Tool Management for Machining Centers
Problem: Managing tools for machining centers, lathes, and hobbing machines on paper, by storage location, or by writing directly on the tools with a marker pen leads to delays and processing errors due to incorrect setting. Associating the information required for tool management (e.g., usage time and tool length) with the actual tools is difficult. Process the pull-stud or drive-key groove of each tool so that an ID Tag (dimensions: 8 dia. × 5 mm or 12 dia. × 5 mm) can be attached using adhesive, and store tool management information (e.g. tool number, name, usage time, and tool length) in the ID Tags. In addition, store information obtained by the tool presetter (e.g., initial tool length and compensation values) in the ID Tags.