Conversational-type programming apparatus

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Patent

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Details

36447401, 36447422, 36447426, 364188, G06F 1546, G06F 304

Patent

active

048232530

DESCRIPTION:

BRIEF SUMMARY
TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to a conversational-type programming apparatus used when programming the contents of a machining operation performed by a numerically controlled machine tool.


BACKGROUND ART

A variety of efficient operations can be performed with a machine tool having a multiple-axis control capability by using a numerical control unit (hereinafter referred to as an "NC unit") possessing a conversational-type automatic programming function. A conversational-type programming apparatus ordinarily has a parameter program function which enables the ready programming of similarly shaped workpieces, canned cycles, schedule operations and the like by inputting parameters. The apparatus allows one to input machining shapes merely by inputting the necessary data while observing a display screen. More specifically, conversational-type programming is characterized in that when various data are input, such as the amount of a tool correction and machining dimensions, as well as control parameters, such as machine tool backlash amount, feed rate and an acceleration/deceleration time constant, reference graphics relating to material shape, machining shape, tool shape and tool path and the like can be displayed on a display screen, thereby facilitating program creation and verification of the relevant conditions.
However, even though the graphics are displayed on a screen calling for the input of conversational data, the operator is required to have considerable skill when the machining operation is of a complicated nature. For example, after having selected a drilling menu display in a process selection step, the operator attempts to respond to prompts on the screen by inputting data corresponding to predetermined parameter items in the menu. At such time the parameters shown on a design drawing are input as data representing portions of the displayed graphic, but a beginner frequently has trouble in determining which parameters should be input as what data. This difficulty becomes even more pronounced with smaller referential graphics, more complicated graphics and when a large number of parameter items appear on the same page of the display.
As a consequence of the foregoing, a beginner is compelled to operate data setting keys such as input keys while referring not only to the display screen and design drawing but also to an operation manual. The problem is that this procedure requires a considerable amount of labor until skill is developed.
The present invention has been devised in view of the foregoing circumstances and its object is to provide a conversational programming apparatus capable of being operated in a simple manner even by an operator handling the machine for the first time.


SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the invention, there is provided a conversational-type programming apparatus having an automatic programming unit for processing NC information by conversational-type programming, and a memory for storing menu pages of the automatic programming unit as well as an auxiliary graphic corresponding to each parameter item of the menu. In addition, a graphics display unit for displaying characters, graphics and symbols, and a data input unit for inputting numerical values and graphic symbols are provided. When a predetermined parameter item is selected, the corresponding auxiliary graphic is displayed.
Thus, with the conversational-type programming apparatus of the present invention, the operator is capable of inputting machining data while referring to auxiliary graphics corresponding to each parameter item. This enables one to quickly develop skill in the input operation and reduces input errors.


BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment according to the present invention;
FIG. 2 an example of a menu display; and
FIG. 3 is an auxiliary graphic on which a cursor is displayed.


BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present invention will now be described in detail based on an embodiment thereof.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram o

REFERENCES:
patent: 4524414 (1985-06-01), Kiyokawa
patent: 4530046 (1985-07-01), Munekata
patent: 4571670 (1986-02-01), Kishi et al.
patent: 4587608 (1986-05-01), Kishi et al.
patent: 4607327 (1986-08-01), Kishi et al.
patent: 4644460 (1987-02-01), Kishi et al.
patent: 4661899 (1987-04-01), Usuda
patent: 4703441 (1987-10-01), Kishi et al.
patent: 4722045 (1988-01-01), Kishi et al.
patent: 4723203 (1988-02-01), Kishi et al.

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