Automatic cutting tool management system for a computer numeric controlled machining system
AssigneeThermwood Corporation
InventorKenneth J. Susnjara
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A method and apparatus for monitoring the useful life of machine tools. A controller continuously monitors the amount of time a particular tool has been used as well as the materials the tool has been used to machine. A useful lifetime of the tool is estimated based on the characteristics of the tool. When the amount of time the tool has been used, adjusted based on the materials used, reaches the useful life span of the tool, the controller directs the machine to remove the tool from service and retrieve a duplicate tool for further machine operations.
Claims21
A method for operating a machine having a multi-tool magazine, comprising the following steps:
- using a tool to machine various materials on a worktable of the machine and storing the tool in the magazine of the machine when the tool is not being used;
- monitoring a length of time the tool has been used during machining operations;
- determining an operational time for the tool based on the amount of time the tool has been used during each machine operation using the tool and a wear factor associated with the material being machined;
- and
- discontinuing use of the tool after completing an operation when the operational time reaches a predetermined amount.
A machine comprising:
- a tool mounted in a toolhead of the machine or stored in a tool magazine;
- a controller monitoring an amount of time the tool has been used machining various materials and adjusting the amount of time based upon wear factors associated with the materials;
- wherein following each machining operation, the controller directs a substitution of the tool with a duplicate tool when the amount of time in association with the wear factors triggers a total operational time.
A method for operating a machine having a multi-tool magazine, comprising the following steps:
- 1) placing a plurality of tools in the magazine of the machine;
- 2) entering a control time for each tool representing an amount of time the tool can be used;
- 3) placing a material to be machined on a worktable of the machine;
- 4) establishing a wear factor for the material;
- 5) placing a selected tool into a spindle of the machine;
- 6) machining the material using the selected tool;
- 7) reducing the control time of the selected tool by a combination comprising an amount of time required to machine the material and the wear factor;
- 8) replacing the selected tool with a duplicate tool when the control time becomes less than or equal to zero;
- and
- 9) repeating steps 3 through 8 as necessary for each of the plurality of tools.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.