DE102017107357A1 - Absortierunterstützungsverfahren, Absortiersystem and flatbed machine tool - Google Patents

Abstract

A method for assisting an operator (11) in a sorting operation of workpieces (9) arranged on a sorting table (21), which have been produced with a flatbed machine tool, in particular a laser cutting or punching flatbed machine tool (3) according to a machining plan (16) , uses a location system (51) to determine a position of a hand of an operator in the room. The position can be carried out, for example, with a sorting assistance unit (53), which is held close to the hand of the operator, whose position is detected by the location system (51), or an image-based position determination with one or more cameras. The method comprises the steps of providing (step 71) a position data set (16 ') which includes the positions of the workpieces (9) produced on the processing plan (16) on the sorting table (21), detecting (step 73) a position of the hand the operator with the location system (51), adjusting (step 75) the position of the operator's hand with the positions of the position data set (16 '), identifying (step 77) at least one workpiece (9'), the position of the operator's hand and outputting (step 79) a sorting signal comprising information about the at least one workpiece (9 ') associated with the position of the operator's hand.

Description

The present invention relates to methods for assisting the sorting operation of workpieces produced with a flatbed machine tool, in particular for integrating the sorting operation into the control of flatbed machine tools. Furthermore, the invention relates to appropriately trained flatbed machine tools and a Absortiersystem.

When sorting parts of machine tools, in particular of laser cut material or punched workpieces, in particular sheet metal parts, usually an operator visually compares each individual cut part with an order drawing of the respective part. Such a mostly paper-based sorting requires an individual search of a specific finished part and its assignment to the correct order, so that a corresponding further processing can be initiated. Cut or stamped sheet metal parts are often made available after the machining process in a composite the respective downstream production step. Especially when many different part shapes are cut, the visual comparison becomes complex and prone to error. Thus, a high variety of parts can cause problems in part recognition and subsequent sorting deposition in e.g. Create job specific provided workpiece collection units. If parts are stored incorrectly, a subsequent process can be adversely affected.

In EP 1 524 063 A1 a method for marking workpieces is disclosed in which a plate is cut or punched. In this case, a projector projects different optical markings on the cut or punched workpieces located on the sorting table. This method is intended to make it easier for the operator to sort the workpieces by displaying the workpieces and indicating a process control procedure for the further processing or use of such cut or stamped workpieces. For workpieces that are very small, as they often occur in sheet metal processing, the markings may be difficult to detect, so that operators resort additionally to the paper-based sorting.

From the field of logistics, various methods of assisting workers are known. For example disclosed WO 2014/028959 A1 a camera-assisted method of assisting a worker in equipment for manipulating goods, EP 1 487 616 B1 a method for automatic process control with a work environment detection as well EP 2 161 219 B1 and DE 10 2014 211353 A1 Method of visual support of manual order picking. Furthermore, so-called pick-by-light implementations are known as an example of a digitally supported picking process.

A process for automatic process control is off DE 102 15 885 A1 known. In addition, smart gloves for industrial use, in particular for supporting industrial production processes, for example, are made DE 10 2015 111 506 A1 and DE 10 2011 002 952 A1 , known.

One aspect of this disclosure is based on the object of facilitating the assignment of workpieces, of making it possible to reduce errors in the assignment and / or of efficiently carrying out subsequent processes.

At least one of these objects is achieved by a method for assisting a sorting operation according to claim 1 and by a flatbed machine tool according to claim 16 and by a sorting system according to claim 23. Further developments are given in the subclaims.

• Bereitstellen eines Positionsdatensatzes, der die Positionen der mit dem Bearbeitungsplan erzeugten Werkstücke am Sortiertisch umfasst,
• Erfassen einer Position der Hand des Bedieners, insbesondere der Sortierunterstützungseinheit, mit dem Ortungssystem,
• Abgleichen der Position der Hand des Bedieners, insbesondere der Sortierunterstützungseinheit, mit den Positionen des Positionsdatensatzes,
• Identifizieren mindestens eines Werkstücks, das der Position der Hand des Bedieners, insbesondere der Sortierunterstützungseinheit, zugeordnet ist, und
• Ausgeben eines Sortiersignals, das Information über das mindestens eine der Position der Hand des Bedieners, insbesondere der Sortierunterstützungseinheit, zugeordnete Werkstück umfasst.

In one aspect, a method for assisting an operator in a sorting operation of workpieces arranged on a sorting table, which have been produced with a flatbed machine tool, in particular a laser cutting or punching flatbed machine tool, according to a machining plan, using a locating system for determining a position of a hand an operator in the room. The method comprises the following steps:

• Providing a position data set that includes the positions of the workpieces generated by the machining plan at the sorting table,
• Detecting a position of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, with the location system,
• Matching the position of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, with the positions of the position data set,
• Identifying at least one workpiece associated with the position of the operator's hand, in particular the sorting assistance unit, and
• Outputting a sorting signal that includes information about the at least one of the position of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, associated workpiece.

For example, the position of the hand is determined by at least one sorting support unit located in its position or by image acquisition by the operator or his hand. For example, the operator may carry a sorting assistance unit close to the hand. The positioning system can determine the position of the sorting assistance unit in space, in particular via an active and / or passive transmitter provided in the sorting assistance unit. Alternatively or additionally, the location system can comprise, for example, one or more cameras and determine the position of the hand in space by means of image acquisition and image processing. Thereby, the location of the position of the hand can be determined independently of a supported sorting support unit.

In a further aspect, a flatbed machine tool, in particular a laser cutting or punching flatbed machine tool, comprises a processing unit, in particular a laser cutting or punching processing unit, a control unit in which a processing plan is stored, for controlling the processing unit for generating spatially in accordance with a processing image data set next to one another arranged workpieces, a sorting table for providing the arranged workpieces for sorting after production, a location system and in particular at least one close to a hand of the operator to be carried sorting support unit, wherein the position of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, in space with the locating system can be determined wherein the control unit is designed to carry out the method described above.

In a further aspect, a sorting system comprises a flatbed machine tool described above and below as well as a superordinate sorting control unit, which is connected to the flatbed machine tool for data processing purposes.

In some embodiments, the method of supporting a sorting operation may include one or more of the following steps:

The workpiece closest to the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, can be identified as the workpiece associated with at least one workpiece operator's position, in particular the sorting support unit, or several workpieces closest to the operator's hand, in particular the sorting support unit can be identified as the position of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, associated workpieces. In particular, the workpiece closest to a workpiece in the direction of movement of the operator's hand, in particular the sorting assistance unit, can be identified as the workpiece associated with at least one workpiece position of the operator's hand, in particular the sorting assistance unit.

Based on the sorting signal, context-sensitive information may be provided which includes, as workpiece-specific information, for example customer data, information on the subsequent process step, number of further identical parts, associated workpiece collection point or order number for the at least one workpiece assigned to the position of the operator's hand.

Location context sensitive information can be projected onto the at least one workpiece associated with the position of the operator's hand. Optionally, a workpiece to be preferably selected can be marked optically, or the information about the workpiece assigned to at least one of the positions of the operator's hand, in particular the location-context-sensitive information, can be optically superimposed on the workpiece or workpieces as lettering. Additionally or alternatively, this can be displayed on a sorting support unit-specific display unit, in particular a workpiece collection point-specific display unit, a data glasses of the operator or a monitoring monitor, and / or output as a flashing signal.

A removal process can be detected. In particular, he can by determining a Movement trajectory of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, by evaluating the position data of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, and detecting a removal movement in a section of the movement trajectory and / or by detecting a gesture movement by means of the movement trajectory of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit , be recognized. Correspondingly, for a removed workpiece, a deposit signal for system-supported depositing of the removed workpiece can be output at a workpiece collection unit provided for the removed workpiece.

An operation performed by an operator depositing the removed workpiece can be detected. In particular, by determining a movement trajectory of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, after removing the workpiece by evaluating the position data of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, and detecting a deposition movement in a portion of the movement trajectory and / or by detecting a gesture movement be detected by the movement trajectory of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit.

Furthermore, an assignment of gestures and processes can be provided and a movement trajectory of the hand of the operator, in particular of the sorting assistance unit, can be determined by evaluating the position data of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting assistance unit. Accordingly, a gesture can be recognized in a portion of the movement trajectory and a process associated with the gesture, such as posting a picking operation or booking a picking operation, can be performed.

• Ausgeben eines Ablegesignals in Abhängigkeit vom Sortiersignal zur Unterstützung der Zuordnung des entnommenen Werkstücks durch einen Bediener zu einem nachfolgenden Bearbeitungsschritt, insbesondere zum Ablegen des entnommenen Werkstücks an einer Werkstücksammelstelleneinheit,
• Überwachen eines von einem Bediener durchgeführten Ablegevorgangs des entnommenen Werkstücks, wobei das Überwachen eines Ablegevorgangs beispielsweise eine Gewichtsüberwachung einer spezifischen Werkstücksammelstelle und/oder eine Überwachung einer Bewegungstrajektorie oder Bewegungsteiltrajektorie des entnommenen Werkstücks oder eines die Bewegung bewirkenden Objekts umfasst,
• Ausgeben eines Sortiervorgangvollendungssignals, wenn der Ablegevorgang einem dem Sortiersignal zugeordneten Ablegevorgang entspricht, und optional Aktualisieren einer Werkstücksammelstellen-spezifischen Anzeige bzgl. der Ablage des entnommenen Werkstücks,
• Ausgeben eines Fehlersignals, wenn der Ablegevorgang von einem dem Sortiersignal zugeordneten Ablegevorgang abweicht, und optional Anzeigen von Information bezüglich des dem Sortiersignal zugeordneten Ablegevorgangs,
• Überwachen eines Ablegevorgangs mindestens eines entnommenen Werkstücks in einer Ausschusssammelstelle durch einen Bediener, und Zuordnen des mindestens einen entnommenen Werkstücks als Ausschussstück und optional Aufnehmen des Ausschussstücks in eine Fehlteilliste,
• Ausgeben eines Ergänzungsproduktionssignals an ein Produktionsleitsystem, und
• Abgleichen von Produktionsparametern des entnommenen Werkstücks mit einem nachfolgenden Bearbeitungsplan und, bei Übereinstimmung der Produktionsparameter mit dem nachfolgenden Bearbeitungsplan und einer Verfügbarkeit bezüglich des entnommenen Werkstücks, Ergänzen des nachfolgenden Bearbeitungsplans mit einem Erzeugungsschritt zur Erzeugung eines Ersatzwerkstücks für das Ausschussstück.

In some embodiments, the method of supporting a sorting operation may include one or more of the following steps:

• Issuing a deposition signal in response to the sorting signal to assist the assignment of the removed workpiece by an operator to a subsequent processing step, in particular for depositing the removed workpiece at a workpiece collection unit,
• Monitoring an unloaded workpiece depositing operation performed by an operator, the monitoring of a depositing operation including, for example, weight monitoring of a specific workpiece collecting point and / or monitoring of a movement trajectory or moving part trajectory of the removed workpiece or an object causing the movement;
• Outputting a sorting process completion signal when the depositing operation corresponds to a depositing operation associated with the sorting signal, and optionally updating a workpiece collecting point-specific indication regarding the filing of the removed workpiece,
• Outputting an error signal if the deposition process deviates from a deposition process associated with the sorting signal, and optionally displaying information relating to the deposition process associated with the sorting signal,
• Monitoring a depositing operation of at least one removed workpiece in a broke collecting point by an operator, and assigning the at least one removed workpiece as a piece of broke and optionally picking up the piece of broke in a defective part list;
• Outputting a supplemental production signal to a production control system, and
• Matching production parameters of the removed workpiece with a subsequent processing plan and, if the production parameters agree with the subsequent processing plan and availability with respect to the removed workpiece, supplementing the subsequent processing plan with a production step for producing a replacement workpiece for the broke piece.

The individual process steps can be processed so quickly with a processing time, in particular partially in parallel, that the sorting signal generated in less than 0.5 s, in particular less than 0.2 s, in particular less than 0.1 s after the position detection Hand of the operator is generated. In general, the sorting signal may comprise sub-signals, each associated with an identified or removed workpiece, e.g. several workpieces were identified or removed. Furthermore, signals can generally be output as information on a data goggles of an operator and / or a monitoring monitor of a control system and / or as flashing signals.

Further, the flatbed machine tool may optionally include a movable workpiece collection unit and / or a reject collection point. Additionally or alternatively, it may be a system for monitoring a deposit operation, in particular for monitoring the weight of a specific workpiece collection unit, and / or a detection unit for optically detecting image signals in the visible and / or infrared wavelength range and / or for sound wave-based acquisition of ultrasound image signals with corresponding Sensors with respect to the sorting table include.

The sorting support unit may comprise an active transmitter and / or a passive transmitter whose position is detected by the positioning system. Furthermore, the sorting assistance unit may be assigned a sorting assistance unit-specific display unit, on which the information about the at least one workpiece assigned to the position of the sorting assistance unit is displayed.

The workpiece collection unit may further include a deposit area for workpieces produced by the machine tool as part of an machining plan, and a display unit configured to receive information about the deposited workpieces from the control unit of the machine tool and output to an operator. The display unit may also receive information about the number of stored workpieces, a subsequent processing step and an underlying job and output. For example, the display unit is a real, for example, as an e-ink display, attached to the storage area and / or digital in the context of a control display unit, which is emulated, for example, as part of a user interface displayed on a tablet, for example.

In particular, the inventors have recognized that the concepts disclosed herein and their application in the devices described herein are suitable for a variety of materials and / or surface properties of workpieces and can provide advantages in sorting. Such workpieces include e.g. Workpieces made of sheet metal, glass, semiconductor substrate structures, printed circuit board structures and plastic parts, wherein the materials themselves, and in particular their surface properties, can transmit light or at least partially reflect. In particular with such workpieces it has been recognized that e.g. the recognizability of projected markings can often be inadequate, even with larger workpieces, and thus operators additionally resort to paper-based sorting. By contrast, the concepts disclosed herein can increase the efficiency of sorting, especially for such workpieces.

Furthermore, it has been found that the concepts disclosed herein and their application in the devices described herein may have the added benefit of the operator not being tied to a given process control procedure according to which he has to sort the parts. Thus, attempts with different operators in sorting with and without the use of the concepts disclosed herein have surprisingly revealed that a sorting is usually faster and more efficient when an operator can follow his own plan in the order of aborting and is not bound to an external specification , Among other things, this may be due to the specific circumstances when sorting workpieces created with flatbed machine tools. Such produced workpieces come together with the cut waste, e.g. in the form of a residual grid, on the sorting table. Due to the separation process, the workpieces can often still be connected to the cut waste (residual skeleton) through tiny residual joints (so-called micro joints). When sorting, the operator now separates the workpieces from the residual grid and then sorts them onto workpiece-specific shelves. If individual workpieces are no longer completely fixed at their predetermined place on the sorting table, or are still connected to the skeleton grid and so. If you are already hanging diagonally in the residual grid, it may be advantageous for the operator to sort them out first. This procedure applies in particular to bending-resistant workpieces, so that the concepts disclosed herein and their application in the devices described herein may also be particularly suitable for sorting of bending-resistant workpieces. A bending-resistant workpiece can be made of sheet metal, glass or plastic, for example. Furthermore, parts cut or punched from a semiconductor substrate or printed circuit board are often resistant to bending.

Generally, a flatbed machine tool may be a laser cutting or stamping flatbed machine that only separates by laser or punching only. Further, a flatbed machine tool may be a combination machine that implements both separation methods. On the flatbed machine tool, other processing steps such as e.g. Deburring, bending, folding, welding, drilling, tapping, etc. are performed.

Further, the concepts disclosed herein and their application in the devices described herein are designed to provide supportive information as real-time as possible. The timely provision is essential because the sorting operation, the timing of which is determined by the flow and the speed of the operator's manual operations, should not be slowed down (by, for example, waiting for a sorting signal). At the very least, feedback should be given promptly on completed activities (for example, the correct or incorrect allocation to a collection point). Thus, for example, correct execution of the postings of the various sorting operations in real time is essential to the implementation of the smart factory concepts disclosed herein. Only a timely detection allows the system to make reasonable suggestions and make them accessible to the operator. The proposed Absortierunterstützung leads for this important steps such as position alignment and accounting in the production control system (Manufacturing Execution System: MES), for. automatically in the background. The production control system is part of a multi-layered management system for monitoring and implementing at least partially automated production. It is e.g. involved in the execution, control or control of production, in particular individual production steps, in real time. In general, the components and system structures are designed such that the individual method steps are processed with a short processing time, in particular partially in parallel. Preferably, the sorting signal is detected during movement, e.g. in less than 0.5 s, in particular less than 0.2 s, and more particularly less than 0.1 s, generated after the position detection of the operator's hand.

In some embodiments, when picking up a cut part, for example, an operator is shown which box (as an example of a workpiece collection point unit) is to be put into. The display can be made optically in particular. However, it is also conceivable, for example, an acoustic display or acoustic support of an optical display. At the same time, a specific partial affiliation in the higher-level system can be automatically recorded as soon as the filing has taken place. In the case of missing parts, eg due to rejects or machine malfunctions, a post-production can be initiated directly via an interface to the MES.

The machine tool system includes, in some embodiments, a projector and / or one or more cameras. For example, these can project or record image information onto or from the sorting table of a flatbed or stamped laser cutting machine, permanently installed on the machine housing. After calibration of the projector / camera on the sheet surface / the sorting table can be issued with these additional information or recorded. For example, the position of the hand can be calculated from the images of one or more cameras.

An integrated in the method for supporting a Absortiervorgangs projector allows you to issue position-specific additional information on a subsection of the sorting table. For this purpose, e.g. Additional information is projected on the workpieces in the hand of the scavenging operator, which facilitates the identification and picking up of a preferred or at this time of particular interest workpiece.

A camera integrated into the method for assisting a sorting operation may further enable, e.g. by means of image processing a part gripped by the operator, e.g. based on its shape and / or location on the sorting table. The image processing algorithm can in particular access the order information and thus facilitate identification of the parts. Furthermore, by means of laser or marking laser, e.g. a QR code or a material number will be engraved during processing. Using the camera, this coding can be read out and then used for identification and Absortierunterstützung.

Alternatively or additionally, an operator can use data goggles which can supply supplementary image information for the partial recognition and in which additional information, for example the QR code or a material number, is displayed within the field of view in addition to the image of the environment that has actually been acquired.

A higher-level Absortierkontrolleinheit the Absortiersystems can support the workpiece recognition and, for example, due to the alignment of the information obtained by the position evaluation with the order information. identify the intended storage. For example, the operator is visibly marked via a monitor or data glasses and the operator receives a feedback as to whether the part has been stored correctly.

By matching the detected removed workpieces with cutting instructions of the machining plan (e.g., a cutting program), it can be recognized that a produced workpiece has been removed from the work space. It can also be determined via an interface to the MES to which station of the processing this workpiece is to be transported next. An optical signal on the workpiece collection point units, also referred to as load carriers, such as pallets, e.g. Euro pallets or transport boxes, can be controlled in such a way that is displayed, in which the part must be stored. Optical signals include, for example, specific displays, activation of specific LEDs or projection of information onto the charge carrier.

Movement monitoring of the hand depositing the load carrier can also detect and check the correct storage. Through feedback to the MES, in the case of rejects, e.g. were deposited at a committee collecting point, for example, at the earliest possible date automatically a supplementary post-production be initiated.

In general, the concepts disclosed herein may allow for increased process reliability, optimization of cycle times, and, correspondingly, cost optimization of production. In particular, the concepts disclosed herein may be limited to z. cause considerable time savings in the process from the production of a required number of parts to the subsequent process correct storage, avoid errors in the assignment and intuitive workflows by e.g. enable automatic booking of workpieces. Several orders can be reliably processed in a board (for example in a sheet to be trimmed) and a cross-order separation of the cut parts for the respective subsequent processes becomes possible. A sorting of multiple jobs converted on a board, supported by the methods disclosed herein, allows for automatic (cyclic) new nesting of all open jobs.

Thus, a flexible processing of part removal and a paperless process (with the accompanying time savings in the work preparation) can make the integration of laser cutting machines or punching machines in the semi-automated manufacturing process more efficient. Furthermore, the basis for a data-based real-time control of the sheet metal production can be laid by the error avoidance and the automatic, correct posting. Accordingly, machines used in the production of small batch sizes can also be integrated into a sheet metal production controlled by MES in the context of Industry 4.0.

Furthermore, the use of operator-restricting mobile handheld devices such as a scanner or tablet can be dispensed with.

With the concepts disclosed herein, the production process of an intelligent factory and in particular its indirect processes can be made more efficient. This includes the advantages already explained above by the output of signals to an operator during the sorting process, such as displaying the workpiece collection unit assigned to a workpiece or providing information about incorrectly sorted workpieces and subsequent processing steps. However, the concepts can also be incorporated into processes, such as transport to a subsequent process step, which can use the real-time current information about the status of a job and, for example, about the number of workpieces already assigned. In addition, together with other locating devices, it is possible to determine the current position of a workpiece collection unit at e.g. to communicate the MES and display it in a control station or to communicate the current position on the spot, e.g. by flashing or by acoustic signals.

The advantages of the concepts disclosed herein include the accessibility of important information (especially on-site to the operator), contributing to the realization of paperless manufacturing and significant time reduction, and thus higher availability and productivity of machine tools. Furthermore, the concepts can be easily implemented because gloves are already worn today by the operator for occupational safety and can be easily provided with appropriate sorting support units. Further, by the concepts disclosed herein, the information chain can be maintained by automatically passing the part information to the load carrier (workpiece collection unit) during the sorting, i. transferred from the machine tool to the workpiece collection point units. This increases the transparency of production and makes it possible to quickly and easily locate parts in the factory. The data forwarding of the part information generally increases process reliability. The delivery of the storage compartment and the associated information on the carrier can also facilitate the programming of a subsequent machine, for example, a subsequent processing process.

• 1 eine schematische räumliche Darstellung eines Ausschnitts einer intelligenten Fabrik mit einer Laserschneid- oder Stanz-Flachbettwerkzeugmaschine,
• 2 eine schematische räumliche Darstellung einer beispielhaften Anordnung von Werkstücken auf einem Absortiertisch,
• 3 schematische beispielhafte Darstellungen eines Positionsdatensatzes und der Identifizierung eines Werkstücks,
• 4 eine schematische räumliche Darstellung einer beispielhaften Überwachung eines Ablegevorgangs eines entnommenen Werkstücks und
• 5 ein Flussdiagramm zur Verdeutlichung eines beispielhaften Verfahrensablaufs bei der Unterstützung eines Absortiervorgangs.

Herein, concepts are disclosed that allow to at least partially improve aspects of the prior art. In particular, further features and their expediencies emerge from the following description of embodiments with reference to the figures. From the figures show:

• 1 a schematic spatial representation of a section of an intelligent factory with a laser cutting or punching flatbed machine tool,
• 2 a schematic spatial representation of an exemplary arrangement of workpieces on a sorting table,
• 3 schematic exemplary representations of a position data set and the identification of a workpiece,
• 4 a schematic spatial representation of an exemplary monitoring a depositing operation of a removed workpiece and
• 5 a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process flow in the support of a Absortiervorgangs.

Aspects described herein are based, in part, on the recognition that in laser cutting (or punching) flatbed machine tools, there is an accurate cutting plan (or punching schedule) which, in combination with detecting the position of a scraping hand with respect to the sorting table on which the generated cut is to support the manual Absortiervorgangs and to gain suitable for further process information information can be used. It is proposed to detect with a positioning system, the position of the scrapping hand by means of a near-hand carried sorting support unit having sensors for location detection.

By expanding flat bed systems with indoor locating and interfaces to a control unit, the position of the workpiece collection units can be determined and / or the movement of the operator's hand can be noted. Such a location can be done, for example, an ultra-wide-band system of four or more so-called "Anchors" and one or more "tags". The Anchors serve as receivers and can be stationarily positioned around the workspace. The tags can be at the hand of the Operators and optionally attached to all workpiece collection units and serve to determine their position. Other systems for indoor location include Bluetooth, WiFi, infrared and RFID.

Such Nahfeldortung can also be used, for example, in the sorting, by e.g. the location of a hand (especially a smart glove that interacts with the location system) e.g. B. is located by the workpiece collection unit from. If the "hand" of an operator removes a component from the skeleton, the component location in the MES is posted from the skeleton to the hand. If the hand moves in the vicinity of a workpiece collection point unit (for example in the vicinity of a location system of the workpiece collection point unit), it is posted in the MES that this part has been deposited on the associated workpiece collection point unit. On the one hand, the location system can recognize that the hand with the workpiece came close to the workpiece collection point unit. On the other hand, a higher level system (e.g., the MES) may link the workpiece collection unit and the hand position.

The concepts described herein are based on a location system for detecting the position of a position sensor on an operator when sorting clippings. The implementation can be done, for example, with a data glove worn by the operator or another medium located on the operator, such as a ring, a bracelet, a watch (smartwatch) or a thimble (also commonly referred to as wearables).

In addition to fixed cameras, the image data can also be captured additionally or alternatively with data glasses worn by the operator. Thus, the data glasses by means of a camera contained therein on the way of image processing basically allow tracking of the hand in the room.

Such position sensors have one or more transmitters and possibly sensors. Data gloves include such sensors, for example, on the wrist or on the finger. The position sensors make it possible to include location-context-sensitive information about the environment in the sorting process, and for example to output selectively associated information, e.g. indicated on a display on the glove or generally in the view of the Absortierers.

Further, the concepts described herein allow the system to be controlled via gestures. For example, the gripping process can be detected or accompanied by a specific gesture movement such as a lowering of the hand or a finger pointer. Alternatively or in addition to gesture control, e.g. a connection to a foot switch or similar possible. Also conceivable is a voice control or a shift sensor on the finger / hand / arm.

The locating system uses the transmitter attached to the operator to detect the position of the sorting process by the operator and to calculate the location of the parts. Accordingly, at least one of the position of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, associated workpiece can be identified and information about the the position of the hand of the operator, in particular the sorting support unit, associated workpiece can be output via a correspondingly generated sorting signal. This will e.g. an assignment of the removed with the data glove workpiece allows and based on the location of the transmitter in the locating field context-sensitive information can be displayed to the environment. Through the assignment, possibly supplemented with a motion detection, in particular by gesture recognition, a removed workpiece can be booked out at the sampling point and assigned to a storage location and booked.

The concepts described herein relate in particular to flat sheet metal machines which produce workpieces for subsequent processing steps by means of stamping or laser cutting from so-called sheets (starting sheets with a predetermined thickness and a predetermined surface measure). Thus, with a very flexible by the use of laser sheet metal machining a workpiece in a freely selectable, flat-bed machines, flat shape can be transferred. Subsequent bending and welding processes then generate a spatial product. In such laser cutting or punching flatbed machine tools, a machining plan (e.g., cutting plan) is stored as the input parameter in the machine control, which contains the exact position of the workpieces produced relative to the sorting table.

In providing the position data set which includes the positions of the workpieces produced on the machining plan on the sorting table, in addition to the original (cutting) machining plan, additional, e.g. information obtained during the machining process. This includes, for example, a coordinate transformation to adapt the (cutting) machining plan to the actual position of the blank sheet or made after the (cutting) machining shifts. Such information is stored, for example, in the control unit linked to the (cutting) processing plan and, if necessary, also communicated with the MES.

Sinking batch sizes, ie the requirement to be able to produce small quantities in short time windows, and moreover individualized products are current challenges for punching or laser cutting, which in particular have an effect on the automation of production processes in sheet metal manufacturing companies. The concepts described herein can, especially for smaller batch sizes, coordinate and integrate IT-based processes, allocate these individual machines and participate in a customizable production plan creation.

The aim is to meet the high requirements of a wide variety of products in so-called smart factories ("smart factories"). The inventors have recognized that, in order to more efficiently design manufacturing processes, particular potential in the indirect processes, i. the upstream and downstream steps of the separation process lies. If e.g. By eliminating and offsetting scrap workpieces more efficiently and without errors, the lead time of a job can be shortened across all manufacturing processes and more efficient utilization of the smart factory can be achieved.

Transparent production planning, in which indirect processes are networked, provides an overview of the production processes and allows them to be optimized. In doing so, the operator becomes the process manager who, with his overview, controls the material flow, especially for orders with small batch sizes.

1 shows an overview of an intelligent factory 1 ("Smart factory"), the self-adapting production resources, such as a laser cutting or stamping flatbed machine exemplified 3 , and an associated MES 5 includes. Typically, several such flatbed machine tool installations and finishing stations form the smart factory 1 out. Over a network 7 run the virtual and physical production elements and production steps, in particular the information about workpieces 9 (required number, shape, material, type ...), in the MES 5 together. A control unit 8th , such as a PC, compute node or similar suitable hardware, is used to control eg the flatbed machine 3 and other components assigned to it. The control unit 8th is in particular for assisting the sorting of the workpieces 9 by an operator 11 on workpiece collecting points 13 during a real-time operation of the smart factory 1 educated. The underlying computing system includes, for example, digital processor systems having data inputs and microprocessor circuits having control outputs that operate in accordance with computer readable instructions stored on a computer readable medium. Usually, the control unit comprises 8th high real-time support computing power, long-term (non-volatile) memory for storing program instructions, and high-speed, short-term (volatile) memory for storing acquired data and evaluation results of the method to assist the operator.

The operator 11 sorts the workpieces 9 one of the flatbed machine 3 issued blackboard 17 taken from the workpiece collection units 13 to. In this case, using the sorting assistance unit explained below, the removal decisions are supported with regard to the respectively next workpiece to be removed and the subsequent depositing operation into the respective workpiece collection unit.

For example, while making the decision as to which of the workpieces he wants to remove, the operator may be presented with information about the workpieces that are near his hand and thus in his gripping area. Furthermore, he can after removal of the workpieces 9 for example, on a display 19 an associated workpiece collection unit 13 be displayed that he is in this the workpiece 9 should put off. On the display 19 In addition, the status (generally workpiece information) can be displayed, eg the number of stored workpieces 9 how many are missing or if an error has been detected.

That way the operator can 11 , as the "augmented operator" comprehensive information is made available in real time as possible, control the system and design and monitor the production efficiently. As operator and decision maker the operator keeps 11 the final decision-making function in all relevant processes of the production network. Thus, it can influence targeting situationally and contextually, supported by IT-based assistance systems, such as the method for assisting a sorting operation disclosed herein.

The flatbed machine 3 is a "social machine" that is in contact with other components in terms of production planning, especially with job control and the MES 5 is intelligently networked. For example, it is possible to react independently and depending on the situation to possible deviations in the cutting process.

In a traditional manufacturing environment, an operator would always pick up shop papers for jobs, manually start the jobs, sort parts, and run them and set up schedules assign. Accordingly, the machine can stand still for longer periods of time.

In contrast, networked manufacturing in the smart factory optimizes 1 their indirect processes and provides an overview of the production processes to be carried out. This is the operator 11 to the process manager, who keeps the overview and regulates the material flow.

In 1 are also a car 39 and one above the sorting table 21 movable bridge 40 as exemplary Absortiervorrichtungen 38 shown. On the Absortiervorrichtungen 38 are each one or more workpiece collection point units 13 , At each workpiece collection point unit 13 there is a display unit 43 with the ad 19 and a signal output device 47 , As an alternative or in addition to the visual display, acoustic and haptic signals are possible. Furthermore, a combined signal / display unit 44 used, which is parked, for example, near the deposit of larger workpieces.

Generally, clearing and sorting is e.g. cut parts time-consuming, error-prone and in this complex form (multiple orders from a blank) a great challenge. For example, with the concepts proposed herein, production orders may be made for small lots per lot for e.g. nested parts are efficiently sorted out.

As will be explained in more detail below, by assisting with automated location of the operator's hand 11 be monitored, which workpiece 9 one of the flatbed machine 3 issued blackboard 17 was removed. Afterwards, an ad may appear 19 at one of the intelligent and networked workpiece collection unit 13 Report to the operator 11 eg from the MES 5 Display the assigned storage location. The location of the hand can also be an update of the filing process in the MES 5 enable. Furthermore, the workpiece collection unit units embodied as, for example, intelligent boxes can 13 on eg an e-ink display current from the MES 5 output received job information. They allow, for example, a (possibly spatially rough) location and can, for example, by flashing the operator an intuitive "fine search" allow. For example, the workpiece collection units are 13 with its own data supply system 14 connected, which in particular with the MES 5 and the control unit 8th communicates for data exchange.

After sorting a number of required workpieces into a workpiece collection unit 13 ' This is for example by an operator 11 ' (or automated from a robotic system) to a subsequent processing step.

The solution proposed herein is via an electronic assistant who controls the operator 11 supported on the information side by situational information provision. This allows the operator 11 continue individual preferences (such as: where do I start, I put on small hand buffers or not, ...) in the sorting. The solution follows the basic principle: monitor, evaluate and provide information needed for the situation.

In order to be able to record the required position of the extracting hand, a location system is created in the area of the workstation 51 provided that the location of a hand of the operator, in particular a sorting support unit 53 , allowed. The sorting support unit 53 is located near the hand / arm of the operator 11 , In 1 it is an example of a glove of the operator 11 intended. The sorting support unit 53 is for example a transmitter (Radio Frequency Identification, RFID) whose actual position can be detected in real time. Tracking transponder systems work eg in the range of 2.45 GHz with a spatial resolution of a few centimeters.

As in 1 shown points the location system 51 exemplarily four antennas 55 on, with at least three antennas (to increase accuracy preferably more) close to the sorting table 21 and optionally on workpiece collection point units (eg, the mobile cart) 39 ) are provided. About the antennas 55 detected radio waves are transmitted as data to a positioning calculation section 57 of the location system 51 derived from the different signal propagation times the position of the sorting support unit 53 and optionally determines its movement trajectory. The positioning calculation section 57 of the location system 51 For example, it can also be part of the MES 5 be educated.

By means of the data stored in the position data set for workpiece production from the flatbed machine 3 the position of the parts to be removed is also known in the same coordinate system. If the position and preferably the shape and size are known for a workpiece collection unit (load carrier) located in the measuring range of the positioning system, the depositing process of the sorting can also be supported. For example, for the car 39 or the bridge 40 the individual depositing areas (or compartments) assigned to each display unit can be stored in their geometry and / or position in the MES. That is, in general, the layers of the workpiece collection units (for example, the mobile cart 39 ) and the workpiece collection units available in the system.

The example designed as a cloud MES database also provides basic data on the manufactured workpieces and serves as a memory for the various location information.

One or more sensors of the operator supported sorting assistance unit 53 also allow the detection of gestures that trigger specific actions in the MES. The recognition of specific gestures can also be supported alternatively or additionally by an ambient camera.

With the construction described above, u.a. The following applications are possible: Information about parts in the vicinity of the operator's hand can be displayed (paper-based sorting is not required). The removal of a workpiece can be booked by gesture control when gripping a workpiece. Furthermore, it can be booked by gesture control in the storage of the workpiece this a workpiece collection point. The addition comprises e.g. the assignment to a load carrier and thus the note which and how many workpieces are stored as well as where certain workpieces were moved, e.g. the place with defined subjects.

In an embodiment of the sorting support unit 53 is a work glove equipped with an attachable transmitter kit. When worn, the work glove can be replaced and the existing transmitter kit can be placed on the new work glove. About the glove, the operator can be supplied with the necessary information, for example, by using the glove, a projector kontextsensititv is controlled, which projects the necessary information at the appropriate location in the hand on the sheet (the workpieces). In 1 is an example of a projector 15 above the sorting table 21 attached, which is adapted to provide information in a range close to the activity of the operator (his hand), for example by scanning text or highlight areas / workpieces. Alternatively or additionally, the necessary information can be provided via a display unit on the glove.

About the location of the sorting support unit 53 knows the location system 51 over which workpiece 9 The hand, for example, the glove anhat or attached to another medium for positioning is located. In addition, a display of the currently detected part on the display unit with further information about the workpiece is conceivable. Such information includes, for example, customer data, information on the subsequent process step, display of the corresponding charge carrier and the number of other identical workpieces.

In some embodiments, the workpiece is picked up by the gripping movement as an extraction and automatically assigned by releasing the also provided with a transmitter load carrier / workpiece collection unit (boxes, pallets, boxes with multiple subjects, ...). The load carriers can be equipped with a transmitter regardless of their characteristics. So there is no dependence on specific charge carriers.

As a result, the location system / MES, on which workpiece collection unit, e.g. in which compartment of a load carrier, which workpiece is in which quantity. Accordingly, the system can be controlled in the material flow and / or specific workpieces can be quickly and easily located.

As mentioned above, a projector has been proposed as a solution for displaying the information for the Abräumer on the sheet. This is practically difficult to implement because of the radiation behavior of sheet metal (mirror) a high light output is necessary. Consequently, only laser projectors with scanners can be usefully used here. However, these can not cover the entire sorting table at once. For this reason, the approach of the context-sensitive projection mentioned here offers a solution: the information is projected only on the parts in the vicinity of the operator / operator's hand. This context-sensitive projection is easier to implement and economically feasible with currently available technical systems.

2 shows an example of an arrangement of workpieces 9 a machined board, as it can be after production with a flatbed machine on a sorting table. To detect the removal of workpieces, detects the location system 51 the location of the sorting support unit 53 in the supervised working space 23 which extends over the processed and sorted panel. The sorting is done by the operator 11 , in the embodiment of 1 shown in the form of a living person, so no robot. To the location of the sorting support unit 53 and to be able to determine the hand above the eg cut sheet metal on the pallet, is the locating system 51 calibrated to the machine coordinates.

On the control unit 8th with interface to the location system 51 and to the flatbed machine 3 is using appropriate procedures of Position adjustment (eg a difference with respect to the centroid of a workpiece) detects which workpiece 9 is near the hand and from the sorting table 21 is removed. The layers of the workpieces to be sorted 9 result from the underlying processing plan.

3 schematically shows a processing plan 16 with an exemplary visualization of a position data set 16 ' , the arrangement of workpieces 9 on the sorting table 21 underlying. One recognizes exemplarily planned shaped parts in three types a, b, c on a schematically reproduced board 17 ' assigned to three jobs A, B, C. Furthermore, it can be seen that the molded parts produced according to the types a, b, c on a wagon symbol 25 ' as workpiece collection units, for example, to be sorted into three stacks.

3 also shows schematically a Absortiervorgang 29 and an exemplary display of information to the operator on a display 67 ,

The schematically illustrated Absortiervorgang 29 shows a hand 61 holding a glove 63 carries at which the sorting support unit 53 , which includes a transmitter attached. The location of the sorting support unit 53 over the blackboard 17 with the workpieces cut out of it 9 is determined and with the centroids 65 the workpieces 9 adjusted. For example, a distance determination is performed by the geometric mean. In 3 is a workpiece 9 ' hatched represented that of the position of the sorting support unit 53 associated workpiece represents, in this case the closest, here under the hand 61 of the operator.

In 3 becomes this workpiece 9 ' Order information (here text "order A" on the display 67 displayed. For example, for visual inspection by the operator, the shape of the workpiece may also be used 9 ' are displayed. Furthermore, for example, an associated workpiece collection unit or information about the deposit process can be displayed. As in 3 indicated, for example, information on the exact depositing of the workpiece on an associated car based on a wagon symbol 25 " are displayed.

By constantly updating the display, the operator can be assisted in his selection of the workpiece to be sorted next and in the laying operation.

the display 67 For example, it may be provided in the environment of the pallet changer of the flatbed machine. Alternatively, a projection of information using the projector 15 (eg laser projector). Furthermore, the display can be realized on a data glasses. About such "augmented reality" glasses, in addition to the display of the fixed-correct storage location and its nominal height can be displayed exactly. For example, "Hololens" goggles may allow the display of fixed 3D holographic objects. The operator 11 This makes it very easy to check whether a stack of workpieces is complete.

In 3 The double arrows represent the processing of the information from the processing image data set 16 ' and the position information of the sorting support unit 53 in the MES 5 represents.

It should be added that the MES 5 In addition, after detecting the removal operation, the display unit of the responsible workpiece collecting station unit can output signals which simplify the depositing operation.

To the operator 11 to communicate what is to happen next with the removed part (classically it is for further transport into a box, which serves as a workpiece collection unit 13 serves, placed), has the control unit 8th Access to the MES 5 , There are not only the next deposit location (in which box the part must be placed), but also other information such as material, order number, customer, etc. deposited.

The workpiece collection units 13 also have a communication interface to the control unit 8th and can output information about the order, eg via an e-ink display. Over the interface are the workpiece collection units 13 in addition to being able to help the operator 11 when picking up a workpiece 9 indicate in which box he should put it. A built-in scale or other suitable sensor unit can be used to determine if the operator 11 the workpiece 9 put in the right box. Accordingly, feedback can be sent, eg via a counter on the e-ink display. Thus, in the control unit 8th whether all parts have been correctly sorted out or whether parts of the order are missing, for example due to the residual grid.

It is also conceivable the case that the operator 11 when sorting detects a defective produced part and places it in a waiting for collection committee collection. In another case, the flatbed machine draws 3 During panel production, false cuts, manual operator interventions or even collisions are automatically recorded and recorded via the interface to the control unit 8th affected parts as committee. Thus, the operator can be shown before picking up the damaged workpiece that this is not rejected or as Committee should be filed. For such and in particular all cases described, an order for the re-production of the identified reject parts in the MES can automatically be made 5 be created and scheduled.

As in 4 is clarified, it allows the location system 51 Furthermore, to analyze the movement of the hand, be it to recognize eg gestures or to evaluate movement trajectories in general. So can by tracking the hand of the operator 11 be determined whether the workpieces were placed in the correct boxes. Exemplary are in 4 movement trajectories 33 the hand when removing a workpiece 9 shown.

Further, the tracking information can improve the method of recognizing a removed part. By localizing the hand (eg positions 35 ), whose motion trajectory or motion-trajectory becomes a region of interest 37 ("Region of interest") defined in the image area. The previously mentioned projection of information can be limited to this area. The projection does not have to be the complete workspace in every step of the calculation 23 but only the region of interest 37 around the operator's hand 11 , Several operators work 11 during the sorting process, can simultaneously on the sorting table 21 for every operator 11 a region of interest can be defined. Every operator 11 Thus, individual information about the correct storage location of the workpiece can be transmitted.

In addition to the previously explicitly mentioned approach to execute the logic and computing power in a central computing node (control unit), are other known topologies for networking flatbed machine 3 , Location systems, projector, optional imaging system, boxes with workpiece collection points and MES 5 used.

The operator 11 Furthermore, an optimal sorting strategy can be proposed via the projection surface, for example on the data glove or on the data glasses, on the basis of the available information, even if it can still sort out according to a self-selected strategy. With many small parts the operator can 11 For example, be proposed to remove several equal parts. An algorithm can be used to calculate and display in real-time - for example, depending on the extent and weight of the individual parts - how many parts can be removed at once. This can also be individually customizable depending on the operator. Furthermore, the operator can 11 if it has taken a form part of the type a, the location of other parts of the same type, for example along a favorable movement trajectory, are displayed. This can be done, for example, with the projector 15 respectively. This way, eg unnecessary ways can be avoided.

After a removed part has been read in successfully, the control unit gives 8th as control system, eg via the projection surface on the data glove or on the data glasses, the correct storage location to the operator 11 out. This can be eg a numbered storage compartment. If the storage compartment is located at a more distant position, it is possible to refer to the storage area via the projection surface of the data glasses on a site plan. The backup camera of the data glasses can also recognize the storage compartment as soon as it is within the visible range and marks it on the screen.

The guidance system also uses the positioning system to monitor during placement whether the part has been placed in the correct compartment and accordingly provides feedback to the operator 11 ,

In summary shows 5 a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process flow in the support of a Absortiervorgangs. It is assumed that on a sorting table workpieces are arranged, which were produced with a flatbed machine tool, in particular a laser cutting or stamping flatbed machine tool as described above, based on a processing plan.

In the control unit 8th becomes a position data set of the machining plan (see eg the position data set 16 ' in 3 ) (step 71 ), which was based on the arrangement of the workpieces produced. Furthermore, in the area of the sorting table, the movement of a sorting assistance unit carried close to a hand of the operator is monitored by a location system. In this case, a position of the sorting support unit is continuously detected with the location system (step 73 ). Furthermore, the position of the sorting support unit is compared with the positions of the position data set (step 75 ). The adjustment can for example be made with respect to a centroid of the cut sheet metal pieces. At least one of the position of the sorting support unit associated workpiece is identified (step 77 ). For example, the sorting support unit (s) are identified at the nearest workpieces. For further use to support the Absortiervorgangs a sorting signal is then generated (step 79 ) comprising information about the workpiece associated with the position of the sorting support unit.

The sorting signal may be the control unit 8th and / or the MES 5 be transmitted and trigger downstream processes. Thus, the sorting signal can fulfill a wide variety of tasks and trigger actions. Thus, the MES may cause the information to be displayed to the operator (step 81 ). For example, the type, the position and / or the shape of the workpiece and / or information on the associated processing job such as job number, place of departure or next processing step can be displayed. It may also specify whether and how to proceed with the at least one removed workpiece.

Furthermore, a light projection can be directed to one or more identified workpieces (step 83 ), which, for example, makes a preferred workpiece recognizable or images corresponding information on the or these workpieces.

Furthermore, a workpiece collection point associated with the identified workpiece or workpieces can be identified (step 85 ). For example, a flashing signal may be initiated or information displayed on a display of the workpiece collection unit may be displayed. Thus, a deposition signal in response to the sorting signal to support the assignment of the removed workpiece by an operator can be output to a subsequent processing step. For example, an order according to the removal of the removed workpiece at a job corresponding to the workpiece collection point is stimulated. This can include, for example, a flashing of an associated box, a special signal / special information on a display associated with the box, and / or a fading in of a marking of the associated box in a display of data glasses.

This is followed by a removal of at least one workpiece from the sorting table (step 87 ), wherein the associated movement of the sorting support unit detected by the positioning system (step 89A ) and can be posted as a picking operation (step 91A ). Alternatively, the operator may be prompted by additional gesture movements, which in turn are detected by the location system (step 89B ), or by using external input means (eg footswitch) (step 89C ) recording the withdrawal (step 91A ) cause.

Furthermore, the MES can be provided with information for depositing a removed workpiece (step 93 ) eg by movement detection (step 89A ' ), Gesture detection (step 89B ' ) or by using external input means (step 89C ' ) can be provided, so that after the completion of the deposition process this can be booked as a successful deposition process (step 91B ). The detection of the depositing operation may additionally comprise weight monitoring of a specific workpiece collection point and / or monitoring of a movement trajectory or movement part trajectory of the removed workpiece or of a movement-causing object (hand) (see, for example, US Pat 4 ).

If the discard operation corresponds to a discard process associated with the sort signal, a sorter completion signal may be issued (step 95 ), for example, again by a flashing signal, special issues on a display eg the workpiece collection unit and / or a mark in the data glasses display. For example, a workpiece collection point-specific display can be updated with regard to the storage of the removed workpiece.

If the deposition process deviates from a deposition process associated with the sorting signal, an error signal can be output (step 97 ), for example, again by a flashing signal on the workpiece collection unit, special issues on a display on the workpiece collection unit and / or a mark in the data glasses display. Accompanying information regarding the sorting signal associated correct depositing process can be repeatedly displayed.

Furthermore, it can be monitored, for example, whether at least one removed workpiece was deposited in a reject collecting station by an operator during a depositing operation (step 99 ). The removed workpiece can be removed from the MES 5 be noted as rejects, eg optionally included in a missing parts list.

For detected rejects, a supplemental production signal may be output to a production control system. There are e.g. The production parameters of the removed workpiece are compared with a subsequent processing plan. If the production parameters coincide with the subsequent processing plan and availability of re-generation of the removed workpiece, the subsequent processing plan can be supplemented with a production step for producing a replacement workpiece for the rejects piece. The generation of a replacement work piece can also be provided in later, subsequent machining plans.

In the 5 shown steps of the process can be repeated to ensure continuous real-time monitoring and support the Absortiervorgangs.

Referring to 1 can in the previously exemplified steps the communication on a data connection of the location system, the workpiece collection units (in particular their display units and their Signaling devices) with the control unit 8th the machine tool 3 and thus the MES 5 based. Data can generally be exchanged using data cables with standard data connections, eg CAN, Profibus, RS232, RS485, USB, LAN etc. But it can also be done in particular by infrared or wireless (WiFi, WiFi, etc.). As exemplified in 1 2, the workpiece collection units are shown 13 with its own data supply system 14 wireless with the MES 5 and the control unit 8th connected to the data exchange.

The communication further allows information to be provided to an operator directly on the glove, on local monitors and / or on the workpiece collection point units, such as the MES 5 is present. First, the information that can be provided includes workpiece-specific information (also referred to herein as workpiece information) that relates to the manufacturing process and associated data of the workpieces being deposited in the workpiece collection unit. On the other hand, the information that can be provided includes the workpiece collecting unit itself, in particular its loading, position etc., which can be communicated visually and / or acoustically via the signaling device, for example.

Can be used at e.g. small generated workpieces a specific workpiece for lack of spatial resolution of the position of the hand of the operator are not assigned, an assignment of several workpieces can be performed. Preferably, a workpiece is to be resolved, i. Information about a workpiece can be provided, the required resolution via other types of detection such as camera or scale supportive done. Further, the operator (e.g., reduced) information for the plurality of workpieces may be displayed and optionally, selected from the plurality of workpieces by an input.

It is explicitly pointed out that all features disclosed in the description and / or the claims are considered separate and independent of each other for the purpose of original disclosure as well as for the purpose of limiting the claimed invention independently of the feature combinations in the embodiments and / or the claims should. It is explicitly stated that all range indications or indications of groups of units disclose every possible intermediate value or subgroup of units for the purpose of the original disclosure as well as for the purpose of restricting the claimed invention, in particular also as a limit of a range indication.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 1524063 A1 [0003]
• WO 2014/028959 A1 [0004]
• EP 1487616 B1 [0004]
• EP 2161219 B1 [0004]
• DE 102014211353 A1 [0004]
• DE 10215885 A1 [0005]
• DE 102015111506 A1 [0005]
• DE 102011002952 A1 [0005]

Claims (23)

Method for assisting an operator (11) in a sorting operation of workpieces (9) arranged on a sorting table (21) and produced with a flatbed machine tool, in particular a laser cutting or punching flatbed machine tool (3), according to a processing plan (16), using a location system (51) for determining a position of an operator's hand in space, comprising the steps of: Providing (step 71) a position data set (16 ') which comprises the positions of the workpieces (9) produced with the processing plan (16) on the sorting table (21), Detecting (step 73) a position of the operator's hand with the locating system (51), Matching (step 75) the position of the hand of the operator with the positions of the position data set (16 '), Identifying (step 77) at least one workpiece (9 ') associated with the position of the operator's hand, and Outputting (step 79) a sorting signal comprising information about the at least one workpiece (9 ') associated with the position of the operator's hand. Method according to Claim 1 wherein the workpiece closest to the operator's hand is identified as the at least one workpiece (9 ') associated with the position of the operator's hand, and / or wherein a plurality of workpieces closest to the operator's hand are assigned as the operator's hand position Workpieces (9 ') are identified and / or wherein the closest in a direction of movement of the hand of the operator workpiece as the at least one of the position of the hand of the operator associated workpiece (9') is identified. Method according to Claim 1 or 2 wherein the hand of the operator is associated with a sorting support-specific display unit (19) on which the information about the at least one of the position of the hand of the operator associated workpiece (9 ') is displayed. Method according to one of Claims 1 to 3 , further comprising based on the sorting signal, providing location-context-sensitive information (step 81), the workpiece-specific information such as customer data, information on the subsequent process step, number of other equal parts, associated workpiece collection point or order number for the at least one of the position of the operator's hand associated workpiece (9 '). Method according to Claim 4 further comprising projecting (step 83) the location-context-sensitive information onto the at least one workpiece (9 ') associated with the position of the operator's hand, optically marking a workpiece to be preferably scanned, or information about the at least one of the position of the operator's hand associated workpiece (9 '), in particular the context-sensitive information, optically the / the workpieces) superimposed as lettering and / or on a sorting support-specific display unit (19), in particular a workpiece collection point-specific display unit (43), a data glasses of the operator (11 ) or a surveillance monitor is displayed and / or output as a flashing signal. Method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising Detecting and accounting (step 91A) a picking operation, optionally by determining a movement trajectory (33) of the operator's hand by evaluating the position data of the operator's hand and detecting a picking motion in a portion of the movement trajectory (step 89A) and / or detecting a gesture movement (Step 89B) by means of the movement trajectory (33) of the hand of the operator, whereby a removed workpiece (9 ") is identified, and optionally outputting (step 85) a deposition signal for system-assisted depositing of the removed workpiece (9 ") on a workpiece collection point unit (13) provided for the removed workpiece (9"). Method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising Recognizing and accounting (step 91B) an unloading operation (9) carried out by an operator (11), optionally by determining a movement trajectory of the operator's hand after removing the workpiece (9 ") by evaluating the position data of the operator's hand and Detecting a depositing movement (step 89A ') in a portion of the movement trajectory and / or by detecting a gesture movement (step 89B') by means of the movement trajectory (33) of the operator's hand. Method according to Claim 6 or 7 further providing an association of gestures and processes, determining a movement trajectory of the operator's hand by evaluating the position data of the operator's hand, detecting a gesture in a portion of the movement trajectory, and performing a gesture associated process such as posting a picking operation or a posting of a deposit process. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising outputting (step 95) a sorting process completion signal when the depositing operation corresponds to a depositing operation associated with the removed workpiece (9 '') and optionally updating a workpiece collecting point-specific display (43) with respect to the filing of the removed workpiece ( 9 "). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sorting signal comprises sub-signals, each associated with a removed workpiece (9 "), when a plurality of workpieces are assigned to the position of the hand of the operator. Method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising Outputting (step 97) an error signal if the deposition process deviates from a deposition process associated with the removed workpiece (9 "), and optionally Displaying information regarding the laying operation associated with the removed workpiece (9 "). Method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising Monitoring (step 99) a deposit operation of at least one removed workpiece (9 ") in a reject collection point, and Assigning the at least one removed workpiece (9 ") as a piece of rejects and optionally picking the piece of rejects in a Fehlteilliste and optionally outputting a supplementary production signal to a production control system (5), adjusting production parameters of the removed workpiece (9 ") with a subsequent processing plan and, if the production parameters agree with the subsequent processing plan and availability with respect to the removed workpiece (9"), supplementing Subsequent machining plan with a generating step for generating a replacement workpiece for the reject piece. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the individual method steps with a processing time, in particular partially parallel, are processed so fast that the generated sorting signal in less than 0.5 s, in particular less than 0.2 s, in particular less than 0 , 1 s after the position detection of the operator's hand is generated, and / or wherein the workpieces (9) arranged on the sorting table (21) are in particular made of sheet metal, glass, semiconductor substrate structures, printed circuit board structures and / or plastic and / or wherein the information about the workpiece (9 ') associated with the position of the hand of the operator comprises the type, the position, the shape, the depositing position of the workpiece and / or information on the following process. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the operator carries a sorting assistance unit (53) near his hand, and the position of the hand is determined by locating the position of the sorting assistance unit (53), wherein, in particular for the evaluation, the position of the hand is equated with the position of the sorting assistance unit (53), and wherein the sorting support unit (53) optionally has an active transmitter and / or a passive transmitter whose position is detected by the location system (51). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the position of the hand is determined by an image-assisted location of the hand with the location system (51), and wherein the location system (51) in particular evaluates image data from one or more cameras. Flatbed machine tool, in particular laser cutting or punching flatbed machine tool (3), with a processing unit, in particular a laser cutting or punching processing unit, a control unit (8), in which a processing plan (16) is stored, for controlling the processing unit for generating workpieces (9) arranged spatially next to one another in accordance with a processing image data record (16 '), a sorting table (21) for providing the arranged workpieces (9) for sorting after the production and a location system (51) for determining the position of a hand of an operator in the room, wherein the control unit (8) is designed to carry out the method according to one of the preceding claims. Flatbed machine tool (3) after Claim 16 , further comprising at least one movable workpiece collecting station unit (13), optionally a reject collecting station, and wherein the locating system (51) is a system for detecting and monitoring movements of a sorting and depositing operation, in particular for monitoring a movement trajectory (33) or moving part trajectory taken from the removed workpiece (9 ") or an object causing the movement, and the control unit (8) is adapted to evaluate the position data and optionally gestures, to context-sensitive information to the environment to include the hand of the operator in the Absortiervorgang, in particular to display, and optionally via gestures parameters of the deposit process to control, in particular to record removal operations or deposit operations. Flatbed machine tool (3) after Claim 16 or 17 further comprising a sorting support unit (53) carried near the operator's hand and arranged to locate the position of the sorting support unit (53) with the location system (51), the sorting support unit (53) optionally including an active transmitter and / or a passive transmitter whose position is detected by the locating system (51). Flatbed machine tool (3) after Claim 18 wherein the location system (51) comprises at least one antenna (55) for receiving signals from the sorting support unit (53). Flatbed machine tool (3) according to one of Claims 16 to 19 wherein the location system (5) further comprises one or more cameras for imaging the position of the operator's hand. Flatbed machine tool (3) according to one of Claims 16 to 20 wherein the location system (51) further comprises an evaluation unit (57) for determining the position of the hand of the operator based on the position of the sorting support unit (53) from the antenna signals and / or from the acquired image data in particular for the evaluation of gestures associated movement movement and / or wherein the sorting table (51) is part of a pallet changer of a flatbed machine tool. Flatbed machine tool (3) according to one of Claims 16 to 21 , further comprising a projection unit (15) for projecting location-context-sensitive information comprising as workpiece-specific information, for example, customer data, information on the subsequent process step, number of further identical parts, associated workpiece collection point or order number for the at least one workpiece associated with the position of the operator's hand the at least one of the position of the hand of the operator associated workpiece (9 '). Absortiersystem with a flatbed machine tool (3) according to one of Claims 16 to 22 and a higher-level sorting control unit, which is connected to the flatbed machine tool in terms of data.

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