Patent ID: 12220779

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Cutting tools excellent in tool life have been developed.

Problems to be Solved by Present Disclosure

Estimating of the life of a cutting tool makes it possible to replace a tool such as a cutting insert at an appropriate timing. A technique capable of implementing an excellent function for such estimation is desired.

The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-described issue, and an object thereof is to provide a cutting tool, a cutting tool holder, a tool system, and a communication method that are capable of implementing an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool.

Advantageous Effects of Present Disclosure

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to implement an excellent function related to estimation of the life of a cutting tool.

Description of Embodiments of Present Disclosure

First, the contents of embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in order.

(1) A cutting tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cutting insert having a cutting edge; a holder holding the cutting insert; a sensor provided in the holder; and an information communication unit that is provided in the holder, transmits an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor to a management device provided outside the cutting tool, and acquires the parameter information from the management device.

With this configuration of transmitting an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor to the management device provided outside the cutting tool and acquiring the parameter information from the management device, for example, measurement by the sensor can be performed in accordance with the parameter information that is set in accordance with details of machining using the cutting tool. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor can be suppressed while highly accurate measurement is performed using the sensor. In addition, in a system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result of the sensor, an increase in data amount of the measurement result can be suppressed, and thus, for example, interference of radio signals caused by an increase in radio traffic can be suppressed. Thus, an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool can be implemented.

(2) Preferably, the information communication unit acquires the parameter information upon being started up.

With this configuration, for example, in the cutting tool that is to perform a different type of machining operation every time the cutting tool is started up, parameter information that is set in accordance with details of the machining operation can be acquired.

(3) Preferably, the information communication unit acquires a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information each of which is the parameter information.

With this configuration, for example, a measurement parameter of the sensor can be chronologically changed, and measurement by the sensor can be appropriately performed when the cutting tool performs various types of machining operations.

(4) More preferably, the information communication unit acquires the plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information that are set in accordance with types of machining operations chronologically performed by the cutting tool.

With this configuration, when the type of machining operation using the cutting tool chronologically changes, parameter information that is set in accordance with each type of machining operation can be acquired, and measurement by the sensor can be appropriately performed.

(5) Preferably, the information communication unit acquires the parameter information including a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period.

With this configuration, the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period of the sensor can be controlled on the basis of the parameter information, and thus an increase in current consumption of the sensor, an increase in data amount of a measurement result, and the like can be suppressed more reliably.

(6) Preferably, the cutting tool further includes a control unit that is provided in the holder and controls an operation of the sensor, and a storage unit provided in the holder. In response to the parameter information acquired by the information communication unit does not include at least any one of a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period related to the measurement by the sensor, the control unit controls the operation of the sensor by using information on a corresponding one of the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period stored in the storage unit in advance.

With this configuration, even when the contents of the acquired parameter information are insufficient, the operation of the sensor can be controlled by using the information stored in the storage unit.

(7) A cutting tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cutting insert having a cutting edge; a holder holding the cutting insert; a sensor provided in the holder and including at least either one of an acceleration sensor and a strain sensor; a wireless communication chip that is provided in the holder, transmits an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor to a management device provided outside the cutting tool, and acquires the parameter information; a storage unit that is provided in the holder and stores the parameter information; and a processor provided in the holder. The wireless communication chip transmits the inquiry for the parameter information to the management device and acquires the parameter information having contents that are based on the inquiry from the management device, upon being started up.

With this configuration of transmitting an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor including an acceleration sensor or a strain sensor to the management device provided outside the cutting tool and acquiring the parameter information from the management device, for example, measurement by the sensor can be performed in accordance with the parameter information that is set in accordance with details of machining using the cutting tool. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor can be suppressed while highly accurate measurement is performed using the sensor. In addition, in a system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result of the sensor, an increase in data amount of the measurement result can be suppressed, and thus, for example, interference of radio signals caused by an increase in radio traffic can be suppressed. Furthermore, in the cutting tool that is to perform a different type of machining operation every time the cutting tool is started up, parameter information that is set in accordance with details of the machining operation can be acquired by transmitting an inquiry for the parameter information to the management device every time the cutting tool is started up. Thus, an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool can be implemented.

(8) A tool system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cutting tool including a cutting insert having a cutting edge, a holder holding the cutting insert, a sensor provided in the holder, and an information communication unit provided in the holder; and a management device provided outside the cutting tool. The management device transmits, to the information communication unit, parameter information related to measurement by the sensor.

With this configuration in which the management device provided outside the cutting tool transmits parameter information related to measurement by the sensor to the information communication unit in the cutting tool, for example, measurement by the sensor can be performed in accordance with the parameter information that is set in accordance with details of machining using the cutting tool. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor can be suppressed while highly accurate measurement is performed using the sensor. In addition, in the system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result of the sensor, an increase in data amount of the measurement result can be suppressed, and thus, for example, interference of radio signals caused by an increase in radio traffic can be suppressed. Thus, an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool can be implemented.

(9) Preferably, the information communication unit transmits an inquiry for the parameter information to the management device upon being started up, and the management device transmits, to the information communication unit, the parameter information having contents that are based on the inquiry from the information communication unit.

With this configuration, for example, in the tool system including the cutting tool that is to perform a different type of machining operation every time the cutting tool is started up, a transmission unit transmits an inquiry for parameter information to the management device every time the transmission unit is started up, and thus parameter information that is set in accordance with details of a machining operation in the cutting tool can be transmitted from the management device to the cutting tool.

(10) Preferably, in response to the management device does not include the parameter information for the cutting tool, the management device controls displaying a configuration screen prompting setting of the parameter information.

With this configuration, even when the management device does not hold parameter information for the cutting tool, setting of parameter information by a user can be prompted, and the set parameter information can be transmitted to the cutting tool.

(11) Preferably, the tool system includes a plurality of cutting tools each of which is the cutting tool. The management device holds, for each of the plurality of cutting tools, the parameter information including a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period.

With this configuration, various machining operations can be appropriately performed by using the plurality of cutting tools, and the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period of the sensor in each cutting tool can be controlled on the basis of the parameter information. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor in each cutting tool, an increase in data amount of a measurement result, and the like can be suppressed more reliably.

(12) Preferably, the cutting tool further includes a control unit that controls an operation of the sensor, and a storage unit. In response to the parameter information transmitted from the management device to the information communication unit does not include at least any one of a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period related to the measurement by the sensor, the control unit controls the operation of the sensor by using information on a corresponding one of the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period stored in the storage unit in advance.

With this configuration, even when the contents of the parameter information transmitted from the management device to a reception unit in the cutting tool are insufficient, the operation of the sensor can be controlled in the cutting tool by using the information stored in the storage unit.

(13) A communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication method for a tool system including a cutting tool and a management device, the cutting tool including a holder holding a cutting insert having a cutting edge, and a sensor provided in the holder. The communication method includes a step of establishing, by the management device and the cutting tool, a communication connection with each other; and a step of transmitting, by the management device, parameter information related to measurement by the sensor to the cutting tool.

With this method of transmitting parameter information related to measurement by the sensor from the management device to the cutting tool, for example, measurement by the sensor can be performed in accordance with the parameter information that is set in accordance with details of machining using the cutting tool. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor can be suppressed while highly accurate measurement is performed using the sensor. In addition, in the system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result of the sensor, an increase in data amount of the measurement result can be suppressed, and thus, for example, interference of radio signals caused by an increase in radio traffic can be suppressed. Thus, an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool can be implemented.

(14) A cutting tool holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a cutting tool holder used for a cutting tool, and includes a holding portion holding a cutting insert, a sensor, and an information communication unit that transmits an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor to a management device provided outside the cutting tool and acquires the parameter information from the management device.

With this configuration of transmitting an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor to the management device provided outside the cutting tool and acquiring the parameter information from the management device, for example, measurement by the sensor can be performed in accordance with the parameter information that is set in accordance with details of machining using the cutting tool. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor can be suppressed while highly accurate measurement is performed using the sensor. In addition, in a system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result of the sensor, an increase in data amount of the measurement result can be suppressed, and thus, for example, interference of radio signals caused by an increase in radio traffic can be suppressed. Thus, an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool can be implemented.

(15) Preferably, the information communication unit acquires the parameter information upon being started up.

With this configuration, for example, in the cutting tool that is to perform a different type of machining operation every time the cutting tool is started up, parameter information that is set in accordance with details of the machining operation can be acquired.

(16) Preferably, the information communication unit acquires a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information each of which is the parameter information.

With this configuration, for example, a measurement parameter of the sensor can be chronologically changed, and measurement by the sensor can be appropriately performed when the cutting tool performs various types of machining operations.

(17) More preferably, the information communication unit acquires the plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information that are set in accordance with types of machining operations chronologically performed by the cutting tool.

With this configuration, when the type of machining operation using the cutting tool chronologically changes, parameter information that is set in accordance with each type of machining operation can be acquired, and measurement by the sensor can be appropriately performed.

(18) Preferably, the information communication unit acquires the parameter information including a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period.

With this configuration, the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period of the sensor can be controlled on the basis of the parameter information, and thus an increase in current consumption of the sensor, an increase in data amount of a measurement result, and the like can be suppressed more reliably.

(19) Preferably, the cutting tool holder further includes a control unit that controls an operation of the sensor, and a storage unit. In response to the parameter information acquired by the information communication unit does not include at least any one of a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period related to the measurement by the sensor, the control unit controls the operation of the sensor by using information on a corresponding one of the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period stored in the storage unit in advance.

With this configuration, even when the contents of the acquired parameter information are insufficient, the operation of the sensor can be controlled by using the information stored in the storage unit.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated. At least parts of the embodiments described below may be combined in any manner.

[Tool System]

FIG.1is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a tool system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.1, a tool system300includes a cutting tool100, a management device200, and a wireless base unit201. The cutting tool100includes a cutting insert1having a cutting edge, a cutting tool holder2, and a sensor module110. The sensor module110includes a sensor. Hereinafter, the cutting tool holder2will be simply referred to as a holder2.

The wireless base unit201is connected to the management device200, for example, in a wired manner. The wireless base unit201is, for example, an access point.

The cutting tool100is, for example, a tool for turning, and is to be attached to a turning machine. The holder2holds the cutting insert1having a cutting edge. The sensor module110is provided in the holder2.

The holder2includes fixing members3A and3B. The fixing members3A and3B hold the cutting insert1. The fixing members3A and3B are examples of a holding portion.

The cutting insert1is, for example, polygonal, such as triangular, square, rhombic, or pentagonal, as viewed from the top. For example, the cutting insert1has a through hole at the center of a top surface, and is fixed to the holder2by the fixing members3A and3B.

The tool system300is not limited to the configuration including a single cutting tool100, and may have a configuration including a plurality of cutting tools100. Also, the tool system300is not limited to the configuration including a single management device200, and may have a configuration including a plurality of management devices200.

The management device200transmits, to the cutting tool100, parameter information related to measurement by the sensor of the sensor module110of the cutting tool100. The management device200is provided outside the cutting tool100.

More specifically, for example, the cutting tool100wirelessly transmits, to the wireless base unit201, a parameter information request that includes a sensor ID, which is an ID of the sensor in the sensor module110of the cutting tool100, and that is for inquiring for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor.

The wireless base unit201acquires the parameter information request from a radio signal received from the cutting tool100and transmits the parameter information request to the management device200.

Upon receiving the parameter information request from the cutting tool100via the wireless base unit201, the management device200transmits, as a response to the received parameter information request, parameter information addressed to the cutting tool100and having contents based on the parameter information request to the wireless base unit201.

More specifically, the management device200transmits, as parameter information related to measurement by the sensor, information including a measurement operation, a measurement setting range, and so forth to the wireless base unit201.

Here, the measurement operation includes, for example, a sampling period of the sensor, and a sampling period of an analog-to-digital (AD) converter that AD converts an analog signal indicating a physical amount measured by the sensor. The measurement setting range includes, for example, a measurement range of the sensor, and information indicating whether a frequency divider circuitry or a frequency multiplier circuitry is used in a preceding stage of the AD converter. Hereinafter, the frequency divider circuitry and frequency multiplier circuitry in the preceding stage of the AD converter will be referred to as a preceding-stage circuitry.

The wireless base unit201transmits a radio signal including the parameter information received from the management device200to the cutting tool100.

The cutting tool100acquires the parameter information from the radio signal received from the wireless base unit201, performs measurement by the sensor in the sensor module110in accordance with the acquired parameter information, and wirelessly transmits, to the wireless base unit201, measurement information including a measurement result or measurement information including information based on a measurement result, and the sensor ID.

For example, the cutting tool100wirelessly transmits a sensor packet including measurement information to the wireless base unit201on a regular or irregular basis.

The cutting tool100and the wireless base unit201perform wireless communication using a communication protocol such as, for example, ZigBee conforming to IEEE 802.15. 4, Bluetooth (registered trademark) conforming to IEEE 802.15.1, or an ultra wide band (UWB) conforming to IEEE 802.15.3a. A communication protocol other than the foregoing protocols may be used between the cutting tool100and the wireless base unit201.

The wireless base unit201relays the sensor packet received from the cutting tool100to the management device200.

FIG.2is a diagram illustrating an example of a sensor packet transmitted by a cutting tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.2, the sensor module110in the cutting tool100creates a sensor packet401having a “sensor data” field storing measurement information and a sensor ID, which is the ID of the sensor.

Here, in a “synchronization header” field in the sensor packet401, for example, a predetermined preamble is stored. In a “media access control (MAC) header” field, for example, a MAC address or the like of the sensor module110is stored. The “sensor data” field has a data length of 20 octets inFIG.2. However, the data length can be changed in accordance with the type of physical amount included in measurement information, the number of physical amounts, and so forth.

The wireless base unit201acquires the sensor packet included in a radio signal received from the cutting tool100and transmits the sensor packet to the management device200.

FIG.3is a sectional view illustrating another example of the configuration of the cutting tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.3, the cutting tool100may be a tool for milling that is to be attached to a milling machine. More specifically, the cutting tool100for milling includes a holder2A holding a plurality of cutting inserts1A each having a cutting edge, and the sensor module110provided in the holder2A and including a sensor. The holder2A includes fixing members3C. The fixing members3C hold the cutting inserts1A. The cutting inserts1A are fixed to the holder2A by the fixing members3C, for example. The fixing members3C correspond to an example of the holding portion.

[Management Device]

FIG.4is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a management device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.4, the management device200includes a communication unit210, a processing unit220, a storage unit230, and an acceptance unit240. The storage unit230is, for example, a flash memory.

The communication unit210receives a sensor packet from the cutting tool100via the wireless base unit201, acquires measurement information and a sensor ID from the received sensor packet, and outputs the acquired measurement information and sensor ID to the processing unit220.

Upon receiving the measurement information and the sensor ID from the communication unit210, the processing unit220stores the measurement information in the storage unit230in association with the sensor ID.

On the basis of the measurement information in the storage unit230, the processing unit220estimates the life of the cutting insert1in the cutting tool100associated with the relevant sensor ID. On the basis of a result of the estimation, the processing unit220makes a notification prompting a user to replace the cutting insert1.

For example, the storage unit230stores parameter information for each of cutting tools100.

More specifically, the acceptance unit240accepts, from the user, setting of parameter information related to measurement by the sensor in the sensor module110of the cutting tool100. For example, the acceptance unit240accepts, from the user, setting of parameter information associated with the sensor ID of the sensor in each cutting tool100and including a measurement parameter, which includes the above-described sampling frequency and measurement range, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period.

The acceptance unit240outputs the parameter information accepted through an operation or the like of the user to the processing unit220.

Upon receiving the parameter information from the acceptance unit240, the processing unit220stores the received parameter information in the storage unit230in units of cutting tools100. Specifically, the processing unit220stores the parameter information in the storage unit230in association with the sensor ID of the sensor.

Upon receiving a parameter information request from the cutting tool100via the wireless base unit201, the communication unit210outputs the received parameter information request to the processing unit220.

Upon receiving the parameter information request from the communication unit210, the processing unit220acquires parameter information associated with the sensor ID included in the parameter information request from the storage unit230. The processing unit220transmits, as a response to the parameter information request received from the cutting tool100, the parameter information acquired from the storage unit230to the cutting tool100.

For example, the processing unit220transmits a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information to the relevant cutting tool100.

Specifically, the processing unit220transmits a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information that are set in accordance with the types of machining operations performed by a single cutting tool100attached to a machining device, to the relevant cutting tool100. Here, the types of machining operations mean a machining schedule including rough machining, semi-finish machining, finish machining, and the like, or the types of workpiece to be cut.

Alternatively, the processing unit220transmits a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information that are set in accordance with the types of machining operations chronologically performed by a plurality of cutting tools100attached to a single machining device, to the individual relevant cutting tools100.

If the storage unit230does not hold parameter information associated with the cutting tool100, the processing unit220transmits, as a response to the parameter information request received from the cutting tool100, setting-undone information indicating that parameter information has not been set to the cutting tool100.

Alternatively, if the storage unit230does not hold parameter information associated with the cutting tool100, the processing unit220controls displaying a configuration screen prompting setting of parameter information on the management device200or a display device that is not illustrated.

FIG.5is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration screen displayed on the management device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.5illustrates a screen prompting setting of parameter information of an acceleration sensor, which is an example of the sensor.

Referring toFIG.5, for example, the processing unit220displays a configuration screen prompting setting of a sampling frequency and an acceleration range of the acceleration sensor having a sensor ID “0123A”.

Upon accepting input of parameter information to the configuration screen from the user, the processing unit220transmits, as a response to the parameter information request received from the cutting tool100, the input parameter information to the cutting tool100.

[Sensor Module]

FIG.6is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.6, the sensor module110includes a sensor10, a data generation unit20, a control unit40, a battery60, a storage unit70, and an information communication unit80. The storage unit70is, for example, a flash memory. The information communication unit80includes a transmission unit30and a reception unit50. The information communication unit80is implemented by, for example, a wireless communication chip.

The battery60is, for example, a primary battery, a secondary battery, a solar battery, or a power storage device including a capacitor or the like. The battery60stores energy, and supplies power to individual circuitries in the sensor module110, such as the control unit40and the information communication unit80, by using the stored energy.

More specifically, for example, upon the sensor module110being switched on, the power of the battery60is supplied to the individual circuitries in the sensor module110, and the individual circuitries in the sensor module110start up.

The sensor10is, for example, an acceleration sensor, a strain sensor, a pressure sensor, a sound sensor, or a temperature sensor.

The sensor10measures at least any one of physical amounts such as an acceleration, a strain, a pressure, a sound, and a temperature, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measured physical amount to the data generation unit20. The sensor10is driven by, for example, power supplied from the battery60.

The data generation unit20creates measurement information including a measurement result of the sensor10or information based on the measurement result. More specifically, the data generation unit20receives an analog signal from the sensor10, and creates measurement information including a sensor measurement value obtained by AD converting the received analog signal, or measurement information including a value obtained by performing computation such as averaging on the sensor measurement value.

The control unit40performs connection processing of establishing a communication connection with the management device200. The control unit40is, for example, a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU).

For example, in the tool system300, the management device200transmits an advertising packet to the cutting tool100via the wireless base unit201.

FIG.7is a diagram illustrating an example of a format of an advertising packet transmitted by the management device in the tool system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.7, the advertising packet is constituted by a PHY header, a MAC header, and a field corresponding to a message type, arranged in this order from the top.

The management device200generates an advertising packet in which a broadcast address is set as a destination in the MAC header, an ID such as a MAC address of the management device200is set as a source in the MAC header, and an identifier identifying the packet as an advertising packet is set to the field corresponding to a message type, and transmits the generated advertising packet to the wireless base unit201.

The wireless base unit201transmits a radio signal including the advertising packet received from the management device200.

The reception unit50in the information communication unit80receives the radio signal from the wireless base unit201and acquires the advertising packet included in the received radio signal. The reception unit50outputs the acquired advertising packet to the control unit40.

Upon receiving the advertising packet from the reception unit50, the control unit40performs connection processing, that is, sets the management device200having the MAC address of the source included in the received advertising packet as a communication target. Specifically, the control unit40registers the MAC address in the storage unit70as the MAC address of the management device200as a communication target.

In addition, in the connection processing, the control unit40generates a response packet, which is a response to the received advertising packet, and outputs the generated response packet to the transmission unit30in the information communication unit80. The format of the response packet generated by the control unit40is, for example, the same as the format of the advertising packet illustrated inFIG.7.

For example, the control unit40generates a response packet in which the MAC address of the management device200is set as a destination in the MAC header, the MAC address of the sensor module110of the cutting tool100, for example, is set as a source in the MAC header, and an identifier identifying the packet as a response packet is set to the field corresponding to a message type, and outputs the generated response packet to the transmission unit30.

The transmission unit30transmits a radio signal including the response packet received from the control unit40.

Upon receiving the response packet from the sensor module110of the cutting tool100via the wireless base unit201, the management device200sets the sensor module110corresponding to the MAC address of the source included in the received response packet as a communication target.

Specifically, upon receiving the response packet from the sensor module110via the wireless base unit201and the communication unit210, the processing unit220in the management device200registers the MAC address of the source included in the received response packet in the storage unit230as the MAC address of the sensor module110as a communication target.

Upon establishing the communication connection with the management device200, the control unit40generates a parameter information request including the sensor ID of the sensor and addressed to the management device200, and outputs the generated parameter information request to the transmission unit30.

For example, every time the control unit40is started up, the control unit40establishes a communication connection with the management device200, generates a parameter information request addressed to the management device200, and outputs the generated parameter information request to the transmission unit30.

The transmission unit30transmits an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10to the management device200. More specifically, the transmission unit30transmits a parameter information request to the management device200via the wireless base unit201.

For example, the transmission unit30wirelessly transmits, upon startup, a parameter information request received from the control unit40to the wireless base unit201. More specifically, the transmission unit30wirelessly transmits, upon startup of the transmission unit30, a parameter information request received from the control unit40to the wireless base unit201. Alternatively, the transmission unit30wirelessly transmits, upon startup of the individual circuitries in the sensor module110, a parameter information request received from the control unit40to the wireless base unit201.

The reception unit50acquires parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10from the management device200outside the cutting tool100. For example, the reception unit50receives parameter information including a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period.

More specifically, the reception unit50receives parameter information from the management device200via the wireless base unit201.

For example, the reception unit50receives, upon startup, parameter information from the management device200. More specifically, the reception unit50receives, upon startup of the reception unit50, parameter information from the management device200. Alternatively, the reception unit50receives, upon startup of the individual circuitries in the sensor module110, parameter information from the management device200.

For example, the reception unit50receives parameter information that varies according to the type of machining operation.

Upon receiving the parameter information from the management device200, the reception unit50outputs the received parameter information to the control unit40.

The control unit40waits until receiving parameter information from the reception unit50after outputting a parameter information request to the transmission unit30. Upon receiving parameter information from the reception unit50, the control unit40stores the received parameter information in the storage unit70. In addition, the control unit40controls an operation of at least either one of the sensor10and the data generation unit20in accordance with the received parameter information.

For example, the control unit40controls, in accordance with the received parameter information, at least either one of: a sampling period and measurement range of the sensor10; and a sampling period of AD conversion in the data generation unit20and whether a preceding-stage circuit is used.

Specifically, the control unit40generates, in accordance with the received parameter information, setting information A indicating a sampling period and a measurement range of the sensor10, and outputs the generated setting information A to the sensor10.

Also, the control unit40generates, in accordance with the received parameter information, setting information B indicating a sampling period of the AD converter in the data generation unit20and whether a preceding-stage circuit is used, and outputs the generated setting information B to the data generation unit20.

Upon receiving the setting information A from the control unit40, the sensor10performs measurement in accordance with the received setting information A, and outputs an analog signal indicating a measured physical amount to the data generation unit20.

Upon receiving the setting information B from the control unit40, the data generation unit20generates measurement information in accordance with the received setting information B. The data generation unit20also generates a sensor packet storing the generated measurement information and the sensor ID of the sensor10, and outputs the generated sensor packet to the transmission unit30on a regular or irregular basis.

The transmission unit30wirelessly transmits measurement information to the management device200outside the cutting tool100on a regular or irregular basis. More specifically, the transmission unit30wirelessly transmits the sensor packet received from the data generation unit20and storing the measurement information and the sensor ID to the wireless base unit201. The transmission unit30is driven by, for example, power supplied from the battery60.

For example, the reception unit50receives a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information from the management device200. More specifically, the reception unit50receives, from the management device200, a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information that are set in accordance with the types of machining operations chronologically performed by the cutting tool100.

For example, the reception unit50receives, from the management device200, a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information that are set in accordance with the types of machining operations chronologically performed by a single cutting tool100.

In the case of performing measurement by using an acceleration sensor, which is an example of the sensor10, a wider measurement range is set at the time of rough machining whereas a narrower measurement range is set at the time of finish machining, for example.

Specifically, the reception unit50receives, from the management device200, parameter information related to measurement by an acceleration sensor, which is an example of the sensor10. The parameter information indicates that the measurement range is −32 G to 32 G for a period of one minute during which rough machining is performed, that the measurement range is −16 G to 16 G for a period of three minutes during which semi-finish machining after rough machining is performed, and that the measurement range is −8 G to 8 G for a period of five minutes during which finish machining after semi-finish machining is performed.

Alternatively, for example, each of reception units50in a plurality of cutting tools100attached to a single machining device receives, from the management device200, parameter information that is set in accordance with the type of a machining operation performed by using a corresponding one of the plurality of cutting tools100among the types of machining operations chronologically performed by using the plurality of cutting tools100.

More specifically, for example, a case is assumed in which cutting tools100A,100B, and100C are attached to a single machining device, and rough machining using the cutting tool100A, semi-finish machining using the cutting tool100B, and finish machining using the cutting tool100C are chronologically performed.

The reception unit50in the cutting tool100A receives, from the management device200, parameter information related to measurement by an acceleration sensor, which is an example of the sensor10. The parameter information indicates that the measurement range of the sensor10in the cutting tool100A is set to −32 G to 32 G for a period of one minute during which rough machining is performed.

The reception unit50in the cutting tool100B receives, from the management device200, parameter information related to measurement by an acceleration sensor. The parameter information indicates that the measurement range of the sensor10in the cutting tool100B is set to −16 G to 16 G for a period of three minutes during which semi-finish machining is performed.

The reception unit50in the cutting tool100C receives, from the management device200, parameter information related to measurement by an acceleration sensor. The parameter information indicates that the measurement range of the sensor10in the cutting tool100C is set to −8 G to 8 G for a period of five minutes during which finish machining is performed.

On the other hand, upon receiving from the management device200setting-undone information indicating that parameter information has not been set in the management device200, the reception unit50outputs the received setting-undone information to the control unit40.

For example, initial parameter information, which is initially set parameter information, is stored in the storage unit70.

If the control unit40does not receive parameter information from the reception unit50within a predetermined time after outputting a parameter information request to the transmission unit30, or if the control unit40receives setting-undone information from the reception unit50, the control unit40controls an operation of at least either one of the sensor10and the data generation unit20in accordance with the initial parameter information in the storage unit70or the latest parameter information stored in the storage unit70.

Alternatively, for example, if the parameter information received from the reception unit50does not include at least any one of a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period related to measurement by the sensor10, the control unit40controls an operation of at least either one of the sensor10and the data generation unit20by using information on a corresponding one of the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period stored in the storage unit70.

[Operation Flow]

The individual devices in the tool system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure each include a computer including a memory. An arithmetic processing unit, such as a CPU, in the computer reads out a program including some or all of steps in the following flowchart or sequence from the memory, and executes the program. The programs for the plurality of devices can be installed from the outside. The programs for the plurality of devices are each circulated in the state of being stored in a recording medium.

FIG.8is a flowchart defining an example of an operation procedure in which the cutting tool in the tool system transmits a sensor packet to the management device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.8, first, the sensor module110in the cutting tool100is started up, and the individual circuitries in the sensor module110, such as the control unit40, the transmission unit30, and the reception unit50, start up (step S102).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100establishes a communication connection with the management device200(step S104).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100transmits a parameter information request to the management device200(step S106).

Subsequently, if the cutting tool100receives parameter information from the management device200within a predetermined time from the transmission of the parameter information request to the management device200(YES in step S108), the cutting tool100stores the received parameter information in the storage unit70(step S110).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100controls an operation of at least either one of the sensor10and the data generation unit20in accordance with the received parameter information to generate measurement information, and transmits a sensor packet including the generated measurement information to the management device200, on a regular or irregular basis (step S112).

On the other hand, if the cutting tool100does not receive parameter information from the management device200within the predetermined time from the transmission of the parameter information request to the management device200, or receives setting-undone information from the management device200(NO in step S108), the cutting tool100controls an operation of at least either one of the sensor10and the data generation unit20in accordance with the initial parameter information or the latest parameter information in the storage unit70to generate measurement information, and transmits a sensor packet including the generated measurement information to the management device200, on a regular or irregular basis (step S114).

FIG.9is a flowchart defining an example of an operation procedure in which the management device in the tool system transmits parameter information to the cutting tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.9, first, the management device200establishes a communication connection with the cutting tool100(step S202).

Subsequently, the management device200waits for a parameter information request from the cutting tool100(NO in step S204). If the management device200receives a parameter information request from the cutting tool100(YES in step S204), the management device200determines whether parameter information is stored in the storage unit230(step S206).

Subsequently, if the parameter information associated with the sensor ID included in the received parameter information is stored in the storage unit230(YES in step S206), the management device200transmits, as a response to the received parameter information request, the parameter information to the cutting tool100(step S208).

On the other hand, if the parameter information associated with the sensor ID included in the received parameter information is not stored in the storage unit230(NO in step S206), the management device200controls displaying a configuration screen prompting setting of parameter information (step S210).

Subsequently, if the management device200accepts input of parameter information to the configuration screen from a user within a predetermined period (YES in step S212), the management device200transmits, as a response to the parameter information request received from the cutting tool100, the input parameter information to the cutting tool100(step S214).

On the other hand, if the management device200does not accept input of parameter information to the configuration screen from the user within the predetermined period (NO in step S212), the management device200transmits setting-undone information indicating that parameter information has not been set to the cutting tool100(step S216).

FIG.10is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication processing sequence in the tool system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.10, first, the sensor module110in the cutting tool100is started up, and the individual circuitries in the sensor module110, such as the control unit40, the transmission unit30, and the reception unit50, start up (step S302).

Subsequently, the management device200and the cutting tool100establish a communication connection with each other (step S304).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100transmits a parameter information request to the management device200(step S306).

Subsequently, the management device200transmits, as a response to the received parameter information request, parameter information to the cutting tool100(step S308).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100generates measurement information in accordance with the received parameter information and transmits a sensor packet including the generated measurement information to the management device200on a regular or irregular basis (step S310).

FIG.11is a diagram illustrating another example of a communication processing sequence in the tool system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG.11, first, the sensor module110in the cutting tool100A, which is an example of the cutting tool100, is started up, and the individual circuitries in the sensor module110, such as the control unit40, the transmission unit30, and the reception unit50, start up (step S402).

Also, the sensor module110in the cutting tool100B, which is an example of the cutting tool100, is started up, and the individual circuitries in the sensor module110, such as the control unit40, the transmission unit30, and the reception unit50, start up (step S404).

Also, the sensor module110in the cutting tool100C, which is an example of the cutting tool100, is started up, and the individual circuitries in the sensor module110, such as the control unit40, the transmission unit30, and the reception unit50, start up (step S406).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100A establishes a communication connection with the management device200(step S408).

Also, the cutting tool100B establishes a communication connection with the management device200(step S410).

Also, the cutting tool100C establishes a communication connection with the management device200(step S412).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100A transmits a parameter information request to the management device200(step S414).

Also, the cutting tool100B transmits a parameter information request to the management device200(step S416).

Also, the cutting tool100C transmits a parameter information request to the management device200(step S418).

Subsequently, the management device200transmits, as a response to the parameter information request received from the cutting tool100A, parameter information that is set in accordance with rough machining performed by using the cutting tool100A among the types of machining operations chronologically performed by using the cutting tools100A,100B, and100C, to the cutting tool100A (step S420).

Also, the management device200transmits, as a response to the parameter information request received from the cutting tool100B, parameter information that is set in accordance with semi-finish machining performed by using the cutting tool100B among the types of machining operations chronologically performed by using the cutting tools100A,100B, and100C, to the cutting tool100B (step S422).

Also, the management device200transmits, as a response to the parameter information request received from the cutting tool100C, parameter information that is set in accordance with finish machining performed by using the cutting tool100C among the types of machining operations chronologically performed by using the cutting tools100A,100B, and100C, to the cutting tool100C (step S424).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100A starts rough machining (step S426).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100A generates measurement information in accordance with the received parameter information and transmits a sensor packet including the generated measurement information to the management device200on a regular or irregular basis (step S428).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100B starts semi-finish machining (step S430).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100B generates measurement information in accordance with the received parameter information and transmits a sensor packet including the generated measurement information to the management device200on a regular or irregular basis (step S432).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100C starts finish machining (step S434).

Subsequently, the cutting tool100C generates measurement information in accordance with the received parameter information and transmits a sensor packet including the generated measurement information to the management device200on a regular or irregular basis (step S436).

In the tool system300according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the management device200has a configuration of transmitting an advertising packet to the cutting tool100via the wireless base unit201, and the cutting tool100has a configuration of transmitting a response packet to the management device200via the wireless base unit201, but the configurations are not limited thereto. The cutting tool100may have a configuration of transmitting an advertising packet to the management device200via the wireless base unit201, and the management device200may have a configuration of transmitting a response packet to the cutting tool100via the wireless base unit201.

More specifically, the control unit40in the sensor module110generates an advertising packet in which a broadcast address is set as a destination in the MAC header, the MAC address of the sensor module110of the cutting tool100is set as a source in the MAC header, and an identifier identifying the packet as an advertising packet is set to the field corresponding to a message type, and outputs the generated advertising packet to the transmission unit30.

The transmission unit30in the sensor module110transmits a radio signal including the advertising packet received from the control unit40.

Upon receiving the advertising packet from the sensor module110via the wireless base unit201, the management device200sets, as a communication target, the sensor module110having the MAC address of the source included in the received advertising packet.

In addition, the management device200generates a response packet, which is a response to the received advertising packet, and transmits the generated response packet to the wireless base unit201.

For example, the management device200generates a response packet in which the MAC address of the sensor module110is set as a destination in the MAC header, the MAC address of the management device200is set as a source in the MAC header, and an identifier identifying the packet as a response packet is set to the field corresponding to a message type, and transmits the generated response packet to the wireless base unit201.

The wireless base unit201transmits a radio signal including the response packet received from the management device200.

Upon receiving the response packet from the management device200via the wireless base unit201, the transmission unit30in the sensor module110outputs the received response packet to the control unit40.

Upon receiving the response packet from the transmission unit30, the control unit40in the sensor module110sets, as a communication target, the management device200having the MAC address of the source included in the received advertising packet.

In the tool system300according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the cutting tool100has a configuration of transmitting a parameter information request to the management device200, and the management device200has a configuration of transmitting, as a response to the received parameter information request, parameter information to the cutting tool100via the wireless base unit201, but the configurations are not limited thereto. The cutting tool100may have a configuration of not transmitting a parameter information request to the management device200. In this case, the management device200transmits parameter information addressed to one or more cutting tools100via the wireless base unit201on a regular or irregular basis regardless of whether a parameter information request has been received.

In the tool system300according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the storage unit230in the management device200has a configuration of storing parameter information for individual cutting tools100, but the configuration is not limited thereto. The storage unit230may have a configuration of storing parameter information of a single cutting tool100.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the reception unit50has a configuration of newly receiving parameter information from the management device200upon being started up, but the configuration is not limited thereto. The reception unit50may have a configuration of not newly receiving parameter information upon being restarted up after receiving parameter information from the management device200. In this case, the control unit40controls an operation of at least either one of the sensor10and the data generation unit20in accordance with past parameter information stored in the storage unit70. In addition, the reception unit50may have a configuration of newly receiving parameter information form the management device200every time the cutting tool100starts up. In this specification, startup of the cutting tool100means that a workpiece starts being rotated in turning or a tool starts being rotated in milling, before machining on one workpiece starts.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the reception unit50has a configuration of receiving a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information, but the configuration is not limited thereto. The reception unit50may have a configuration of receiving parameter information that does not temporally change.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the reception unit50has a configuration of receiving a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information that are set in accordance with the types of machining operations chronologically performed by the cutting tool100, but the configuration is not limited thereto. The reception unit50may have a configuration of receiving a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information that are set in accordance with the same type of machining operation performed by the cutting tool100.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the reception unit50has a configuration of receiving parameter information including a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period, but the configuration is not limited thereto. The reception unit50may have a configuration of receiving parameter information that does not include at least any one of a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the transmission unit30has a configuration of wirelessly transmitting measurement information to the management device200, but the configuration is not limited thereto. The transmission unit30may have a configuration of transmitting measurement information to the management device200in a wired manner.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the reception unit50has a configuration of receiving parameter information from the management device200via the wireless base unit201, but the configuration is not limited thereto. The reception unit50may have a configuration of receiving parameter information from the management device200via a wired transmission path.

A technique capable of implementing an excellent function related to estimation of the life of a cutting tool is desired.

For example, a technique capable of mounting a sensor in the cutting tool100and estimating the life of a tool such as a cutting insert on the basis of a measurement result of the sensor is desired.

In the technique as described above, an optimum parameter related to measurement by the sensor varies according to a machining condition, such as a rotation speed of a workpiece or a cutting tool, and a machining step. However, in the case of continuously performing a plurality of types of machining operations in a machining device, it is difficult to stop the machining device and optimize a parameter related to measurement by the sensor for the cutting tool100during the machining operations.

If an optimum parameter related to measurement by the sensor is uniformly set to the sensor of each cutting tool100, a case may occur in which measurement is performed with an excessive sampling period and an excessive measurement range. As a result, current consumption of the sensor increases. In addition, in the system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result, radio traffic may increase.

In contrast, in the cutting tool100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cutting insert1has a cutting edge. The holder2holds the cutting insert1. The sensor10is provided in the holder2. The information communication unit80is provided in the holder2. The information communication unit80transmits an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10to the management device200provided outside the cutting tool100, and acquires the parameter information from the management device200.

With this configuration of transmitting an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10to the management device200provided outside the cutting tool100and acquiring the parameter information from the management device200, for example, measurement by the sensor10can be performed in accordance with the parameter information that is set in accordance with details of machining using the cutting tool100. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor10can be suppressed while highly accurate measurement is performed using the sensor10. As a result, for example, the frequency of replacing a battery and performing charging can be decreased in the sensor10. In addition, in a system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result of the sensor10, an increase in data amount of the measurement result can be suppressed, and thus, for example, interference of radio signals caused by an increase in radio traffic can be suppressed.

Thus, in the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool can be implemented.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the information communication unit80acquires the parameter information upon being started up.

With this configuration, for example, in the cutting tool100that is to perform a different type of machining operation every time the cutting tool100is started up, parameter information that is set in accordance with details of the machining operation can be acquired.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the information communication unit80acquires a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information.

With this configuration, for example, a measurement parameter of the sensor10can be chronologically changed, and measurement by the sensor10can be appropriately performed when the cutting tool100performs various types of machining operations.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the information communication unit80acquires the plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information that are set in accordance with types of machining operations chronologically performed by the cutting tool100.

With this configuration, when the type of machining operation using the cutting tool100chronologically changes, parameter information that is set in accordance with each type of machining operation can be acquired, and measurement by the sensor10can be appropriately performed.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the information communication unit80acquires the parameter information including a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period.

With this configuration, the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period of the sensor10can be controlled on the basis of the parameter information, and thus an increase in current consumption of the sensor10, an increase in data amount of a measurement result, and the like can be suppressed more reliably.

In the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit40is provided in the holder2and controls an operation of the sensor10. The storage unit70is provided in the holder2. In response to the parameter information acquired by the information communication unit80does not include at least any one of a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period related to the measurement by the sensor10, the control unit40controls the operation of the sensor10by using information on a corresponding one of the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period stored in the storage unit70in advance.

With this configuration, even when the contents of the acquired parameter information are insufficient, the operation of the sensor10can be controlled by using the information stored in the storage unit70.

In the cutting tool100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cutting insert1has a cutting edge. The holder2holds the cutting insert1. The sensor10is provided in the holder2and includes at least either one of an acceleration sensor and a strain sensor. The information communication unit80provided in the holder2transmits an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10to the management device200provided outside the cutting tool100, and acquires the parameter information. The storage unit70provided in the holder2stores the parameter information. The control unit40is provided in the holder2. The information communication unit80transmits the inquiry for the parameter information to the management device200and acquires the parameter information having contents that are based on the inquiry from the management device200, upon being started up.

With this configuration of transmitting an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10including an acceleration sensor or a strain sensor to the management device200provided outside the cutting tool100and acquiring the parameter information from the management device200, for example, measurement by the sensor10can be performed in accordance with the parameter information that is set in accordance with details of machining using the cutting tool100. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor10can be suppressed while highly accurate measurement is performed using the sensor10. As a result, for example, the frequency of replacing a battery and performing charging can be decreased in the sensor10. In addition, in a system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result of the sensor10, an increase in data amount of the measurement result can be suppressed, and thus, for example, interference of radio signals caused by an increase in radio traffic can be suppressed. Furthermore, in the cutting tool100that is to perform a different type of machining operation every time the cutting tool100is started up, parameter information that is set in accordance with details of the machining operation can be acquired by transmitting an inquiry for the parameter information to the management device200every time the cutting tool100is started up.

Thus, in the cutting tool100according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool can be implemented.

In the tool system300according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cutting tool100includes the cutting insert1having a cutting edge, the holder2holding the cutting insert1, the sensor10provided in the holder2, and the information communication unit80provided in the holder2. The management device200provided outside the cutting tool100transmits, to the information communication unit80, parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10.

With this configuration in which the management device200provided outside the cutting tool100transmits parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10to the information communication unit80in the cutting tool100, for example, measurement by the sensor10can be performed in accordance with the parameter information that is set in accordance with details of machining using the cutting tool100. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor10can be suppressed while highly accurate measurement is performed using the sensor10. As a result, for example, the frequency of replacing a battery and performing charging can be decreased in the sensor10. In addition, in the system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result of the sensor10, an increase in data amount of the measurement result can be suppressed, and thus, for example, interference of radio signals caused by an increase in radio traffic can be suppressed.

Thus, in the tool system300according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool can be implemented.

In the tool system300according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the information communication unit80transmits an inquiry for the parameter information to the management device200upon being started up. The management device200transmits, to the information communication unit80, the parameter information having contents that are based on the inquiry from the information communication unit80.

With this configuration, for example, in the tool system300including the cutting tool100that is to perform a different type of machining operation every time the cutting tool100is started up, the information communication unit80transmits an inquiry for parameter information to the management device200every time the information communication unit80is started up, and thus parameter information that is set in accordance with details of a machining operation in the cutting tool100can be transmitted from the management device200to the cutting tool100.

In the tool system300according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, in response to the management device200does not include the parameter information for the cutting tool100, the management device200controls displaying a configuration screen prompting setting of the parameter information.

With this configuration, even when the management device200does not hold parameter information for the cutting tool100, setting of parameter information by a user can be prompted, and the set parameter information can be transmitted to the cutting tool100.

The tool system300according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of cutting tools100. The management device200holds, for each of the plurality of cutting tools100, the parameter information including a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period.

With this configuration, various machining operations can be appropriately performed by using the plurality of cutting tools100, and the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period of the sensor10in each cutting tool100can be controlled on the basis of the parameter information. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor10in each cutting tool100, an increase in data amount of a measurement result, and the like can be suppressed more reliably.

In the tool system300according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the cutting tool100further includes the control unit40that controls an operation of the sensor10, and the storage unit70. In response to the parameter information transmitted from the management device200to the information communication unit80does not include at least any one of a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period related to the measurement by the sensor10, the control unit40controls the operation of the sensor10by using information on a corresponding one of the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period stored in the storage unit70in advance.

With this configuration, even when the contents of the parameter information transmitted from the management device200to the reception unit50in the cutting tool100are insufficient, the operation of the sensor10can be controlled in the cutting tool100by using the information stored in the storage unit70.

A communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication method for the tool system300including the cutting tool100and the management device200, the cutting tool100including the holder2holding the cutting insert1having a cutting edge, and the sensor10provided in the holder2. In this communication method, first, the management device200and the cutting tool100establish a communication connection with each other. Subsequently, the management device200transmits parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10to the cutting tool100.

With this method of transmitting parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10from the management device200to the cutting tool100, for example, measurement by the sensor10can be performed in accordance with the parameter information that is set in accordance with details of machining using the cutting tool100. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor10can be suppressed while highly accurate measurement is performed using the sensor10. As a result, for example, the frequency of replacing a battery and performing charging can be decreased in the sensor10. In addition, in the system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result of the sensor10, an increase in data amount of the measurement result can be suppressed, and thus, for example, interference of radio signals caused by an increase in radio traffic can be suppressed.

Thus, in the communication method according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool can be implemented.

In the holder2according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fixing members3A,3B, and3C hold the cutting insert1. The information communication unit80transmits an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10to the management device200provided outside the cutting tool100and acquires the parameter information from the management device200.

With this configuration of transmitting an inquiry for parameter information related to measurement by the sensor10to the management device200provided outside the cutting tool100and acquiring the parameter information from the management device200, for example, measurement by the sensor10can be performed in accordance with the parameter information that is set in accordance with details of machining using the cutting tool100. Thus, an increase in current consumption of the sensor10can be suppressed while highly accurate measurement is performed using the sensor10. As a result, for example, the frequency of replacing a battery and performing charging can be decreased in the sensor10. In addition, in a system of wirelessly transmitting a measurement result of the sensor10, an increase in data amount of the measurement result can be suppressed, and thus, for example, interference of radio signals caused by an increase in radio traffic can be suppressed.

Thus, in the holder2according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, an excellent function related to estimation of the life of the cutting tool can be implemented.

In the holder2according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the information communication unit80acquires the parameter information upon being started up.

With this configuration, for example, in the cutting tool100that is to perform a different type of machining operation every time the cutting tool100is started up, parameter information that is set in accordance with details of the machining operation can be acquired.

In the holder2according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the information communication unit80acquires a plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information.

With this configuration, for example, a measurement parameter of the sensor10can be chronologically changed, and measurement by the sensor10can be appropriately performed when the cutting tool100performs various types of machining operations.

In the holder2according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the information communication unit80acquires the plurality of chronological pieces of parameter information that are set in accordance with types of machining operations chronologically performed by the cutting tool100.

With this configuration, when the type of machining operation using the cutting tool100chronologically changes, parameter information that is set in accordance with each type of machining operation can be acquired, and measurement by the sensor10can be appropriately performed.

In the holder2according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the information communication unit80acquires the parameter information including a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period.

With this configuration, the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period of the sensor10can be controlled on the basis of the parameter information, and thus an increase in current consumption of the sensor10, an increase in data amount of a measurement result, and the like can be suppressed more reliably.

In the holder2according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit40controls an operation of the sensor10. In response to the parameter information acquired by the information communication unit80does not include at least any one of a measurement parameter, a measurement start timing, and a measurement period related to the measurement by the sensor10, the control unit40controls the operation of the sensor10by using information on a corresponding one of the measurement parameter, the measurement start timing, and the measurement period stored in the storage unit70in advance.

With this configuration, even when the contents of the acquired parameter information are insufficient, the operation of the sensor10can be controlled by using the information stored in the storage unit70.

The above-described embodiments are to be considered as examples and non-restrictive in all aspects. The scope of the present invention is indicated not by the above description but by the claims, and is intended to include all changes within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

The above description includes the features given below.[Appendix 1]

A cutting tool including:

a holder holding an insert having a cutting edge;

a sensor provided in the holder; and

an acquisition unit that acquires parameter information related to measurement by the sensor from a management device outside the cutting tool, wherein

the acquisition unit acquires, as the parameter information, a sampling period and a measurement range of the sensor.[Appendix 2]

A tool system including:

a cutting tool including a holder holding an insert having a cutting edge, and a sensor provided in the holder; and

a management device, wherein

the management device transmits parameter information related to measurement by the sensor to the cutting tool, and

the management device transmits, as the parameter information, a sampling period and a measurement range of the sensor.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

1,1A cutting insert3A,3B,3C fixing member2,2A holder10sensor20data generation unit30transmission unit40control unit50reception unit60battery70storage unit80information communication unit100cutting tool110senor module200management device210communication unit220processing unit230storage unit240acceptance unit201wireless base unit300tool system401sensor packet