare tool in the tool usage time. In addition, visually easy to check whether the tool usage time has become to what extent relative to the tool life time,
Another object of the present invention is to obtain a numerical control device capable of notifying the operator of the tool replacement time with the highest machining efficiency by displaying the scheduled tool usage time.

(5) A tool number which is required when each NC machine tool is machined by a machining program and is not mounted in a magazine is automatically and automatically processed before machining.
The purpose is to obtain a cell controller that can inform the operator.

[0021]

A numerical control device according to a first aspect of the present invention is an information processing device having a storage means for storing programs and data, a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing and the like. It is equipped with an operation panel that has key switches for inputting / outputting data or commands to the input / output device and system, and is also a communication line with all tool data storage device that stores all tool data mounted on multiple NC machine tools. A connected numerical control device,
A tool data storage unit that stores tool data relating to tools installed in the tool installation site of an NC machine tool having a plurality of tool installation sites, and tool data of tools installed in the NC machine tool Uploading means for uploading from a storage device and storing it in the tool data storage unit, downloading means for downloading tool data stored in the tool data storage unit to the entire tool data storage unit, and uploading and downloading tool data. At this time, a tool data format that can be managed by the numerical control device and a tool data format that can be managed by a personal computer or the like are exchanged.

A numerical controller according to a second aspect of the present invention includes an information processing device having a storage means for storing programs and data, a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing, a data input / output device and a system. A numerical control device having an operation panel having a key switch for inputting data or giving a command, and displaying tool data relating to a tool attached to a tool mounting portion of an NC machine tool having a plurality of tool mounting portions. A tool data storage unit for storing, an external storage medium input / output unit for exchanging data with the external storage medium, a format storage unit for storing several types of format formats of the external storage medium, and among these formats Format selection means for the operator to select the format, tools in the external storage medium and the numerical controller Those having a format exchange means to enable reading and writing to replace the format over data to each other.

A numerical controller according to a third aspect of the present invention includes an information processing device having a storage means for storing programs and data, a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing, a data input / output device and a system. A numerical control device having an operation panel having a key switch for inputting data or giving a command, and displaying tool data relating to a tool attached to a tool mounting portion of an NC machine tool having a plurality of tool mounting portions. A tool data storage unit for storing, an external storage medium input / output unit for exchanging data with an external storage medium, a tool image file for storing the shape of the tool as image data, and a tool to be mounted on the tool mounting portion. Tool image display processing means for displaying the above image on the display.

A numerical controller according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is an information processing apparatus having a storage means for storing programs and data, a data input or a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing, and the like. Numerical control device having an operation panel having a key switch for giving a command, and having a plurality of tool mounting parts
A tool data storage unit for storing tool data relating to a tool mounted on the tool mounting portion of a machine tool, and means for displaying the ratio of the tool usage time and the previously registered tool life time on the display. Is.

A numerical controller according to a fifth aspect of the present invention includes an information processing device having a storage means for storing programs and data, a data input or a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing, and the like. Numerical control device having an operation panel having a key switch for giving a command, and having a plurality of tool mounting parts
A tool data storage unit for storing tool data relating to a tool mounted on the tool mounting portion of a machine tool, and means for displaying in advance the scheduled tool use time and tool life time on the display. ..

A cell controller according to a sixth aspect of the present invention has communication means for communicating with a host computer and mounting tool information managing means for managing mounting tool information of a magazine for setting a plurality of tools having identification codes. NC that executes machining programs by sequentially taking out and replacing tools by executing machining programs
In a cell controller that controls at least one machine tool, a communication unit that receives mounting tool information from an NC machine tool, a magazine information management unit that manages the received mounting tool information, and a T command in a machining program are searched. Corresponding to the extracted T number, the T command retrieval means for extracting the T number, the information input means for inputting the correspondence information between the T number and the actual tool number, the tool number management means for managing the correspondence information. A tool number corresponding means for extracting an actual tool number, a tool number comparison means for comparing the extracted tool number and the mounted tool number in the mounted tool information to obtain an unmounted tool number, and an operator for the unmounted tool number Screen output means for informing the user.

The cell controller according to the seventh aspect of the present invention is a tool life managing means for managing life information of a plurality of tools with communication means for communicating with a host computer and identification codes, and mounting a magazine in which these tools are set. In a cell controller for controlling at least one NC machine tool that has a mounted tool management unit that manages tool information and sequentially takes out and replaces tools by executing a machining program, the cell controller that controls the mounted tool information from the NC machine tool And a communication means for receiving tool life information, a magazine information management means for managing the received mounting tool information, a tool information management means for managing the received tool life information, a machining program is analyzed, and a T number is taken out. Enter the tool usage prediction value calculation means for calculating the tool usage prediction value, and the correspondence information between the T number and the actual tool number. Information input means, tool number management means for managing the correspondence information, tool number correspondence means for fetching an actual tool number corresponding to the fetched T number, the fetched tool number and the mounted tool information A tool number comparing means for comparing mounted tool numbers to obtain a mounted tool, and a life value comparing means for comparing the tool life information of the mounted tool with the predicted use value to obtain a tool number that will be the life during machining. , And a screen output means for notifying the operator of the obtained tool number.

[0028]

In the numerical controller according to the first aspect of the present invention, the tool data master stores all tool data of all tools attached to all NC machine tools in the factory. The upload means stores the tool data stored in the tool data master through the communication line in the tool data current provided in the numerical controller by using the tool data management means. The download means reads the tool data stored in the tool data current provided in the numerical controller using the tool data management means and downloads it to the tool data master through the communication line. The format conversion means mutually converts the data format of the tool data current, which is in the format that can be managed in the numerical controller, and the data format of the tool data master, which is in the format that can be managed by the personal computer or the CAD / CAM device.

In the numerical controller according to the second aspect of the present invention, the external storage medium input / output unit inputs / outputs tool data between the external storage medium such as a floppy disk or an IC card and the numerical control device. The format storage unit stores several formats of the external storage medium, such as a disk capacity, the number of tracks, and the sector size in the case of a floppy disk, and the operator selects the format of the external storage medium to be input / output. The format conversion unit mutually converts the format of the tool data in the external storage medium and the format of the tool data in the numerical control device based on the information such as the arrangement of data and the data size.

In the numerical controller according to the third aspect of the invention, the external storage medium input / output unit reads the tool image data from the external storage medium such as a floppy disk or an IC card into the memory of the numerical controller. The tool image display processing means displays the read tool image data in a predetermined area on the display.

In the numerical controller according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the ratio of the tool usage time to the tool life time is calculated, and the graph color, pattern, etc. are changed according to the result and displayed on the screen. Also displays the life time.

In the numerical controller according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the planned tool use time and the tool life time, which have been input to the numerical controller by the operator in advance, are graphed and displayed side by side on the display device.

In the cell controller according to the sixth invention,
The communication means receives mounting tool information from the NC machine tool. The magazine information management means manages the received mounting tool information. The T command retrieval means retrieves the T command in the machining program and extracts the T number. Information input means
Input the correspondence information between the T number and the actual tool number. The tool number management means manages the correspondence information. The tool number corresponding means takes out the actual tool number corresponding to the taken out T number. The tool number comparison means compares the extracted tool number with the mounted tool number in the mounted tool information to obtain an unmounted tool number. The screen output means notifies the operator of the unimplemented tool number. Therefore, when machining with the machining program, it is possible to automatically notify the operator in advance of the tool numbers that are not mounted among the necessary tools.

In the cell controller according to the seventh invention,
The communication means receives the mounted tool information and the tool life information from the NC machine tool. The magazine information management means manages the received mounting tool information. The tool information management means manages the received tool life information. The tool usage predicted value calculating means analyzes the machining program, extracts the T number, and calculates the predicted usage value of the tool with the T number. The information input means inputs the correspondence information between the T number and the actual tool number. The tool number management means manages the correspondence information.
The tool corresponding means takes out an actual tool number corresponding to the taken out T number. The tool number comparison means compares the tool number and the mounting tool number in the mounting tool information,
Ask for mounting tools. The service life comparison means compares the tool service life information with the predicted use value for the mounted tool, and obtains a tool number that will be service life during machining. The screen output means
The operator is informed of the obtained tool number. Therefore,
When machining with a machining program, it is possible to automatically notify the operator in advance of the tool numbers of the necessary tools, which will end their lives during machining even if they are mounted.

[0035]

The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings. In addition, 1st Example-5th shown below.
The embodiment is realized by using a control system having the same configuration as the control system shown in FIG. Further, in the embodiments described below, tool diameter, tool length offset data, tool life time, and tool usage time life data are collectively referred to as tool data. First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram including a numerical control device and an all tool information storage device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
It should be noted that although three numerical control devices are shown in this figure, the same applies to less than this and more. In the figure, 1
Reference numeral 01 denotes an all-tool data storage device (hereinafter, referred to as a tool data master), which stores all tool data of all tools attached to all NC machine tools in the factory. 1a
1c are numerical control devices. The numerical controller 1 includes a tool data storage unit (hereinafter referred to as a tool data current) 104 that is a storage unit that stores tool data, a download unit 102 that downloads tool data from the tool data current to the tool data master 101, The uploading means 103 for uploading the tool data from the tool data master 101 to the tool data current, the downloading means 102, and the writing to or reading from the tool data current according to a request from the uploading means 103, or the operation panel 34 (FIG. 34) by the operator. A tool data management unit 12 that corrects the tool data of the tool data current in response to an operation or a command from the CPU 31 (FIG. 34), and performs a mutual conversion between the data format of the tool data current and the data format of the tool data master. Having Matto conversion unit 107. It should be noted that the tool data current 104 is a storage unit that stores data relating to tools mounted on a plurality of tool mounting portions of an NC machine tool (not shown).

FIG. 2 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of a system including a combination of a plurality of the numerical control devices. The personal computer 106 is connected to the tool data master 101, controls communication with the numerical controller 1, stores tool data in the tool data master 101, deletes, adds, corrects, and outputs the stored tool data to a printing device. Is to control. The tool data master 101 and the numerical control devices 1a to 1c are connected by a communication line 105. In the structure of the tool data stored in the tool data master 101, the arrangement of the tool data, the data size, etc. generally differ depending on the application software of the personal computer and the CAD / CAM device.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of a software program which is stored in the memory 32 in the numerical controller 1 and is executed by the CPU 31 in order to realize the format conversion means 107. In this example, only a personal computer is explained, but CAD
The same applies to the / CAM device. This process is started when the tool data upload process or download process is selected by the operator operating the operation panel 34. First, the operator inputs information regarding the format of the tool data of the personal computer by operating the operation panel 34 (step 31).
0). The information regarding the format is the arrangement of data types such as the tool number and the tool length shown in Table 1 of the related art (2), and the size of the data.

To input these information, for example, in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5, the arrangement of data such as tool numbers and pot numbers and the data size can be input on the display 35 of the numerical controller 1 by operating the operation panel 34. Next, the operator operates the operation panel 34 to input whether to download or upload the tool data (step 311). When download is selected, the process proceeds to step 312 and thereafter. The tool data is read from the tool data current 104, the data is rearranged based on the information input in step 310,
The size is changed (step 312) and temporarily stored in the memory 32. (Step 313). When this data is downloaded, it will be deleted sequentially. Next, the download means is called (step 314), and the process ends. When upload is selected in step 311, the process proceeds to step 315 and thereafter. First, the upload means is called, and the tool data of the personal computer uploaded in the processing of the upload means is temporarily stored in the memory 32 (step 315). Next, the data is called, converted into the arrangement and size of the data for the numerical control device based on the information about the format input in step 310 (step 316) and stored in the tool data current 104 (step 318). The data temporarily stored in the memory 32 is converted and stored in the tool data current 104, and then sequentially erased.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing an example of a software program for realizing the upload means 103. First, in order to check whether the communication line 105 is available, the personal computer 10
A communication request is issued to 6 (step 300). When the communication is not possible, for example, a message “communication error” is displayed on the display 35 (FIG. 34) and the process ends. When the communication is possible, the operator inputs the tool number from the operation panel 34 (step 301). Next, the operator inputs from the operation panel 34 whether it is tool offset data or tool life data (step 3).
02). This is because the numerical control device 1 separately manages the offset data and the tool life data as described in the related art (2), and the format of the data for input / output is also different. Next, steps 301 and 302
The tool data is received from the tool data master by transmitting the data input in step 3 to the personal computer 106 (step 303) and temporarily stored in the memory 32 (step 304).

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing an example of a software program for realizing the download means 102. First, a communication request is issued to the personal computer 106 to check whether the communication line 105 is available (step 401). When the communication is not possible, for example, a message “communication error” is displayed on the display 35 (FIG. 34) and the process ends. If communication is possible, the operator inputs a tool number from the operation panel 34 (step 40).
2). Next, the operator inputs from the operation panel 34 whether the data is tool offset data or tool life data (step 403). Next, by transmitting the data input in steps 402 and 403 to the personal computer 106, the tool data temporarily stored in the memory 32 is transmitted to the tool data master (step 40).
4). Further, if there is data to be transmitted, step 4
02 and subsequent processes are repeated.

The personal computer shown in FIG. 2 is generally commercially available and can be easily obtained at low cost. Further, since the display device and the keyboard are provided, tool data can be displayed and modified interactively, and a communication software program can be easily created or purchased.

-Second Embodiment- FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a numerical controller according to a second embodiment of the present invention. This figure has the same configuration as that of FIG. 34, but an external storage medium input / output unit 38 for exchanging data with an external storage medium such as a floppy disk in the data I / O 33, and an external storage medium in the memory 32. Format storage section 39 for storing several types of format formats, format selection means 40 for the operator to select a format from these formats, and the numerical control device to manage the format of the tool data read from the floppy disk. A format conversion means 41 for converting the format and a tool data storage unit 42 for storing the format-converted tool data are provided.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of this embodiment. This process is stored in the memory 32 and is CP
It is executed by U31. In the following description, a case where a floppy disk is used as the external storage medium will be described, but the same applies to the case where another medium is used. Personal computer or C not shown by operator
The floppy disk in which the tool data created by the AD / CAM device is registered is inserted into the floppy disk drive device (not shown) of the numerical controller 1 (step 80).
1) When the floppy disk read or write process is selected by operating the operation panel 34 (step 802), the process proceeds to step 803. Step 803
Then, the format of the floppy disk and the format of the tool data in the floppy disk are defined, and the tool data format is converted in step 804.
The data is read and written, and the floppy disk is finally taken out (step 805), and the process ends.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart of a software program for realizing the format selecting means 40 called in step 803 of FIG. First, data regarding the floppy disk format such as the number of tracks of the floppy disk, the number of sectors in the track, and the sector size is read from the floppy disk input unit 38 (step 901). Next, from the data, the format of the floppy disk is stored in the format storage unit 3
It is checked whether or not it matches the format stored in No. 9 (step 902), and if it does not match, a message such as "Read / Write not possible" is displayed on the display 35 and the process ends (step 902). 9
03). If they match, a format format that matches the format is selected in the format storage unit 39 by the format number (Table 2) or the like (step 90).
4). Next, the information about the format of the tool data in the floppy disk, that is, the data arrangement, the data size, etc., inputted by the operator's operation of the operation panel 34 is stored in the memory 32 (step 90).
5). If this information can be stored in advance on a floppy disk, the information will be read. In the following, the numerical control device 1 uses the floppy disk in step 9
The input / output process for the floppy disk is performed assuming that the format is selected in 04.

Table 2 describes the structure of an example of the format storage unit.

[Table 2] In the table, serial numbers are attached to the respective formats, and data regarding the formats such as the number of tracks is stored.
Registration, change, addition, etc. in the format storage unit shall be performed when the system software of the numerical control device is created.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an example of the format conversion means 41 called in step 804 of FIG. First, in step 811, the operator's operation panel 34 determines whether to write data to the floppy disk or read data from the floppy disk.
Determined by the operation. In the case of writing, the tool data is read from the tool data storage unit, the format is converted for the floppy disk based on the information input in step 905 of FIG. 9 (step 812), and the data is written in the floppy disk. When reading, the tool data is read from the floppy disk and step 9 in FIG.
The format of the tool data read for the numerical control device is converted based on the information input in step 05 (step 81).
4), writing to the tool data storage unit 42 (step 81)
5). Generally, at the time of machining setup, these processes are started in order to read the tool data and the like required for the machining to be performed from the floppy disk and write the updated tool use time and the like to the floppy disk at the end of the machining.

-Third Embodiment- FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the operation of the numerical controller according to the third embodiment of the present invention. This entire process is started each time the tool image display process is started by the operator operating the operation panel 34. In the figure, step 911 determines whether or not the tool image display is valid based on the parameters set in advance by the operator or the maker. If it is invalid, this process ends. In step 912, the tool number of the tool to be displayed is displayed on the operation panel 34 of the operator.
Or read from the T command of the machining program. In the present invention, the latter is used during the operation of the machining program, and the former is used when the machining program is not operating, that is, the setup is performed.
In step 913, the tool image display area on the display is erased. As a result, if the tool image has been displayed by then, that image is erased, and the area for displaying the next image is freed. In step 914, the tool image data corresponding to the tool number read in step 912 is read from the tool image file 915 and displayed in the area vacated in step 913. The tool image data is read by an image scanner on a paper surface clearly showing the tool shape such as a photograph of the tool, a tool drawing, a floppy disk,
It is stored as image data in an external storage medium such as an IC card. If the memory 32 has a free area for storing image data, the external storage medium input / output unit 38 of the data input / output device 33 transfers the memory 3 from the external storage medium.
2 may be read in advance. The tool image can be displayed only on the screen determined when the system software of the numerical controller 1 was designed. In addition, the entire processing is started even during the machining program operation. The tool number of the tool image to be displayed is determined based on the T command inserted in the machining program, and the processing from step 911 to step 914 is executed. This process is activated each time a T command appears in the machining program.

FIG. 12 shows a screen display example of the tool image.
In the figure, 35 is a display device (display) such as a CRT, 920 is a displayed tool image, and 921 is a tool image display area. In the present embodiment, a tool image with a tool number is displayed together with a list of tool data.

[Fourth Embodiment] FIG. 13 shows a display example by the numerical controller according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, on the display 35, the tool number and the tool usage time condition, that is, the ratio of the previously registered life time and usage time of the tool are displayed as a graph and numerical values. Here, the tool life management time is set to 100% and the tool usage time is graphed. Further, these graphs are displayed in different colors or patterns depending on the degree of usage time as shown in the figure. This is, for example, to inform the operator in an easy-to-understand manner whether or not the tool life is approaching, by comparing the values of the parameters indicating the tool replacement timing, which are input in advance by the operator's operation of the operation panel 34.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart of a software program stored in the memory 32 in the numerical controller 1 for displaying the screen and executed by the CPU 31. This process is started when the tool use time status screen is selected by the operator operating the operation panel 34. First, T = tool use time / tool life time is calculated from the tool use time and the tool life time stored in the memory 32 (step 1001). The calculation result is stored in a calculation area (not shown) provided in the memory 32. Next, the tool life warning time parameter P (0 <P <is input in advance by the operator operating the operation panel 34.
100%) and T stored in the calculation area are compared (step 1002), and T <P, P ≦ T <100%, T
It is divided into three cases of ≧ 100%, and for example, the colors of the graph are sequentially designated as green, yellow, and red (steps 1003, 10).
04, 1005). The designated result is stored in the display data area (not shown) provided in the memory 32. Finally,
A graph creation process is performed based on these data (step 1006), and this process ends.

-Fifth Embodiment- FIG. 15 shows a display example by the numerical controller according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, on the display 35, a tool number is displayed at the left end, a tool life time corresponding to the tool number is displayed at the right end thereof, and a graph of the expected tool use time in the machining to be performed by the tool and the time are displayed vertically. I am doing it. Tool numbers # 1 to # 3 in the figure indicate that the planned tool usage time is within the tool life time, and # 4 has the same planned tool usage time and tool life time. It is safer to replace it. Further, # 5 indicates that the planned tool usage time exceeds the tool life time, and therefore a new tool needs to be replaced immediately. A setting unit is provided at the bottom of the screen, and data can be corrected or added by inputting a tool number, a tool life time, and a planned tool usage time from the left end by operating the operation panel 34.

FIG. 16 shows the memory 32 in this embodiment.
It is a configuration example of. In the figure, a machining program storage unit 1601 and a tool data storage unit 160 are stored in the memory 32.
2, a tool number list storage unit 1603, and a temporary area 1604 for temporarily storing calculation results and the like, and an example of a machining program is shown in the machining program storage unit 1601. In the machining program, "O100" in step a
0 "is the program number of this machining program is 1000
Command indicating that the number is “G100O1” in step b.
000 ”is an instruction to call and display the tool data from the tool data storage unit, and“ T0010 ”in step c is the tool number designated by a number less than T (in this case, 0010).
Automatic tool changer (hereinafter,
The instruction for setting the ATC) and the instruction for machining the work by linearly or circularly moving the tool or the table based on the designated coordinate value starting with "G" follow step d and thereafter. The tool data storage unit 1602 stores a tool number, a tool life time, a tool usage time, and a planned tool usage time. The tool usage time in the figure is “0” before this tool data is processed. Therefore, after machining, a value corresponding to the usage time of the tool in the machining is stored. The tool number list storage unit 1603 stores a program number which is an argument of “G100” in the machining program,
It stores all the tool numbers used in the program. Further, in the present invention, "G100" is used as the command for calling and displaying the tool data from the tool data storage unit, but of course, if the command is not used by the conventional numerical control device, it should be used. You can do it.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing an example of the tool data calling procedure of step b. This processing is called from the machining program with the machining program number as an argument. First, a machining program number is retrieved from the tool number list storage unit 1603 (step 1701).
If the program number is not found, error message data such as "no tool number list" is created on the display 35 (step 1702) and display processing is performed (step 1705), and the processing is ended. When the program number is found, the tool life time and the expected tool usage time are read from the tool data storage unit 1602 into the temporary area 1604 based on the tool number, and graph information is created (step 1703). This process is performed for all tool numbers corresponding to the program numbers of all tool number list storage units 1603 (step 1704), and finally the tool numbers and the corresponding graphs, tool life time, and tool use time are displayed ( Step 1705) End.

FIG. 18 is a display example showing a screen for inputting a list of tool numbers in the machining program in this embodiment. In (a) and (b) of the figure, numbers starting with # are serial numbers for registering tool numbers, and parentheses at the bottom of the screen are setting parts. In addition, "data input" and "memory write" at the bottom of the screen are menus, which can be selected by operating the menu key (not shown) provided at the bottom of the display. It indicates that the menu that is omitted is selected. In the figure (a), in the machining program (including a program called from a main program such as a subprogram) used for one machining by the operator operating the operation panel 34 on the right side of the number starting with # You can enter the tool number used. When all the tool numbers have been entered, the "write memory" menu is selected and the screen (b) is displayed. On this screen, the operator operates the operation panel 3
By the operation of 4, an item which can be memorized in association with the machining program such as the main machining program number is input to the setting section at the bottom of the screen. The data input on the screen of (a) by this operation is stored in the tool number list storage unit 1603.

-Sixth Embodiment- FIG. 19 is a principle diagram of tool management by a cell controller according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. Cell controller 501
Is a communication unit 600 and a magazine information management unit 611.
Machining program management means 612, T command retrieval means 613, information input means 614, tool number management means 6
15, tool number corresponding means 616, tool number comparison means 617, and screen output means 618.

The communication means 600 receives the mounting tool information 640 including the mounted mounting tool number 541 from the NC machine tool. The magazine information management means 611 manages the received mounting tool information 540. The machining program management means 612 manages information regarding the machining program 642. The T command retrieval means 613 retrieves the T command in the machining program 642, extracts the T number 643, and outputs it. The information input unit 614 inputs the tool number information 644 including the correspondence information between the T number and the actual tool number. The tool number management means 615 manages the tool number information 644. The tool number corresponding means 616 checks the T number 643 and the tool number information 644 to obtain the tool number 645 used for machining. Tool number comparison means 61
7 checks the mounted tool number 641 and the used tool number 645 to obtain the unmounted tool number 646. The screen output unit 618 displays the unmounted tool number 646.

FIG. 20 shows the cell controller 501.
FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a cell system 801 including an NC machine tool 502, 502a, and 502b. In this cell system 801, the cell controller 501 is
The NC machine tool 5 is provided by the communication line 503 capable of mutual communication.
02, 502a, 502b.

NC machine tools 502, 502a, 502b
Performs machining by sequentially taking out and replacing tools by executing the machining program. NC machine tools 502, 5
02a and 502b are communication means 620, 620a and 62.
0b and mounting tool information management means 621, 621a, 62
1b, ATC 625, 625a, 625b, magazines 622, 622a, 622b, magazine 2220,
2220a and 2220b. Magazines 622, 2220, 622a, 2220a, 622
b and 2220b are a plurality of tools 62 to which an identification code is attached.
A plurality of pots 623 with identification codes for setting 4
have. Mounting tool management means 621, 621a, 621b
Are magazines 622, 2220, 622a, 2220
a, 622b, 2220b mounting tool information, ATC6
25, 625a, 625b to receive and manage. In this figure, three NC machine tools and six magazines are shown in total, but the same applies to more or less than this.

FIG. 21 is a data configuration diagram of an example of mounting tool information 640 which is input by the communication means 600 of FIG. 19 and managed by the magazine information management means 611. In this cell controller 501, NC machine tools 502, 502
mounting tool list 2400, 24 for each a, 502b
00a and 2400b include a machine type 2401 and magazine-specific information 2402, 2402a and 2402b. Magazine-specific information 2402, 2402a, 240
2b has a magazine number 2403 that identifies the magazine.
And pot information 2404 indicating what number tool 624 is stored in which pot 623.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the machining program 642 managed by the machining program management means 612 of FIG. "O ..." in step a is a command indicating the program number attached to this machining program.
“T ...” in steps b, d, h, and k is performed by picking up a tool with a T number indicated by a number equal to or lower than T from the pot and
This is a T command to be set in TC. Steps c, g and j
"M98P7000" is a command to execute the subprogram numbered 7000 (not shown) to replace the tool set in the ATC with the tool set on the spindle axis and used for machining. is there. “G0 ...” In steps e, f and i is a command for machining a workpiece by linearly or circularly moving a tool or a table based on designated speeds and coordinates.

For example, when the machining programs shown in FIG. 22 are sequentially executed, the following operation is performed. First, T
The tool with the number 100 is set on the ATC (step b), the tool is set on the spindle axis (step c), the tool with the T number 400 is set on the vacant ATC (step d), and the designated speed, The tool or the work is moved based on the coordinate value (steps e and f), and the work is machined by the tool of T number 100. And the tool of T number 100 set on the spindle axis is
The tool with the T number 400 set in the ATC is replaced (step g), and the tool with the T number 600 is newly set in the ATC (step h). Machining with a tool having a T number of 400 is performed (step i), and the tool is replaced with the next tool (steps j and k).

FIG. 23 is a flowchart of the processing of the cell controller 501 for displaying the unmounted tools among the tools necessary for machining with the machining program. First, in step a, the machining program managing unit 612 causes the machining program 642, for example, FIG.
Input the machining program of 2. Next, in step b, the T command retrieval means 613 causes the machining program 6
The T number 643 of the tool used in 42 is searched. Figure 24
22 is a T command retrieval result of the machining program of FIG.
In step c, the tool number information 644 is input by the information input means 614, and the tool number management means 615 updates the tool number information 644. FIG. 25 is an example of the updated tool number information 644. In step d,
The tool number corresponding means 616 takes out the used tool number 645 corresponding to the T number. FIG. 26 shows tool numbers used corresponding to the T numbers in FIG. In step e, NC
Communication means 620 for machine tools 502, 502a, 502b
The mounting tool information 640 is input from, and the magazine information management unit 611 updates the mounting tool information 640. 21 of FIG.
Reference numeral 404 is an example of mounting tool information. In step f, the tool number comparison means 617 causes the mounted tool information 64.
The mounted tool number 641 in 0 and the used tool number 645 are compared. In step g, a tool number not included in the mounting tool information 640 is extracted from the tool numbers 645 used. The extracted tool number is the unimplemented tool number 646. For example, the mounting tool information of 2404 in FIG. 21 and FIG.
When compared with the tool number of No. 3, 3000 is an unmounted tool number. If there are no unimplemented tools, the process ends. In step h, the screen output means 618 displays the unmounted tool number. Then, the process ends.

-Seventh Embodiment- FIG. 27 shows a cell controller 7 according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
It is a principle diagram of tool management by 01. The cell controller 701 includes a communication unit 600 and a tool information management unit 631.
A magazine information management means 611, a machining program management means 612, a used value prediction means 630, an information input means 614, a tool number management means 615, a tool number correspondence means 616, and a tool number comparison means 617. It is composed of a life value comparison means 632 and a screen output means 618.

The communication means 600 includes tool life information 650 including a tool number, an actual measurement value of tool usage time corresponding to the tool number, and a tool life setting value, and mounting tool information 640 including a mounting tool number 641. To receive. The magazine information management unit 611 manages the mounting tool information 640. The machining program management unit 612 manages information about machining programs including the machining program 642.
The usage value predicting means 630 takes out the T number in the machining program, calculates the usage predicted value of the tool for each T number, and outputs the T number and the predicted usage value 647. The information input means 614 inputs the tool number information 644 including the information indicating the correspondence between the T number and the actual tool number. The tool number management means 615 manages the tool number information 644. The tool number corresponding means 616 uses the T number and the predicted use value 64.
7 is compared with the tool number information 644 to obtain the tool number and the predicted use value 648. Tool number comparison means 61
7 compares the mounting tool number 641 with the tool number and the predicted use value 648 to obtain the mounted tool number and the predicted use value 649. The service life value comparison means 632 compares the tool service life information 650 with the mounted tool number and the predicted use value 649 to obtain a mounted tool number for which the predicted use value exceeds the tool life, and outputs it as the service life reached tool number 651.
The screen output unit 618 displays the end-of-life tool number 651.

FIG. 28 is a block diagram of a cell system 851 including the cell controller 701. In this cell system 851, the cell controller 701 uses the communication line 503 capable of mutual communication to connect the NC machine tool 80.
2, 802a and 802b are connected. The NC machine tools 802, 802a, 802b have a configuration in which tool life management means 626, 626a, 626b are added to the configurations of the NC machine tools 502, 502a, 502b in FIG. The tool life management means 626, 626a, 626b manages information regarding the tool life. In this figure, three NC machine tools and six magazines are shown in total, but the same applies to more or less than this.

FIG. 29 shows NC machine tools 802, 802.
10 is a flowchart of processing of the cell controller 701 for displaying a tool that has reached the end of its life during machining among the tools mounted on a and 802b. First, in step a, the machining program managing means 612 inputs the machining program 642, for example, the machining program shown in FIG. Next, in step b, the used value prediction means 630
Calculates the T number and the predicted use value 647 using this processing program. This predicted use value is <A>. <
A> is obtained by calculating the usage time from the distance and speed at which the tool or workpiece moves by the machining program 642, or calculating the number of times the tool has been used from the number of T commands in the machining program 642. FIG. 30 is an example of the T number and the predicted use value 647. In step c, the tool number information 644 is input by the information input means 614, and the tool number management means 615 updates the tool number information 644. FIG. 25 is an example of the updated tool number information 644. In step d, tool number corresponding means 6
16 retrieves the tool number corresponding to the T number, and obtains the predicted use value 648 corresponding to the tool number. FIG. 31 shows
It is an example of a predicted usage value 648 associated with a tool number.
In step e, NC machine tools 802, 802a,
The mounting tool information 40 is input from the communication means 620 of 802b, and this is managed by the magazine information management means 611. Reference numeral 2404 in FIG. 21 is an example of mounting tool information.

In step f, the tool number comparison means 6
17 compares the mounted tool number (see FIG. 21) in the mounted tool information 2404 with the tool number to be used (see FIG. 31), and among the tool numbers to be used, the tool in the mounted tool information 2404 The number is taken out as the mounting tool number, the predicted usage value 648 corresponding to the mounting tool number is obtained, and the mounting tool number and the predicted usage value 649 are output.
FIG. 32 is an example of the mounting tool number and the predicted use value 649. In step h, NC machine tools 802, 8
Tool life information 650 is input via the communication means 620 of 02a and 802b, and this tool life information 650 is managed by the tool information management means 631. In step i, the tool information management unit 631 retrieves the tool life information 650 corresponding to the mounted tool number. FIG. 33 is an example of the tool life information 650, which includes a mounted tool number, an actually used value, and a life set value. Let <C> be the actual measured value,
Let the value of the life set value be <D>. In step j,
The sum of the predicted usage value <A> and the actual usage value <C> is compared with the life setting value <D> for each mounting tool number. As a result of this comparison, when D <A + C, the mounted tool number is set as the end-of-life tool number 651. For example, when comparing FIG. 32 and FIG. 33, the tool number 651 reaching the end of life is 2020. In step k, the screen output means 618 displays the tool life end tool number 651.

[0068]

As described above, according to the numerical controller according to the first aspect of the present invention, for example, a personal computer is used to operate all NC machining in a factory without using a cell controller, which is a superordinate of the numerical controller. Since all tool data of all tools that can be attached to the machine are managed, all tool data can be managed collectively at a low cost.
In addition, by operating the numerical control device, the tool data format can be managed by the numerical control device and the one that can be managed by the tool data master, and the tool data can be downloaded and uploaded. It can be easily confirmed whether or not the data is the data of the tool actually attached to. Further, by using the information of the tool data master as a master and uploading / downloading the data each time machining is performed, the tool data of all tools used in the factory can be centrally managed.

According to the numerical controller according to the second invention,
The user can specify the format of an external storage medium such as a floppy disk that stores the tool data created by a personal computer or CAD / CAM, etc., and the data can be read and written directly by the numerical control device. However, there is no need for the operator to input the data, and the data can be input accurately in a short time. In addition, it is possible to input the timing with respect to the processing step with good timing.

According to the numerical controller of the third invention,
Since it is possible to display the tool image taken with a camera etc. in advance, it is possible to see a realistic image that is faithful to the actual tool shape on the screen at the time of setup without giving parameters etc. for creating the tool figure Therefore, it is possible to easily detect a mistake in mounting the tool, and it is possible to reduce a machining error such as machining with the wrong tool and ruining the workpiece.

According to the numerical controller of the fourth invention,
Since the ratio of tool usage time to tool life time is graphed and the color or pattern is changed according to the ratio to alert the operator of the tool replacement time, the tool usage time status can be checked at a glance and the tool replacement time can be checked. It will be a guide. Also, since the operator can specify the warning time,
The warning time for tool change can be changed depending on the machining time, machining load, etc.

According to the numerical controller of the fifth invention,
The planned tool usage time and the tool life time can be displayed side by side in a graph so that the tools that need to be replaced can be grasped at a glance. It is possible to judge how many times the tool can be used for the machining program from the graph, so when operating the same machining program multiple times in succession, for example, one machine can be machined up to three times. Sometimes it is possible to improve machining efficiency by replacing the tool with a new tool.

With the cell controller according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, which tool each NC machine tool is currently mounting can be centrally controlled in real time. In addition, the operator can easily know in advance the tool numbers that are not mounted among the necessary tools when machining is performed by the machining program.

With the cell controller according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, which tool each NC machine tool is currently mounting can be centrally managed in real time. Further, when machining is performed by the machining program, the operator can easily know in advance the tool number of the necessary tools, which will be the life during machining even if it is mounted.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of a system including a numerical control device and an all-tool information storage device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a system configuration diagram of a system including a plurality of combinations of the numerical control devices of FIG.

3 is a flowchart showing an example of a format conversion means in the numerical controller of FIG.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a tool data format information input screen in the numerical control device of FIG. 1.

5 is a flowchart showing an example of uploading means in the numerical controller of FIG.

6 is a flowchart showing an example of a download means in the numerical controller of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a numerical controller according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

8 is a flowchart showing an operation of the numerical controller of FIG.

9 is a flow chart showing an example of a format selection means by the numerical controller of FIG.

10 is a flow chart showing an example of a format conversion means by the numerical controller of FIG.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the numerical control device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

12 is an explanatory diagram showing a screen display example of a tool image by the numerical controller of FIG. 11. FIG.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example by the numerical control device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the numerical controller of FIG.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of the numerical controller according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

16 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a memory in the numerical control device of FIG.

17 is a flowchart showing an example of a tool data calling procedure by the numerical controller of FIG.

18 is an explanatory diagram of a display example of a screen for inputting a list of tool numbers in the machining program of the numerical controller of FIG.

FIG. 19 is a principle diagram regarding tool management of a cell controller according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

20 is a configuration diagram of a cell system including the cell controller of FIG.

21 is a data configuration diagram of mounting tool information of the cell controller of FIG.

22 is a diagram showing an example of a cell controller machining program of FIG.

23 is a flowchart of a process performed by software of the cell controller shown in FIG.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a T number of the cell controller of FIG.

25 is a diagram showing an example of tool number information of the cell controller of FIG.

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of tool numbers of the cell controller of FIG.

FIG. 27 is a principle diagram relating to tool management of the cell controller according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

28 is a configuration diagram of a cell system including the cell controller of FIG. 27. FIG.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart of processing by software of the cell controller in FIG. 27.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of a T number and a predicted use value in the cell controller of FIG. 27.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of tool numbers and predicted use values in the cell controller of FIG. 27.

32 is a diagram showing an example of a mounting tool number and a predicted use value in the cell controller of FIG. 27.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of tool life information by the cell controller of FIG. 27.

FIG. 34 is a block connection diagram showing a conventional numerical controller.

FIG. 35 is a principle diagram of a conventional tool information management device.

FIG. 36 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of a system including a plurality of machining centers to which a conventional tool information management device is applied.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart of an example of a conventional numerical control device that draws a tool shape.

FIG. 38 is a flow chart showing an example of a figure creation routine of a conventional numerical control apparatus for drawing a tool shape.

FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a conventional tool life management display.

FIG. 40 is a principle diagram relating to tool management of a conventional cell controller.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Numerical Control Device 12 Tool Data Management Means 101 Tool Data Master 102 Downloading Means 103 Uploading Means 104 Tool Data Current 105 Communication Line 106 Personal Computer 107 Format Converting Means 31 CPU 32 Memory 33 Data I / O 34 Operation Panel 35 Display 36 Servo Control Circuit 37 Contact input / output interface 38 External storage medium input / output unit 39 Format storage unit 40 Format selection unit 41 Format conversion unit 42 Tool data storage unit 915 Tool image file 920 Tool image 921 Tool image display area 1601 Machining program storage unit 1602 Tool data Storage section 1603 Tool number list storage section 501 Cell controller 502 NC machine tool 502a NC machine tool 502b N C machine tool 503 communication line 600 communication means 611 magazine information management means 612 machining program management means 613 T command retrieval means 614 information input means 615 tool number management means 616 tool number correspondence means 617 tool number comparison means 618 screen output means 619 output means 620 communication means 620a communication means 620b communication means 621 mounting tool information management means 621a mounting tool information management means 621b mounting tool information management means 622 magazine 622a magazine 622b magazine 623 pot 624 tool 625 ATC 625a ATC 625b tool ATC 626 means Life management means 626b Tool life management means 630 Used value prediction means 631 Tool information management means 632 Life value comparison means 633 Key input means 640 Actual Tool information 641 Implemented tool number 642 Machining program 643 T number 644 Tool number information 645 Tool number used 646 Unimplemented tool number 647 T number, estimated use value 648 Tool number, estimated use value 649 Implemented tool number, estimated use value 650 Tool life Information 651 End-of-life tool number 701 Cell controller 802 NC machine tool 802a NC machine tool 802b NC machine tool 801 Cell system 2220 magazine 2220a magazine 2220b magazine 2400 mounting tool list 2400a mounting tool list 2400b mounting tool list 2401 machine type 2402 magazine information 2402 magazine Magazine information 2402b Magazine information 2403 Magazine number 2404 Pot information

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[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] June 11, 1992

[Procedure Amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be corrected] Claim 1

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[Procedure Amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be corrected] Claim 2

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[Procedure 3]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0010

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

(3) FIG. 37 is a schematic view of Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 62-38908.
Is a flowchart showing an Kazumi facilities example of the numerical controller for drawing conventional tool shape shown in JP. The entire processing routine is called each time one data setting for tool data input is performed. The data is set by pressing the numeric key and the sign key or the decimal point key corresponding to the value and then pressing the setting key, and this routine is started. In the figure, step 51 is a key input processing routine for converting the data string of the input key code into an actual numerical value and checking whether the numerical value is normal, and step 52 is Reference numeral 53 is a routine for deciding and storing a position on the tool data file to which the data should be entered, and 53 is a routine for making a picture of the tool.

[Procedure amendment 4]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be corrected] 0022

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

A numerical controller according to a second aspect of the present invention includes an information processing device having a storage means for storing programs and data, a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing, a data input / output device and a system. A numerical control device having an operation panel having a key switch for inputting data or giving a command, and displaying tool data relating to a tool attached to a tool mounting portion of an NC machine tool having a plurality of tool mounting portions. a tool data storing unit for storing the external storage medium output unit for exchanging the external storage medium and data, and a format storage unit for keep double <br/> several stores format type of the external storage medium, they Format selection means by which the operator selects the format from among the formats, and the external storage medium and the numerical controller. Those having a format exchange means to enable reading and writing by replacing the format of tool data to each other.

[Procedure Amendment 5]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be corrected] 0029

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

In the numerical controller according to the second aspect of the present invention, the external storage medium input / output unit inputs / outputs tool data between the external storage medium such as a floppy disk or an IC card and the numerical control device. Format The format of the external storage medium in the storage unit, for example, keep the disk space Toka number of tracks Toka sector size, etc. If a floppy disk and double several storage, to select the format of the external storage medium the operator tries to input and output . The format conversion unit mutually converts the format of the tool data in the external storage medium and the format of the tool data in the numerical control device based on the information such as the arrangement of data and the data size.

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. An information processing device having a storage means for storing programs and data, a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing, etc., a data input / output device, and a key for inputting data or commands to a system. A numerical controller equipped with an operation panel having a switch and connected by a communication line to an all-tool data storage device that stores all-tool data installed in a plurality of NC machine tools, and has a plurality of tool-mounted parts. A tool data storage unit for storing tool data relating to a tool mounted on the tool mounting portion of an NC machine tool having the above, and tool data for a tool mounted on the NC machine tool are uploaded from the all tool data storage device. And uploading means for storing the tool data stored in the tool data storage unit in the tool data storage unit. A download means for downloading to the storage device; and a conversion means for converting between the tool data format that can be managed by the numerical control device and the tool data format that can be managed by a personal computer when uploading and downloading the tool data. Numerical control device characterized in that 2. An information processing device having a storage means for storing programs and data, a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing, etc., a data input / output device and a key for giving a data input or command to a system. A numerical controller provided with an operation panel having a switch, comprising: a tool data storage unit for storing tool data relating to a tool mounted on a tool mounting part of an NC machine tool having a plurality of tool mounting parts; An external storage medium input / output unit for exchanging data with the storage medium, a format storage unit for storing several types of format formats of the external storage medium, and a format selection means for the operator to select a format from those formats And the tool data formats in the external storage medium and the numerical control device Numerical control device being characterized in that a format conversion means for enabling reading and writing by conversion. 3. An information processing apparatus having a storage means for storing programs and data, a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing, etc., a data input / output device and a key for giving a command to a system. A numerical controller provided with an operation panel having a switch, comprising: a tool data storage unit for storing tool data relating to a tool mounted on a tool mounting part of an NC machine tool having a plurality of tool mounting parts; An external storage medium input / output unit for exchanging data with a storage medium, a tool image file for storing the shape of the tool as image data, and a tool for displaying an image of the tool to be mounted on the tool mounting portion on the display. A numerical control device comprising an image display processing means. 4. An information processing apparatus having a storage means for storing programs and data, a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing and the like, and an operation having a key switch for inputting data or giving a command to a system. A numerical control device having a panel, a tool data storage unit for storing tool data regarding a tool mounted on an NC machine tool having a plurality of tool mounting parts, a tool use time, and a tool usage time are registered in advance. Numerical control device, characterized in that it comprises means for displaying the ratio of the used tool life time on the display. 5. An information processing apparatus having a storage means for storing programs and data, a display for displaying the programs and data, results of information processing and the like, and an operation having a key switch for inputting data or giving commands to a system. A numerical controller provided with a panel, a tool data storage unit for storing tool data on a tool mounted on an NC machine tool having a plurality of tool mounting parts, and a tool registration registered in advance A numerical control device comprising: means for displaying a scheduled time and a tool life time on the display. 6. A tool having a communication means for communicating with a host computer and a mounting tool information management means for managing mounting tool information of a magazine for setting a plurality of tools to which identification codes are attached, the tools being sequentially executed by executing a machining program. In a cell controller for controlling at least one NC machine tool that performs machining while taking out and replacing, communication means for receiving mounting tool information from the NC machine tool, magazine information management means for managing the received mounting tool information, Search for the T command in the machining program and retrieve the T number T
Command retrieval means, information input means for inputting correspondence information between T numbers and actual tool numbers, tool number management means for managing the correspondence information, and taking out actual tool numbers corresponding to the taken out T numbers. Tool number corresponding means, tool number comparison means for comparing the extracted tool number and the mounted tool number in the mounted tool information to obtain an unmounted tool number, and a screen output means for notifying the operator of the unmounted tool number A cell controller comprising: 7. A tool life management means for managing communication means with a host computer and life information of a plurality of tools to which identification codes are attached, and a mounted tool management for managing mounted tool information of a magazine in which these tools are set. In a cell controller for controlling at least one NC machine tool that performs machining while sequentially taking out and replacing tools by executing a machining program, communication for receiving mounted tool information and tool life information from the NC machine tool. Means, a magazine information management means for managing the received mounting tool information, a tool information management means for managing the received tool life information, a machining program is analyzed, a T number is extracted, and a predicted use value of a tool to be used is calculated. A tool usage predicted value calculating means, an information input means for inputting correspondence information between a T number and an actual tool number, and the correspondence Tool number management means for managing information, tool number correspondence means for extracting the actual tool number corresponding to the retrieved T number, and mounting by comparing the retrieved tool number and the implemented tool number in the implemented tool information A tool number comparing means for obtaining a tool, a life value comparing means for obtaining a tool number that becomes a life during machining by comparing the tool life information and the predicted use value for the mounted tool, and the obtained tool number as an operator And a screen output means for informing the cell controller.