Method and system for the electronic provision of services for machines by means of a data communication link

Translation of description of equivalent WO 03007097 A1

Method and system for providing services for electronic equipment via a data communication link

The invention relates to a system for computer-aided handling and management of a numerically controlled industrial processing machine and a device and a corresponding method for computer-aided provision of machine-related data and / or services.

In the field of industrial automation technology and in particular in the field of numerically controlled machine tools manufacturers offer service in the form of control technology and corresponding software components for other original equipment manufacturers (so-called. Original Equipment Manufacturer OEM) of which produce industrial machinery and market.

Such OEMs usually have good relationships with their customers, who are often manufacturer of accessories and operate the acquired by the OEMs and their equipment accessories and operate.

Such OEMs develop and market not only goods such as machine tools, but also offer beyond this service for the products that sell them and others to end customers. Since the products sold are usually highly complex, high demands and difficulties in providing such services, for a variety of information with respect to the operation of their machine tools are required.

The main difficulty in be to get access to needed information for the service of serviceable equipment. It is also largely information that must be obtained directly from the manufacturing process of the machine tool. Corresponding software components for such machine tools or other industrial machines are highly specific alisiert usually when it comes to carrying out the actual control task. With a view to going beyond acquisition of machine data from the above mentioned reasons beyond the immediate control of the machine, however, conventionally no further machine information is riding on described.

For these and other reasons, a manufacturer of numerical controls and corresponding software components for industrial machines were not capable of performance improvements in such machines because of knowledge information to provide, directly or through OEMs to their end customers.

Therefore, there is a great need on the basis of such would further machine state data, especially for maintenance and service purposes, to provide the end customer as quickly as possible and in any location services and equipment related expertise available. This might the availability of such equipment, significantly improve their service life and productivity.

So far, no methods or devices are also known, were developed on the basis of services or software components that chine data on collected machines permit based services. This also previously unachievable automated services would in fact possible. It is also not yet been possible to specifically tailored to the processing machine of retail services in a reasonable timeframe at any time be able to offer, because this is not sufficient the capacity of the service provider usually. For this reason, service staff is conventionally deployed with appropriate know-how to the end customer to physically manually and thus to analyze there locally primarily to specific requirements of the end customer, the machine to gain relevant machine data locally and, based on the appropriate service or services to offer.

In this way, it is not possible to real time bezoge- ne or intensive services such. B. Achsanalysen or other optimizations, machine calibration, software services, machine data management or other dynamic interventions offer in the machine.

Just this would be particularly important in order to shorten their development times, increase their market presence and to ensure maximum machine availability for customers.

Object of the present invention is therefore to provide a method and a corresponding device, which make no physical presence locally also compute-intensive data or services of a manufacturer or supplier of accessories for the engine of a retail available.

According to the present invention this object is achieved by a system for computer-aided handling and management of a numerically controlled industrial processing machine having the following features:

- A main computer (host) for the generation and provision of machine-related data and / or services and

- A machine-side working computer (client), which is connected to the host computer via a data communications link and by the (client) can be detected in real-time machine status data can be transferred to the host and from the host computer by means of an analysis and evaluation teeinheit receivable function such machine status data generated machine-related data and / or services.

It has proven to be advantageous when the host computer has a communication link to a host computer system of a machine manufacturer or manufacturer of machine components, via the by the host computer to the master computer system access to system data of the host computer is allowable. In this manner, the computing capacity of such a computer for analyzing the machine data obtained can be used for a service routines, in particular software components and on the other hand.

If the machine side working computer (client) with respect to the main computer (host) on a unique identification means, in particular an identification code has, as the main computer (host) of this workstation received machine state data can assign the workstation. In this way, enormous collections of machine-related data of different end users and machines can be produced that can be used as for statistical purposes or to build an error history.

the data communication link is advantageously between the host computer (host) and the working computer (client) to connect through an Internet or Intranet.

Here instructions is the workstation-side (client) identification of machine condition data over the Internet or intranet from the host computer (host) obtained controllable.

This is achieved particularly effectively if the main computer (host) to the working computer (client) websites or Intranetsei- th for user-assisted selection of options provided therein are transferable. Further, the object of the invention is also achieved by a method for computer-aided production and provision of machine-related data and / or services for a numerically controlled industrial processing machine, wherein a main computer (host) and a machine-side working computer (client) communicate via a data communication connection, with the the following method steps:

- Acquisition of machine state data on the part of the working computer (client), - transmission of the acquired machine state data via the data communication link to the host computer (host),

- Production of machine-related data and / or services on the part of the host computer (host) as a function of such machine status data and - provision of machine-related data and / or

Services to the working computer (client) or its user.

It has proved particularly favorable if machine state data on the part of the working computer (client) are recorded in real time.

Here, too, can be achieved with the already identified benefits in terms of a data archiving by one with the machine side working computer (client) an associate unique identification means, in particular dentifizierungscode an I, to the host computer (host) is transmitted. These assigns the main computer (host) from a workstation received machine state data this workstation using the identification means to.

In this way, the creation of a database with machine-related data for a plurality is made possible by industrial processing machines, wherein a common main computer (host) for a plurality allocated from the industrial processing machines work computers (clients) a computer-aided production and provision of machine-related data and / or services as previously described written performs and wherein in a memory means a data set with the machine state data of one of the workstations (clients) is generated and the this workstation assigned unique identification code determined in the record and a said identification code corresponding information is added.

Preferably, the machine state data program data or servo data or motor data or inverter data or position data or sensor data. In addition, however, other machine status data can be determined depending on the application.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method of the present invention stores the working computer (client) the acquired machine state data in a storage means between before this to the host computer (host) to be transferred.

Such a transfer of data stored in the storage means state machine data is preferably time-controlled o- event-controlled via the data communication link to the host computer (host). Moreover, it is advantageous if on the part of the host computer (host) an automatic see analysis or evaluation of received machine state data is performed.

The object of the invention is further solved by a method for computer-aided provision of machine-related data and / or services from a host computer of a service provider to a working computer a processing machine by a customer over a network, the workstations of the machine to the customer of a system for controlling and / or monitoring of the processing machine and a suitable sensor for acquiring machine state data and has connected to the network, comprising the following method steps: - Transmitting information concerning the availability of machine-related data and / or services from the host to the workstation,

- Receiving a request for machine-related data and / or service from the working computer on the side of

Main computer,

- Transmitting information related to persons targeted by the workstation required machine status data from the host to the workstation, - receiving data of the working machine including the required machine state data on the part of the host computer,

- Production of the requested by the workstation machine-related data and / or the requested service by the host and - transmission of requested by the workstation machine-related data and / or the requested service from the host to the workstation.

To capture caused by the services provided cost, it is also advantageous if the

Host the workstation information relating to a payment requested machine-related data and / or services receives and stores. Controls for price information Payment is also the following further process steps have proven advantageous:

- Determining a first rate information as fixed costs of a predetermined repeating period, particularly one-month period,

- Determining a second rate information as variable costs th function of the service provided.

For computer-aided provision of service services for optimization purposes, the following further process steps are carried out according to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention:

- Generating a data structure to record data with respect to a service service - Storing first data in the data structure, which represent the I DENTITY a customer, in particular of the unique identification code and

- Storing of additional data in the data structure, which represent the identity of the service the service.

Here, the further steps have proven advantageous:

- Determine measurement data with respect to the customer means made service and service

- Storing of additional data in the data structure, which represent these measured data.

Furthermore, the object of the invention by a device for computer-aided provision of machine-related data and / or services on a host computer of a service provider for a working computer .One machine a customer is achieved through a network, in particular a system for computer-aided handling and Administration of a numerically controlled industrial processing machine is as described above, wherein the workstation of the machine tool the customer has a system for controlling and / or control of the machine and a suitable sensor for detecting machine nenzustandsdaten and connected to the network, further comprising the following features on the part of the host computer:

- A means for transmitting

- Information about the availability of maschinenbezoge- nen data and / or services from the host to the workstation and

- Information to be collected with respect to vo workstations needed equipment state data from the host to the workstation, and - that requested by the workstation machine-related data and / or the requested service from the host to the workstation, and - A means for receiving

- A request for machine-related data and / or service from the working computer on the side of the host computer and

- Data of the working machine including the required machine state data on the part of the host computer and

- A means for generating the requested by the working computer machine-related data and / or the requested service by the main computer.

This can be achieved particularly effectively if the means for generating the requested from the working computer machine-related data and / or the requested service by the main computer comprising an Internet web server and the main computer is suitably programmed in order to generate Internet Web pages ,

Again, it is advantageous if the working computer of the customer, the machine tool has a unique identification means, in particular an identification code, and when the main computer via a storage means, in particular a database has to receive information from the working computer in conjunction with the identification code.

Finally, the object of the invention is also achieved by a device for computer-aided provision of service services for an automation system via a network, in particular with an above-described system for computer-aided handling and management of a numerically controlled industrial processing machine, with the following features:

- A means for loading instructions on the automation system, wherein the instructions tion at least one radio or control another aspect of the automation system,

- A means for receiving customer-related system data the automation system via the network, wherein such system data is collected depending on the loaded instructions,

- A means for generating appropriate service services for the automation system as a function of the collected customer-related system data and

- A means for the transmission of such service services to the automation system of the client over the network.

It has established itself as günsti-g^' proved, when a means for providing a selection of options of the service the service to the automation system of the customer is provided through the network. This also applies to a means for selecting a model of service-service to pages of the automation system of the customer.

Further advantages are obtained when the automation system via a network interface to communicate over the network and for receiving the service information has and means (machine agent) for generating machine-executable program sequences is provided on basis of the received services, the network exchange interface and the means for generating machine-executable program sequences on a predetermined data format data. This is achieved particularly effectively when the network interface includes an Internet browser.

The above described method according to the invention can be used particularly well for remote start or remote maintenance of an industrial machine.

In addition, a use for the implementation of a subset of the following measures:

- Electronic measuring workpieces, tools and clamping operations to help diagnose problems with a lack of quality of work or for dialogue guided correction of conditions, - Demonstrate the relationships between process variables such as laser power, feed speed or tool speed and feed rate,

- Analysis of the tool paths in the Cartesian coordinate system with correction or statement to good part / bad part,

- Monitoring of process variables with limit value monitoring and / or Cor elationsüberwachung,

- Program analysis by executing a program in a virtual reproduction of the processing machine, - Automatic creation of start-up protocols for complete documentation of the commissioning state,

- Automatic creation of service and maintenance logs for complete documentation of machine history,

- Evaluation to diagnose exceptions and Fehlersituati- mation,

- Backup and archiving of configuration data, user data and programs for the reconstruction of states or for the detection of problematic changes.

referred Such an inventive online service, in the following as ePS Network (Electronic Production Services), machine availability for the producers and increase improved machine availability for users.

The invention of e-business infrastructure enables the machine manufacturers easier and more efficient to maintain the machines of their customers. All ePS services take place at a high online security.

ePS services offered to machine users are geared to minimize operating costs, to increase the life of the machine to improve product quality, increase productivity and one to ensure ne maximum availability of the means of production. Further advantages and details of the present invention will be apparent from the illustrated in the following, embodiments and in conjunction with the figures. These respectively in schematic representation:

1 shows a block diagram of an inventive system for providing automated services via a network as well as alternative or supplementary manual services, 2 shows a block diagram of a system according to the present invention to provide automated services and / or data to a customer over a network, FIG 3 is a block diagram an advantageous embodiment according to the invention,

4 shows another block diagram of a client-server architecture based on the present invention, focusing on the client side / work computer, FIG 5 to FIG 7 different phases and parameters for performing a circularity test with a system according to the invention.

The diagram of FIG 1 shows a high level of abstraction, such as on the basis of Internet connection Auto Services AS or for required data content and software components to a plurality of end users with machines S1 ... SN is made available with which infor- mation exchanged bidirectionally will. In addition, a conventional provider MS manual services or engineering services (eg OEM) is shown, which also communicates with the end users and their machines S1 ... SN, however, in a conventional manner. A disadvantage of such an arrangement and such a system is the fact that no communication between the provider of Internet-based automated services and the provider of traditional manual Services takes place. This can not be used the existing on both sides technical expertise.

The illustration in FIG 2 shows the left area of ​​the usual chain of production and supply chain of machine tools. A supplier 2 an automation product, which is responsible for the control hardware and software, distributes its products and services to a client, usually a machine tool OEM 3. The OEM in turn constructed on the basis of the acquired control systems with additional, self-manufactured or purchased components, the actual machine tool. This tool is commonly sold at so-called end-users 4, in it which normally acts to manufacturing companies.

A provider 1 of automated services invention based on a network, in particular an Internet connection, a rule is in two-way communication with all three of these parties. Preferably a provider 1 of automated services invention is yet further with suppliers of software tools 5 or 6 special services as well as other Internet-partners 7 in contact (see. Right image area).

In the 3 shows a detailed illustration of the main actors 1, 3 and 4, there is shown in FIG. 2 The service provider 1 has an eBusiness host or -host 8 which is communicated with a system or customer database 9 and operated by an interactive user 10th About a so-called open application programming interface 11 (API Application Programming Interface) a OEM partner is 3 allows access to the data contents provided by the host computer. 8

Another interactive user 12 on the side of the OEM partner 3 can in this way, as in more detail below running, benefit from access to the customer data given and the customer database. 9 This is preferably done by means of communication of a host computer or hosts 13 on the side of the OEM partner 3 via a network connection work, for. Example, an Internet connection 14. For this purpose, preferably measures for secure communication, such. As encryption method (channel encryption o the asymmetric document encryption) and processes to ensure data integrity (eg generation of hash values), used.

On the part of the end user 4 are connected via corresponding interfaces 15 to 19 components to the network, eg. As the Internet connection 14, and thus with the systems of the provider's Services- 1 and the OEM partner 3. These components on the part of end customers 4 can both maintenance items, as well as data supplied components to be (z. B. CNC / PLC systems 15, peripheral devices or sensors 16, controls 17, workstation or PC 18 or main computers operate ner / hosts 19).

The illustration in the FIG 4 shows the structural and functional relationship of the present invention between a client system or workstation 21 of a retail and a computer 8 of a service provider and an exemplary machine tool 20. In this case, particular emphasis on the technical implementation on site set of clients / work computer an end customer. etc. The client system or the workstation 21 of the final customer includes a controller with a man-machine interface (Human Machine Interface HMI), which is the range of the controller, with the interacting a machine operator. Through this interface, access is granted to different applications. In addition, a numerical controller NC is provided which comprises a control unit NCU, and a control core NCK. The control of man-machine interface 21 of the working machine has a bidirectional communications link to the host computer 8 of the supplier of automated services via a network, preferably via an Internet connection 14. This is preferably done via an Internet browser 23, which on the software layer of the operating system the work computer is running and on the website, so-called. web pages can be loaded from the computer 8.

A machine operator can access in a conventional manner on an internet site of the host to request specific data contents of the host computer. The main data is transferred from the host computer 8 to the Internet browser 23. Triggered by reactions of a machine operator, for example, selecting specific options or parameters, then cause a transport of related information on the Internet connection 14 (z. B. the world-wide-web WWW) back to the host computer 8. In this phase of communication between workstation 21 and computer 8 but no control-related data to the host computer 8 are transferred.

The workstation / client 21 furthermore has a machine utility and machine agent 22 which likewise in the context of human-machine interface and the numerical control expires and is able to receive command instructions on the part of the host computer 8 and so-called machine executable jobs 24, 25 to generate, which are executed directly by the numerical control. For this purpose the machine agent 22 is connected via a control interface 27 (NC-Interface) with the actual machine tool 20, a robot or the like.

The machine agent 22 and the browser 23 communicate via a machine interface agent 26, which converts charged services or data from the browser 23 in a format from the host computer maschinenausführbares eighth Among these Way generated machine executable jobs 24, 25 can be located both instructions for performing one or more machine tools commands to be executed by the numerical control, as well as instructions for detecting available machine state data or other control-related data. Data acquisition can be carried out on the basis of an already existing so-called. Trace or trace functionality known machine tool systems. In the present invention, however, improved trace functionality for acquiring machine state data are conceivable, which are presented later.

For safety reasons, it is also conceivable that a shock arrival of machine tools commands manually validated by a machine operator requires. Recorded machine status data can then be transferred in connection with a job to be processed and the order of these jobs from the machine agent 22 to the host computer. 8 Such a data transfer is in the context of FIG 4, is indicated by the upper arrows, which extend only from left to right. Such a transfer is therefore preferably unidirectional and does not necessarily have a communication link Ü over the Internet include, but it is also any other network connection to imagine z. B.. By a so-called remote access to a local area network LAN of the service provider 1

It is difficult, especially in this context, to choose a safe and especially quick communication link. Because it can not always be guaranteed that mainly in real time detected engine condition data that arrives only after a considerable delay on the part of the host computer 8 at the service provider, yet can be processed quickly enough to generate the requested data or services on time and workstation 21 return them. On the side of the host computer 8 of the service provider 1, a plurality of different types of associated data or services for the owner or operator of the working machine 21 can be generated in dependence on the received machine state data. Possible examples are given below.

Given a concrete realization of mentioned ePS service on the basis of the present invention is described.

The CNC / PLC machines equipment (PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller) is connected via the Internet with the ePS Server. Machine data from the production process are displayed in real time on the ePS server and compressed there, analyzed and evaluated. The off the results obtained sen data relating to machine condition, machine utilization, process stability, quality of work, and the long term to be derived status changes of the machine are transmitted to the customer via the Internet.

The ePS system provides an open programming interface (API) for users and manufacturers. This can also integrate their own applications / equipment know-how in the form of an e-service ePS customers. ePS customers can activate their desired e-services online via the machine controller or PC from the ePS services.

The ePS services includes for example the following e-services:

- Machine Services

- Machine Performance

- Workpiece Services - Data Management

- E-sales The ePS service "Machinery Services" supports the commissioning (CAR, computer aided runoff) and fault analyzes during servicing.

About the service "Machine Performance", the result of variance of the cyclically repeated CAR measurements are shown. The e-service "workpiece Services" assures about the real-time capture of machine data, process stability and workpiece quality. Furthermore it is possible with this service via a visualization of NC programs and their processing in the control, early detection of vulnerabilities. The thus detected before the machining process weaknesses can be eliminated.

Data Management is a Web-based storage and management service control data, such as NC programs, machine data and parameters. These data are particularly important for customers who do not have their own IT infrastructure of benefit. This service allows customers with high data security a quick resumption of production at its own data loss.

Machine users (end users) and also machinery manufacturer encounter with the increasing complexity of machines and high dependence between machine components and electrical equipment components quickly reach their limits when it comes to increasing productivity, accuracy, quality or process stability of the machine / system.

a person is usually sent with expert knowledge (on a specialty) locally on the machine to increase productivity, accuracy, quality or process stability of a machine / system. In rare cases, a point-to-point connection of the automation component (z. B. a control) is added via a modem to a computer at the machine manufacturer and the expert The machine manufacturer has tried to make the improvements or eliminating errors have a "Remote Human Machine Interface.

The following business models solve this problem described now on the basis of the present invention with the system described above. Here, between the business model (A) and the provision of services (B) a business model, including business model (A) distinguished are the.

The business model A example includes the following measures:

- Low (real-time) data (. Eg program data server vodaten, motor data, drive data, position, sensor data) by an automation component; then storing these data in a memory;

- Then (time-controlled or event-controlled, for example.) Transferring the data from the memory via the Internet in a

Calculator (evaluation and analysis unit); then (usually automated and not by people running) evaluation / analysis / measurement of these data in a computer;

- Then a reaction / response via different

Transmission paths (eg via the Internet, via e-mail, via mobile phone, via pager, via radio, via telephone, etc..); then optionally close the "loop" by recording (real-time) data (z. B. program data, servo data, motor data, drive data, position, sensor data.

About such or a similar business model, including business model (A), can now be the following services to provide (B). Under evaluation / analysis / measurement of these data in a computer is as follows meant: - Electronic measuring workpieces, tools and clamping operations (from the recorded (real-time) data and not by measuring the physically existing workpiece) on the one hand to help diagnose problems with a lack of workpiece quality (due to excessive wakes, unstable regulator ratios, faulty corrections etc .. ), on the other hand for dialogue guided correction of conditions.

-. Demonstrate the relationships between process variables eg laser power and feed speed, or tool speed and feed rate. From these evaluations, conclusions about process quality, manufacturing tolerances, etc. can, win and correct if necessary. In perfect condition of the tool (well focused laser, immaculate cutter condition and geometry) a stable process can be documented. A stable process also means a stable result. This can be in many cases, subsequent surveys prevent or detect without having to wait for test results problems.

- Analysis of tool paths (particularly to non-Cartesian machine tools) in the Cartesian coordinate system, with possible correction or statement to good part / bad part. For example, in many parallel kinematic machine geometric see errors in the joints not metrologically accessible. Such errors cause the tool tip is geometrically incorrect moves. Such problems can be detected and corrected via redundant measurement systems.

- Monitoring of process variables with limit value monitoring and / or correlation monitoring. Review of limits / correlations with expert systems and correction or process termination.

- Program analysis by executing a program in a virtual CNC (incl. Interpolation, position control data, driving simulation and mechanics model) and visualization following objectives: optimizing runtime, optimization of workpiece quality, optimized tool change, collision detection, geometry data monitoring, etc ..

- Automatic creation of start-up protocols for complete documentation of the commissioning state. Here a series of measurements such as circularity test, Positioniermessungen, measurement of velocity profiles, drive currents is performed -and- moments. These show a proper state of the engine during start-up. Second, they serve as "electronic fingerprint" of the machine, which is adapted to recognize wear-induced changes of the machine during operation at an early stage. The measurements which form the electronic fingerprint, can be combined into a macro and then in an identical manner in the form of so-called. Batch jobs periodically repeatable (diagnostic batch).

- For example, a periodically repeated ballbar serve to detect loose or cyclical disturbances as a result of wear of the ball screw or gear or other transmission mechanisms such as timing belt etc ...

An example of such circularity test, which is performed on the invention described e-PS system is illustrated in FIG 5 to FIG 7, wherein each of the communicated to the provider of the automatic service "ballbar" on the Internet, present on the side of the host computer acquired machine state data are graphically presented. In this area, either a specialist manufacturer manually make the necessary work on the machine or it can preferably also be carried out automatically via an electronic service via the Internet, by necessary, according sponding correction parameters are transmitted to the workstation.

For this purpose, first, the measurement method, and then the tested plane xy, xz or zy selected (see Fig. 5 with selection of the xy plane). Subsequently, the parameters for conducting the circularity test be specified. These are in particular diameter D, the center C, tolerance band T, feed rate F and direction (clockwise or counterclockwise), whereby the predetermined circular path P is determined (see FIG. 6).

The 7 shows the determined by the parameters mentioned actual position values ​​of the circle described by the machine, so the measured contour M, which may deviate from the ideal path P. In addition, a possible shift carbon offset towards the center of the circle specified C is displayed. There is now the possibility of archiving the data collected, for which purpose the data is associated with an identification code I tested the machine and possibly the end customers.

Based on the thus determined irregularities can now be generated automatically by appropriate software manufacturer's corrective action and as an automatic service see an adjustment or compensation of the parameters causing or components of the machine make.

Irregularities in the axle guides can be recognized by irregu lar current course or speed profile (waviness measurements). Instability of the position controller as a result of changed friction conditions can be detected by the dynamic positioning behavior (overshoot). The aim of the measurements is to avoid as, wear-related shutdowns de the machine, characterized in that the wear_ß is detected early and automated (long-term wear diagnosis) and related parts for a good time can be procured on the other hand can then be exchanged for scheduled maintenance periods (for example, by automatic orders via e-sales) and.

When using external measuring equipment (eg ballbar or laser measuring system) is another object to calibrate internal measurement systems to eliminate the need for repeat measurements to external measuring equipment can.

For example, a slack in gear or in the ball screw is at a circularity test, which uses only the motor measuring system, seen not as readily as she is a ballbar very easy to see using. When multiple parameters simultaneously recording (eg overrun and currents in addition to the measuring system) is a loose, corresponding inertia ratios assuming still recognizable.

From one and the same measure from various sources (eg position measuring signal externally, linear scale or motor measuring system) compared to far-reaching conclusions can be drawn regarding the machine status.

- Automatic creation of service and maintenance logs for complete documentation of machine history (cf. in FIG 7 Displaying archiving option.). In case of a problem so that the remote diagnostics of a machine is greatly facilitated. Constructive problems can be detected early and eliminated by frequency analysis of certain errors.

Creation of expert networks via ePS host on the processing problems in various fields can be exchanged. For example in case of problems can be addressed directly from the machine requests to a defined group of other experts. - Evaluation for the diagnosis of exception and error situations. Here, error lists, pending alarms, parameters that the current machine status at the time of occurrence of abnormality (such as the PLC status, status of I / O, target and actual positions as Crash Monitor) recorded in the form of a black box, and are available the machine operators and service technicians of the supplier immediately via the web (service history). At the same time certain people are set via SMS or e-mail of the problem having a configurable list. This makes it possible to offer a conversational help troubleshooting the operator. If this does not lead to trouble shooting, along with the above-described standard measurement is a fast and efficient remote diagnosis possible borrowed. If so that no success is achieved tries to solve the problem by means of a multimedia remote control. The site service calls can be at least partially replaced. In the case of unavoidable service calls they can be better prepared.

Monitoring of maintenance plans through appropriate data exchange with the host. Optionally can be temporarily locked in non-compliance with the machine. This can be controlled via appropriate acknowledgment functions.

Visualization of the NC program in the form of tool paths, points and linking them into a virtual workpiece surface (reverse engineering), which can be investigated through different lighting from different directions and sources.

Visualization of the control behavior (Interpolated points, position controller behavior) in the same way.

- Communication of machine condition data to higher-level systems such as: ERP systems with the aim of optimizing of the total production and improving the production planning.

- To recognize backup and archiving of configuration data, user data arrival and programs with the aim to always have access to all versions of the control data in order to possibly reconstruct states may or problematic changes (data comparison). For smaller companies interesting Komplettbackμpmöglichkeit via Remoteser- ver.

The product data for the automation components (controllers, drives) and other machine components (BOMs, product descriptions, etc ..) are available at all times via ePS host.

No person with expert knowledge uss be sent to the machine on site to carry out the described improvements, optimizations, etc ... Often must be sent with expert knowledge to the machine without the inventive system even more people. With this invention, the expert via the Internet is brought to the machine and the machine is only the operator to confirm any machinery (propelled) commands available.

The use of a browser 23 (see FIG. 4) is not absolutely necessary, it can also be a direct connection to the Internet or other communications network. With regard to the above-mentioned trace functionality should also be mentioned that such a function usually control and drive data particularly optimal returns. Whether such functionality is, however, provided either directly or through inclusion of additional services or modules, depends generally on the application. A distinction is usually between a so-called "normal" trace functionality, wherein a trace to specified times or events is started and finished. A transfer of acquired machine condition Status data is then only triggered once the trace is complete. Alternatively, it is possible to provide a so-called "endless" trace functionality. In this case, the trace runs as an application in the background and it achieved followed by a continuous transfer data collected off the workstation (for example to an HMI).

A trace functionality receives usually only read access to the control core NCK. A write access, eg., By a function generator, is contrary to the usual definition of a trace functionality and must therefore be added usually as an additional function to the conventional trace functionality. This is for instance necessary when certain automated Prozedu- ren, a function generator and a trace functionality must be implemented as an externally coupled functions.

The configuration of a trace functionality can usually be done offline. Once a trace has been initiated, however, the conditions during operation can not be changed. Given the trace has to be stopped or canceled.

Possible functions for a trace in the context of the present invention are, for example, picking a machine, fault detection, problems with applications (especially for complex applications with multiple channels and synchronous actions), sporadic problems at run time of the machine, tool breakage or logical analysis such. as of telescopic or speedometer functions.

For those recorded machine condition data depending on the application, there are a variety of information to be collected. These include, among others:

- System variables, drive signals PLC flags and a variety of events such as status, status changes or binary signals such as alarms, etc .;

- Access to local user program data; (eg NC program, flags in the PLC program.)

- Transfer of collected local data in appropriate global variables.

All these data exemplified may serve as a trigger for the trace and trace functionality.

Under certain circumstances, there are specific requirements for performing a trace or trace functionality, z. B. in connection with PLC data. For access to PLC peripherals or signals or flags in a user program, it may be advantageous if this is even possible without one impact on its PLC. Especially the access to user program data (10, flags, etc.) and the possibility of synchronization of the starting point for recording of machine condition data on a user agent is advantageous in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Another advantageous embodiment of the invention includes up to 32 a PLC signals that can be monitored at the same time as part of a trace or trace functionality. This also advantageously available buffer data can be stored in a user program.

A collection of machine condition data is tailored advantageous experienced on the automatic service. Especially effective this occurs when only the required information is collected, and this more than necessary. Also a clear distinction between continuous signals and sporadic events should be taken. Where possible data compression during acquisition is performed, but taking into account Laufzeitef- prefect. Only for the case that is not known or defined, for which the data to be recorded are required, the entire spectrum is detected at information machines. Depending on the application z. B. Ring buffers are preferred, in which in principle the oldest and most recent information overwritten while in a queue memory or a so-called. Queue always have the latest information will be overwritten when the queue is full is.

Additional supplemental information as could in a time stamp or values ​​of time counters exist etc ... In the case of the analysis of the causes of serious errors performing the trace or trace functionality will be made possible regardless of the malfunction. That the continued operation after an error detected before the error data are securely stored. In the ideal case, each variable to be detected is provided in association with the machine state data as a separate function with its own characteristic time in order to keep the amount of data as small as possible.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the detection of machine condition data is time-controlled or controlled event. Also can be automatically generated an additional file or an additional archive that preferably may also contain subroutines. In a trace file is then a reference, such as a pointer, set to this archive or this file. In this manner can be prevented from the outset the possible inconsistencies in connection with a manual implementation of such a function. So can also be done several days after data collection, manual archiving, whereby in this

Time configuration may already have changed. This can also be specified by a specific application, thereby achieving the conditions need not be fulfilled by internal interfaces.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, changes in the configuration automatically by distributed components. This also applies to the collection and provision of available meta-information (data about data). The man-machine interface HMI can be used in this context as an interface for an internal configuration. This allows a simpler cost-effective upgrade for new signals provide by being easily attached via the HMI interface with a trace or trace functionality (called merge).

One possible approach for controlling the above-mentioned preferably provides the following features:

Start conditions (manual, NC program, PLC, synchronized, time-controlled, continuous or external signals) and stop / trigger conditions (manual, NC program, PLC synchronized, timed overflow by internal Addierungen or external signals).

Such trigger conditions are preferably enforce within certain states:

- Eg trigger by individual bits, by change in state variables of a state in a state ZI Z2 (well defined state transitions) or by text instead of numbers codes;

- By trigger in the form of clearly defined NC program commands and associated command numbers; - Trigger of the nth occurrence of a predetermined relevant codes.

Nested conditions are also possible, such as:. A conditions must be met, conditions B or condi- tion C, and, if condition E is satisfied, data is recorded to condition F occurs. After an accident (z. B. tool breakage) or a stop is made to ensure that all necessary resources are available as possible, as soon as data is transferred. Once a critical error has occurred, it is significant that one ne with this error associated condition is defined so that an automatic restart is excluded.

An appropriate assessment of data is preferably carried out at the man-machine interface HMI. It is also possible, as required, exclusively to bind an application to a file. Moreover, a serial COM connection is possible in order to allow access block-wise over a continuous data stream (without intermediate storage in the file). It can and should be described is, inter alia, three different Benutzungs classes:

20 prepared using such applications of control software manufacturers on the man-machine interface HMI such. As a visualization of a trace, IBN or diagnostic tools

21 OEM users (Arbeitsrechner- or client- applications)

22 Internet and Web-based services

A trace preferably has an open structure for the user. Open and freely accessible interfaces for configuration include controls (start, stop) and analysis (data format) for OEMs.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the display of a trace is performed similar to a logic analyzer oscilloscope. Thus signals from various sources can be displayed. In addition, references can be displayed to a specific program module. Advantageously take also cursor and zoom functions are provided. It is advantageous if at least four signals can be visualized simultaneously. In addition, pre- preferably filter provided which allowed a choice of signals. Furthermore, differential signals can be output or be assigned important events, which allows users with little knowledge, a better understanding of obtaining information or machine condition data collected.

To ensure that a high level of robustness is ensured in the data collection, the following are particularly suitable:

- As far as possible data should be accessible even after failures.

- Sudden failure during a trace should not result in a data overflow and appropriate reactions in the case of scarce resources should be provided.

- After entering an error ensures that files with acquired machine state data can not be deleted at a later date.

Below is a selection of possible services or data content is already listed:

Machine-based services like - analysis of machine operating times, and capacity -ausfallzeiten

Achsanalysen as

- Individual analysis, status - Simulation of axes

- Measurement of the amplitudes

Fourier transform and generate Bode diagrams with

- Identification of natural frequencies - Trend Analysis Achsoptimierungen and optimization of axis parameters as

- engaging velocity

- acceleration

- Jerk - Filter

- KV factor

- Friction compensation

- Backlash compensation

Verification of engine data such as

- Accuracy and consistency

- Consistency of the data storage

- Consistency of functions and machine data

Wear analysis as

- Path accuracy

- Trend analysis

- Increasing play of the joints

- Friction problems (.. Eg lubrication) - transmission problems between engines and axles

Monitoring of processes with eg

- Drive parameters

- Current load or capacity - moments

- jerk

- Number of revolutions

- temperatures

- Trend analysis

Machine inspections with

- Circularity test

- Measurement of the stiffness of

- Linear axes - C-axis

Equipment calibrations

- feeler gauge - Single-axis calibration

- C-axis calibration

- Workpiece measurement

Workpiece-related services with

- Workpiece geometry

- Measurement of directional stability

- Trace functionality in relation to the current target in tabular or graphic form - workpiece surface and quality

Process analysis with

- Determination and documentation of the feed rate and cutting speed - measuring the cutting force over as

- Laser power

- Fourier transform and frequency observation

Software sales and distribution with - shipment of new versions

- Delivery of bug fixes (service packs)

- Delivery of communication software for hardware and-

Service offerings

The foregoing description of preferred embodiments according to the invention is given for purposes of illustration. These embodiments are not exhaustive. The invention is not limited to the exact form indicated, but various modifications and amendments in the framework of the above technical

Teachings. A preferred embodiment was chosen and described in order to illustrate the basic details of the invention and practical applications to enable those skilled in the ability to realize the invention. A variety of preferred embodiments as well as further modifications come into consideration for particular applications.