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

p0001The invention relates to a system for computer-assisted handling and management of a numerically controlled industrial processing machine, as well as to a device and a corresponding method for the computer-assisted provision of machine-related data and / or services.

p0002In the area of ​​industrial automation technology, and in particular in the field of numerically controlled processing machines, manufacturers offer service in the form of control technology and corresponding software components for other manufacturers of original accessories (so-called original equipment manufacturer OEM), which manufacture and market industrial processing machines.

p0003Such OEMs usually have good relationships with their end customers who are often manufacturers of accessories and who operate and operate the machines purchased by OEMs and their accessories.

p0004Such OEMs not only develop and market goods, such as machine tools, but also provide additional services for the products they and others sell to end users. Since the products distributed are usually highly complex, there are high requirements and difficulties in the provision of such services, which require a variety of information regarding the operation of their machine tools.

p0005The main difficulties are to gain access to the information of the machines to be maintained for the service. Most of this is also information that must be obtained directly from the processing process of the machine tools. Corresponding software components for such machine tools or other industrial processing machines are, as a rule, highly specialized in the execution of the actual control task. However, with respect to an additional detection of machine data for the above-mentioned reasons beyond the direct control of the machine, no further machine information is conventionally provided.

p0006For these and other reasons, manufacturers of numerical controls and corresponding software components for industrial processing machines have not been able to deliver performance improvements to such machines directly or through OEMs to their end users due to knowledge-based information.

p0007For this reason, there is a great need on the basis of such advanced machine condition data, especially for maintenance and service purposes, to provide the end user with services and machine-related know-how as quickly as possible and at every location. As a result, the availability of such machines, their service life and productivity could be decisively improved.

p0008To date, no methods or devices have yet been disclosed, on the basis of which services or software components could be developed which enable services based on collected machine data. In this way, it would also be impossible to implement automated. Services possible. Nor has it been possible up to now to offer services tailored specifically to a customer's processing machine at any time in a reasonable time frame because, as a rule, the capacity of the service providers is not sufficient.

p0009Therefore Serviceper conventionally personnel 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.

p0010The <patcit id="pcit0001" dnum="EP0822473A2"><text>EP 0 822 473 A2</text></patcit> Shows an automated maintenance system with a first computer which, in the event of a fault, sends status information about the operating state of a connected industrial device to a remote computer over the Internet. The remote computer checks whether countermeasures are stored in a database for this kind of error and, if appropriate, transmits a message, code, program or data to remove the error to the first computer.

p0011In this way, however, it is not possible to offer real-time-related or particularly computer-intensive services such as, for example, axis analyzes or other optimizations, machine calibrations, software services, machine data management or other dynamic interventions in the machine.

p0012However, this would be especially important for end users to shorten their development times, increase their market presence and ensure maximum availability of the machines.

p0013It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a method and a corresponding device which, without a physical presence on the ground, also make particularly high-data data or services available from a manufacturer or supplier of accessories for the machine of an end customer.

p0014According to the present invention, this object is achieved by a system for computer-assisted handling and management of a numerically controlled industrial processing machine having the following features:<ul><li>A main computer for generating and providing machine - related data and / or services;</li><li>A computer-based working computer (which is connected to the main computer via an Internet or intranet and by means of which the working computer can be recorded in real-time machine state data), can be transferred to the main computer and generated machine-related data and / or data generated by the main computer by means of an analysis and evaluation unit as a function of such machine state data, Or services,</li></ul>Characterized in that<ul><li>The host computer is adapted to generate and provide a plurality of different types of data and / or services</li><li>The calculation of the machine state data on the work computer can be controlled by instructions obtained via the Internet or intranet from the main computer so that the machine state data are determined with reference to the respective service provided to the customer.</li></ul>

p0015It has proven to be advantageous if the main computer has a communication link to a superordinate computer system of a machine manufacturer or manufacturer of machine components, via which master computer access to system data of the main computer is granted by the main computer. In this way, on the one hand, service routines, in particular software components, and on the other hand the computing capacity of such a computer can be used for the analysis of the obtained machine data.

p0016If the machine-side work computer (client) has a unique identification means, in particular an identification code, against the main computer (host), the master computer (host) can assign machine state data received from this work computer to this work computer. In this way, extensive archives can be generated with machine-related data from various end users and machines, which can serve, for example, for statistical purposes or for establishing a fault history.

p0017This is particularly effective when Internet pages or intranet pages can be transferred from the main computer (host) to the work computer (client) for the user-assisted selection of options provided therein.

p0018Furthermore, the object of the invention is also solved by a method for computer-assisted generation and provision of machine-related data and / or services for a numerically controlled industrial processing machine, wherein a main computer and a machine-based working computer communicate via a data communication connection, comprising the following method steps:<ul><li>Recording of machine state data on the side of the working computer,</li><li>Transmission of the detected machine state data via the data communication link to the main computer,</li><li>Generating machine - related data and / or services on the part of the main computer as a function of such machine state data;</li><li>Providing these machine-related data and / or services to the work computer or its user,</li></ul>Characterized in that The method being adapted to generate and provide a plurality of different types of data and / or services, and further comprising the steps of:<ul><li>Transmission of information on the availability of machine-related data and / or services from the main computer to the work computer,</li><li>Receiving a request for machine-related data and / or a service from the work computer on the part of the main computer,</li><li>Transmission of information with respect to the required machine state data to be detected by the working computer from the main computer to the working computer,</li></ul>Wherein the acquisition of machine state data on the part of the working computer is carried out by determining measurement data with reference to the service provided to the customer, wherein the transmission of the detected machine state data via the data communication connection to the main computer is effected by receiving data from the working computer, Wherein the machine-related data and / or the requested service generated by the work computer are generated by the main computer, and wherein the provision of these machine-related data and / or the computer-related data and / Or services to the work computer or its user is carried out by transferring the machine-related data requested by the work computer and / or the requested service from the main computer to the work computer.

p0019It has proven to be particularly favorable when machine state data are recorded on the side of the work computer (client) in real-time.

p0020The already mentioned advantages with regard to data archiving can also be achieved by transmitting a unique identification means, in particular an identification code, associated with the machine-side work computer (client) to the main computer (host). To this end, the main computer (host) assigns machine state data received from a work computer to this work computer by means of the identification means.

p0021In this way, the creation of a database of machine-related data is made possible for a plurality of industrial processing machines, wherein a common host for a plurality of computer processing machines and / or services, which is assigned to the industrial processing machines, is computer-assisted generation and provision of machine-related data and / or services As described above, and wherein a data record with the machine state data of one of the work computers (clients) is generated in a storage means and the unique identification code assigned to this working computer is determined and an information item corresponding to the identification code is added to the data record.

p0022Preferably, the machine state data comprise program data or servo data or motor data or converter data or position data or sensor data. In addition, however, further machine state data can also be determined depending on the application.

p0023According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method of the present invention, the work computer (client) stores the detected machine state data in a storage medium before they are transmitted to the host computer (host).

p0024Such a transmission of machine state data stored in the storage medium is preferably effected in a time-controlled or event-controlled manner via the data communication connection to the host computer (host). It is also advantageous if the host computer (host) performs an automatic analysis or evaluation of received machine state data.

p0025In order to record the costs caused by the services provided, it is also advantageous if the main computer receives and saves information from the host computer regarding the payment of requested machine-related data and / or services. In order to record price information for payment, the following further process steps have also proven to be favorable:<ul><li>Determining first price information as fixed costs of a predetermined recurring period, in particular of a month period, </li><li>Determining a second pricing information as variable costs depending on a service provided.</li></ul>

p0026For the computer-assisted provision of service services for optimization purposes, the following further method steps are carried out according to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention:<ul><li>Generating a data structure for accommodating data with respect to a service service,</li></ul>

p0027The object of the invention is also solved by a method for the computer-assisted provision of machine-related data and / or services from a main computer of a service provider to a working computer of a processing machine of a customer via a network, wherein the working computer of the processing machine of the customer, Control and / or control of the processing machine and a suitable sensor for detecting machine state data and being connected to the network, comprising the following method steps: <ul><li>Transmission of information on the availability of machine-related data and / or services from the main computer to the work computer,</li><li>Receiving a request for machine-related data and / or a service from the work computer on the part of the main computer,</li><li>Transmission of information with respect to the required machine state data to be detected by the working computer from the main computer to the working computer,</li><li>Receiving data from the working computer, the required machine state data on the side of the main computer,</li><li>Generation of the machine - related data requested by the work computer and / or the requested service by the master computer and</li><li>Transfer of the machine-related data requested by the work computer and / or the requested service from the main computer to the work computer.</li></ul>

p0028In order to record the costs caused by the services provided, it is also advantageous if the main computer receives and saves information from the host computer regarding the payment of requested machine-related data and / or services. In order to record price information for payment, the following further process steps have also proven to be favorable:<ul><li>Determining a first price information as fixed costs of a predetermined recurring period, in particular of a monthly period,</li><li>Determining a second pricing information as variable costs depending on a service provided.</li></ul>

p0029For the computer-assisted provision of service services for optimization purposes, the following further method steps are carried out according to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention:<ul><li>Generating a data structure for accommodating data with respect to a service service, </li><li>Storing first data in the data structure representing the identity of a customer, in particular the unique identification code, and</li><li>Storing further data in the data structure representing the identity of the service service.</li></ul>

p0030The following further process steps have proven advantageous:<ul><li>Determining measurement data with respect to the service service provided to the customer and</li><li>Storing further data in the data structure which represent these measurement data.</li></ul>

p0031Furthermore, the object of the invention is achieved by means of a device for the computer-assisted provision of machine-related data and / or services on a main computer of a service provider for a work computer.a processing machine of a customer via a network, in particular with a system for computer-assisted handling and administration of a computer Numerically controlled industrial processing machine as described above, wherein the working computer of the processing machine of the customer has a system for controlling and / or controlling the processing machine and a suitable sensor for detecting machine state data and is connected to the network, with the following further features on the part of the Main computer:<ul><li>Means for transmission<ul><li>Of information on the availability of machine - related data and / or services from the main computer to the work computer and</li><li>Information relating to the required machine state data to be detected by the work computer from the main computer to the work computer and</li><li>The machine - related data requested by the work computer and / or the requested service from the main computer to the work computer and</li></ul></li><li>A means of reception<ul><li>A request for machine - related data and / or a service from the work computer on the part of the main computer, and</li><li>Of data of the working computer includes the required machine state data on the side of the main computer and</li></ul></li><li>Means for generating the machine-related data requested by the work computer and / or the requested service by the main computer.</li></ul>

p0032This can be realized particularly effectively if the means for generating the machine-related data requested by the work computer and / or the requested service by the master computer comprises an Internet web server and the main computer is suitably programmed to generate internet web pages .

p0033Again, it is advantageous if the customer's work computer has a unique identification means, in particular an identification code, for the processing machine, and if the main computer has a storage means, in particular a database, for receiving information from the working computer in conjunction with the identification code.

p0034Finally, the object of the invention is also achieved by means of a device for the computer-assisted provision of service services for an automation system over a network, in particular with a system for computer-assisted handling and management of a numerically controlled industrial processing machine as described above, with the following features:<ul><li>Means for loading instructions to the automation system, the instructions controlling at least one function or other aspect of the automation system,</li><li>Means for receiving customer-related system data from the automation system over the network, such system data being collected as a function of the loaded instructions,</li><li>Means for generating appropriate service services for the automation system as a function of the collected customer-specific system data and</li><li>A means for transferring such service services to the customer's automation system over the network.</li></ul>

p0035It has proven to be advantageous if a means is provided for providing a selection of options of the service service to the customer's automation system via the network. This also applies to a means for selecting one of the options of the service service on the part of the customer's automation system.

p0036Further advantages are obtained if the automation system has a network interface for communication over the network and for receiving the service information, and a machine agent is provided for generating machine-executable program sequences on the basis of the received services, Interface and the means for generating machine-executable program sequences over a predefined data format. This is particularly effective when the network interface includes an Internet browser.

p0037The above-described method according to the invention can be used particularly well for the remote commissioning or remote maintenance of an industrial working machine.

p0038It is also recommended to use a subset of the following measures:<ul><li>Electronic measurement of workpieces, tools and fixtures for the diagnosis of problems in the case of a lack of workpiece quality or for dialog-corrected correction of the ratios, </li><li>Display the relationships of process variables such as laser power, feed speed or tool speed and feed speed,</li><li>Analysis of the toolpaths in the Cartesian coordinate hysteresis with correction or statement to good / bad part,</li><li>Monitoring of process variables with limit value monitoring and / or correlation monitoring,</li><li>Program analysis by processing a program in a virtual simulation of the processing machine,</li><li>Automatic creation of commissioning protocols for seamless documentation of the commissioning status,</li><li>Automatic creation of service and maintenance logs for the complete documentation of machine history,</li><li>Evaluation for the diagnosis of exceptional and fault situations,</li><li>Backup and archiving of configuration data, user data and programs for the reconstruction of states or for recognizing problematic changes.</li></ul>

p0039Such an on-line service according to the invention, hereinafter referred to as ePS-Network (Electronic Production Services), improves the machine availability for the manufacturers and increases the availability of the machines for the users.

p0040The e-business infrastructure according to the invention enables machine manufacturers to maintain the machines of their customers much easier and more efficiently. All ePS services are provided with high online security.

p0041EPS services offered to machine users are designed to minimize operating costs, increase the life of the machine, improve product quality, increase productivity, and ensure maximum availability of the production equipment.

p0042Further advantages and details of the present invention result from the exemplary embodiments shown in the following and in conjunction with the figures. In principle, the following are shown:<dl id="dl0001" compact="compact"><dt>FIG</dt><dd>A block diagram of a system according to the invention for providing automated services over a network as well as alternative or supplementary manual services,</dd><dt>FIG</dt><dd>A block diagram of a system according to the present invention for providing automated services and / or data to an end user via a network,</dd><dt>FIG</dt><dd>A block diagram of an advantageous embodiment according to the invention,</dd><dt>FIG</dt><dd>A further block diagram of a client-server architecture based on the present invention with emphasis on the client / work computer side,</dd><dt>FIG. 5 to FIG. 7</dt><dd>Various phases and parameters for carrying out a circular test with a system according to the invention.</dd></dl>

p0043The representation according to <figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> Shows on a high degree of abstraction how, on the basis of an Internet connection, automatic services AS or the required data contents or software components are made available to a plurality of end users with machines S1... SN, with which information is exchanged bidirectionally. In addition, a conventional provider of MS of manual services or engineering services (eg, OEM) is shown, which also communicates with the end customers and their machines S1... SN, however, in a conventional manner. A disadvantage of such an arrangement or system is the fact that there is no communication between the provider of the Internet-based automatic services and the provider of conventional manual services. This means that the technical expertise available on both sides can not be used.

p0044The representation according to <figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> Shows the usual production chain and / or supplier chain of machine tools in the left image area. A supplier 2 of an automation product, responsible for the control hardware and software, distributes its products and services to a customer, usually a machine tool OEM 3. On the other hand, the OEM is constructed on the basis of the acquired control systems with additional, self-manufactured Or purchased components is the actual machine tool. This machine tool is usually marketed to so-called end customers 4, which are usually manufacturing companies.

p0045A provider 1 of the automated services according to the invention, based on a network, in particular an Internet connection, is generally in reciprocal communication with all three parties mentioned. Preferably, a provider 1 of automated services according to the invention is still in contact with further providers of software tools 5 or special services 6 as well as with further Internet partners 7 (see right image area).

p0046In the <figref idrefs="f0002">FIG</figref> Is now a more detailed illustration of the main operators 1, 3 and 4 <figref idrefs="f0001">FIG</figref> shown. The service provider 1 has an e-business main computer or host 8, which communicates with a system database or customer database 9 and is served by an interactive user. Via an open application programming interface 11 (Application Programming Interface API), an OEM partner 3 is provided with access to the data contents provided by the main computer 8.

p0047A further interactive user 12 on the part of the OEM partner 3 can thus profit from the access to the customer data or the customer data bank 9, as will be explained in more detail below. This is preferably done by communication via a network computer, eg an Internet connection 14, by means of a main computer or host 13 on the part of the OEM partner 3. For this purpose, preferably measures for secure communication, eg encryption methods (channel encryption Or asymmetric document encryption) as well as methods for securing data integrity (eg generation of hash values).

p0048On the side of the end user 4, components 15 to 19 are connected to the network, eg, the Internet connection 14, and thus to the systems of the service provider 1 and the OEM partner 3 via corresponding interfaces. These components on the part of the end user 4 can be both components to be maintained and data-supplying components (eg CNC / PLC systems 15, peripheral devices or sensors 16, controllers 17, workstation computers or PCs 18 or main computers / hosts 19) .

p0049The representation according to the <figref idrefs="f0003">FIG</figref> The structural and functional relationship according to the present invention now shows between a client system 21 of an end customer and a main computer 8 of a service provider as well as an exemplary machine tool 20. Particular emphasis is placed on the technical realization on the side of the client / work computer of an end customer placed. The client system or the working computer 21 of the end customer includes, among other things, a controller with a human machine interface (HMI), ie the area of ​​the control system, with which a machine operator interacts. This interface provides access to various applications. In addition, a numerical control NC is provided which comprises a control unit NCU and a control core NCK.

p0050The control of the man-machine interface 21 of the working computer has a bidirectional communication link to the main computer 8 of the provider of automated services via a network, preferably via an Internet connection 14. This preferably takes place via an Internet browser 23 which is based on the software layer of the operating system Of the working computer and can be loaded from the main computer 8 via the Internet pages, so-called web pages.

p0051A machine operator can access an Internet page of the main computer in a conventional manner in order to request certain data contents of the main computer. The main data transfer takes place from the main computer 8 to the Internet browser 23. Triggered by the responses of a machine operator, for example, the selection of special options or parameters, then effect transport of related information via the Internet connection 14 (eg the world-wide-web WWW) back to the main computer 8. However, in this phase of the communication between the work computer 21 and the main computer 8, no control-related data are transferred to the main computer 8.

p0052In addition, the work computer / client 21 also has a machine service program or machine agent 22 which also runs in the context of the man-machine interface and the numerical control and is capable of receiving command instructions from the main computer 8 and so-called machine-executable jobs 24, 25, which are directly executable by the numerical control. For this purpose, the machine agent 22 is connected to the actual machine tool 20, a robot or the like via a control interface 27 (NC interface).

p0053The machine agent 22 and the browser 23 communicate via a machine agent interface 26 which converts services or data loaded by the main computer 8 into a machine-executable format via the browser 23. The machine-executable jobs 24, 25 generated in this manner may include instructions for executing one or more machine tool instructions for execution by the numerical controller, 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 sequence tracking or trace function of known machine tool systems. In the context of the present invention, however, improved trace functions for recording machine state data are also conceivable, which are presented later.

p0054For safety reasons, it is also conceivable that an initiation of machine tool commands requires a manual disconnection by a machine operator. Measured machine state data can then be transmitted in conjunction with a job and the sequence of such jobs to be processed from the machine agent 22 to the main computer 8. Such a data transfer is possible within the scope of the<figref idrefs="f0003">FIG</figref> By the upper arrows, which only run from left to right. Such a transfer is thus preferably unidirectional and does not necessarily have to comprise a communication link over the Internet, but any other network connection is also conceivable, for example by a so-called remote access to a local network LAN of the service provider 1.

p0055In this connection, it is particularly important to choose a secure and, above all, fast communication link. It can not always be ensured that machine state data, which has been detected in real-time, which arrive at the service provider only with considerable delay on the part of the main computer 8, can still be processed sufficiently quickly to generate the requested data or services in a timely manner and to the work computer 21 Back.

p0056On the side of the main computer 8 of the service provider 1, a plurality of different types of assigned data or services can be generated for the owner or operator of the working computer 21, depending on the received machine state data. Possible examples are listed below.

p0057For this purpose, a concrete realization of an ePS service mentioned at the beginning is described on the basis of the present invention.

p0058The CNC / PLC machine equipment (PLC stands for memory-programmable control) is connected to the ePS server via the Internet. Machine data from the production process are imaged in real time via the ePS server, where they are compacted, analyzed and evaluated. The results obtained from these data regarding machine condition, machine utilization, process stability, workpiece quality and the long-term state changes of the machine are transmitted to the customer via the Internet.

p0059The ePS system provides an open programming interface (API) for users and manufacturers. As a result, ePS customers can also integrate their own application / machine know-how in the form of an e-service. EPS customers can activate their desired e-services online via the machine control or via PC from the ePS service offer.

p0060The ePS service offers, for example, the following e-services:<ul><li>machine services</li><li>machine performance</li><li>Workpiece services</li><li>data management</li><li>E-sales</li></ul>

p0061The ePS service "Machine Services" supports the commissioning (CAR, computer aided runoff) and the malfunction analysis in the service case.

p0062The "Machine Performance" service can be used to display the result variability from the cyclically repeated CAR measurements. The e-service "workpiece services" secures the process stability and the workpiece quality via the real-time data collection of the machine data. Furthermore, an early detection of weak points is made possible with this service via visualization of NC programs and their processing in the control system. The weak points detected thus before the machining process can be eliminated.

p0063Data Management is a web-based archiving and management service for control data such as NC programs, machine data and parameters. This data is particularly useful for customers who do not have their own IT infrastructure. This service enables the customer with a high data security to quickly resume production in the case of his own data loss.

p0064Machine users (end users) as well as machine manufacturers are quickly reaching the limits of the increasing complexity of machines and their high dependency between machine components and electrical equipment components when it comes to increasing the productivity, accuracy, quality or process stability of the machine / system.

p0065To increase the productivity, accuracy, quality or process stability of a machine / system, a person with expert knowledge (in a special field) is usually sent to the machine on site. In rare cases, a point-to-point connection from the automation component (eg a controller) to a computer at the machine manufacturer is recorded via a modem, and the expert at the machine manufacturer tries to optimize or eliminate the Errors.

p0066The following business models solve this described problem on the basis of the present invention with the previously described system. A distinction can be drawn between the business model (A) and the provision of services (B) via a business model, eg a business model (A).

p0067Business model A includes, for example, the following measures:<ul><li>Recording of (real-time) data (eg program data, servo data, motor data, converter data, positions, sensor data) by means of an automation component; Then storing said data in a memory;</li><li>Then transferring the data from the memory (eg, time-controlled or event-controlled) to a computer (evaluation and analysis unit) via the Internet; Then evaluation / analysis / measurement of this data in a computer (usually automated and not executed by persons);</li><li>Then a response / response via different transmission paths (eg via the Internet, via e-mail, via mobile phone, via a pager, via radio, via telephone, etc.); Then close the "control circuit" by recording (real-time) data (eg program data, servo data, motor data, converter data, positions, sensor data).</li></ul>

p0068The following services (B) can now be provided via such a business model or a similar business model, eg business model (A). By analysis / analysis / measurement of this data in a computer, for example, the following is meant:<ul><li>Electronic measurement of workpieces, tools and fixtures (from the recorded (real-time) data and not by measuring the physically existing workpiece) on the one hand for the diagnosis of problems in the case of a lack of workpiece quality (due to oversized tracking, unstable controller conditions, incorrect corrections etc.) , And on the other hand the dialogue-corrected correction of the circumstances.</li><li>Display the relationships of process variables, eg laser power and feed speed, or tool speed and feed speed. From these evaluations, conclusions can be drawn about process quality, manufacturing tolerances, etc., and corrected if necessary. If the tool is in perfect condition (well-focused laser, perfect milling condition and geometry), a stable process can be documented. A stable process also means a stable result. As a result, in many cases subsequent measurements can be prevented or detected problems without having to wait for measuring results.</li><li>Analysis of the toolpaths (especially on non-Cartesian machine tools) in the cartesian coordinate system with possible correction or statement of the good / bad part. For example, in many parallel kinematic machines geometrical sources of error in the joints are not accessible by measurement technology. Such errors cause the tool tip to be moved geometrically incorrectly. Such problems can be detected and corrected via redundant measuring systems.</li><li>Monitoring of process variables with limit monitoring and / or correlation monitoring. Evaluation of the limit values ​​/ correlations with expert systems and correction or process termination.</li><li>Program analysis by executing a program in a virtual CNC (including interpolation data, position control data, drive simulation and mechanics) and visualization with the following objectives: optimization of runtime, optimization of workpiece quality, optimization of tool changes, collision monitoring, geometry monitoring, etc.</li><li>Automatic creation of commissioning protocols for seamless documentation of the commissioning status. A series of measurements such as circular shape tests, positioning measurements, measurement of speed profiles, drive currents and moments are performed. These show, on the one hand, the perfect condition of the machine during commissioning. On the other hand, they serve as the "electronic fingerprint" of the machine, which is suitable for early detection of wear-induced changes in the machine during operation. The measurements, which form the electronic fingerprint, can be combined into a macro and are then repeated periodically (diagnosisbatch) in the same way in the form of so-called batchjobs.</li><li>For example, a periodically repeated circular shape test can serve to detect loose or cyclic disturbances as a result of wear of the ball screw spindle or of gears or other force transmission mechanisms, such as toothed belts, etc.</li></ul>

p0069An example of such a circular shape test, which is carried out via the described e-PS system, is shown in FIG <figref idrefs="f0004 f0005">FIG. 5 to FIG. 7</figref> , The respective machine state data, which are communicated to the provider of the automatic service "circular test" via the Internet and recorded on the side of the main computer, are graphically processed. In this way, either a specialist at the manufacturer can manually carry out the necessary interventions on the machine, or this can preferably also be effected automatically via an electronic service via the Internet connection, if necessary corresponding correction parameters being transmitted to the work computer. For this purpose, the measuring method and subsequently the plane to be tested xy, xz or zy are selected (cf. <figref idrefs="f0004">FIG</figref> With selection of the xy-plane). The parameters for the execution of the circular test are specified. These are in particular diameter D, center point C, tolerance band T, feed rate F and direction (in or counterclockwise), whereby the predetermined circular path P is determined (cf.<figref idrefs="f0005">FIG</figref>).

p0070The <figref idrefs="f0005">FIG</figref> Shows the actual position values ​​of the circle described by the machine, ie, the measured contour M, which can deviate from the ideal path P. In addition, a possible offset C-offset is indicated against the indicated center of the circle C. There is now the possibility of archiving the determined data, in which case the data are linked with an identification code I of the machine being tested and possibly also of the end customer.

p0071On the basis of the irregularities determined in this way, corrective measures can now be automatically generated by appropriate software from the manufacturer and an adaptation or compensation of the causative parameters or components of the machine can be made as an automatic service.

p0072Irregularities of the axis guides can be detected by irregular current or speed (ripple measurements). Instabilities of the bearing regulator due to changed friction conditions can be recognized by the dynamic positioning behavior (over-swinging). The aim of the measurements is, for example, to avoid wear-related standstills of the machine, in that the wear is recognized early and automatically (long-term wear diagnosis) and affected parts can be procured on time (eg by automatic orders via e-sales) and secondly In planned maintenance periods.

p0073When using external measuring devices (eg ball bar or laser measuring system), another objective is to calibrate internal measuring systems in order to be able to dispense with external measuring devices during repetition measurements.

p0074For example, in a circular test using only the motor measurement system, a looseness in gears or in the ball screw is not readily apparent while it is very easy to see using a ballbar. If several parameters are recorded simultaneously (eg after-run and currents in addition to the measuring system), a lot, assuming corresponding inertial conditions, is still recognizable.

p0075From the comparison of one and the same measured variable from different sources (for example, the distance measuring signal external, the linear arm scale or the motor measuring system), conclusions can be drawn about the machine condition.<ul><li>Automatic creation of service and maintenance logs for the complete documentation of machine history (cf. <figref idrefs="f0005">FIG</figref> Displayed archiving option). In the event of a problem, the remote diagnosis of a machine is made much easier. Constructive problems can be detected and eliminated at an early stage by analyzing the frequency of specific faults. Establishment of expert networks via ePS-host over the processing problems in different areas can be exchanged. For example, in the case of problems directly from the machine, queries can be addressed to a defined circle of other experts.</li><li>Evaluation for the diagnosis of exceptional and fault situations. In this case, fault lists, pending alarms, parameters which characterize the current machine state at the time of occurrence of the fault (such as the PLC status, I / O status, target position as crash monitor) in the manner of a flight recorder are both The machine operator as well as the service technicians of the supplier immediately via web (service history). At the same time, certain persons are notified of the problem via SMS or e-mail via a configurable list. This makes it possible for the operator to offer a dialog-guided help for troubleshooting. If this does not lead to the elimination of faults, rapid and efficient remote diagnosis is possible together with the above-described standard measurements. If no success is achieved with the help of a Multimediafernbedienung tries to solve the problem. The service inserts on site can be at least partially replaced. In the case of unavoidable service inserts, these can be better prepared. Monitoring of maintenance plans by corresponding data exchange to the host. If necessary, the machine can be temporarily disabled in the event of non-maintenance. This can be controlled via corresponding acknowledgment functions. Visualization of the NC program in the form of toolpaths, points and their networking to a virtual workpiece surface (surface return), which can be examined by different illuminations from different directions and sources. Visualization of the control behavior (interpolated points, Lagereglerverhalten) in the same way.</li><li>Communication of machine state data to higher-level systems such as: ERP systems with the aim of optimizing total production and improving production planning.</li><li>Backup and archiving of configuration data, user data and programs with the aim of accessing all versions of the control data at any time in order to be able to reconstruct states or recognize problem-related changes (data comparison). For small companies interesting complete backupmöglichkeit via Remoteserver.</li></ul>

p0076The product data for automation components (controllers, drives) and other machine components (parts lists, product descriptions, etc.) are available at any time via ePS-host.

p0077No person with expert knowledge must be sent to the machine on site to carry out the described improvements, optimizations, etc. Often without the system according to the invention even several persons with expert knowledge have to be sent to the machine. With this invention, the expert knowledge is brought to the machine via the Internet, and only the machine operator is available on the machine for confirming possible machine (driving) commands.

p0078The use of a browser 23 (cf. <figref idrefs="f0003">FIG</figref>) Is not absolutely necessary, a direct connection to the Internet or a different communication network can be carried out. With regard to the above-mentioned trace functionality, it should also be mentioned that such a function generally provides control and drive data particularly optimally. However, whether such functionality is provided directly or with the inclusion of additional services or modules usually depends on the application. One usually distinguishes between a so-called "normal" trace function, in which a trace is started and terminated at fixed times or events. A transfer of detected machine state data is then only triggered as soon as the trace is terminated. Alternatively, it is possible to provide so-called "endless" trace functionality. In this case, the trace runs as an application in the background and a continuous transfer of recorded data takes place away from the work computer (eg to an HMI).

p0079A trace function generally only receives read access to the control core NCK. A write access, eg by a function generator, is contrary to the usual definition of a trace function and must therefore be added as an additional function to the usual trace functionality. This is necessary, for example, if, for certain automated procedures, a function generator and a trace function have to be implemented as externally coupled functions.

p0080The configuration of a trace function can usually be done offline. However, as soon as a trace is triggered, the conditions can not be changed during operation. To do this, the trace must be stopped or canceled.

p0081Possible functions for a trace in the context of the present invention are, for example, the commissioning of a machine, fault detection, problems with applications (particularly in the case of complex applications with multiple channels and synchronous actions), sporadic problems during machine running, tool breakage or logical analyzes, Eg from telescopic or tachometer functions.

p0082For the machine state data to be detected, a large number of information to be detected exist depending on the application. These include:<ul><li>System flags, drive signals, PLC flags as well as various types of events such as status, status changes, or binary signals, such as alarm signals, etc .;</li><li>Access to local user program data (eg NC program, flags in the PLC program);</li><li>Transfer of captured local data into suitable global variables.</li></ul>

p0083All of these exemplary data can serve as triggers for the traceability or trace functionality.

p0084Under certain circumstances, special requirements may be required to perform a trace or trace function, eg in connection with PLC data. For access to PLC peripherals or signals or flags in a user program, it can be advantageous if this is possible without influencing the PLC itself. In particular, access to user program data (IO, flags, etc.) and the possibility of synchronizing the starting point for recording machine state data via a user program is advantageous according to a further embodiment of the invention. Another advantageous embodiment of the invention includes up to 32 PLC signals which can be monitored at the same time as a trace. For this purpose, advantageously available buffer data can also be stored in a user program.

p0085A detection of machine state data is advantageously tailored to the serviced automatic service. This is particularly effective when only required information is collected and this is not more than necessary. A clear distinction should also be made between continuous signals and sporadic events. If possible, data compression is performed during the acquisition, but taking account of runtime effects. The entire spectrum of machine information is recorded only in the event that it is not known or defined, for which the data to be acquired is required.

p0086Depending on the application, for example, ring buffer memories are preferred, in which, as a principle, the oldest or most far-reaching information is overwritten, whereas in the case of a queue memory or a queue, the newest information is always overwritten when the queue is full Is.

p0087Further supplementary information could exist, for example, in a time stamp or values ​​of time counters, etc. In the case of the analysis of the causes of serious errors, the execution of the trace or trace function will be carried out as independently as possible of the malfunction. This means that in the continued operation after an error, data recorded before the error are stored securely. Ideally, each variable to be detected in connection with the machine state data is provided as a separate function with its own time characteristic in order to keep the data volume as low as possible.

p0088According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the acquisition of machine condition data is effected in a time-controlled or event-controlled manner. Also, an additional file or an additional archive can be created automatically, which preferably also can contain subroutines. In a trace file, a reference, eg a pointer, is placed on this archive or file. In this way, it is possible to prevent inconsistencies in the context of a manual implementation of such a function. Manual archiving can also be carried out several days after the data acquisition, during which time the configuration may have already changed. This can also be specified by a special application, which means that the conditions need not be met by internal interfaces.

p0089According to a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, changes in the configuration of distributed components are performed automatically. This also applies to the collection and provision of available meta information (data on data). In this context, the HMI human-machine interface can serve as an interface for an internal configuration. This also makes it possible to create a simpler, cost-effective expansion for new signals by simply linking them to a trace / trace function (so-called merge) via the HMI interface.

p0090One possible approach to controlling the above described preferably provides the following functions:

p0091Start conditions (manual, NC program, PLC, synchronized, timed, continuous or via external signals) and stop / trigger conditions (manual, NC program, PLC, synchronized, timed, overflow by internal additions or external signals).

p0092Such triggering conditions are preferably added within certain states:<ul><li>Eg trigger by individual bits, by changing state variables from a state Z1 in a state Z2 (precisely defined state transitions) or by text instead of number codes;</li><li>By trigger in the form of clearly defined NC program commands or assigned command numbers;</li><li>Trigger by the nth occurrence of a predetermined relevant code.</li></ul>

p0093Nested conditions are also possible such as: Condition A must be fulfilled, then Condition B or Condition C, and, if Condition E is satisfied, data is collected until Condition F occurs. After an accident (eg tool break) or a stop, all required resources are made available as soon as data is transferred. As soon as a critical error has occurred, it is important that a condition associated with this error is defined so that automatic restart is not possible.

p0094A suitable preparation of data preferably takes place at the human-machine interface HMI. It is also possible to bind an application exclusively to a file as required. In addition, a serial COM connection is possible to allow block access via a continuous data stream (without temporary storage in the file). Three different classes can be used:<dl id="dl0002" compact="compact"><dt>20</dt><dd>Prepared use such as applications of control software manufacturers at the human-machine interface HMI such as, for example, a visualization of a trace, IBN or diagnostic tools</dd><dt>21</dt><dd>OEM users (workstation or client applications)</dd><dt>22</dt><dd>Internet or Web based services</dd></dl>

p0095A trace is preferably a structure open to the user. Open and freely accessible interfaces for configuration include controls (start, stop) and analysis options (data format) for OEMs.

p0096According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the display of a sequence trace is similar to a logic analyzer oscilloscope. This allows signals from different sources to be displayed. In addition, references to a specific program module can be displayed. Advantageously, cursor and zoom functions are also provided. It is advantageous if at least four signals can be visualized simultaneously. In addition, filters are preferably provided which allow a selection of signals. Furthermore, differential signals can be output or important events assigned, whereby users with little knowledge can gain a better understanding of the acquired information or machine state data.

p0097In order to ensure that a high robustness is ensured during the data acquisition, the following possibilities are particularly suitable:<ul><li>As far as possible, data should also be accessible after a defect.</li><li>Sudden errors during a prosecution should not result in a data overflow, and appropriate responses should be provided in the case of scarce resources.</li><li>After an error occurs, it is ensured that files with detected machine state data can not be deleted at a later time.</li></ul>

p0098The following is a list of possible services or data contents:<ul><li>Machine - related services like<ul><li>Analysis of machine operating times, fail times and capacities</li></ul></li><li>axis analyzes such as<ul><li>Individual analysis, status</li><li>Simulation of axes</li><li>Measurement of the amplitudes</li></ul></li><li>Fourier transformation and generation of Bode diagrams<ul><li>Identification of eigenfrequencies</li><li>Trend analysis</li></ul></li><li>Axis optimization and optimization of axis parameters such as<ul><li>Engaging speed</li><li>acceleration</li><li>Jerk</li><li>filter</li><li>KV factor</li><li>friction compensation</li><li>loose compensation</li></ul></li><li>Verification of machine data such as<ul><li>Accuracy and consistency</li><li>Consistency of the data storage</li><li>Consistency of functions and machine data</li></ul></li><li>wear analysis as<ul><li>Path accuracy</li><li>Trend analysis</li><li>Increasing play of the joints</li><li>Friction problems (eg lubrication)</li><li>Transmission problems between motors and axles</li></ul></li><li>Monitoring of processes with eg<ul><li>drive parameters</li><li>Current capacity or capacity</li><li>moments</li><li>Jerk</li><li>number of revolutions</li><li>temperatures</li><li>Trend analysis</li></ul></li><li>Machine inspections with<ul><li>Circular form tests</li><li>Measurements of stiffness of</li><li>linear axes</li><li>C axes</li></ul></li><li>Machine calibrations with<ul><li>Touch gauge </li><li>Single axis calibration</li><li>C-axis calibration</li><li>Workpiece measurements</li></ul></li><li>Work - related services with<ul><li>Workpiece geometry</li><li>Measurement of sprinkling</li><li>Trace functionality with respect to the current target in tabular or graphical form</li><li>Workpiece surface and quality</li></ul></li><li>Process analyzes with<ul><li>Determination and documentation of feed speed and cutting speed</li><li>Measurement of the cutting force via eg</li><li>Laser power</li><li>Fourier transformation and frequency consideration</li></ul></li><li>Software sales and distribution<ul><li>Delivery of new versions</li><li>Delivery of error corrections (service packs)</li><li>Supply of communication software and hardware for services</li></ul></li></ul>

p0099The invention further relates to the use of a method for computer-assisted generation and provision of machine-related data and / or services for carrying out a subset of the following measures:<ul><li>Electronic measurement of workpieces, tools and fixtures for the diagnosis of problems in the case of a lack of workpiece quality or the dialog-corrected correction of the ratios,</li><li>Display the relationships of process variables such as laser power, feed speed or tool speed and feed speed,</li><li>Analysis of the toolpaths in the Cartesian coordinate system with correction or statement on good part / bad part, </li><li>Monitoring of process variables with limit value monitoring and / or correlation monitoring,</li><li>Program analysis by processing a program in a virtual simulation of the processing machine,</li><li>Automatic creation of commissioning protocols for seamless documentation of the commissioning status,</li><li>Automatic creation of service and maintenance logs for the complete documentation of the machine history,</li><li>Evaluation for the diagnosis of exceptional and fault situations,</li><li>Backup and archiving of configuration data, user data and programs for the reconstruction of states or for recognizing problematic changes.</li></ul>