infoROM 17,000 Product Descriptions for Business

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#1298 #1 #0 #1001 =====================USING HELP======================== Use either of these two methods of locating help: -METHOD 1: Context Sensitive Help... While normally using the system, pick a particular menu selection, INFO table entry, or hot key. Then hit the [F10] key for help regarding that subject. -METHOD 2: Use a Help Index... \1170 Help Index 1: in Alphabetic Order \1130 Help Index 2: by Menu Headings \1171 Help Index 3: Troubleshooting/Problems \1177 Help Index 4: System Error Messages \1101 Help Index 5: by Topic \1101 #1170 ===========HELP INDEX IN ALPHABETIC ORDER============== \1111 [,] (comma) KEY \1179 [Alt] KEYS \1179 [Del] KEY \1111 [Enter] KEY \1113 [Esc] KEY \1179 [F1..F10] KEYS \1112 [Ins] KEY \1640 2-PLANE (4-axis wire-EDM) \1146 3D-MILL OPERS (oper mode...) \1117 3D PLANE (Z-from info/geom) \1249 3D ROTATE \1640 4-axis wire-EDM \1179 [Alt] KEYS \0 (more...) #9 \530 ALTER GEOMS (info table) \1950 ANGLE DIMENSIONS (detailing) \1165 ANGLES (degrees, minutes, seconds) \1165 ANGLES (measurment of...) \1376 APPROACH METHODS \873 AP AUTO-POST (automatic post generator) \230 ARC (creation of...) \255 ARC-FIT CURVE \256 ARC-SERIES CURVE \1366 AUTOMODE (setting of INFO) \145 BACKPLOT (read NC tape) \253 BEZIER CURVES (creation of...) \261 BOLT HOLE CIRCLE / BHC (creation of...) \670 BOUNDARY (group type) \0 (more...) #9 \1178 BREAK.PRT (fatal error recovery) \413 BREAK BOTH \414 BREAK MODAL \415 BREAK WINDOW \214 BREAK-POINT \1760 BRIDGE HIT (punch press) \254 B-SPLINE CURVES (creation of...) \1720 BURN (flame/plasma/laser) \1670 BURNOUT (wire-EDM spiral-cut) \1147 CAD (detailing & dimensioning oper mode...) \140 CAD (reading in CAD files) \146 CADL (file merge) \30 CALCULATOR (math mode) \1340 CAP RADIUS (roll, overcut, inside-taper) \0 (more...) #9 \1169 CDC and TOOL OFFSETING \1103 CENTER-POINT PICK MODE \1123 CHAIN (selection by...) \224 CHAMFER (creation of...) \1151 CHANGING FEEDS/SPEEDS \240 CIRCLE (creation of...) \660 CLAMP (group type) \147 CLFILE (file merge) \1111 COMMA KEY \824 COMMENT (...on process sheet) \416 CONTINUITY TRIM \1141 CONTOUR (oper mode...) \440 COPY (geometry) \1940 CROSS HATCHING (detailing) \0 (more...) #9 \1363 CTRL KEY (...chart) \250 CURVE (creation of...) \1114 CYCLE NUMBERS (G1, 2...50, 83, etc) \1165 DEGREES, MINUTES, SECONDS \1179 [Del] KEY \171 DELETE (file) \420 DELETE (geometry) \821 DETACH (nc ctrl, setax, insert, etc) \1147 DETAILING (oper mode...) \1385 DIAM VALS(diameter vs. radius) \1231 DIGITIZER TABLET (use of, trace mode) \1950 DIMENSIONING ANGLES (detailing) \570 DIRECTORY PATH (setting) \1133 DISPLAY MENU \0 (more...) #9 \872 DNC (MPF - configuring for download) \850 DNC (download, punch, send tape) \1530 DRILLING (lathe) \1430 DRILLING (mill) \1116 DRIVE TOOL REF \143 DXF (file merge) \1134 EDIT MENU (trim/break/move/etc) \1152 EDITING TOOL-PATHS \871 ED (TAPE/TEXT editor) \840 EDIT TAPE (edit current tape) \265 ELLIPSE (creation of...) \1103 END-POINT PICK MODE \1157 ERASE & REGENERATE T-PATH \1177 ERRORS (...error messages) \0 (more...) #9 \1113 [Esc] KEY \121 EXIT (from system) \30 EXPRESSIONS \630 FACE (group type) \1131 FILES MENU \231 FILLET (creation of...) \720 FINISH (single finish pass operation) \1179 FUNCTION KEYS \266 GEAR (creation of...) \1132 GEOMETRY (menu) \262 GRID OF HOLES (creation of...) \1580 GROOVE FINISH \1570 GROOVE ROUGH \1136 GROUP MENU \0 (more...) #9 \1470 HOG AREA CLEAR (roughing) \262 HOLE GRID (creation of...) \640 HOLES (group type) \1162 ICONS (usage of...) \142 IGES (file merge) \1362 INCH/METRIC \1135 INFO MENU (...on menu bar) \80 INFO TABLE (about...) \1300 INFO TABLE (ref chart) \1112 [Ins] KEY \823 INSERT (into tape) \1103 INTERSECTION PICK MODE \1920 LABELS (detailing) \1386 LABELS (on screen: layers, etc) \0 (more...) #9 \1124 LASSO (for picking geometry) \1143 LATHE (oper mode...) \1105 LAYER (mask) \1105 LAYER (number) \220 LINE (creation of...) \1368 LISTING (to file/to printer) \1930 LINEAR DIMENSIONING \740 MANUAL PATH (graphic G-code programming) \1115 MASK (type: P, L, C, A, D, N, T, G, Z) \146 MERGE FILE: CADL \147 MERGE FILE: CLFILE \143 MERGE FILE: DXF \142 MERGE FILE: IGES \145 MERGE FILE: NC TAPE \0 (more...) #9 \141 MERGE FILE: PART-PROGRAM \1362 METRIC/MM \1142 MILL (oper mode...) \470 MIRROR (geometry) \1102 MOUSE (buttons) \430 MOVE (geometry) \874 MP MAKE-POST (post customizer) \872 MPF (configuring DNC for download) \553 MTRL LIB (editing values) \551 MTRL LIB (loading) \552 MTRL LIB (saving) \1660 MULT-PASS (wire-EDM) \1850 MULT-Z ROUGH \1164 NC MACHINE (definition) \0 (more...) #9 \820 NC CTRL (attachment commands) \145 NC TAPE READ (backplot) \1740 NIBBLE (punch press) \1750 NIBBLE-PUNCH (punch press) \1910 NOTES (detailing) \161 OLD (tape files renamed to 'tapefile.OLD') \1110 OPER MODE (setting or changing...) \700 OPER MODE (various CAD/CAM modes) \810 OPERATIONS (resequence) \1153 ORIGIN (moving/setting) \610 OUTLINE (group type) \321 PAN (...view) \1103 PICK MODES (endpoint, center, snap, etc) \1118 PICK MODES (arc, group, 3D-plane, etc) \0 (more...) #9 \377 PLOTTING (graphic plotter output) \1460 PLUNGE ROUGH (drilling out a pocket) \620 POCKET (group type) \214 POINT (breakpoint) \210 POINT (creation of...) \264 POLYGONS (creation of...) \710 POSITION (tool position) \825 POST CALL \860 POST DEPENDENT \831 POST-PROCESSING (making a tape) \1125 POST-PROCESSOR (selecting a post) \1128 POST-PROCESSOR (generating new posts) \1164 POST-PROCESSOR (definition) \341 PREVIOUS (...view) \0 (more...) #9 \266 PRINTOUT (gear sheet) \370 PRINTOUT (hardcopy listings/graphics) \1368 PRINT TO FILE (listings to file/to printer) \1138 PROCESS MENU \1540 PROFILE ROUGH (lathe) \1440 PROFILE ROUGH (mill) \480 PROJECT ONTO \1730 PUNCH (punch press) \1145 PUNCH-PRESS (oper mode...) \1126 QUERY (geometry data) \510 READ GEOM INFO \263 RECTANGLE (creation of...) \1157 REGENERATE T-PATH (Erase & Regen) \0 (more...) #9 \810 RESEQUENCE (command) \1154 RESEQUENCE (manipulation of the table) \1630 REVERSE (wire-EDM, reverse finish) \1249 ROTATION (3D) \1165 ROTATION (angle measurement of..) \431 ROTATION (in MOVE command) \1550 ROUGH TURNING \1540 ROUGHING (profile - lathe) \1440 ROUGHING (profile - mill) \1450 ROUGHING (zigzag) \1342 RPLANE (about...) \131 SAVE BACKUP (part file) \876 SC SHELL-COMPILER \251 SEGMENTS (series of line segments) \0 (more...) #9 \1122 SELECT (geometry selection by...) \1118 SELECTIVE PICK (based on type) \570 SET DIRECTORY \822 SETAX (set special post axis or value) \1153 SETTING THE ORIGIN (zero) \79 SETUP FILE (about...) \541 SETUP FILE (loading) \542 SETUP FILE (saving) \151 SHELL PROGRAMS (NC/BASIC, etc) \191 SHELL RECORDER (keystroke recorder) \879 SHELL-OUT (to the operating-system) \1103 SNAP GRID \650 STOCK (group type) \450 STRETCH (geometry) \0 (more...) #9 \1840 SWARF (3D cycle) \1830 SWEEP (3D cycle) \1231 TABLET DIGITIZER (use of, trace mode) \1164 TAPE or TAPE FILE (definition) \840 TAPE EDITOR \1530 TAPPING (on a lathe) \1430 TAPPING (on a mill) \1119 TCHGR NO mapping (vs. TOOL NUM) \1910 TEXT (notes - detailing) \1560 THREADING (on a lathe) \1365 TOLERANCE \563 TOOL LIB (editing values) \561 TOOL LIB (loading) \562 TOOL LIB (saving) \0 (more...) #9 \1116 TOOL NOSE CNTR \1119 TOOL NUM mapping (vs. TCHGR NO) \1116 TOOL REF (tool tip -vs- tool nose cntr) \1116 TOOL TIP OFFSET \1317 TOOL TYPES \1152 TOOLPATH EDITING (or adding moves) \1231 TRACING W/DIGITIZER TABLET \411 TRIM BOTH \412 TRIM MODAL \410 TRIM/BREAK \361 TUMBLE (...view) \1550 TURNING (rough turn) \1640 TWO-PLANE (4-axis wire-EDM) \1115 TYPE MASK (arcs, groups, 3D-plane, etc) \0 (more...) #9 \1317 TYPES OF TOOLS \460 UNDO \1362 UNITS (inch/metric) \870 UTILITY PROGRAMS (running...) \30 VARIABLES (A..Z) \331 VIEW ALL \1121 WINDOW (selection by...) \311 WINDOW (view...) \1144 WIRE-EDM (oper mode...) \520 WRITE TO GEOMS (info table) \30 X, Y, Z, etc. (variables) \1117 Z-FROM INFO/GEOM (3D plane) \1153 ZERO (setting the origin) \1450 ZIGZAG ROUGH *** end of alphabetic index *** #90 #1171 ====================TROUBLESHOOTING==================== -General problems... \1190 No (or few) ICONs appear on the screen. \1191 Printed listings are staggered. \1192 Printer output won't work at all. \1193 System crashes or mouse-movement is erratic. \1194 Some menu selections don't work at all. -Machining operation or posting problems... \1195 Error message: Tool Won't Fit. (but it should!) \1196 Arcs (in tape) cross quadrant lines, but shouldn't. \1197 Lathe tooling steps or cuts in the wrong direction. \1198 Toolpath on screen differs from posted output. \1199 Toolpath appears to "gouge" the workpiece! \1173 CNC tool-comp registers not output correctly. \1174 Stock (small webs) remains after roughing. #90 #1179 ======================KEYBOARD CHART=================== Function keys... \80 [F1] Mini Info Table \1103 [F2] Pick Endpoint \1103 [F3] Pick Center \1103 [F4] Pick Intersection \361 [F5] Shrink Sprite \361 [F6] Expand Sprite \431 [F7] Rotate Sprite Counter-Clockwise \431 [F8] Rotate Sprite Clockwise \1106 [F9] Selection by Menu Number [F10] Help (This!) \0 (more...) #9 (keys - continued) Special keys... \429 [Del] Delete one geometry item \1112 [Ins] Repeat, unless otherwise specified \1113 [Esc] Abort entry or command \1111 [,] (comma) Same as [Enter], but defaults to 0 Alt-keys... \232 [Alt]-[A] Arc thru 3 positions \413 [Alt]-[B] Break both \240 [Alt]-[C] Circle by center and radius \1931 [Alt]-[D] Continuation dimension \1157 [Alt]-[E] Erase & Regen T-PATH (use w/in oper) \231 [Alt]-[F] Fillet (arc) \341 [Alt]-[J] Previous view \0 (more...) #9 (keys - continued) \214 [Alt]-[K] Breakpoint on a given layer \220 [Alt]-[L] Line by 2 end positions \30 [Alt]-[M] Math calculator \210 [Alt]-[P] Point by position \1126 [Alt]-[Q] Query geometry data \351 [Alt]-[R] Redraw \361 [Alt]-[T] Tumble view \461 [Alt]-[U] Undo (last instruction) \331 [Alt]-[V] View all \311 [Alt]-[W] Window (zoom view) \411 [Alt]-[X] Trim both \1172 [Alt]-[Y] Axis lines & tick-marks on/off \1127 [Alt]-[Z] Set 3rd axis level (Z) #90 #1101 =================HELP INDEX BY TOPIC=================== Basics... \1160 Fundamentals of using this system \1102 Using the mouse and the keyboard \1104 The 5 steps of part-programming \40 About post-processing and posts \1169 About CDC and tool offsets \1179 Keyboard Chart \80 About the INFO table (left side of the screen) Advanced... \1107 About reading CAD data and backplotting \1150 Advanced hints and tricks \1108 About CAM (mill/lathe/etc) vs CAD (drafting) OPERs \1103 About pick-modes ENDPT, CENTER, SNAP, INTERSECT \1300 INFO table reference chart #1160 ====================FUNDAMENTALS======================= \1105 About layers and layer-masking \1163 Using the Main Menu \1162 About the ICONS \1120 Picking with WINDOW, SELECT, CHAIN, or LASSO \1116 TOOL REF (as applied to lathe work) \1317 TOOL types & orientation (mill, lathe, other) \231 The FILLET command \410 Trimming and breaking geometry \79 About SETUP files \600 About GROUPs (BOUNDARY, POCKET, etc) \1164 Terminology (CAD, CAM, etc) \1165 Entering angles \1376 APPROACH methods \1166 Handy Tips - things you should know! #90 #1150 ===============ADVANCED HINTS AND TRICKS=============== \30 Expressions, math, and calculator mode \1106 The "hidden" (MISC) menu selection chart \1118 Selective picking (The [P], [L], [C], [G]... keys) \823 The INSERT (into tapefile) command \1109 Negative SETAX chart (internal posting control) \1363 CTRL KEY chart \570 Changing directory paths \1249 The 3D-ROTATE command \1151 Changing FEEDS/SPEEDS on individual moves \1152 Toolpath editing, adding geometry to a tpath \1153 Changing the ORIGIN (part zero) \1154 Manipulating the RESEQUENCE table \1156 Advanced Handy Tips \1129 Advanced User Quiz... #90 #1130 ======================MAIN MENU======================== \1131 FILES (part/setup) Select the main menu category \1132 GEOM (...creating) for which you need help... \1133 DISP (changing views) \1134 EDIT (changing coordinates) \1135 INFO (changing colors, feeds, speeds, etc) \1136 GROUP (identifying features: pockets, etc) \1141 OPERS: CONTOUR (2 axis work) \1142 OPERS: MILL (2-1/2 axis) \1143 OPERS: LATHE (turning centers) \1144 OPERS: WIRE-EDM (2 or 4 axis) \1145 OPERS: PUNCH-PRESS (& flame-cut) \1146 OPERS: 3D-OPERS (3 axis milling) \1147 OPERS: DETAILING (CAD, drafting) \1138 PROCESS (making a tape) #90 #1131 ========================FILES========================== \111 DIFF PART (w/wo save - load existing or new part) \121 EXIT (exit from CIM system) \131 SAVE BACKUP (save, opt under a different name) \141 MERGE (DXF, CADL, IGES, NC TAPE, CLFILE etc) \151 SHELL (run NC/BASIC shell program) \161 VIEW TAPE FILE (or other text file) \171 DELETE FILE (or several files) \181 EDIT TOOL DWG (custom tool/turret design) \191 SHELL RECORDER (keystroke recorder) #90 #1132 =========================GEOM========================== \210 POINTS (for construction purpose, breakpoints) \220 LINES (define part contour) \230 ARCS (define part contour) \240 CIRCLES (holes, construction circles) \250 CURVES (arcfit, cubic spline, Bezier...) \260 PATTERNS (BHC, gear, hole grid, polygon...) \270 SERIES (corner blends/breaks, offset chain) #90 #1133 =========================DISP========================== \311 WINDOW (zoom up/down) \321 PAN (change center of screen) \331 VIEW ALL (scale to fit) \341 PREVIOUS (return to last view) \351 REDRAW (clean up remnants, chaff) \361 TUMBLE (interactively set the view) \370 HARDCOPY (listings, printouts, plots) #90 #1134 =========================EDIT========================== \410 TRIM/BREAK (changing geometry endpoints, breaks) \421 DELETE (deletes geometry) \431 MOVE (moves geometry, shifting or rotating) \441 COPY (makes duplicates of geometry or tpaths) \451 STRETCH (adjusts lengths, widths, etc) \461 UNDO (undeletes/uncreates/unchanges...) \471 MIRROR (duplicate or flip) \481 PROJECT ONTO (Z mapping from front/side views) #90 #1135 =========================INFO========================== \510 READ GEOM INFO (fills in INFO table from a geom) \520 WRITE TO GEOMS (applies entire table INFO to geoms) \530 ALTER GEOMS (sets specific INFO items on geoms) \540 SETUP FILES (load, save, edit values in setup file) \550 MTRL LIBS (load, save, edit values in mtrl lib) \560 TOOL LIBS (load, save, edit values in tool lib) \570 SET DIRECTORY (set directory to find parts, etc) #90 #1136 ========================GROUPS========================= \610 OUTLINE (contours to be machined on the outside) \620 POCKET (contours to be machined on the inside) \630 FACE (contours to be machined on the right or top) \640 HOLES (for drilling or punching) \650 STOCK (edge of material to be removed) \660 CLAMP (contours to be avoided) \670 BOUNDARY (for a single open contour) #90 #1138 =======================PROCESS========================= \810 RESEQUENCE (changes the order of operations) \820 NC CTRL (comments, insert, special post functions) \830 POST-PROCESS (generates a tapefile) \840 EDIT TAPE (allows you to edit the tapefile) \850 DOWNLOAD TAPE (sends the tapefile) \860 POST-DEPENDENT (reserved for the post) \870 UTILITY PROGRAMS (ED, MPF, MP, SC, etc) #90 #1141 ====================OPERS: CONTOUR===================== \710 POSITION (makes a FROM, PARK or intermediate move) \720 FINISH (takes a finish pass on a group) \730 DRILL CYCLES (drills, taps, or reams a group) \740 MANUAL PATH (allows graphic G-code programming) #90 #1142 =====================OPERS: MILL======================= \1410 POSITION (makes a FROM, PARK or intermediate move) \1420 FINISH (takes a finish pass on a group) \1430 DRILL CYCLES (drills, taps, or reams a group) \1440 PROFILE ROUGH (contour-follow roughing) \1450 ZIGZAG ROUGH (parallel-pass pocketing) \1460 PLUNGE ROUGH (use drill to rough-in a pocket) \1470 HOG AREA CLEAR ('quicky' area-stock removal) \1480 MANUAL PATH (graphic G-code programming) #90 #1143 =====================OPERS: LATHE===================== \1510 POSITION (makes a FROM, PARK or intermediate move) \1520 FINISH (takes a finish pass on a group) \1530 DRILL CYCLES (drills, taps, or reams) \1540 PROFILE ROUGH (multiple contour-following passes) \1550 ROUGH TURN (normal roughing, boring) \1560 THREADING (thread-cutting) \1570 GROOVE ROUGH (plunge & chipbreak multiple times) \1580 GROOVE FINISH (plunge w/contour-follow ea side) \1590 MANUAL PATH (graphic G-code programming) #90 #1144 ====================OPERS: WIRE-EDM==================== \1610 POSITION (makes a FROM, PARK or intermediate move) \1620 FINISH (takes a finish pass on a group) \1630 REVERSE FINISH (same as finish, only backwards) \1640 TWO-PLANE (4-axis simultaneous) \1650 MANUAL PATH (graphic G-code programming) \1660 MULTIPLE PASSES (leaves a tab for the finish pass) \1670 BURNOUT PROFILE (spiral-cut to remove stock) #90 #1145 ==================OPERS: PUNCH-PRESS=================== \1710 POSITION (makes a FROM, PARK or intermediate move) \1720 BURN (takes a finish pass on a group) \1730 PUNCH (knocks-out holes) \1740 NIBBLE (for cutting contours) \1750 NIBBLE-PUNCH (like nibble, for antique machines) \1760 BRIDGE-HIT (cuts contour in 2 interleaved passes) #90 #1146 ====================OPERS: 3D-OPERS==================== \1810 POSITION (makes a FROM, PARK or intermediate move) \1820 FINISH (takes a finish pass on a group) \1830 SWEEP XSECTION (contour with a consistent x-section) \1840 SWARF XSECTIONS (connects multiple x-sections) \1850 MULT-Z ROUGH (rough in XY, step down in Z, repeat) #90 #1147 ===================OPERS: DETAILING==================== \1910 NOTES (for adding text to your drawing or plot) \1920 LABELS (one-line notes with leader-arrows) \1930 DIMENSIONS (for adding linear measurements) \1940 CROSSHATCH (for filling-in areas) \1950 DIM ANGLE (for measuring sweep-angles) #90 #1164 =====================TERMINOLOGY======================= -This is a CAD/CAM system: CAD stands for Computer Aided Design. (or Drawing) CAM stands for Computer Aided Manufacturing. -The system is used for NC (or CNC) part-programming: NC (or CNC) stands for (Computer) Numeric Control machine. (The manufacturing equipment) -The system is a collection of files (the program) that deal with other files (part-programs and NC tapes): A FILE is just a named storage area on the disk, like a file folder with a labelled tab. The system files are collected in one subdirectory (usually named CAM) just as you might collect all files of a particular subject in one drawer. \0 (more...) #9 (terminology - continued) -The system is used for building a PART-PROGRAM, then converting that into a TAPE, using a POST-PROCESSOR. A PART-PROGRAM is the drawing that you build on the screen. This includes geometry, groups, toolpath, operations, and detailing. A TAPE may be a paper-tape, a casette-tape, or a file on disk that gets sent to the NC/CNC machine. Note: 'TAPE' is NOT necessarily a 'tape', but can be (and usually is) a file. \40 A POST-PROCESSOR is a special program that converts \40 a PART-PROGRAM into a TAPE for a specific NC/CNC \40 machine. #90 #1102 #1009 ===============THE KEYBOARD AND MOUSE================== -The three main keys on your keyboard or the buttons on your mouse (locator) are used as follows: \1111 The [Enter] key or left mouse button (button 1) \1111 Completes an entry or picks a location on the screen. \1112 The [Ins] key or middle mouse button (button 2) \1112 Repeats your last response to the current prompt. \1112 (..unless otherwise specified on the prompt line) \1113 The [Esc] key or right mouse button (button 3) \1113 Aborts the current entry (or active command) #90 #1111 ====================THE ENTER KEY====================== Use the [Enter] key on the keyboard to complete any entry. For example, when you want to enter a value of 3.145, you must type the following keys: [3] [.] [1] [4] [5] [Enter] You may use the [Enter] key, the [,] (comma) key, and the first mouse button interchangeably. However, the defaults for these three are different. If you do NOT type in any value or response, they default to: [Enter] defaults to previous value [,] (comma) defaults to zero [Mouse 1] defaults to digitizing from the screen The [,] (comma) key is a quick way to enter a zero! #90 #1112 =====================THE INS KEY======================= Use the [Ins] key on the keyboard to repeat your last response to the current prompt. For example: Center: [Ins] (repeats the last location entered) Radius: [Ins] (repeats the last radius entered) (no prompt) (repeats the last main menu command) Sometimes the [Ins] key has another special use. When this is the case, it will be stated as such in the prompt at the bottom of the screen. eg: Pick next move - [Ins] terminates: Small gap - [Ins] closes: You may use the [Ins] key and the second mouse button interchangeably. #90 #1113 =====================THE ESC KEY======================= Use the [Esc] key on the keyboard to abort an entry and return to the main menu. If the system is busy, the [Esc] key will cancel the current activity. Whenever you are in a command, and you do not know how to continue, what to do next, or are unsure if you wish to use that command -abort it by hitting the [Esc] key. You may use the [Esc] key and the third mouse button interchangeably. #90 #1163 #1046 ======================MAIN MENU======================== -From here, you may select: \1131 FILES: to load or merge files, or to exit. \1132 GEOM: to construct the part itself. \1134 DISP: to change views on the screen. \1135 EDIT: to change, delete, move or copy geometry. \1136 INFO: to adjust feeds, etc. for tooling & materials. \1137 GROUP: to label outlines, pockets, hole patterns. \700 OPERS: to machine the paths above. \1138 PROC: to process the part for an NC/CNC machine. -The above menus are modal. They follow the locator device (mouse or pad) so you do not need to return to them each time you need to make a menu selection. #90 #1104 ==============THE 5 STEPS OF NC PROGRAMMING============ 1) SETUP: Load in a SETUP FILE. This selects the NC machine, tooling, material, speeds, feeds, etc. (These may be changed or overidden.) 2) GEOM: Build the part using GEOMetry. This is often done with layer 0 set, placing all GEOM on layer 0. 3) GROUP: Label the GROUPs (features such as pockets, holes, etc.) that need to be machined. These GROUPs will be saved each on their own layer. 4) OPERS: Machine the GROUPs that you labelled by use of the OPERS menu. Each operation will be placed in its own layer. 5) PROCESS: Post-PROCess the operations to a given NC or CNC machine. (You may want to resequence first) \0 (more...) #9 (5 steps - continued) Notice that the MAIN MENU is laid out under 8 topics: \1131 1) FILES Generally step 1 - setup. \1132 2) GEOM Generally step 2 - creating geometry. \1134 3) DISP (For changing your view of the part.) \1135 4) EDIT (For changing coordinate values.) \1136 5) INFO (For changing other values - feed, etc.) \1137 6) GROUP Generally step 3 - grouping features. \700 7) OPERS Generally step 4 - machining. \1138 8) PROCESS Generally step 5 - process for NC machine. The topics of DISP, EDIT, and INFO are placed in the middle of the menu because they are the most frequently accessed. #90 #1162 #1046 ========================ICONS========================== -The higher the screen resolution you use, the more ICONS will be available. -ICONS are shortcuts to particular commands. Picking an ICON is identical to accessing that command via the menu. ICONS can even be repeated with the [Ins] key. -You cannot access the picture ICONS from within a command - you must use the [Alt] keys for this. -The push-button ICONS can be selected at any time, although some of them may cancel the current command if one is active. -Your system is fully functional, even without ICONS. They are just a shortcut to help you program faster. #90 #1125 ===============SELECTING A POST-PROCESSOR============== -You may select a post in any ONE of these ways... \541 1) Load a setup file that selects a post. \543 2) Edit the current setup file, hit [Ins], then select \543 a new post-processor. 3) Pick the push-button that ends with ".MCH", then select a new post-processor. -When you are asked for the name of the post, you may hit the [Ins] key to pick from a directory menu. #90 #20 #1105 ==================LAYERS AND MASKS===================== -Layers are used to segregate the part into individual groups. A layer might contain construction GEOMetry, a GROUP, or a tool path. (OPER) -The LAYER identified in the INFO table indicates which layer you are currently storing GEOMetry upon. GROUPs & OPERs are automatically placed into an empty layer. For instance, when the system builds a tool path it may label it "TPATH-3". This means that it represents a tool path and is stored on layer number 3. -The LAYER MASK permits you to pick, draw, and edit ONLY those items in the selected layers. Through use of LAYERS and LAYER MASKS you can selectively change, delete, and manipulate selected groups of geometry. #90 #40 ===================POST PROCESSING===================== -When you post-process a part, all the OPERations that you have done will be converted into a code designed to operate a specific NC/CNC machine. -Once you have built a part-program, it cannot be used to drive the NC/CNC machine until it has been posted. -If you make changes to a part-program, you must post- process it again. \831 -See also: The Post-Process Menu Selection \1125-See also: Selecting a Post-Processor \1128-See also: Generating a Post-Processor #90 #10 #1103 #1002 ======================PICK MODES======================= -You may select the pick modes by selecting PICK MODE from the INFO table. (Use the [F1] key to bring up the INFO table.) This brings up a locator mode menu. If you already know what mode you want, use the [F2], [F3], or [F4] keys to go directly to that mode. -When a locator mode is selected by keys [F2], [F3], or [F4], the selection is temporary. If a mode is picked from the INFO table, it remains in effect until set back again. -Locator modes are used to determine how coordinates digitized from a locator device are interpreted. A list of the locator modes may be found on the next page. \0 (more...) #1002 -Pick modes: 1) POSITION: Selects the position chosen to the accuracy of the screen. (pixels) 2) ENDPOINT: Selects the nearest endpoint of the geometry item closest to the locator pick. 3) CENTER: Selects the center of the arc or circle closest to the locator pick. 4) INTERSECTION: Selects the intersection of two geometry items chosen by locator picking. 5) SNAP GRID: Selects the nearest multiple of a grid distance. eg: if the snap grid is set to 0.25, you could digitize at X or Y of -0.25, 0.0, 0.75, -1.25, or 5.5; but not 3.375 or 2.1. #90 #1118 ===================SELECTIVE PICKING=================== -You may use selective pick keys (instead of [Enter]) to qualify a pick. -Hit the desired selective pick keys just before you pick the item. The keys will not be displayed on the screen. -For instance, to pick an arc that is part of a group, hit [A], then [G], then hit the [Enter] key to pick. -This is similar to using the TYPE MASK in the info table, but is activated for one pick only. -NOTE: This only works when the cursor is X shaped. -The selective pick keys are listed on the next page... \0 (more...) #9 -------------------by-geometry-type-------------------- [P] Picks POINTS only. [L] Picks LINES only. [A] Picks ARCS only. [C] Picks CIRCLES only. [D] Picks DIMENSIONS, NOTES, and LABELS only. --------------------by-group-type---------------------- [G] Picks GROUPS only. [T] Picks TOOLCYCLES, TOOLPATHS, or TOOLPOSITIONS. [N] Will NOT pick GROUPS or TOOLPATHS. ------------------------other-------------------------- [Z] Will pick only items at the current Z depth. [V] Walks through all pickable items as you hit [Ins], waiting for you to VERIFY one by hitting [Enter]. \1115(You may modally preset these by setting the TYPE MASK) #90 #1126 ===================THE QUERY COMMAND=================== -To inquire for the coordinate and info data for a geometry item, use the QUERY command. Use [Alt]-[Q] to invoke the command, then pick the geometry item in question. -All of the coordinate data will be displayed. The remaining data will be shown in the INFO table, which you may page thru. (This command does NOT overwrite the existing, or current INFO table) -To abort, hit [Esc]. To check another geometry item, hit [Ins]. If this is done, coordinate and overall distances will also be shown. -The coordinate values are stored in the variables listed for your further use in expressions. \30 -See also: Expressions. #90 #1127 ============SETTING THE CURRENT 3rd AXIS LEVEL========= -In 3D modes, you may set the "mouse" Z-axis level by use of the [Alt]-[Z] command. -When you hit [Alt]-[Z], you will be prompted to enter a new Z level. This will become the 3rd axis height of the "mouse". -That the cursor tracking in the lower-left corner of the screen will reflect the new Z level. -Note that entry of any Z values within any command will override this level, setting it to the newly specified Z level. #90 #1165 #1097 ====================ENTERING ANGLES==================== -Angles are always measured in the counter-clockwise direction, using decimel degrees. If you wish to use degrees, minutes, and seconds, then the minutes must be followed by an apostrophe, and seconds by a quote: 25.47'51" (no [Spaces] are permitted within) -Unless you are measuring an angle from an existing line, it will start from the +X axis, or 3 O'Clock. -To enter a clockwise angle, make it negative. For instance, the angle 90 is the same as -270. -You may enter expressions for an angle, such as: 22.5-12.56'33" (..or..) 3.5*ATN(133.333) (..or..) SQR(X/Y)*0.005 #90 #1120 =====PICKING WITH WINDOW, SELECT, CHAIN, OR LASSO====== \1121-WINDOW: You may select a group of items by putting a \1121 rectangle around them. Only the items COMPLETELY \1121 enclosed within the rectangle are selected. \1122-SELECT: You may select several items, hitting the \1122 [Ins] key when you have selected all you want to. \1123-CHAIN: You may select all of the items connected by \1123 common endpoints. All items must be on the same layer. \1124-LASSO: You may sketch in a "lasso" to enclose the \1124 geometry items to be selected. Only items COMPLETELY \1124 enclosed within the rectangle are selected. #90 #1121 #1011 ========================WINDOW========================= -The WINDOW "pick" method is available from any menu that allows you to select more than one geometry item. -When you want to select geometry from a rectangular (or roughly rectangular) area, use this selection. -Select diagonally opposite corners of a rectangle that is to enclose the area. For example: To select the geometry shown in red in the example, digitize the two marks shown in yellow. -Note: no RECTANGLE will be created. This is not a command, but a selection method. #90 #1122 ========================SELECT========================= -The SELECT "pick" method is available from any menu that allows you to select more than one geometry item. -When you want to select geometry items one-at-a-time, then use this selection. -You must hit the [Ins] key when you are done picking! -When using this method for building a GROUP, the end of the first item picked will be chosen as a start- point for the group. For instance, if you select an arc as a BOUNDARY, the boundary will begin at the end of the arc nearest the pick point. #90 #1123 #1010 =========================CHAIN========================= -The CHAIN "pick" method is available from any menu that allows you to select more than one geometry item. -When you want to select geometry that is "strung-to- gether, use this selection. -Select the startpoint of the chain. Whenever a bulls- eye appears, the system does not know which way to go. You must select one of the geometry items that emanate from the bullseye. (...not just a direction) eg: To select the geometry shown in red in the example, pick the marks shown in yellow, in the order shown. -You must hit the [Ins] key when you are done picking! -Note: This can only be used on trimmed geometry, where the endpoint of each coincides with the startpoint of the next. All items must be on the same layer. #90 #1124 #1012 =========================LASSO========================= -The LASSO "pick" method is available from any menu that allows you to select more than one geometry item. -When you want to select geometry that is within an abritrary area, use this selection. -Select points along the edge of the lasso using the mouse and the pick [Enter] key. (mouse button 1) -You must hit the [Ins] key (mouse button 1) when you are done! -In the example shown, the yellow geometry will be selected by the lasso shown in red. The X's mark the locations digitized to sketch the lasso. -Note: LASSO geometry will NOT be created. This is not a command, but a selection method. #90 #1157 =================ERASE & REGEN T-PATH================== -If you have made coordinate changes (chamfer, stretch, fillet, etc) to a group that has already been machined via the OPERS menu, you may use this command to update the T-PATH. -Perform the OPER as you normally would, but sometime before hitting the [Ins] key, hit [Alt]-[E]. When you do so, the system will ask you to select the T-PATH that is to be "erased and regenerated". Pick along the T-PATH itself. -The T-PATH that you pick will be erased, then the INFO table will be updated with the FEED, SPEED, TOOLNO, STEP, and COOLANT values from the erased T-PATH. You should inspect these values, then hit [Ins]. The new T-PATH will inherit the values from the erased T-PATH. #90 #30 ========================MATH=========================== -Expressions may contain the arithmetic operators: + - * / ^ -Expressions may contain comparison operators: = <> <= >= < > ...which return a 1 if true, 0 if false. -Expressions may use algebraic and trig functions: ATN SIN COS TAN SQR ABS INT LN EXP LOG VAL -A special function is provided for accepting angles in degrees/minutes/seconds: DMS(ddd.mmss) -Expressions may be ordered using parenthesis: () -Expressions may contain variables A through Z. -Suffix operators C D R M I ! may also be used. -Expressions may use the assignment operator: = \0 (more...) #9 #1158 (MATH - continued) -VAL(1) and VAL(2) permit you to digitize X or Y. When you use either of these, the system will wait for you to digitize (any mode) after you hit the [Enter] key. -VAL(0) returns PI. (3.1415926535...) -To specify angles in degrees, minutes, and seconds, use the decimel point, apostrophe, and quote: 156.41'57" (156 degrees, 41 minutes, 57 seconds) -You may enter expressions for ANY numeric values. To call up the calculator (Math) mode, hit [Alt]-[M]. -Relative values may be entered with the [@] (AT-sign) key. For instance, when asked for a Y value, you may specify a value .375 above the last Y as: @+0.5. You may use the [@] alone to repeat a previous X, Y, or Z. \0 (more...) #9 #1139 (MATH - continued) -The suffix operator "C" is useful for adjusting a Z- depth when drilling, as it subtracts the tool-chamfer- length. If uses the current values in the INFO table to do the calculation. For example, to enter a FULL-Z depth that would make a full-tool-diameter (thru) hole (with the current drill) to a depth of -1.25, enter: -1.25C -The suffix operator "M" divides by 25.4. (millimeters) -The suffix operator "I" multiplies by 25.4. (inches) -The suffix operator "D" may be used for entering a diameter, as it halves the preceding value. eg: 1.5D -The suffix operator "R" doubles a value. (radius) -The suffix operator "!" is used for factorials, eg: 5! \0 (more...) #9 (MATH - continued) Examples: 1) 3+3/8 ...this is the same as 3.375 2) 5*TAN(51.25'43") ...multiplies 5 times the tangent of the angle 3) B=2.125 ...is the same as 2.125, but also stores 2.125 in B 4) B*2 ...will enter a value of 4.25 after example (3) above 5) R=(G<1)*SIN(30) (assuming G is 0) ...returns 0.5 as well as putting 0.5 into variable R 6) VAL(1)+R ...waits for you to digitize an X, then adds R to it #90 #80 #1046 ====================THE INFO TABLE===================== -The list that often appears along the left side of the screen is called the INFO table. This is NOT the same as the INFO menu at the top-center of the screen. -The INFO table is used to select speeds, feeds, tools, colors, and other values that affect the instructions. -The system displays an INFO table that contains the values that affect the current instruction. -To request an INFO table without selecting an instruc- tion, hit the [F1] key. A small INFO table of the most often needed values will appear. -When the INFO table is not shown, status information appears at the left of the screen. This displays the files that are loaded, cursor position, and so on. #1300 #1301 #1302 #1303 #1306 #1307 ------------- INFO TABLE REFERENCE CHART -------------- ent attaches to entity tlib from in tool library oper affects entire oper mlib from in mtrl lib modal affects user entries auto aff by tool/mtrl/oper ------------------------------------------------------- -Modal values... 0 COL ent auto modal 1 FONT ent auto modal \20 2 LAYER ent auto oper modal \1116 4 TOOL REF oper modal \1108 5 OPER MODE modal \1117 6 3D PLANE ent oper modal \1114 7 CYCLE ent oper modal \1561 8 F PASSES ent \0 (more...) #1309 #1310 #1311 #1312 #1313 #1314 #1316 #1318 #1320 -Machining parameters... \1366 9 FEEDRATE ent auto oper \1366 10 AX FEED ent auto oper \1366 11 RPM ent auto oper \1441 12 TOT STOCK oper \1441 13 STEP ent auto oper \1366 14 CSS ent auto oper \1315 15 POWER ent oper -Tooling characteristics... (from TOOL-LIBRARY) \1119 16 TOOLNO ent tlib sets oper \1317 17 TOOLTYPE ent tlib auto oper \1119 18 TCHGR NO ent tlib auto oper \1169 19 CDC ent auto oper \1317 20 TOOL SIDE ent tlib auto oper \0 (more...) #1321 #1322 #1323 #1324 #1325 #1326 #1327 #1328 #1329 #1331 #1332 #1333 #1334 21 TOOLWDT ent tlib auto oper 22 CORNER R ent tlib auto oper 23 TOOLOFS1 ent tlib auto oper 24 TOOLOFS2 ent tlib auto oper \1317 25 TOOLANG1 ent tlib auto oper \1317 26 TOOLANG2 ent tlib auto oper 27 TOOLEDGES ent tlib auto oper \1366 28 ROUGH CDC tlib oper \1366 29 FIN CDC tlib oper -Operation parameters... (from MTRL-LIBRARY) \1366 31 OPERATION ent mlib sets oper \1366 32 MAX STEP mlib auto \1366 33 FD/FLUTE mlib auto \1366 34 %FEED AX mlib auto \0 (more...) #1335 #1336 #1337 #1339 \1366 35 MAX RPM ent mlib auto \1366 36 COOLANT ent mlib auto \1366 37 FPM/CMPM mlib auto -Dimensional values... \1441 39 FIN STOCK ent \1340 40 CAP RADII modal \1341 41 RETRACT Z ent \1342 42 RPLANE Z ent \1343 43 FULL Z ent -Part orientation... \1344 44 ROT X ent oper \1345 45 ROT Y ent oper \1346 46 ROT Z ent oper \1347 47 SHIFT X ent oper \0 (more...) #1356 #1358 #1359 #1361 \1348 48 SHIFT Y ent oper \1349 49 SHIFT Z ent oper \1350 50 SCALE X ent oper \1351 51 SCALE Y ent oper \1352 52 SCALE Z ent oper \1353 53 CYL(A)X ent oper \1354 54 CYL(B)Y ent oper \1355 55 CYL(C)Z ent oper -Miscellaneous values... \1357 57 EX STOCK ent oper \1851 58 Z-STEP ent oper \1911 59 TEXT HGT ent oper \1360 60 CDC REG ent \1114 61 PECK ent \0 (more...) #1367 #1369 #1370 #1371 #1373 #1374 -Precision \1362 62 UNITS modal \1363 63 CTRL KEY (reserved for special purp) modal \1364 64 MAX CUSP modal \1365 65 TOLERANCE modal -Modal/operational values \1366 66 AUTOMODE modal \1368 68 LISTINGS modal \1317 69 ANGLE oper 70 DEC PLCS ent oper \741 71 MANUAL G ent oper \1372 72 SORT oper \20 73 LAYR MASK modal \1103 74 PICK MODE modal \0 (more...) #1375 #1387 \1115 75 TYPE MASK modal \1376 76 APPROACH oper \1377 77 CLEARANCE oper \1378 78 TAIL LGT oper \1379 79 RAMP LGT oper \1381 81 RETRACT oper \1382 82 %STEP DEV oper \1383 83 MAX RUN oper \1384 84 TAB LGT oper \1385 85 DIAM VALS modal \1386 86 LABELS modal \0 (info table reference chart on next page...) #9 ------------- INFO TABLE REFERENCE CHART -------------- ent attaches to entity tlib from in tool library oper affects entire oper mlib from in mtrl lib modal affects user entries auto aff by tool/mtrl/oper ------------------------------------------------------- -AUTO MODE, OPER MODE, and 3D-PLANE will affect the way the system works and the options available to you. -While in AUTO MODE the values marked "auto" will be changed automatically when you change material, tools, or operations. -Values marked 'sets' will automatically change any value marked 'auto' if auto mode is turned on while tool and material libraries are loaded. -To edit all of the pages of the INFO table just select INFO: SETUP FILE: EDIT VALUES. #90 #1365 ======================TOLERANCE======================== -TOLERANCE is the amount of design error that the CIM system will correct for. For instance, an engineer may design a part that has a radius tangent to an angled line. When the engineer rounds-off the XYZ values to the nearest 0.0005, the line may now miss the radius by 0.0012! Should the CIM system generate an error and refuse to allow this geometry? It is more likely that the CIM system should be allowed to correct the error, slightly adjusting the angle or the endpoints by a small amount. -TOLERANCE is NOT an error that is introduced or caused by the CIM system. Internally, all math is performed to over 13 significant places, regardless of the value of TOLERANCE. #90 #1362 ========================UNITS========================== UNITS TAP-CYCL THREADING LATHE-F OTHER-F SURF-SPD ----- -------- --------- ------- ------- -------- INCH TPI INCH pitch INCH/REV INCH/MIN FEET/MIN MM MM pitch*10 MM pitch MM/REV MM/MIN MM/MIN CM MM pitch*10 CM pitch CM/REV CM/MIN CM/MIN -Note that the tape output is controlled by the post- processor. Some posts always output an inch tape, others metric, and still others may be selectable. -When you set UNITS it changes the entire part-program. In other words, if you have programmed a part as a ten-inch square, if you switch to MM, it will become a ten-millimeter square. \151 -See also: The SCALE shell program. \1139-See also: The M and I conversion operators. #90 #1385 ======================DIAM VALS======================== -When programming a LATHE, the DIAM VALS setting deter- mines whether the X values you type are radial or dia- metral. -You may switch this while programming in order to set the way the system evaluates the X values you type. -This also affects the way the cursor-tracking is dis- played, as well as X values in WINDOW, SHIFT, and all other coordinate entries. -The setting of DIAM VALS does NOT affect the output tape, as that is under control of the post-processor. -Note: While performing a MERGE: NC TAPE, the setting of DIAM VALS <IS> used to determine how to evaluate X values in the tape! #90 #1368 ======================LISTINGS========================= -Set this to PRINTER for normal use. -To divert all listings to a file, select FILE. The system will ask you to enter the filename. The file suffix will be ".LST" unless otherwise specified. -If the filename is not changed, then any existing (listing) file of that name will be appended-to, rather than overwritten. -You may use the FILES:VIEW TAPE FILE selection to review this file at any time - but remember to use the ".LST" suffix, as this is not a ".TAP" file. #90 #1386 =======================LABELS========================== -Determines which text ID labels will appear on the screen, printouts, and plots: LAYERS Group and toolpath names and layer-numbers +NC/CTRL Shows LAYERS (as above) plus all SETAX, POSTCALL, INSERT and COMMENT attachments. +GEONUMS Shows all the above, plus geometry numbers. This is useful for correlating listings with specific geometry items. However, the screen will become very cluttered unless you zoom in AND mask off any unnecessary layers. #90 #1344 #1345 #1346 #1347 #1348 #1349 #1350 #1351 #1352 #1353 #1354 #1355 #1049 =================ROT/SHIFT/SCALE/CYL=================== -These translation-table values are used to maintain geometry in the normal XYZ coordinate system, but to generate a tape that machines the geometry in a dif- ferent orientation, such as tilted or palletized. -Set these values (via INFO: SETUP FILE: EDIT VALUES) BEFORE performing the machining (OPER) operation. Remember to set these values back to zero before any further operations, or they will be affected as well. -The geometry will remain in place on the screen, but the tape will contain values that are adjusted for the preset orientation. -Note that any CYL value must be the RADIUS of the cyl- inder at the same level as the drawing is dimensioned. #90 #1360 #1381 #1383 ======================MISC INFO======================== MAX RUN (Mill) Determines the longest at-depth feed- rate move while cutting air. Moves longer than this will be done at the RPLANE Z level. \1342 -See also: RPLANE Z CDC REG If this is set to zero, then the default CDC register will be used. This is determined by the post, and is usually thirty or fifty more than the tool number. (eg: T6D56) If you set it to a non-zero value, then it will override the CDC register. (eg: 17 to output T6D17) \1581 -See also: GROOVE FINISH use of CDC REG RETRACT When TURNING, this selects whether the tool should retract beyond the previous pass. \0 (more...) #1357 #1364 #1382 ======================MISC INFO======================== EX STOCK This determines how much extra stock should be left per-side on diameters when TURNING. This is in addition to FINISH STOCK. %STEP DEV Specify a percentage between 0 and 50 to allow the system to adjust the STEP value when performing ZIGZAG, GROOVE ROUGH, or ROUGH TURN. The system will adjust the STEP as necessary for cleanup & load equalization. MAX CUSP This determines the accuracy of line segments that are used to approximate a circle or arc. Roughness may be due to cusps left by succes- sive passes or chordal-radius approximation. \1376APPROACH Determines method of approaching and/or \1376 pulling off from the workpiece. #1376 #1377 #1378 #1379 #1076 ======================APPROACH========================= The APPROACH method in the INFO table determines the way the tool gets 'into' and 'out of' the work. -APPROACH methods: NONE plunge in Z along side the finish part. OFFSET plunge in Z away from the finish part. LEAD-IN plunge in Z, then "wipe" onto the work using 'best' method: arc, offset, or extend legs. PREDRILL same as OFFSET, plus make a HOLES group at each Z plunge. RAMP 3-axis approach, then LEAD-IN. -APPROACH values: CLEARANCE safe approach distance from finish part. TAIL LGT length or radius of a "lead-in" move. RAMP LGT XY length of a 3-axis plunge into the work. #90 #1315 #1380 #1384 ======================WIRE EDM========================= POWER The power setting is usually used to select a set of power (EPAC) registers. CDC Make sure that CDC is set correctly before performing a wire-EDM operation. On MULTIPLE PASS machining, this value also determines whether passes are taken in reverse or not. CDC REG Use this value to select an offset register to control the kerf width. TAB LGT You may enter a tab length value to tell the system to avoid completing the path, stopping shy of the end. The path will stop short of completion by the TAB LGT. On the last pass, the tab will be cut off. This value is only used with the MULTIPLE PASSES operation. #90 #1366 ======================AUTO MODE======================== When AUTO MODE is enabled the system will automatically select COLOR and LINE FONT. If a setup file is loaded, then the system will automatically: ...Select OPERATION mode for the material, setting up MAX STEP, FD/FLUTE, %FEED AXIAL, FPM/CMPM, COOLANT. ...Adjust FEEDRATE, SP SPEED, and AXIAL FEED. ...Set the STEP to TOOLWDT for plunge rough, TOOLWDT times .66667 for nibbling or hogging, or TOOLWDT/2 for profile or other operations. ...Select CDC from FIN CDC for finishing operations, or ROUGH CDC for profile roughing. ...Unless an AUTOMODE.SHL shell program overrides this! \1157-You should never need to turn off AUTOMODE. If you do, \1157 then you probably should refer to ERASE/REGEN T-PATH! #90 #1169 #1319 =========================CDC=========================== -CDC or Cutter-Diameter-Compensation is often referred to as CUTCOM, IRC, TRC, COMP, or radial-tool-offset. These are all different words for the same thing. -CDC is used to TELL THE NC/CNC MACHINE TO ADJUST XY VALUES TO CORRECT FOR THE TOOL DIAMETER. This may be handled in different ways on various machines. -CDC LEFT or RIGHT refers to which side of the defined geometry the tool should follow; as if you were riding the tool facing forward. Thus climb milling is LEFT, and rear turning is RIGHT. -Note that both the CIM System (via T-SIDE) AND the NC/CNC Machine (via CDC) can perform this radial-tool- offset. Be careful NOT to compound your tool offsets! \0 (more...) #9 (CDC - continued...) -We suggest you use CDC LEFT or RIGHT for finishing, but OFF for roughing operations. Then dial in a zero offset on the NC/CNC machine CDC register and let the CIM system perform all tool offset, as it does a much better job than the NC/CNC machine would. -In this way you may still correct for tool wear and fluctuation on the finish pass by changing the machine CDC registers to a positive or negative value. -OPERATION TSIDE CDC CDC-HANDLED-BY... Rough Turn (rear) RIGHT OFF CIM System exclusively Fin Turn (rear) RIGHT RIGHT CIM System & NC/CNC ZigZag Rough NA OFF CIM System exclusively Profile Rough LEFT OFF CIM System exclusively Fin Mill (climb) LEFT LEFT CIM System & NC/CNC #90 #1363 ===================CTRL KEY SUMMARY==================== The INFO TABLE value CTRL KEY can be set to a non-zero number to adjust the way certain instructions work: -1 Disables automatic redraws in some commands 1 MERGE NC TAPE: XYZ table only, make GEOMS 2 MERGE NC TAPE: XYZ table only, make TPATH 3 MERGE NC TAPE: Assume incremental XYZ 4 MERGE NC TAPE: 2-Digit T-codes, but no M6's in tape 11 PLUNGE ROUGH: Make SQUARE hole pattern, not HEX 12 TPATH/OPERS: Allow "slop" tolerancing in validation 101 ARCFIT: variation: surrounding span dependency 102 ARCFIT: variation: bisector slope method 103 ARCFIT: variation: use 3-point arcs 104 ARCFIT: variation: use span-length ratio dependency 105 ARCFIT: variation: pivot point method #90 #1115 ======================TYPE MASK======================== -Use the TYPE MASK to enable/disable the ability to pick specific geometry items based upon their "type". -For instance, you may wish to pick only ARCS that are in a GROUP at a particular Z-LEVEL. To do this, set the Z level via the [Alt]-[Z] command, then hit [F1] and pick TYPE MASK. Enable: ARCS (and) GROUP (and) 3D-PLANE -This will NOT affect the redrawing of geometry, as the LAYER MASK does. It only affects the ability to PICK. -Type mask categories: Geometry form: POINTS LINES ARCS CIRCLES DETAILING Classification: GROUP TPATH NEITHER 3rd Axis Level: 3D-PLANE \1118 (You may also use the selective pick keys to do this) #90 #1116 #1304 #1008 ========================TOOL REF======================= -This INFO table entry is used in LATHE OPER MODE. It determines whether the system should drive the tool tip or the center of the tip-radius. -This will affect the generation of the toolpath geom- etry. Thus, once any toolpath has been generated, it is unsafe to change this selection. Therefore, you should normally set it once in any setup file you use, and never change it thereafter. -If you wish to gage off the center of the tip-radius, select DRIVE T-RAD CNTR. If you wish to reflect actual diameters (or radii) and shoulder dimensions, then you should select DRIVE TOOL TIP. \1317-See also: TOOL TYPE \0 (more...) #9 #1018 (TOOL REF - continued...) -Milling, Wire-EDM, Plasma/Punch/Router/Laser: DRIVE T-RAD CNTR is always used, regardless of this selection. -Turning, Threading, most other lathe work: Use DRIVE T-RAD CNTR or DRIVE TOOL TIP as applicable. If you select DRIVE TOOL CR1/2, then it will act the same as DRIVE TOOL TIP. -Groove, Parting, and Button tools on a lathe: DRIVE TOOL TIP, DRIVE TOOL CR1, and DRIVE TOOL CR2 may be used to drive the CENTER of the cutting edge, the FRONT theoretical sharp corner, or the BACK theoretical sharp corner, respectively. -Again: Note that you should not change this midstream, or the graphics while post-processing may be wrong. #90 #1317 #1062 ======================TOOL TYPES======================= -The tool type affects offset and cutting direction, as well as being considered in calculations for feed and speed. Thus it is important that you set it correctly: -Non-lathe tools: ROUND (or kerf) COUNTERBORE ENDMILL COUNTERSINK CORNER-RAD MILL TAPERED MILL BALL-NOSE FLYCUTTER CENTER DRILL SQUARE DRILL RECTANGULAR TAP DEE SHAPE BORING TOOL DOUBLE-DEE REAMER \0 (more...) #9 #1063 -Lathe tool types: *TURNING *BUTTON *BORING BAR CENTER DRILL *THREADING DRILL *ID THREADING TAP *GROOVING REAMER *ID GROOVING *LIVE DRILL *PARTING *LIVE MILL *The tool types marked with an asterisk also require that you specify an 'orientation' or tool direction such as FRONT/REAR, FACE/DIAM, and RIGHT/LEFT. Note: This does NOT refer to RIGHTHAND vs LEFTHAND tools, but whether the tool aproaches the work from the RIGHT or the LEFT side of the SCREEN. \0 (more...) #9 #1094 -A right REAR turning tool will cut from RIGHT to LEFT on the screen, and step from the TOP of the screen downward as it takes succeeding passes. -A right FRONT turning tool will also cut from RIGHT to LEFT (from the RIGHT), but will step from the BOTTOM of the screen to the TOP in succeeding passes. -A right REAR BORING tool will also cut from RIGHT to LEFT, but steps from the screen BOTTOM to the TOP. -A right REAR FACE tool will cut from TOP to BOTTOM (because it is for FACING) & step from RIGHT to LEFT. -Note that the tool 'shank' direction is NOT important. -TOOLANG1 and TOOLANG2 may be set to reflect the tool end-edge-angle and tool-face-angle. -The ANGLE defaults to 0 for DIAM tools, but to 90 for FACING. You may change the ANGLE to override this. #90 #1372 #1048 =====================SORT METHODS====================== -HOLES may be drilled/punched, in the order selected: 1) NONE Machine the holes in the order grouped. 2) X THEN Y Machine the holes, beginning with the first hole 'picked' for this command, then cutting across in X, then stepping to the next row in Y. Repeat til done. 3) X THEN Y Machine the holes, beginning with the first hole 'picked' for this command, then cutting vertically (Y), then step to the next column (X). Repeat til done. 4) NEAREST Machine the holes, beginning with the first hole 'picked' for this command, then cutting the nearest hole, then the nearest to that one, and so on. #90 #1119 ====================TCHGR NUMBER======================= -Note: The TOOL NUMBER is NEVER output to the tape!!!!! -The TCHGR NUMBER is the value sent to the tape (by the post-processor) when a specific TOOL NUMBER is used. -Normally, the TCHGR will be the same as TOOL NUMBER. -If you are posting a part for a different NC/CNC mach- ine than it was originally intended, then you may re- map the tools. For instance, if TOOL 1 was a half- inch endmill, but on the new machine tool 5 is the half-inch endmill, then set TOOL NUMBER 1 to TCHGR 5. -If a tool library is loaded (if its name appears in the status area) then this remapping is temporary. However, if you save the changed tool library, or use ALTER GEOMS to modify the TCHGR NUMBER, the changes will be permanant. #90 #1114 ====================CYCLE NUMBERS====================== -The CYCLE number in the INFO table determines the type of drill/tap/ream cycle generated. -Use CYCLE 1 to peck-drill by way of a series of feed- and-rapid moves. -Use CYCLES 2...50 (INCH mode) to generate tapping or peck-tapping cycles of 2 to 50 threads-per-inch. -Use CYCLES 2...50 (METRIC mode) to generate tapping or peck-tapping cycles of 0.2 to 5.0 MM pitch. -If you use a CYCLE number greater than 50, then it will be passed-through to the post-processor, and a NC/CNC machine cycle will be used. (eg: 74, 83, 84) -The PECK value sets the first plunge depth. \1342-The RETRACT, RPLANE, and FULL Z values are used to \1342 set the CYCLE depths. #90 #1341 #1342 #1343 =======================Z PLANES======================== -This value is always an absolute location: RETRACT Go to T-POSITIONs (TCHGs) at this level. -The following values... RPLANE Do NOT rapid downward when below this level. FULL Z The full depth unless otherwise specified. ...are measured in this way: MILLING Incremental Z, where the RPLANE is at the current Z level. TURNING (Normally) Absolute Z: generally from a zero Z at the face of the part. TURNING (Cross-drilling only) Absolute X: where the zero X is the centerline of the spindle. \1117-See also: 3D PLANE #1117 =======================3D PLANE======================== -If you enter absolute Z levels in the INFO table (for RETRACT-Z, RPLANE, and FULL-Z) then set this to 3D FROM INFO. -If you wish to set your Z levels relative to the Z level of the geometry (groups) then set this to 3D FROM GEOM. -Normally, this should be set to: 3D FROM INFO ...which ignores the Z level of the grouped geometry, and simply machines the part using the values that you put into the INFO table. (RETRACT-Z, RPLANE, FULL-Z) #90 #1340 #1047 ======================CAP RAD========================== -This sets handling of sharp-corners on finish passes: OFF This will leave corners sharp unless a very acute angle is encountered. ROLL This will "roll" the tool around all sharp corners. OVERCUT This method is used for laser and flame- cutting to leave OUTSIDE corners sharp. The cut will proceed BEYOND the intersection by the TAIL LGT, then wire-onto the next move. OVERCUT will only be done on LINE:LINE moves. I-TAPER This method may be used only with a tapered tool. It cleans up inside corners by ramping the tool up the corner then down again. \0 (more...) #9 #1047 (CAP RADII - continued) -The preferred method is ROLL, as it gives a more con- sistent cut, but leaves corners sharp and deburred. Because NC/CNC machines decellerate for sharp corners, this method also reduces cutting time. -Tool interference lookahead is only guaranteed for toolpaths that have been generated with the ROLL method, as it is mathematically correct - always driv- ing the tool exactly the tool radius (+ stock) away from the finish surface. If you generate passes with CAP RADIUS OFF or OVERCUT, then inspect the output carefully for possible tool interference. -Note: INSIDE TAPER does NOT taper the starting corner! \1376-Note: CAP RAD may affect a lead-in approach method. -Note: CAP RAD does NOT affect any roughing passes. #90 #1166 =====================HANDY TIPS======================== To enter a zero quickly... \1111 When entering zeros, you waste time typing: [0] then \1111 [Enter]. Instead, use the comma, which defaults to 0. Defining a part by it's corners... \251 To construct a part by a series of corners, use the \251 GEOM:CURVE:SEGMENTS command. This is really quick. Deleting one geometry item... \429 To quickly delete one geometry item use the [Del] key. Multiple fillets or chamfers... \271 If you have several like fillets or chamfers to place \271 on a part, use GEOM:SERIES:CORNER-BLENDS or -BREAKS. Changing feeds on specific moves... \1151 Learn and use the ALTER GEOMS command! You can use it \1151 to change feeds and speeds on-the-fly. #90 #1156 ===================ADV HANDY TIPS====================== Setting the endpoint of a circle... \240 Did you know that you can set a start-end point for a \240 circle? (normally at 3 O'Clock) Just trim or break it \240 to a line at the desired location. Building a part with wall-thickness... \274 If you have parts with walls, dimensioned on one side \274 the wall, but machined on the other, you can quickly \274 define the second wall using GEOM:SERIES:OFFSET-CHAIN. The MISC Menu... \1106 Need to change the part description, rotate the part \1106 in ZX, or do other 'tricks'? See: the MISC menu... Customizing a toolpath... \1152 Learn and use TOOLPATH EDITING. You can modify or add \1152 to a toolpath, build your own approach method, etc. #90 #1151 ===============ALTERING INFO ON A TPATH================ -Once a toolpath (finish, rough, etc) has been built, you may wish to change feeds, speeds, cdc, or other factors on specific moves. This is done in EXACTLY the same manner as you might change the color or layer of a construction geometry item: ALTER GEOMS. \1157-See also: ERASE & REGEN T-PATH -Use the INFO MENU selection ALTER GEOMS to select the tpath moves to be changed, then the INFO TABLE will appear. Change the desired INFO TABLE entry, and the tpath will be updated. \530 -See also: ALTER GEOMS -If you wish to change only a portion of an individual move, then it first must be 'broken'. \1152-See also: TPATH EDITING #90 #1152 =====================TPATH EDITING===================== -You may move geometry, trim it, or add new geometry to a toolpath, as long as you follow these rules: 1) Set the LAYER number to the TPATH number. 2) Make sure your geometry construction involves the 'picking' of existing toolpath geometry. The second rule is necessary because this allows the system to determine the implied cutting sequence. If you picked nothing in the toolpath, the new geometry would still be added to the toolpath, but would be cut AFTER all of the existing moves. (This is not usually the desired sequence.) \0 (more...) #9 (tpath editing - continued) -For instance, you may FILLET a toolpath, or add a line that attaches to the end of the toolpath, or connects two moves within it. However, you should NOT construct that same arc or line by 'typing-in' all coordinates. -If you try to add a move between non-sequential items or to add a move without picking a toolpath move, the system will add it to the end of the toolpath, using the current color from the INFO TABLE. -When you edit a toolpath, all INFO TABLE values will be copied from the first item picked in the toolpath. This allows you to ignore the setting of feed, speed, and so on. This will cause the new geometry to appear in the same color as the original toolpath. \0 (more...) #9 #1098 (tpath editing - continued) -In the example shown, notice that the new move to be added is attached to the END of one pass, and the BEGINNING of the next. (The old connecting move has been deleted) The line is to be built using LINE BY 2 END POS, but hitting [F2] (endpoint) before each pick. The picks are made slightly back along the LAST move of pass 1, and the FIRST move of pass 2. If the picks were made AT the endpoints, then other (undesired) moves may be selected. -When you are done, be sure to hit [F1] and set the LAYER number back to 0 so that subsequent geometry will NOT be added to the toolpath! \1151-See also: Altering INFO on a T-PATH \1105-See also: About LAYERS and LAYER MASKING #90 #1154 ===== MANIPULATING ENTRIES IN THE RESEQUENCE TABLE ==== -The RESEQUENCE TABLE contains a list of all the layers that have at least one geometry item, the first of which must be a T-PATH, T-CONTROL, THREAD, T-POSITION, or T-CYCLE. If you move geometry between layers, that may change this table. -Use INFO: ALTER GEOMS to change the LAYER (but NOT the LAYER MASK) of a T-PATH or a portion of it. -If you move an entire T-PATH to a new layer (typically to the NEXT FREE LAYER) then the old entry will vanish from the RESEQUENCE TABLE, and a new entry will appear for the new layer. \0 (more...) #9 -If you move a portion of a T-PATH to a new layer, then a duplicate entry will be made for that layer in the RESEQUENCE TABLE. -If you move a T-PATH to a layer that already contains a T-PATH, then its original entry in the TABLE will vanish, and the altered T-PATH will be appended to the other T-PATH. (...it will be cut AFTER that one.) -If you duplicate T-PATHS (COPY, MIRROR, MERGE) then layers are still machined in LAYER-BY-LAYER sequence, effectively performing an automatic tool-sort. -If you move a T-PATH to a layer that contains a GROUP then the T-PATH becomes a GROUP. Conversely, if you move any NON T-PATH geometry to a layer that contains a T-PATH, it will become T-PATH. (In random sequence!) \0 (more...) #9 -For example, assume we have the following part: LAYER 4: T-PATH that cuts POCKET-1 and POCKET-2 LAYER 5: T-PATH that cuts OUTLINE-3 To independently resequence the T-PATH for POCKET-2... Hit [F1], enable LAYER MASK 4, ALTER GEOMS: WINDOW: window "POCKET-2", then pick LAYER: NEXT FREE LAYER. (...remember to disable the LAYER MASK) To combine the T-PATH for POCKET-1 with the OUTLINE-3 T-PATH on layer 5... Hit [F1], enable LAYER MASK 4, ALTER GEOMS: WINDOW: window "POCKET-1", LAYER: SELECT LAYER: 5. (...remember to disable the LAYER MASK) \1151-See also: ALTERING INFO ON A T-PATH #90 #1153 ==================CHANGING THE ORIGIN================== -To change the origin (X=0, Y=0, Z=0) point of a part, use the EDIT:MOVE command. -You must select the geometry, tpath, etc to be moved. Then: 1) The reference point must be the location that is to be the new part origin. You may type in these coordinates, but more than likely you will hit [F2] and pick the corner to be moved to 'zero.' 2) The move point should be 0,0,0. This is the new location of the reference point. 3) Skip the angle prompt, as no rotation is desired. -Afterward, you may need to do a VIEW ALL to bring the part back onto the screen. \430 -See also: EDIT:MOVE #90 #1128 ===============GENERATING A POST-PROCESSOR============= -Before you can make a usable tape, you must select a post-processor (post). If no post exists for the NC/CNC machine, then you will need to generate one. -You may choose your post via these methods... 1) ...use a post from the provided post library. 2) ...use AP to analyze NC/CNC tapes and build a post. 3) ...use MP to answer questions about the NC machine. 4) ...compose a post, then compile it with PC. -Once you have a post, you need to SELECT it before post-processing the part-program. \0 (more...) #9 (GEN POST - continued) \873 -AP, AUTO POST: Use this utility to generate a post if \873 you already have sample NC/CNC tape-files for that \873 machine, and these tape-files are on the C: or D: disk \873 or can be read from a floppy disk in drive A: or B:. \874 -MP, MAKE POST: If you have no sample tapes, you may \874 use MP to generate a post. MP will ask you several \874 questions, then build a post based upon your answers. \874 MP may also be used to further modify a post that has \874 already been generated with AP or MP. \1125-See also: SELECTING A POST-PROCESSOR #90 #1231 #1232 #1233 ==============DIGITIZER TABLET TRACE MODE============== -You may switch from relative locator mode (mouse) to absolute locator mode (tablet) in order to trace a scaled drawing. When you are done, be sure to switch back to relative (mouse) mode, even if using a tablet. -To switch on absolute (tablet) mode and calibrate the tablet, hit the [F9] key, type 1231, then hit [Enter]. -To switch back to relative (mouse) mode, hit the [F9] key, type 1232, then hit [Enter]. -To resume absolute (tablet) mode, using the same scale and origin (no recalibration), hit the [F9] key, type 1233, then hit [Enter]. -Please read and understand this section before you attempt to use absolute (tablet) mode! \0 (more...) #9 -When using absolute (tablet) mode, your tablet may not permit enough movement to allow you to pick MAIN MENU items, thus it is wise to know the menu numbers of any commands you plan to issue. Alternatively, you may switch back-and-forth between the two modes whenever you wish to pick from a menu. -If possible fasten the drawing to the tablet in such a way that it allows some movement to the left and above the drawing, so that you may pick menu and info items. -All commands are available in absolute (tablet) mode, but the GEOM: CURVE selections are the most common. -It is imperative that you properly calibrate for the drawing, so that scale and skew can be corrected for. \0 (more...) #9 -To CALIBRATE the tablet and drawing: 1) Fasten the drawing to the tablet toward the lower- right corner. Apply cover-mylar if possible. 2) Use DISP: WINDOW to set a view that encompasses the entire page. (eg: if the drawing lower-left is X0 Y0 and the upper right is X6 Y6, then set the view to X-1 Y-1, and X7 Y7.) 3) Hit [F9], 1231, then [Enter]. The CIM system will prompt you to enter two reference points and to type in the coordinates of these points. Based upon your responses here, the scale and skew of the drawing will be calculated, then corrected-for. Pick two reference points that are as far-apart as possible, generally lower-left then lower-right. \0 (more...) #9 -Example calibration: (Digitize) reference position 1: ...pick origin point in the drawing. (lower-left) (Type) reference position 1: ...enter the coordinates of that point. (0,0) (Digitize) reference position 2: ...pick known ref point in the drawing. (lower-right) (Type) reference position 2: ...enter the coordinates of that point. (6,0) -The accuracy of your picks is critical. You must pick as close as possible to the coordinate locations that you type in. -As previously stated: Make sure you set DISP: WINDOW BEFORE you calibrate. #90 #1190 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: No (or few) ICONs appear on the screen. -Cause: This is not a problem. Depending upon what type of graphics card you have, the system may display twelve, nine, six, or no icons. -Remedy: If your graphics card and monitor can support different modes or resolutions, reconfigure (using the CONFIG program in the CAM directory) for such a mode. -Note: The system is fully functional without ICONS... An ICON's only use is as a "shortcut" pick to a common command. #90 #1191 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: Printed listings are staggered. -Cause: Your printer has an internal switch that is set incorrectly. Some BIOS (ROM) versions may also cause this problem. -Remedy: Change the switch in your printer that is la- beled "AUTO-LF" or "LF WITH CR", then turn the printer off and on again. If this doesn't work, you may need to replace the computer's BIOS. -Note: The BIOS is a critical component of your compu- ter. Before replacing it, contact the computer manu- facturer for details. #90 #1192 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: Printer output won't work at all. -Cause: If a [PrtSc] in DOS fails to work then you have a hardware problem. Otherwise, you may be configured to print to a file. -Remedy: Hit the [F1] key, pick LIST..., then PRINTER. If this was the problem, you probably have one or more setup files that are configured for "PRINT TO FILE". These setup files should be edited and re-saved. -Note: The [PrtSc] key does not work (and should not work) within the CIM system. Instead, use [Alt]-[N] to do a [PrtSc]. #90 #1193 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: System crashes or mouse movement is erratic. -Cause: The mouse driver is incompatible with your computer, your graphics card or mode, or it conflicts with extended-memory applications. -Remedy: Contact the manufacturer of the mouse. Many mouse drivers need special command-line switches or a newer version in order to support DOS 5+, super-VGA cards, extended memory applications, or a 486+ CPU. -Note: Make sure that you delete ALL copies of the old mouse driver: in the ROOT (\) directory, the DOS and the MOUSE directories, and in the CAM directory. #90 #1194 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: Some menu selections don't work at all. -Cause: If you are running the STD MEM version (not the EXT MEM version) of the CIM system, then some commands will become disabled due to memory constraints. Also, some of the commands are optional, and are available only if the PPDK, AADK, ADV MILL, ADV LATHE, ADV WIRE, ADV PUNCH, ADV PATTERNS, 3D, or CURVES packages are installed. -Remedy: Refer to the HELP text for that menu item -it will indicate if "***EXT MEM version may be reqd***". Check your original PO to make sure that the option for this command has been ordered. #90 #1195 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: Error message: Tool Won't Fit. (but should!) -Cause: Are you trying to leave more stock than is possible? Is CAP RADIUS is set to OFF? (Extended toolpath intersections may interfere with the area to be machined if the part has sharp-corners.) -Remedy: Set FINISH STOCK and EXTRA STOCK to zero. Set CAP RADIUS to ROLL. Verify the TOOL TYPE (and orien- tation), TOOL SIZE and TOOL SIDE. Retry. -Note: If you have used cylindrical "leave" stock on any of the part then cancel it: Hit [F9] 1242 [Enter], WINDOW, select the entire part, and use a value of 0. #90 #1196 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: Arcs cross quadrant lines, but shouldn't. -Cause: The post is generating such output, but your machine requires that the arcs not span >90 degrees. -Remedy: Change the post-processor: Remove any RNA or FULL command, then re-compile the post. If you do NOT have access to the post, then enforce QUADS mode: 1) PROCESS: NC CTRL: SETAX: -53 0 [Ins] 2) PROCESS: RESEQUENCE: Put the last OPER (T-CONTROL) first, then pick the other OPERs in order. [Ins] Then post-process it again. #90 #1197 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: Lathe tool steps or cuts in wrong direction. -Cause: The TOOL TYPE, tool orientation, tool side, or cutting-angle may be incorrect. The group may have been built backwards. -Remedy: Re-check the TOOL TYPE and orientation. Make sure that ANGLE (not TOOLANG1 or TOOLANG2) is set to 90 for tools that cut along X, but to 0 for tools that cut along Z. Verify that the TOOL SIDE is correct and that the group is not defined in reverse. The label (BOUNDARY-n) should appear at the start of the cut. -Note: Also check the OPER> ROUGH TURN vs PROFILE ROUGH #90 #1198 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: Toolpath on screen differs from posted output -Cause: This may be a post-processor problem. However, keep in mind that many posts intentionally change the output. For instance, some posts do not output the setup position or the park position, instead going to a machine "home". Other posts ignore all tool-change positions in favor of doing a toolchange in-place. If the discrepancy involves a canned-cycle, such differ- ences are to be expected. -Remedy: Many posts can be "tweaked" via MP MAKE POST. Otherwise, the post must be altered by somebody that is familiar with NC/BASIC. #90 #1199 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: Toolpath appears to "gouge" the workpiece! -Cause: If you are using a lathe tool, then you may be witnessing an illusion: Refer to the HELP text that explains TOOL TIP programming for details. If this is not the case, then gouging may indeed be happening... (Infinite-lookahead-tool-interference-checking is only done when CAP RADIUS is set to ROLL!) -Remedy: Retry the operation with CAP RAD set to ROLL. \1116-See also: TOOL REFERENCE (DRIVE TOOL TIP) #90 #1173 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: CNC tool-comp registers not output correctly. -Cause: If you specify CDC REG 0, then selection of a register is left up to the post. Most posts default to using the tool number plus an offset, say T+30. If the problem involves switching between CDC REGS during a cut, make sure that you are using CDC REGS number 1 or higher, as CDC REG 0 is NEVER output. -Remedy: Try a different CDC REG, different post, or consult the author of the post. \1581-See also: GROOVE FINISH use of CDC REG #90 #1174 =======================PROBLEM========================= -Problem: Stock (small webs) remains after roughing. -Cause: When using PROFILE ROUGH, the STEP should never be greater than half the tool diameter, or webs may be left. If using ZIGZAG, no webs should ever be left, but stock may be left for the finish tool in several areas. (It would be wasted motion for ZIGZAG to get these areas, as large cusps would still remain.) Also, DRAW FILLED PIC may sometimes appear to leave stock (due to "pixel rounding") but the tape will be okay. \1441-Remedy (PROFILE ROUGH): Use a smaller step. \1451-Remedy (ZIGZAG ROUGH): Adjust %STEP DEV. #90 #100 #101 =====================FILES MENU======================== -The FILES menu permits you to load or merge other files or to exit the system. For help regarding a particular item, pick that selection, then request help by hitting [F10]. -Whenever the system asks for a file name, you may toggle between ENTRY mode and MENU mode by hitting the [Ins] key on the keyboard or locator device. \1131-Specific FILES MENU Selections... #90 #110 #111 =====================DIFF PART==============[F9]-111=== -To change to a different part (either a brand new one or an existing part): Select the FILES menu, then DIFF PART. -The system will ask you for the name of the file that you want next. You may: 1) Hit [Enter] or [Esc] to abort this process. (or) 2) Type in a filename and hit [Enter]. (or) 3) Hit [Ins] for a menu of the existing part files that have the ".PRT" file-type. -The system will save the current part first. \1178-Note: If the system aborts due to a fatal memory or \1178 disk error, the current session will be saved, and \1178 may be resumed by loading the part named: BREAK.PRT. #90 #120 #121 ========================EXIT================[F9]-121=== -To exit the system: Select the FILES menu, then the EXIT selection. -The system will ask you if you want to save the part or discard the work you have done on it. -When asked for a filename, the system wants the name of the NEW file to be loaded or created, not the name of the current file that is being saved. -You may use the [Ins] key to request a directory menu. #90 #130 #131 ==================SAVE BACKUP PART==========[F9]-131=== -To save the current part under a different name: Select the FILES menu, then the BACKUP selection. -The system will ask you for the name of the file to save. Enter a name other than the current part name and not that of an existing part. (Unless you really want to overwrite it.) -The current part will be saved under the specified name. -If you skip the prompt for partname, the current part- file will be updated. #90 #140 =====================MERGE FILE======================== -Use these selections to copy the contents of another file into the current part program. \141 Copy a layer from a different part. \142 Copy a layer or all layers from a CAD IGES file. \143 Copy selected layers or all from a CAD DXF file. \144 Copy all sections from a CAD sculptured 3DX file. \145 Read in an NC tape or tapefile (backplot). \146 Copy selected layers or all from a CADL file. \147 Read in a CLFILE (ISO4343, 3592.SCL) #90 #141 =====================MERGE PART=============[F9]-141=== -To merge an existing part with the current part: Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, -The system will ask you for the name of the part that you wish to merge. It will then ask for the layer number that you want. That layer, from the specified part, will be copied into the current layer of the current part. -When the system asks you for a part name, you may use the [Ins] key for a menu. -The system will ask you for the offset coordinates and the rotation angle to place the part. These may be digitized using the locator if desired. #90 #1107 ============READING CAD DATA, BACKPLOTTING============= -When you read in data from a CAD system or an NC tape, it will be converted directly into geometry. -If the file suffix is appropriate (.IGS, .DXF, .TAP, .CDL, or .SCL) and the desired file is in the proper directory, then you may use the [Ins] key for a direc- tory when asked for the filename. -Immediately after reading in CAD data, it is wise to do a CONTINUITY TRIM on the geometry. \142 READ IGES DATA \143 READ DXF DATA \145 READ NC TAPE (or tape file) \146 READ CADL DATA \147 READ CLFILE DATA \416 CONTINUITY TRIM (cleans up designer's mistakes) #90 #142 =====================READ IGES==============[F9]-142=== -To read in an IGES data file: Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then IGES FILE. -The system will ask for the name of the IGES file. You may use the [Ins] key for a menu at this point if the IGES file has the ".IGS" file-type. -You will be asked for a layer number to read and to save the geometry into. If you skip this prompt then all layers will be brought in to the current part on corresponding layers. -You may also specify a Z-plane. If you do, only the geometry on that Z plane will be recognized. \0 (more...) #9 -All MATRIX entities and VIEWS will be recognized and used for the proper translation of geometry. -All BSPLINES will be converted to line-segments while being merged. -All POINTS, LINES, ARCS, and CIRCLES will be loaded. -ARCS and CIRCLES that are NOT in the XY plane will be broken up into line-segments with an accuracy that in determined by the MAX CUSP value. -You may fill in the ROTX, ROTY, and ROTZ values in the info table in order to rotate the part (in 3D) while reading it. It is preferable to rotate the part here rather than by using 3D ROTATE after reading it, as this will prevent XY planar arcs and circles from becoming segmented. \416 (Afterward, it would be wise to do a CONTINUITY TRIM) #90 #143 =====================READ DXF===============[F9]-143=== -To read in a DXF geometry data file: Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then DXF FILE. -The system will ask for the name of the DXF file. You may use the [Ins] key for a menu at this point if the DXF file has a ".DXF" file-type. -You will be asked for the layer names. Hit [Enter] instead of a layer name to terminate. If no names are specified, the entire DXF file will be brought over. -The POINTS, LINES, ARCS, and CIRCLES will be read, translated, and each layer copied into the current part starting from the current layer. \0 (more...) #9 (DXF - continued) -TEXT, ATTRIBUTES, BLOCKS, & POLYLINES will be read in. Note: Arrowheads will NOT be read in some cases. -ARCS and CIRCLES that are NOT in the XY plane will be broken up into line-segments with an accuracy that in determined by the MAX CUSP value. -You may fill in the ROTX, ROTY, and ROTZ values in the info table in order to rotate the part (in 3D) while reading it. It is preferable to rotate the part here rather than by using 3D ROTATE after reading it, as this will prevent XY planar arcs and circles from becoming segmented. \416 (Afterward, it would be wise to do a CONTINUITY TRIM) #90 #144 =====================READ 3DX===============[F9]-144=== -To read in an 3D CAD exchange file: Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then 3DX NCFILE. -The system will ask for the name of the 3DX file. You may use the [Ins] key for a menu at this point if the 3DX file has a ".NCF" file-type. -The LINES and ARCS will be read into the layers that are selected by adding the current LAYER NUMBER and the CAD SECT# minus one. This usually means that the geometry will load into successive layers beginning with the current layer. -NOTE: The tool specs in the INFO table MUST BE FILLED in with the correct values BEFORE merging a 3DX file! #90 #145 ====================READ NC TAPE============[F9]-145=== -To read in an NC TAPE or tape file: (BACKPLOT) Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then NC TAPE. -The system will ask for the name of the tape file. You may use the [Ins] key for a menu at this point if the file has a ".TAP" file-type. To read directly from a tape reader, type COM2 or COM1. -The file will be scanned to determine the formats, and codes. Then the system will build a TPATH layer for each tool, and place an entry in the resequence table to machine the TPATH. Finally, the part will be autoscaled and redrawn. \0 (more...) #9 (READ NC TAPE - continued) -The system recognizes the following G-codes: G0, G1, G2, G3, G20, G21, G28, G50, G70, G71, G80, G81, G82, G83, G84, G85, G86, G87, G88, G89, G90, G91, and G92. -Feeds and speeds are recognized and saved within the TPATH. Recognized M-codes: M6, M7, M8, & M9. -DEC PLACES must be set correctly in the INFO table! \1385-For lathe tapes, the OPER MODE must be set to LATHE, \1385 and DIAM VALS will determine the use of the X axis. -CTRL KEY=0: Standard NC/CNC tapes with G-codes. CTRL KEY=1: Simple XYZ line-segments. GEOMs only. CTRL KEY=2: Simple XYZ line-segments. Make TPATH. CTRL KEY=3: Incremental tape with G-codes. CTRL KEY=4: Standard mill tape with no M6 codes. #90 #146 ==================READ CADL FILE============[F9]-146=== -To read in a CADL file: Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then CADL FILE. -The system will ask for the name of the CADL file. You may use the [Ins] key for a menu at this point if the file has a ".CDL" file-type. -The system will ask you for the layer number to read. Skip this prompt to read in all layers. -Points, lines, arcs, circles, vlines, and vpoints will be read in. The lowest numbered vacant layer will be where layer 0 of the CADL file will be saved. The next layer will be where layer 1 will be saved. \416 (Afterward, it would be wise to do a CONTINUITY TRIM) #90 #147 ====================READ CLFILE=============[F9]-147=== -To read in a CLDATA file: Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then CLFILE. -The system will ask for the name of the file. You may use the [Ins] key for a menu at this point if the file has an ".SCL" file-type. -It is wise to make sure that your UNITS (inch/mm) and OPER MODE (lathe/mill) match that of the CLFILE before attempting to merge it. -If a tool-library is loaded, then default values for each tool used will be read from that tool library. Select NO tool-library to disable this function. -If the CLFILE deviates from ISO3592.SCL/ISO4343 then some data may be lost or incorrect. #90 #150 #151 ======================RUN SHELL=============[F9]-151=== -To run a SHELL file: Select the FILES menu, then the SHELL selection. -When the system asks you for the name of the SHELL file, you may hit the [Ins] key for a directory of the SHELL files available. -A SHELL file is a special file that contains a program designed to take control of the system temporarily. (like a player piano) -Some shells are provided with the system for output of DXF files (DXFOUT) and for scaling geometry. (SCALE) -If you have the AADK (NC/BASIC compiler) then you can make your own shells and customize the system. #90 #160 #161 ====================VIEW TAPE FILE==========[F9]-161=== -To view a tape or text file: Select the FILES menu, then VIEW TAPE FILE. -The system will ask you for the name of the file that you wish to view. -If you hit the [Ins] key, the system will display a directory menu of tape files. -Use the [Enter] key to scan through the file, the [-] to scan backward, or the [Esc] key to abort. Note: Whenever a part-program is been modified, the system renames the corresponding tapefile suffix to ".OLD", so that you do not inadvertently attempt to use the tape without post-processing it again. #90 #170 #171 =====================DELETE FILE============[F9]-171=== -To delete a file: Select the FILES menu, then DELETE FILE. -The system will ask you for the name of the file that you wish to delete. -If you hit the [Ins] key, the system will display a directory menu of part-program files. -If you do not specify a directory path or file type, the system will also search for other file types that have the same name. -You must verify each deletion by hitting the [Ins] key as the system requests. #90 #180 #181 ===================EDIT TOOL DWG============[F9]-181=== -To create or edit a TOOL DRAWING FILE: Select the FILES menu, then EDIT TOOL DWG. -The system will ask you for the name of the file that you want. You may: 1) Type in a filename and hit [Enter]. (or) 2) Hit [Ins] for a menu of the existing TOOL DRAWING files that have the ".TLS" file-type. -You should create tool drawing files with the SAME NAME as the corresponding tool-library files. -Tools must be drawn with their gage-reference point at X,Y,Z=0. For lathe tools, this would be the drive point. (TOOL TIP or TOOL NOSE CTR) For other tooling this is normally the center of the tool tip. -Draw tool 1 on layer 1, tool 2 on layer 2, etc. #90 #190 #191 ===================SHELL RECORDER===========[F9]-191=== -To record your keystrokes for later playback... Select the FILES menu, then SHELL-RECORDER. -The system will ask you for the name of the file that you want. Type in a unique filename with no suffix. -Thereafter, everything you type, pick, digitize, or select from a menu will be recorded. To cancel this mode return to FILES:SHELL-RECORDER, then hit the [Enter] key without typing any filename. -To playback the file, select FILES:SHELL-FILE and type in the name of the file, or use [Ins] to select from a directory-menu. \151 -See also: SHELL FILES (running shell programs) \876 -See also: SHELL COMPILER (to regen an edited shell) \0 (more...) #9 (SHELL RECORDER - continued) -It is imperative that you TYPE-IN values rather than DIGITIZING locations from the screen when editing or creating geometry. (The view window or defaults for radius, angle, etc. may differ when the shell is run.) -Both a useable shell program (.SHL) and an editable source NC/BASIC program (.NCB) will be created. If you change the source (.NCB) then make sure you recompile it via the SHELL COMPILER before attempting to use it. -If you plan on editing the source code (.NCB) file, be careful about HOW you pick geometry. For instance, if you "digitize" a window, then later increase the size of the part, the digitized window may no longer be large enough. Refer to the AADK documentation for further details on shell programming. #90 #200 #201 ======================GEOM MENU======================== -GEOMetry is used to build and draw parts. These parts may be plotted and/or machined later. -This user-constructed geometry can be placed on layer 0 until you get more familiar with the system. -Other GEOMetry will be created by the GROUP and OPERS menus. This will be placed in unused layers. \1132-Specific GEOM MENU Selections... #90 #210 =====================POINT MENU======================== -POINTs are often used for construction. They are not recommended for use as HOLES. Use the CIRCLE definitions for HOLES. -After you have built construction POINTs, you may snap any other geometry construction points to them by use of the [F2] key. \0 (more...) #211 ==================POINT BY POSITION=========[F9]-211=== -To construct a POINT at a given location: Select the GEOM menu, then the POINT type, then the POSITION method. (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [P] key. -The system will ask for the location. You may type in the coordinate data, (equations are permitted) or digitize the location with your locator. (Mouse or pad) -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the point will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #212 =================POINT BY POLAR COORD=======[F9]-212=== -To construct a POINT by distance from zero and angle: Select the GEOM menu, then the POINT type, then the POLAR method. -The system will ask you for the actual distance to the desired point from zero. \1165-You will be asked for the angle counterclockwise \1165 from the right horizontal. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the point will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #213 ================POINT AT CIRCLE CENTER======[F9]-213=== -To construct a POINT at the center of a circle: Select the GEOM menu, then the POINT type, then the CIRCLE CENTER method. -The system will ask you to pick a geometry item. -A point will be constructed at the center of the item that was chosen. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the point will be attached to it. -Note: Although this is normally used to construct a point at a CIRCLE center, it can also be used to put a point at an ARC center or LINE midpoint. \0 (more...) #214 #1007 =====================BREAK POINT============[F9]-214=== -To break an existing geometry item and construct a POINT at the break: Select the GEOM menu, then the POINT type, then the BREAKPOINT method. -The system will ask you to enter a location. -A point will be constructed at the nearest point on the nearest existing line or arc. -The line or arc will be broken into two items at the location of the point, unless it is at an endpoint. -If you wish to break group geometry, remember to first set the layer and layer mask to that group's layer. -You may also use the [Alt]-[K] command to set LAYER & LAYER MASK to make a "breakpoint on a given layer." #90 #220 =====================LINE MENU========================= -LINEs are used to describe part contours as well as for construction purposes. -After the required lines are described, they may be further modified by the TRIM/EXTEND, FILLET, and CHAMFER selections. -When the system needs to define a line but you have not specified a length for the line, the scale width of the screen itself is used for a line length. \0 (more...) #221 ==================LINE BY 2 END POS=========[F9]-221=== -To construct a LINE through two known coordinates: Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the 2 END POS method. (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [L] key. -You will be prompted to enter two endpoints. To use existing endpoints or to construct a new endpoint at another entity or the intersection of two entities, use the [F2], [F3] or [F4] keys. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the line will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #222 ==================LINE TAN 2 GEOMS==========[F9]-222=== -To construct a LINE tangent to 2 other items: Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the TAN 2 GEOMS method. -You will be prompted to pick two geometry items. These items can NOT be other LINEs. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the line will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #223 #1021 ==================LINE BY ANG & GEOM========[F9]-223=== -To construct a LINE tangent an item at a given angle: Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the ANG & GEOM method. \1165-You will be asked for the angle in degrees. You may \1165 use an equation such as "ATN(0.67)" (angle w/tangent \1165 of 0.67) or "DMS(15.2250)" (15 degrees, 22 minutes, \1165 50 seconds) -You must then digitize the item that the line is to be tangent to. The line will be built on the side of that item nearest to where you selected it. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the line will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #224 ==================LINE AS A CHAMFER=========[F9]-224=== -To construct a LINE that will be a chamfer: Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the CHAMFER method. -You will be asked for the chamfer width. This is the size of the chamfer as measured "along the items to be chamfered." This is a modal value and needs only to be entered when changed. -You must then digitize (pick) the two items that the chamfer is to be located on. "Where" you select the two items determines which side(s) of them it will be located on. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the line will be attached to it. #225 ===================HORIZONTAL LINE===================== -To construct a horizontal LINE: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the HORIZONTAL method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 225 and hit [Enter]. -You will be asked to digitize a POSITION as a mid- point for the new line. You may use any locator mode to select this position. -After the line is built, you may use TRIM/EXTEND, FILLET, or CHAMFER to adjust its endpoints. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the line will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #226 ====================VERTICAL LINE===========[F9]-226=== -To construct a vertical LINE: Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the VERTICAL method. -You will be asked to digitize a POSITION as a mid- point for the new line. You may use any locator mode to select this position. -After the line is built, you may use TRIM/EXTEND, FILLET, or CHAMFER to adjust its endpoints. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the line will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #227 ==============LINE BY POS & ANG TO LINE=====[F9]-227=== -To construct a LINE through a position but at an angle to another line: Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the POS & ANG TO L method. -You will be asked to digitize a POSITION as a mid- point for the new line. -You will be asked to pick the reference line and for the angle between that line and the new one. -After the line is built, you may use TRIM/EXTEND, FILLET, or CHAMFER to adjust its endpoints. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the line will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #228 ====================PARALLEL LINE===========[F9]-228=== -To construct a LINE parallel to another line: Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the PARALLEL selection. -You will be asked to pick a reference line and for the distance between the two lines. -You will be asked to pick WHICH SIDE of the reference line that you want the new line to be placed. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the line will be attached to it. #90 #230 ======================ARC MENU========================= -ARCs are used to describe part contours. -After the required arcs are described, they may be further modified by the TRIM/EXTEND, FILLET, and CHAMFER selections. \0 (more...) #231 ===================ARC AS A FILLET==========[F9]-231=== -To construct an ARC as a fillet radius: Select the GEOM menu, then the ARC type, then the FILLET method. (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [F] key. -The system will ask you for a radius for the fillet. -You will be asked to select two items that the fillet will be tangent to. -The positions at which you select the two items will be used to determine exactly where the fillet will be placed. Select ON the segments to be retained. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the arc will be attached to it. -If the arc is inverted, hit [Alt]-[I] to re-invert it. #232 ===================ARC THRU 3 POS====================== -To construct an ARC through three points: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the ARC type, then the THRU 3 POS method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 232 and hit [Enter]. -The system will ask you to select three positions: a startpoint, a midpoint, and an endpoint. The PICK MODE in the INFO table may be used to construct these points. -If the 3 points are in a straight line or any two are the same, the system will display an error message. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the arc will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #233 ===================ARC TAN 3 GEOM===========[F9]-233=== -To construct an ARC tangent to three items: Select the GEOM menu, then the ARC type, then the TAN 3 GEOM method. -The system will ask you to select any three items. -Pick the items near the tangency points. This is necessary in order for the system to determine which of several possible solutions should be used. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the arc will be attached to it. -NOTE: The arc start and end points will be located as near as possible to where you digitized them. #90 #240 =====================CIRCLE MENU======================= -CIRCLEs are used for construction, to describe holes, or to describe contours. -After the required circles are described, they may be further modified by the TRIM/BREAK, FILLET, and CHAMFER selections. This will change a CIRCLE into an ARC, starting and/or ending at the trim/break location. -Circles are handy for describing holes because the drilling operations can discriminate by hole size. \0 (more...) #241 ==============CIRCLE BY CENTER AND RADIUS ==[F9]-241=== -To construct an CIRCLE by center and radius: Select the GEOM menu, then the CIRCLE type, then the CTR & RAD method. (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [C] key. -The system will ask you to select the center position. You may type in coordinate data, using equations if you like, or use the locator device. -You must then enter a radius or use the locator to digitize a point that the radius passes through. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the circle will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #242 ================ CIRCLE TAN 2 GEOMS==================== -To construct an CIRCLE tangent to two items: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the CIRCLE type, then the TAN 2 GEOMS method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 242 and hit [Enter]. -The system will ask you for a radius for the circle. -You will be asked to select two items that the circle will be tangent to. -The positions at which you select the two items will be used to determine exactly where the circle will be placed. Select near the tangency points. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the circle will be attached to it. -Often, there are numerous possible solutions to this definition. Pick 'near' the tangency points. #243 =================CIRCLE TAN 3 GEOMS=========[F9]-243=== -To construct an CIRCLE tangent to three items: Select the GEOM menu, then the CIRCLE type, then the TAN 3 GEOMS method. -You will be asked to select three items that the circle will be tangent to. -The positions at which you select the items will be used to determine exactly where the circle will be placed. Select near the tangency points. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the circle will be attached to it. \0 (more...) #244 ============CIRCLE BY CENTER TANGENT GEOM===[F9]-244=== -To construct an CIRCLE by center and geometry: Select the GEOM menu, then the CIRCLE type, then the CTR & GEOM method. -The system will ask you to select the center position. You may type in coordinate data, using equations if you like, or use the locator device. -Select a point, line, arc, or circle to which you want the new circle to be tangent. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the circle will be attached to it. #90 #250 ====================CURVE MENU========================= -Use these options to describe geometry composed of a series of moves spliced together into one long chain. -When you later attempt to "pick" a curve, only one segment of the curve will be picked. This segment may be very short. Thus, it is recommended that you zoom up on the chosen portion of a curve before trying to "pick" it for any reason. -CURVE USAGE SMOOTH GEOMS THRU-PTS NOTES: \252 CUBIC math no lines yes (tabcyl) \253 BEZIER CAD yes lines no 8 pts max \254 BSPLINE CAD yes lines no no end legs \255 ARC FIT CAM yes arcs yes not algebraic \256 ARC SER CAM no arcs yes irregular -SMOOTH means that each segment is tangent to the next. #90 #251 =================CURVE BY SEGMENTS==========[F9]-251=== -To construct an CURVE composed of line segments: Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the SEGMENTS method. -Use any pick mode (via [F2], [F3] or [F4]) that you like to construct the points. -When you are done, hit the [Ins] key. -This is handy for defining a part boundary that is made up of a series of lines that have defined endpoints, or 'corners.' #90 #252 ====================CUBIC CURVE=============[F9]-252=== -To construct an CURVE composed of short line segments that approximate a cubic curve: Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the CUBIC CURVE method. -Use any pick mode (via [F2], [F3] or [F4]) that you like to construct the points. -When you are done, hit the [Ins] key. -This method of curve-fitting requires a fairly even spacing of points. If they are too close, many short zig-zag moves will be generated. If they are too far apart, the curve will bulge. #90 #253 ===================BEZIER CURVE=============[F9]-253=== -To construct a BEZIER CURVE: Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the BEZIER method. -Use any pick mode (via [F2], [F3] or [F4]) that you like to construct the points. -Enter three to eight points. -When you are done, hit the [Ins] key. -A series of line segments will be used to generate the curve to an accuracy based on the MAX CUSP. (INFO) #90 #254 ===================B-SPLINE CURVE===========[F9]-254=== -To construct a B-SPLINE CURVE: Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the B-SPLINE method. -Use any pick mode (via [F2], [F3] or [F4]) that you like to construct the points. -Enter a start point (NOT necessarily ON the curve), then the points on the curve, then a pull-off point. (NOT necessarily ON the curve) -When you are done, hit the [Ins] key. -A series of line segments will be used to generate the curve to an accuracy based on the MAX CUSP. (INFO) #90 #255 ====================ARCFIT CURVE============[F9]-255=== -To construct an ARCFIT curve: Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the ARCFIT method. -Use any pick mode (via [F2], [F3] or [F4]) desired when constructing the points. -When you are done, hit the [Ins] key. -One or two tangent arcs will be constructed along each span between points. -Reducing MAX CUSP (INFO) will enforce tangency to a higher precision. To preserve tangency, irregularities (ripples or flats) may be introduced into the resultant curve. -Normally CTRL KEY should be set to 0 for ARCFIT. #90 #256 =====================ARC SERIES=============[F9]-256=== -To construct an ARC SERIES curve: Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the ARC SERIES method. -Use any pick mode (via [F2], [F3] or [F4]) that you like to construct the points. -When you are done, hit the [Ins] key. -A series of short arcs will be used to generate the curve to an accuracy based on the MAX CUSP. (INFO) -The resultant arcs will not be precisely tangent to one another. \255 -For tangent arcs, use ARC FIT. #90 #260 =====================PATTERNS========================== -The PATTERNS menu permits you to build specialized geometry that is constructed of several points, arcs, lines, and/or circles. -A pattern can NOT be handled as a single entity. When you use a PATTERN, the individual geometry items are single entities. Thus, if you think that you may want to deal with the entire pattern as a single entity, then put it on it's own layer. \261 BHC (bolt-hole-circle) \262 HOLE-GRID (array of holes) \263 RECTANGLE (aligned with XY axes) \264 POLYGON (3, 4, 6, 10... sided regular polygons) \265 ELLIPSE (made up of line segments) \266 GEAR (entire or partial) #90 #261 ========================BHC=================[F9]-261=== -To construct a BOLT-HOLE-CIRCLE: Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the BHC selection. -You will be asked for the center of the pattern, the radius of the pattern, the start angle (from center to the first hole), the end angle (from center to the last hole), and the number of holes. -You will be asked to enter the hole diameter. The default is the same as the tool width. If you enter a zero, POINTS will be generated instead of CIRCLES. #90 #262 =======================GRID=================[F9]-262=== -To construct a GRID PATTERN: Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the GRID selection. -You will be asked for the location of the first hole. -You will then be asked for the shift on X and Y. You may enter the location of a diagonally adjacent hole. -The next two prompts determine the number of holes across (X) and down (Y). -You will be asked to enter the hole diameter. The default is the same as the tool width. If you enter a zero, POINTS will be generated instead of CIRCLES. #90 #263 =====================RECTANGLE==============[F9]-263=== -To construct a RECTANGLE: Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the RECTANGLE selection. -You will be asked to select the two corners of the rectangle. You may type in the coordinates or pick them with the locator device. -Four LINES will be constructed, representing the selected rectangle. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the rectangle will be attached to the lines. #90 #264 ======================POLYGON===============[F9]-264=== -To construct a POLYGON: Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the POLYGON selection. -You will be asked for the center of the pattern, the radius of the pattern, and the number of sides. -The resultant polygon will be circumscribed on the specified radius and aligned with the X axis. #90 #265 ======================ELLIPSE===============[F9]-265=== -To construct an ELLIPSE: Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the ELLIPSE selection. -You will be asked for the center of the pattern, the X radius of the pattern, and the Y radius. All three values may be digitized. -A series of line segments will be used to generate the ellipse to an accuracy based on the MAX CUSP. (INFO) #90 #266 ===================GENERATE GEAR============[F9]-266=== -To construct an GEAR form: Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the GEAR pattern. -The system will prompt you for the basic statistics of the gear: Num Teeth, Pres Angle, and Pitch Dia. -The system will also ask for optional data. If you skip these values, a default will be chosen based on AGMA standards. -If you want a printout of the data, hit [Ins] when the system asks you to. -The gear will be generated to an accuracy specified in the INFO table under TOLERANCE. \0 (more...) (GEAR - continued) -When you generate a gear, a series of arcs will be made that closely approximate the desired gear form. If a flank-angle is required, short line-segments may also be generated. -When you later attempt to "pick" a gear, only one segment of the gear will be picked. This segment may be very short. Thus, it is recommended that you zoom up on the chosen portion of a gear before trying to "pick" it for any reason. -You may enter a negative value (representing CTT total CLEARANCE) for CIRC TOOTH THICKNESS if that value is unknown. #90 #270 =====================SERIES MENU======================= -These items build geometry based on a series of lines and arcs. -The lines and arcs are selected by CHAINING them together by common endpoints and/or startpoints. \271 CORNER-BLENDS (fillet all sharp corners) \272 CORNER-BREAKS (chamfer all sharp corners) \273 HOLE-TRAIN (holes along a contour) \274 OFFSET-CHAIN (duplicate geoms offset a given dist) #90 #271 ====================CORNER-BLENDS===========[F9]-271=== -To put CORNER BLENDS on a series of lines and arcs: Select the GEOM menu, then the SERIES type, then the CORNER-BLEND selection. -You will be asked for a clockwise and a counter-clock- wise radius. This refers to the "chaining" direction; not necessarily the same direction the a tool might machine the contour. -You will be asked to select a chain of lines and arcs to blend. -All sharp corners on the chain will be replaced by the specified corner-radius. -If the chain is closed, a corner-blend will also be placed on the start/end intersection. #90 #272 ====================CORNER-BREAKS===========[F9]-272=== -To put CORNER BREAKS on a series of lines and arcs: Select the GEOM menu, then the SERIES type, then the CORNER-BREAK selection. -You will be asked for the chamfer length. This is the distance the chamfer will "move-back" from theoretical sharp-corners. -You will be asked to select a chain of lines and arcs to break corners on. -All sharp corners on the chain will be replaced by the specified corner-break. -If the chain is closed, a corner-break will also be placed on the start/end intersection. #90 #273 =====================HOLE-TRAIN=============[F9]-273=== -To generate a train of equally-spaced holes: Select the GEOM menu, then the SERIES type, then the HOLE-TRAIN selection. -You will be asked to select a chain of lines and arcs that the hole train is to be placed upon. -You will be prompted for the spacing between holes. -You will be asked to enter the hole diameter. If you enter a zero, POINTS will be generated instead of CIRCLES. #90 #274 ====================OFFSET CHAIN============[F9]-274=== -To put an OFFSET CHAIN of lines and arcs parallel to existing geometry: Select the GEOM menu, then the SERIES type, then the OFFSET CHAIN selection. -You will be asked to select a chain of lines and arcs to blend. -You will be asked to enter the distance that the new geometry is to be offset. -You will be asked to select a point indicating which side to offset the new geometry chain. This must be relative the first geometry item in the chain. #90 #300 #301 ======================DISP MENU======================== -The DISPlay menu is used to control exactly what gets shown on the screen. -To zoom in on something, use the VIEW WINDOW command. -To back away, use the VIEW ALL command. -To experiment, use the TUMBLE command. -To print or plot, use the HARDCOPY command. \1133-Specific DISP MENU Selections... #310 #311 =====================DISP WINDOW============[F9]-311=== -To zoom a portion of the part up to fit the screen: Select the DISP menu, then the WINDOW selection. (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [W] key. -The system will ask you to select two opposite corners of the area that you want to zoom in on. -You may type in the coordinates of the window corners or digitize them with your locator device. -If you change your mind while doing this, you may hit the [Esc] key or its equivalent on the locator. #320 #321 ======================DISP PAN==============[F9]-321=== -To move the center of the view on the screen: Select the DISP menu, then the PAN selection. -The system will ask you to select a new center. The position that you enter will be moved to the middle of the screen. #330 #331 ====================DISP VIEW ALL===========[F9]-331=== -To view the entire part on the screen: Select the DISP menu, then the VIEW ALL selection. (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [V] key. -The system will pause briefly to scan the entire part for its extents, then clear the screen and redraw the part, centered and scaled to fit. #340 #341 ===================DISP PREV VIEW===========[F9]-341=== -To go back to the previous view: Select the DISP menu, then the PREV VIEW selection. (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [J] key. -The view that was previously present will be restored. -If geometry has been added, edited, or deleted, then the new geometry will be displayed, not the geometry as it was when that view was last shown. -Up to eight previous views are maintained. #350 #351 =====================DISP REDRAW============[F9]-351=== -To redraw the current view: Select the DISP menu, then the REDRAW selection. (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [R] key. -This is handy when extremely large or small parts have been edited and remnants of the old part still clutter the screen. #360 #361 =====================DISP TUMBLE============[F9]-361=== -To interactively change the view: Select the DISP menu, then the TUMBLE selection. (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [T] key. -The system will ask you to enter the new center coordinates and the scale of the view. Rather than typing in these values, use the locator to select a position and the [F5] and [F6] keys to adjust the scale. You will be able to see a rough sketch of the new view as you position it. -When the view is correct, hit [Enter] to select it or [Esc] to cancel it. #370 ================PRINTOUTS & PLOTTING=================== -Use the DISP:HARDCOPY menu to make a selection: \371 -DISP: HARDCOPY: LIST (WINDOW, SELECT, or LAYER) \371 Prints a coordinate listing \374 -DISP: HARDCOPY: LIST GROUPS & OPS \374 Prints coordinates, feeds, etc. of groups & ops \375 -DISP: HARDCOPY: PRINT PART \375 Prints a graphic image of the part \376 -DISP: HARDCOPY: PRINT SCREEN \376 Prints a graphic image of the screen, w/menus, etc. \377 -DISP: HARDCOPY: PLOT PART \377 Draws an image of the part on the plotter -Or use the [Alt]-[N] key for an immediate printscreen. -The [PrtScreen] key is handled by DOS, and will not work correctly in most graphics modes. #90 #371 #372 #373 =====================LIST GEOMS=============[F9]-371=== -To list geometry items within a window: Select the DISP menu, then the HARDCOPY selection, then WINDOW. \1121-The system will ask you to select the geometry items \1121 that you wish to have listed. -The dimensional data for the selected geometry items will be listed to the printer. -If the LISTINGS (INFO) have been diverted to a file, then the geometry will be listed to that file rather than to the printer. #90 #374 ===================LIST GROUPS & OPS========[F9]-374=== -To list the contents of layers that have groups or operations: Select the DISP menu, then the HARDCOPY selection, then LIST GROUPS & OPS. -The entire part file will be listed, including the attribute tables (ATs), every operation, text/ctrl, and the file header. -If the LISTINGS (INFO) have been diverted to a file, then the part file will be listed to that file rather than to the printer. #90 #375 =====================PRINT PART=============[F9]-375=== -To display the current part on your printer: Select the DISP menu, then the HARDCOPY selection, then PRINT PART. -The current screen display will be temporarily changed and redrawn to fill the screen while printing. -This operation cannot be interrupted until it is done. #90 #376 ====================PRINT SCREEN============[F9]-376=== -To copy the screen to your printer: Select the DISP menu, then the HARDCOPY selection, then PRINT SCREEN. (...or..) Hold down the [Alt] key and hit the [N] key. -The current screen display, including prompts, menus, and tracking will be printed. -This operation cannot be interrupted until it is done. #90 #377 =====================PLOT PART==============[F9]-377=== -To make a plot file to drive your plotter: Select the DISP menu, then the HARDCOPY selection, then PLOT PART. -You will be asked to enter a scale. To map the entire screen to the entire paper, just hit [Enter]. To plot at a specific scale, enter that scale. The center of the screen will be mapped to the center of the paper. -For instance, if a part is drawn that is 24w X 12h, and must fit on a B-size paper (17w x 11h), then you should use a scale of approximately 0.7. -In most configurations, the system will drive the plotter immediately. #90 #400 #401 ======================EDIT MENU======================== 1) TRIM/EXTEND changes geometry endpoints to the intersections of other geometry items. BREAK severs a geometry item at it's intersection with another geometry item. 2) DELETE erases selected geometry. 3) MOVE is used to re-position geometry items. 4) COPY makes one or multiple duplicates of geometry. 5) STRETCH moves endpoints of selected geometry. 6) UNDO restores the part to the way it was before the previous command was issued. 7) MIRROR builds duplicate geometry that is flipped. 8) PROJECT modifies Z values to conform to a shape. \1134-Specific EDIT MENU Selections... #410 =====================TRIM/BREAK======================== The selections here permit you you change the endpoints of existing geometry items. \411 -TRIM BOTH chops or extends two items so that they end \411 at their intersection. \412 -TRIM MODAL permits you to clip off one or more items \412 at their intersection with another item. \413 -BREAK BOTH severs two geometry items at their inter- \413 section, creating two new geometry items. \414 -BREAK MODAL clips off items at their intersection \414 with another item, retaining all pieces. \415 -BREAK WINDOW breaks all geometry items enclosed in \415 a window, wherever they cross one-another. \416 -CONTINUITY TRIM finds very small inconsistencies \416 in geometry; trims, combines, or fixes them. #90 #411 #1003 =====================TRIM BOTH==============[F9]-411=== -To cause two geometry items to END at their inter- section: Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the TRIM BOTH selection. (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [X] key. -You will be asked to select two geometry items. The items will be trimmed at their intersection or will be extended to meet it. -"Where" you digitize these items determines which end of them will get trimmed off. You must select along the PORTION TO BE RETAINED. #90 #412 #1004 =====================TRIM MODAL=============[F9]-412=== -To change the length of one or more geometry items so that they end at a specified arc, circle, or line: Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the TRIM MODAL selection. -You will be asked to select a trimming item. -You will then be asked to select the items to trim. Select each, then hit [Esc] to terminate this mode. -"Where" you digitize these items determines which end of them will get trimmed off. You must select along the PORTION TO BE REMOVED. #90 #413 #1005 =====================BREAK BOTH=============[F9]-413=== -To break two geometry items into two: Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the BREAK BOTH selection (...or...) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [B] key. -Select the two items to be broken. -If either item is a circle or arc, then there may be two possible locations where the break can occur. If this is the case, the location closest to "where" you digitized will be chosen. #90 #414 #1006 =====================BREAK MODAL============[F9]-414=== -To break geometry items at a given line or arc: Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the BREAK MODAL selection -Select the line or arc that will be used to break the other geometry items. -Select the geometry items to break in two. They will be broken at their intersection with the breaking line or arc. Both portions will be retained, so the image will appear no different after the command. -If an item is a circle or arc, then there may be two possible locations where the break can occur. If this is the case, the location closest to "where" you digitized will be chosen. #90 #415 =====================BREAK WINDOW===========[F9]-415=== -To break all geometry items (within a window) that intersect one another: Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the BREAK WINDOW selection \1121-Put a window around the geometry items to be broken. -All geometry items that are entirely within the window will be broken at all intersections with other selected geometry items. -Use this command with care, as it can break up your part-program into hundreds (or thousands) of small arcs and lines. \422 -After this command, use EDIT:DELETE:SELECT to delete \422 the geometry remnants. \0 (more...) #9 (BREAK WINDOW - continued) -Caution: After using BREAK WINDOW, do not use the TRIM BOTH instruction. It will not be necessary, and you can very easily extend lines (and arcs) across other lines (and arcs), creating redundant (and often confusing) geometry. -Note: This is a memory-intensive instruction. Be sure to save (back-up) the part-program first in case of a memory allocation error. #90 #416 ===================CONTINUITY TRIM==========[F9]-416=== -To trim/combine/delete selected geometry items to form a continuous string of geometry: Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the CONTINUITY TRIM selection. \1120-Select the geometry by window, select, chain, or layer \1120 number. -Enter the desired check distance. This is typically the same as the TOLERANCE value in the INFO table. -The system will search for infinitesimal, overlapping, and coincident geometry; then for gaps between the endpoints of geometry items. -If discontinuities are found, the system will ask you to hit the [Ins] key if you want it to correct them. #90 #420 #421 #422 #423 #424 #425 #426 #427 #428 #429 =====================EDIT DELETE============[F9]-421=== -To delete a geometry item or group of items: Select the EDIT menu, then the DELETE selection. \1121-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1121 around them. \1122-You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key \1122 when you have selected all you want to. \1123-You may select all of the items connected by common \1123 endpoints on the same layer. \1124-You may select all items within a digitized (lasso) \1124 area. -The selected items will be erased from the part as well as from the screen. -A one-item-delete is available using the [Del] key. #90 #430 #431 #432 #433 #434 #435 #436 #437 ======================EDIT MOVE=============[F9]-431=== -To move a geometry item or group of items: Select the EDIT menu, then the MOVE selection. \1121-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1121 around them. \1122-You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key \1122 when you have selected all you want to. \1123-You may select all of the items connected by common \1123 endpoints on the same layer. \1124-You may select all items within a digitized (lasso) \1124 area. -Once you have selected the items, they will begin flashing, ready for you to locate. \0 (more...) #9 (EDIT MOVE - continued) -The system will ask you for the reference point. This is the point from which you want the move to occur. If you wish to specify a distance, then the X, Y, and Z should be set to zero. (0) -The system will ask you for the destination point. This may be entered numerically, or by digitizing using the locator and the [F7] or [F8] keys. \1165-If you specify an angle of rotation, it will be \1165 pivoted about the reference point. -To cancel this operation, hit the [Esc] key. #90 #440 #441 #442 #443 #444 #445 #446 #447 ======================EDIT COPY=============[F9]-441=== -To copy a geometry item or group of items: Select the EDIT menu, then the COPY selection. \1121-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1121 around them. \1122-You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key \1122 when you have selected all you want to. \1123-You may select all of the items connected by common \1123 endpoints on the same layer. \1124-You may select all items within a digitized (lasso) \1124 area. -Once you have selected the items, they will begin flashing, ready for you to locate. \0 (more...) #9 (EDIT COPY - continued) -The system will ask you for the reference point. This is the point from which you want the copies to occur. If you wish to specify a distance, then the X, Y, and Z should be set to zero. (0) -The system will ask you for the destination point. This may be entered numerically, or by digitizing using the locator and the [F7] or [F8] keys. \1165-If you specify an angle of rotation, it will be \1165 pivoted about the reference point. -To cancel this operation, hit the [Esc] key. -If you enter the values rather than digitizing, the system will then ask you how many times you wish to copy the geometry. This count is the TOTAL number of copies, not including the original. #90 #450 #451 ====================EDIT STRETCH============[F9]-451=== -To change the endpoint(s) of geometry item or group of items: Select the EDIT menu, then the STRETCH selection. \1121-You must place a window around the endpoints to be \1121 moved. All items entirely within this window will be \1121 moved, and all LINES that have one endpoint inside \1121 then window will be stretched. -You must then enter the amount of offset on X, Y, and Z for the new endpoints. This value may be digitized from the locator device. -If you wish to stretch one end of a Z-only line, set the TYPE MASK in the info table to 3D PLANE. #90 #460 #461 =====================EDIT UNDO==============[F9]-461=== -To restore the part-program as it was before the last command: Select the EDIT menu, then the UNDO selection. (...or...) Hold down the [Alt] key and hit the [U] key. -The last command that changed the part-program will be "undone", restoring the part-program to where it was before that command was executed. -A subsequent UNDO will undo the command previous to the last command that was UNDONE. -We recommend that you use the [Alt]-[U] rather than the menu selections, to prevent an accidental (extra) UNDO if you should happen to hit the [Ins] key. #90 #470 #471 #472 #473 =====================EDIT MIRROR============[F9]-471=== -To mirror a geometry item or group of items: Select the EDIT menu, then the MIRROR selection. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them, or by selection or chaining. -You will be asked to choose whether to mirror about the Y axis (DUP LEFT/RIGHT), X axis (DUP TOP/BOTTOM), or an existing line. (FLIP OVER LINE) -If (LEFT/RIGHT) or (TOP/BOTTOM) is selected, the original geometry will remain unchanged. If (FLIP OVER LINE) is selected, the geometry will be moved. -CDC is automatically reversed on mirrored geometry. #90 #480 #481 #482 #483 #484 #485 #486 #487 #1041 ====================PROJECT ONTO============[F9]-481=== -To project a group of items onto a cross-section: Select the EDIT menu then the PROJECT ONTO selection. \1120-You may select a series of items by putting a window \1120 around them, or by selection or chaining. -The system will ask you to select a second series of geometry items by chaining. This is called the "cross-section". It may be defined to the left or right or above or below the first series of geometry. -Think of this as taking a front or side view, then using it to "push up" a toolpath from below. (in Z) -The cross-section is rotated into a front view or side view position, and the startpoint of the cross-section is relocated to a Z level of zero. \0 (more...) #9 #1041 (PROJECT ONTO - continued) -The selected geometry items will be "projected" onto the cross-section as if the cross-section were a front view or side view. -If any arcs are present in the selected geometry, they will be broken into line-segments with an accuracy determined by the MAX CUSP value. -Only geometry that is currently below (more negative in Z) than the cross-section will be projected. This means that geometry is projected upward (in Z) onto the cross-section. -This is a memory-intensive instruction. Be sure to save (back-up) the part-program first in case of a memory allocation error. \0 (more...) #9 #1041 (PROJECT ONTO - continued) -In most cases, the cross-section should be offset to compensate for tool-nose radius before the PROJECT- ONTO is done. This is because this is a geometry EDIT function, not a machining operation, and ignores any tool shape information. -Typically, the cross-section begins with a top-surface (Z=0) that extends beyond (wider or taller than) the top-view, to assure that all of the toolpath will be projected. -In the example shown, note that: 1. The OPERATION (ZIGZAG) was performed first. 2. The cross-section has been offset by the tool rad. 3. The pick-location (3. on the cross-section) is ON the Z0 surface. #90 #500 ======================INFO MENU======================== -The INFO MENU is used to manipulate the values in the INFO TABLE at the left edge of the screen; or modify the tool library, material library, or setup file. -For help regarding this INFO, move the cursor into the INFO TABLE and hit the HELP key again, or move to a selection in this menu and hit the HELP key. \1135-Specific INFO MENU Selections... #510 #511 ===================READ GEOM INFO===========[F9]-511=== -To read all INFO from an existing geometry item, and place it into the INFO TABLE: Select the INFO menu, then the READ GEOM INFO selection. -You will be asked to select the item that you want to fetch the INFO from. -All INFO regarding that item will be placed into the INFO table at the left of the screen. -INFO that is NOT attached to an item will NOT be updated by this operation. #90 #520 #521 #522 #523 #524 #525 #526 #527 ==================WRITE TO GEOMS============[F9]-521=== -To apply the entire INFO table (except layer number) to selected geometry items: Select the INFO menu, then the WRITE TO GEOMS selection. \1120-You may select the items to change by placing a window \1120 around them, selecting them individually, or you may \1120 pick the start of a chain of items. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the geometry items selected, except for layer number which will remain unchanged. -You cannot use this command to change LAYER numbers. \531 (Use ALTER GEOMS for this) #90 #530 #531 #532 #533 #534 #535 #536 #537 ====================ALTER GEOMS=============[F9]-531=== -To change one INFO TABLE value on selected geometry items: Select the INFO menu, then the ALTER GEOMS selection. \1120-You will be asked to select the items to be changed. -You will be asked to change an item in the INFO table. Pick any ONE INFO table entry, enter the desired value for it, and the system will change that item in ALL of the selected items. -You may also move items from one layer to another by using this function. #90 #1108 ========CHANGING OPER MODES BETWEEN CAM AND CAD======== -The system changes "personality" to suit the type of work you are doing. When you initially load a SETUP file, that setup file sets several factors, including this "OPER MODE". If you load a different SETUP file, it may alter the mode again. -You may change the OPER MODE without loading a new SETUP file. This is often done to add detailing (CAD) to a lathe part, or switch between 2D and 3D milling. \1110 Changing the OPER MODE \541 Loading a SETUP file \700 OPER commands available under various OPER modes #1305 #1110 ================CHANGING THE OPER MODE================= -To change the OPER MODE: a) Hit [Esc] (Mouse button 3) to erase any INFO table Pick the top push-button in the status area Pick the desired OPER MODE b) Hit the [F1] key Pick OPER... (from the INFO table) Pick the desired OPER MODE \700 -OPER MODES: \700 CONTOUR (2 axis machines) WIRE-EDM (2 or 4 axis) \700 MILL (2-1/2 axis milling) PUNCH-PRESS (& flame-cut) \700 LATHE (turning centers) 3D-OPERS (3-axis milling) \700 DETAILING (CAD, design and drafting) #90 #79 =====================SETUP FILES======================= -A SETUP file is a file with a ".SET" file-type. It contains the machining parameters for a given machine, material, and tool setup. For instance, you may have a setup file for milling ALuminum Manifolds on a KORi machine. You might call this file AL-M-KOR. Remember that the file name must be eight characters or less! -The setup file contains the post-processor, material- library, and tool-library names. The INFO TABLE is also stored in the setup file. \40 -The post-processor that you select determines what \40 NC/CNC machine the tape will run on. \541 -See also: Loading a SETUP file \542 -See also: Saving a SETUP file \543 -See also: Editing SETUP file values #540 #541 =====================LOAD SETUP=============[F9]-541=== -To load setup parameters for a specific machine: Select the INFO menu, then the SETUP FILE selec- tion, then LOAD FILE. -You will be prompted for a SETUP name. If a ".SET" file of the given name is found, that setup will be loaded. -If the setup file contains tool or material libraries then those libraries will also be loaded. -If the setup file contains a post-processor name, then when you POST-PROCESS, the system will NOT ask you for the name of the machine. -The current INFO TABLE is also stored in SETUP files. #542 =====================SAVE SETUP=============[F9]-542=== -To make a setup file for a specific type of work: Select the INFO menu, then the SETUP FILE selec- tion, then SAVE FILE. -You will be prompted for a SETUP name. At this point you may either type in a setup file name, or use the [Ins] key for a directory menu. -The current INFO table will be saved in the setup file along with the names of the current material and tool libraries and the name of the post-processor. #543 =====================EDIT SETUP=============[F9]-543=== -To edit a setup file for a specific type of work: Select the INFO menu, then the SETUP FILE selec- tion, then EDIT VALUES. -At this point, you may edit the full INFO table. When are values are set as desired, hit the [Ins] key. -You will be asked to select a material library, tool library, and post-processor. While selecting each of these, you may use the [Ins] key for a directory menu. When you are done, hit the [Ins] key to continue. -This instruction does NOT save the file. To make the changes permanant, you must then SAVE the SETUP FILE. #90 #550 #551 ===================LOAD MTRL LIB============[F9]-551=== -To read the INFO from a material library: Select the INFO menu, then the MTRL LIB selection, then LOAD FILE. -The system will ask you for the name of the library. You may hit the [Ins] key for a menu if desired. -Some INFO values are stored in material libraries. Those values will be changed every time you change the OPERATION in the INFO TABLE. -Other INFO values are affected by the material library. Those values will be changed when OPERATIONS or TOOLS are changed. #552 ====================SAVE MTRL LIB===========[F9]-552=== -To save the INFO to a material library: Select the INFO menu, then the MTRL LIB selection, then SAVE FILE. -The system will ask you for the name of the library. You may hit the [Ins] key for a menu if desired. -The INFO table itself contains separate values for each OPERATION, although you only see one operation at a time. All "mlib" values for ALL OPERATIONS will be written out to the library. #553 ====================EDIT MTRL LIB===========[F9]-553=== -To edit the INFO in a material library: Select the INFO menu, then the MTRL LIB selection, then EDIT VALUES. -The system will allow you to edit the currently loaded material library. If none is loaded, current contents of the INFO table are used as defaults. -When you select a different OPERATION, the entire INFO table will be swapped with that operation. In this way, you can edit all of the operation types. -When you are done, hit the [Ins] key. -This instruction does NOT save the file. To make the changes permanant, you must then SAVE the MTRL LIB. #90 #560 #561 ===================LOAD TOOL LIB============[F9]-561=== -To read the INFO from a tool library: Select the INFO menu, then the TOOL LIB selection, then LOAD FILE. -The system will ask you for the name of the library. You may hit the [Ins] key for a menu if desired. -Some INFO values are stored in these tool libraries. Those values will be changed every time you change the TOOL NUMBER in the INFO TABLE. -Other INFO values are affected by the tool library. Those values will be changed when OPERATIONS or TOOLS are changed. #562 ====================SAVE TOOL LIB===========[F9]-562=== -To save the INFO to a tool library: Select the INFO menu, then the TOOL LIB selection, then SAVE FILE. -The system will ask you for the name of the library. You may hit the [Ins] key for a menu if desired. -The INFO table itself contains separate values for each TOOL NUMBER, although you only see one TOOL at a time. All "tlib" values for ALL TOOLS will be written out to the library. #563 ====================EDIT TOOL LIB===========[F9]-563=== -To edit the INFO in a tool library: Select the INFO menu, then the TOOL LIB selection, then EDIT VALUES. -The system will allow you to edit the currently loaded tool library. If none is loaded, current contents of the INFO table are used as defaults. -When you select a different TOOL NUMBER, the entire INFO table will be swapped with that tool. In this way, you can edit all 100 tools. (0 through 99) -When you are done, hit the [Ins] key. -This instruction does NOT save the file. To make the changes permanant, you must then SAVE the TOOL LIB. #90 #570 #571 #572 #573 #574 #575 #576 #577 #578 #579 ===================SET DIRECTORY============[F9]-579=== -To change the default directory path for a given type of file: Select the INFO menu, then the SET DIRECTORY selection, then the type of file to be affected. (...or...) Hit the [F9] key, then enter a number from the list below and hit [Enter]. To set the path for: PART-PROGRAMS 571 TAPE FILES 572 POSTS 573 TOOL LIBRARIES 574 MATERIAL LIBRARIES 575 CAD/IGES/DXF/CADL 576 PART-PROGRAMS and TAPE FILES both the same 579 (Also accessable via the backslash key: [\]) -The system will display the current directory path, then ask you to enter a new path. #90 #600 =====================GROUP MENU======================== -The GROUP menu permits you to label a series of geometry items as a group. -Typical GROUPs include: hole patterns, part outlines, pockets, clamps, rough stock, and open boundaries. -This step is required before any machining can be done. All NC/CNC operations take place on GROUPs. \610 OUTLINE (contours to be machined on the outside) \620 POCKET (contours to be machined on the inside) \630 FACE (contours to be machined on the right or top) \640 HOLES (for drilling or punching) \650 STOCK (edge of material to be removed) \660 CLAMP (contours to be avoided) \670 BOUNDARY (for a single open contour) #610 #611 #612 #613 #614 #615 #616 #617 ===================GROUP: OUTLINE===========[F9]-613=== -To label a group as an OUTLINE: Select the GROUP menu, then the OUTLINE selection. \1121-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1121 around them. \1122-You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key \1122 when you have selected all you want to. \1123-You may select all of the items connected by common \1123 endpoints on the same layer. \1124-You may select all items within a digitized (lasso) \1124 area. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #620 #621 #622 #623 #624 #625 #626 #627 ===================GROUP: POCKET============[F9]-623=== -To label a GROUP as a POCKET: Select the GROUP menu, then the POCKET selection. \1121-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1121 around them. \1122-You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key \1122 when you have selected all you want to. \1123-You may select all of the items connected by common \1123 endpoints on the same layer. \1124-You may select all items within a digitized (lasso) \1124 area. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #630 #631 #632 #633 #634 #635 #636 #637 ====================GROUP: FACE=============[F9]-633=== -To label a GROUP as a FACE: Select the GROUP menu, then the FACE selection. \1121-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1121 around them. \1122-You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key \1122 when you have selected all you want to. \1123-You may select all of the items connected by common \1123 endpoints on the same layer. \1124-You may select all items within a digitized (lasso) \1124 area. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #640 #641 #642 ====================GROUP: HOLES============[F9]-641=== -To label a GROUP as HOLES: Select the GROUP menu, then the HOLES selection. \1121-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1121 around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed \1121 within the window are selected. You may select ALL \1121 the items within the window, or just the circles that \1121 have a range of radii. This is done by picking the \1121 smallest circle then the largest circle desired. (or) \1122-You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key \1122 when you have selected all you want to. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #650 #651 #652 #653 #654 #655 #656 #657 ====================GROUP: STOCK============[F9]-653=== -To label a GROUP as STOCK: Select the GROUP menu, then the STOCK selection. \1121-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1121 around them. \1122-You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key \1122 when you have selected all you want to. \1123-You may select all of the items connected by common \1123 endpoints on the same layer. \1124-You may select all items within a digitized (lasso) \1124 area. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #660 #661 #662 #663 #664 #665 #666 #667 ====================GROUP: CLAMP============[F9]-661=== -To label a GROUP as an CLAMP: Select the GROUP menu, then the CLAMP selection. \1121-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1121 around them. \1122-You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key \1122 when you have selected all you want to. \1123-You may select all of the items connected by common \1123 endpoints on the same layer. \1124-You may select all items within a digitized (lasso) \1124 area. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #670 #671 #672 #673 #674 #675 #676 #677 ====================GROUP: BOUNDARY=========[F9]-673=== -To label a BOUNDARY for machining an open contour: Select the GROUP menu, then the BOUNDARY selection. \1121-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1121 around them. * \1122-You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key \1122 when you have selected all you want to. \1123-You may select all of the items connected by common \1123 endpoints on the same layer. \1124-You may select all items within a digitized (lasso) \1124 area. * -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. *These two methods are NOT recommended for creating a BOUNDARY type of GROUP. #90 #700 #1400 #1600 #1700 #1800 #1900 =====================OPERS MENU======================== -The resultant operation will be stored as new geometry with the current INFO on the next vacant layer. -The OPER MODE in the INFO TABLE must be set to an appropriate mode in order to access the OPER MENU selections: (...or to CAD/Detailing mode...) \1141 CONTOUR Finish Drill Manual \1142 MILL Finish Drill Profile Zigzag Plunge Hog-Area \1143 LATHE Finish Drill Profile Turn Thread Groove R/F \1144 WIRE-EDM Finish Reverse Two-plane Mult-Pass Burnout \1145 P-PRESS Burn Punch Nibble Nibble-Punch Bridge-Hit \1146 3D OPERS Finish Sweep Swarf Multi-Z \1147 DETAIL Note Label Dimension Crosshatch #90 #710 #711 #1410 #1411 #1510 #1511 #1610 #1611 #1710 #1711 #1810 #1811 =====================POSITION===============[F9]-711=== -To move the tool to a given position for setup, tool- change, or any other purpose: Select the OPERS menu, then the POSITION selection. -You will be asked to enter the position by typing in the coordinates or by digitizing from the locator. -Set the feed, tool specs, and so on, to the desired values. -Note: If you change tool numbers on a POSITION, then all of the INFO on that POSITION will be ignored when the part is post-processed. Instead feeds, speeds, and so forth will be read from the next toolpath. This allows you to ignore such settings when using a POSITION as a toolchange location. #90 #720 #721 #1420 #1421 #1520 #1521 #1620 #1621 #1720 #1721 #1821 #1820 #1821 ======================FINISH================[F9]-721=== -To take a finish pass on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then FINISH. -Set the tool width, type, etc., to the desired values. \1376-Select the preferred APPROACH method. -You will be asked to select the desired GROUP by use of the locator device. -The system will pause to calculate the operation, then display the NC/CNC machine tool path. -The TOOL SIDE value (INFO item 8) is used to determine which side of the geometry the tool should follow. -If you are generating a 3-axis machine tape in 2D mode then the current Z will be ignored. Instead, the FULL- Z and the RETRACT-Z in the INFO table will be used. #90 #730 #731 #1430 #1431 =================DRILL CYCLES (MILL)========[F9]-731=== -To perform machine cycles on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then the CYCLES selection. \1114-Select the desired cycle. (in the INFO TABLE) If you \1114 use cycle 1, the system will peck-drill. If you use \1114 cycles 2..50, then a tapping cycle will be done (2-50 \1114 tpi or metric pitch 0.2 to 5.0). Otherwise NC/CNC \1114 machine cycles are selected. (G80..G89, etc.) -Set the feed, tool specs, z values, and so on. \1372-Set the sort method as desired. -You will be asked to select the desired GROUP. \1142-The RPLANE-Z, (abso) RETRACT-Z, and PECK from the INFO \1142 table will be used to determine the machining depths. \1139-See also: "C" operator for drill-point-angle comp #90 #1530 #1531 =================DRILL CYCLES (LATHE)=======[F9]-1531== -Select the OPERS menu, then the CYCLES selection. \1114-Select the desired cycle. (in the INFO TABLE) If you \1114 use cycle 1, the system will peck-drill. If you use \1114 cycles 2..50, then a tapping cycle will be done (2-50 \1114 tpi or metric pitch 0.2 to 5.0). Otherwise NC/CNC \1114 machine cycles are selected. (G80..G89, etc.) -Set the feed, tool specs, z values, and so on. -Enter the location of the bottom of the hole. -If a LIVE-DRILL is used, the direction is dependent on the tool orientation. Otherwise, the tool will machine in Z, being forced to an X value of zero. \1142-The RPLANE-Z, (abso) RETRACT-Z, and PECK from the INFO \1142 table will be used to determine the machining depths. \1139-See also: "C" operator for drill-point-angle comp #90 #740 #741 #1650 #1651 #1480 #1481 #1590 #1591 =====================MANUAL PATH============[F9]-741=== -To make a manual tool-path: Select the OPERS menu, then the MANUAL selection. -Set the speed, feed, tool specs, and so on, to the desired values. -You may digitize the desired moves that represent the tool-path motion. -If the 3D-PLANE flag is set to Z FROM INFO then the moves will be made at the FULL-Z depth. Otherwise, the Z values must be specified. #90 #1440 #1441 #1044 ===================PROFILE ROUGH============[F9]-1441== -To take roughing passes on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then PROFILE ROUGH. -Set the step, speed, feed, tool specs, and so on. \1376-Select the preferred APPROACH method. -Select the desired GROUP(s) then hit [Ins]. -Successive passes of a sut-width of STEP will be taken until TOT STOCK is removed, leaving only FIN STOCK. (The STEP should never be set to more than half of the tool width or stock "webs" may be left in some areas.) -POCKETS and STOCK will be internally roughed, whereas all other GROUPs will be externally roughed. -If you are generating a 3-axis machine tape in 2D mode then the current Z will be ignored. Instead, the FULL- Z and the RETRACT-Z in the INFO table will be used. #90 #1450 #1451 #1045 =======================ZIGZAG===============[F9]-1451== -To hog out material on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then the ZIGZAG selection. -Set the step, speed, feed, tool specs, and so on, to the desired values. -You will be asked to select the desired GROUP by use of the locator device. -The system will pause to calculate the operations, then display the NC/CNC machine tool path. -If you are generating a 3-axis machine tape in 2D mode then the current Z will be ignored. Instead, the FULL- Z and the RETRACT-Z in the INFO table will be used. -You may set the %STEP DEV to allow the passes to be "accordian-ed" to fit, leaving less finish stock. #90 #1460 #1461 =======================PLUNGE===============[F9]-1461== -To plunge (drill) rough a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then the PLUNGE selection. -Set the step, peck, feed, z-values, tool specs, and so on, to the desired values. -Set the CTRL KEY to 0 to select a HEX hole pattern, or to 11 to select a SQUARE pattern. -You will be asked to select the desired GROUP by use of the locator device. -The system will pause to calculate the operations, then display the NC/CNC machine tool path. -The current Z will be ignored. Instead, the FULL-Z and the RAPID-Z in the INFO table will be used. #90 #1470 #1471 ====================HOG AREA CLEAR==========[F9]-1471== -To hog out random material from a part: Select the OPERS menu, then the HOG AREA CLEAR selection. -Set the step, speed, feed, tool specs, and so on, to the desired values. -Sketch in the contour of the "pocket" to be machined. -To build another "pocket", hit the [Ins] key and sketch further. -To terminate, and perform the hogging operation, hit the [Ins] key twice. #90 #1540 #1541 ================LATHE PROFILE ROUGH=========[F9]-1541== -To take roughing passes on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then PROFILE ROUGH. -Set the step, speed, feed, tool type, and so on, to the desired values. \1317-See also: TOOL TYPE -To force a turning tool to cut a face, set the ANGLE to 90 degrees. Otherwise leave ANGLE alone. -You will be asked to select the desired GROUP. -The system will pause to calculate the operations, then display the NC/CNC machine tool path. \1116-Note: Make sure that TOOL REF is set up correctly! #90 #1550 #1551 #1057 ====================ROUGH TURN==============[F9]-1551== -To take turning passes on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then ROUGH TURN. -Set the step, speed, feed, tool type, and so on. \1317-See also: TOOL TYPE -You will be asked to select the desired GROUPs. This is usually a BOUNDARY that defines the finished part and STOCK that defines the rough piece. -Note that tool geometry is important in determining the pass directions, pullout angles, and so on. -ANGLE determines whether passes will be taken along Z (0 degrees) or along X (90 degrees). -You may set the %STEP DEV to allow the passes to be "accordian-ed" to fit, optimizing the toolpath. \1116-Note: Make sure that TOOL REF is set up correctly! #90 #1560 #1561 ======================THREADING=============[F9]-1561== -To take multiple passes on a thread: Select the OPERS menu, then THREAD. -Set the step, feed, speed, number of FIN PASSES, tool type and so on, to the desired values. \1317-See also: TOOL TYPE -You will be asked to select the thread start-point, end-point, and a cycle-point. The start- and end- points represent the final threading pass. The cycle- point is a safe retract position between passes. -Enter pitch, (INCHES/CM/MM) number of leads, and the thread depth (radial: stock to remove). -The first pass will be taken at the STEP depth from the INFO table. Successive passes get shallower. FIN PASSES determines the number of spring passes taken. #90 #1570 #1571 ====================GROOVE ROUGH============[F9]-1571== -To take plunge grooving passes on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then the GROOVE ROUGH selection. -Set the step, feed, speed, tool type and so on to the desired values. \1317-See also: TOOL TYPE -You will be asked to select the desired GROUP. -PECK DEPTH chip-break plunges will be made, stepping over each pass by the the STEP. A single revolution of dwell occurs at the end of each peck. -You may set the %STEP DEV to allow the passes to be "accordian-ed" to fit, leaving less finish stock. #90 #1580 #1581 #1058 ====================GROOVE FINISH===========[F9]-1581== -To take grooving cleanup passes on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then GROOVE FINISH. -Set the step, feed, speed, tool type and so on to the desired values. \1317-See also: TOOL TYPE -You will be asked to select the desired GROUP. -The tool will plunge inward along each side of every concavity in the contour. After each plunge, it will retract before positioning over the next plunge point. -Enter CDC REG in the form of LLRR, where LL is the REG number for the left corner and RR is the REG for the right. eg: CDC REG 0504=Use CDC registers 4 and 5. (Switched for LEFT tools) #90 #1630 #1631 ====================REVERSE FINISH==========[F9]-1631== -To take a reverse pass on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then the FINISH selection. -Set the tool width, feed, etc., to the desired values. -You will be asked to select the desired GROUP by use of the locator device. -The system will pause to calculate the operation, then display the NC/CNC machine tool path. -The TOOL SIDE value (INFO item 8) is used to determine which side of the geometry the tool should follow on the actual output path. #90 #1640 #1641 #1064 =====================TWO PLANE==============[F9]-1641== -To machine two GROUPs from a two-plane definition: Select the OPERS menu, then TWOPLANE. -Set the MAX CUSP to the desired value. -You will be asked to select the desired TOP GROUP. -You will be asked to select the desire BOTTOM GROUP. -Tool compensation will not be calculated, as this is a function of the NC/CNC (CDC) machine. \1384-Set POWER, CDC, CDC REG, etc. -Set the CLEARANCE to the desired approach/pulloff distance from the bottom contour. \214 -If points (usually BREAKPOINTS) exist in the groups, \214 the groups will be synchronized at the locations of \214 the points, in the order encountered. #90 #1660 #1661 #1066 =================MULTIPLE PASSES============[F9]-1661== -To machine a GROUPs with multiple passes: Select the OPERS menu, then the MULTIPLE PASSES selection. -Pick the group to be machined. -Set the CLEARANCE to the desired approach (first pass) and pulloff (last pass) distance from the contour. -Set the STEP to the distance that the machine should retract before it switches CDC sides. (left/right) \1384-Set the TOOL SIDE, POWER, and CDC REG values as nec- \1384 essary. You may want to change these for each pass. -Generally, you will want to generate an odd number of passes so that the last will cut-off the (glue) tab. \0 (more...) #9 #1066 (MULT PASSES - continued) -If CDC (left/right) is different from the TOOL SIDE, then passes will be taken in the reverse direction. -Set the TAB LGT. This determines the distance that the machine should "stop-short" of finishing the pass. This will leave a tab that will be cut off on the last pass. If no reverse passes are taken, then you should use TAB LGT=0, or use it only on the last pass. -You may wish to adjust the FIN STOCK *OR* the CDC REG on each pass to allow for additional material removal. -Hit [Enter] for each pass except the last. When you hit the [Ins] key, the final pass will be generated. For instance, if you hit [Enter] [Enter] [Ins], then three passes will be taken. (not two) #90 #1670 #1671 #1044 ==================BURNOUT-PROFILE===========[F9]-1671== -To take spiral-roughing passes on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then BURNOUT-PROFILE. -Set the step, power, feed, tool specs, and so on. \1376-Select the preferred APPROACH method. -Select the desired GROUP(s) then hit [Ins]. -Successive passes of a sut-width of STEP will be taken until TOT STOCK is removed, leaving only FIN STOCK. -POCKETS and STOCK will be internally roughed, whereas all other GROUPs will be externally roughed. -For complex parts, this may only function properly if the post can output wire-punch-and-rethread cycles and the machine supports this as well. Otherwise, passes may be connected by cuts through the finish contour! (Note: Some complex contours cannot be done this way) #90 #1730 #1731 ======================PUNCH=================[F9]-1731== -To punch various holes: Select the OPERS menu, then the PUNCH selection. -The system will allow you to select groups, usually HOLES, to punch. -The center of all circles, and the endpoint of any other type of geometry will be selected as the punch locations. -The system will pause to calculate the operations, then display the NC/CNC machine tool path. \1317-See also: TOOL TYPE #90 #1740 #1741 ======================NIBBLE================[F9]-1741== -To nibble a contour using the NC/CNC machine nibble: Select the OPERS menu, then the NIBBLE selection. -Set the STEP to the desired value. -You will be asked to select the GROUPS to be cut. -The system will pause to calculate the operations, then display the NC/CNC machine tool path. #90 #1750 #1751 ===================NIBBLE-PUNCH=============[F9]-1751== -To nibble a contour by generating a tape containing punches alongside the desired contour: Select the OPERS menu, then the NIBBLE-PUNCH selection. -Set the STEP to the desired value. -You will be asked to select the GROUPS to be cut. -The system will pause to calculate the operations, then display the NC/CNC machine tool path. #90 #1760 #1761 ===================BRIDGE-HIT===============[F9]-1761== -To nibble a contour by making punches that are staggered, then returning to punch them again to break the slug loose: Select the OPERS menu, then the BRIDGE-HIT selection. -Set the STEP to the desired value. This is the step between punches including the break-thru punches. It is usually slightly smaller than the tool width. -You will be asked to select the GROUPS to be cut. -The system will pause to calculate the operations, then display the NC/CNC machine tool path. #90 #1830 #1831 #1083 =======================SWEEP================[F9]-1831== -To sweep a cross-section around a given GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then the SWEEP selection. -You will be asked to select the GROUP to sweep. -You will be asked to select the cross-section GROUP. This is a contour defined in XY that will be swung to CZ and wrapped around the first GROUP. This GROUP must be defined in such a way that the tool can be offset to the right of it, moving downward. (In XY) -The number of Z steps is determined by the MAX CUSP. -The number of radial STEP passes is limited by the width of the cross section and the TOTAL STOCK value. #90 #1840 #1841 #1084 =======================SWARF================[F9]-1841== -To swarf the area between cross-section GROUPs: Select the OPERS menu, then the SWARF selection. -Set the MAX CUSP (cusp hgt), feed, tool specs, and so on, to the desired values. -You will be asked to select the desired GROUPs to cut. Enter 2 to 20 GROUPs, then hit the [Ins] key. -The tool will zigzag between successive GROUPs. -Machining begins at the start of the first selected GROUP. -The SWARF command does absolutely NO lookahead and may gouge the workpiece. To minimize the effects of this, adhere to the guidelines that follow. \0 (more...) #9 (SWARF - continued) -No vertical (in Z) walls should be present in the shape. Make sure that any such wall has a very slight draft angle. -Avoid "inside" intersections AND machining "inside" of radii that are smaller than the tool radius. This is important both along the boundaries AND along the implied surfaces to be generated between boundaries. The best way to do this is to define the contour using radii slightly larger than the tool on all inside corners and fillets. -Use the FIN STOCK value to leave a safe amount of material on the part. This can be finished off later on the bench. SWARF is a ROUGHING operation only. -Thoroughly inspect the output before running the part. #90 #1850 #1851 ====================MULT-Z ROUGH============[F9]-1851== -To take multiple passes at succeedingly lower Z depths on a labelled GROUP: Select the OPERS menu, then MULT-Z ROUGH. -Set the step, feed, speed, tool specifications and so on, to the desired values. \1376-Select the preferred APPROACH method. -You will be asked to select the desired GROUP. -Starting from Z0.0, and working down to the FULL-Z depth, several STEP passes at each Z level will be taken before repeating at the next Z-STEP level. -If 3D-PLANE is set to Z FROM GEOM, then the cut will be taken from the contour's Z level, proceeding downward for a distance of FULL-Z. #90 #1910 #1911 =======================NOTES================[F9]-1911== -To put notes on a part drawing: Select the OPERS menu, then the NOTES selection. -The system will prompt you for the location of the note. Digitize the desired position of the lower- left corner of the first character. -Set the COLOR and TEXT HGT as desired. -Enter the text as you want it to appear. You may enter multiple lines. When all lines are entered, hit the [Enter] key once more to terminate. -Notes are normally stored on layer 250. #90 #1920 #1921 #1091 =======================LABEL================[F9]-1921== -To put labels on a part drawing: Select the OPERS menu, then the LABEL selection. -The system will ask you to enter the location of the tip of the arrow, an intermediate point, and the start point of the label. -Set the COLOR and TEXT HGT as desired. -Enter the text that is to be displayed. If no text is entered, the system will find the nearest geometry item, displaying it's angle or radius or position. -Labels are normally stored on layer 250. #90 #1930 ====================DIMENSIONING======================= -Use these selections for dimensioning linear measure- ments. For angular 'sweep' dimensions, refer to: \1950 DIM ANGLE -All of the following dimensioning methods are similar in use, but have different applications: \1931 CONTINUATION DIM -for stacking, or datum dimensioning \1932 HORIZONTAL DIM -for dimensioning horizontal distances \1933 VERTICAL DIM -for dimensioning vertical distances \1934 ANGULAR DIM -for dimensioning tilted distances \1935 ARBITRARY DIM -for unaligned dimensioning -You may only use the CONTINUATION DIM immediately AFTER using one of the other types of DIMENSIONS. #90 #1931 #1092 ================CONTINUATION DIMENSION======[F9]-1931== -To build a dimension based on the previous dimension: Select the OPERS menu, then DIMENSION, then the CONTINUATION selection. (...or...) Hold down th [Alt] key and hit [D]. -The system will ask you for the next end point. No start point or arrow location are required. -Enter the text desired, or skip it to cause the system to measure the dimension and fill in the text. -If the previous dimension was HORIZONTAL, then this will be as well. If it was VERTICAL, then this will also be. -Dimensions are normally stored on layer 250. #90 #1932 #1092 =================HORIZONTAL DIMENSION=======[F9]-1932== -To build a horizontal dimension: Select the OPERS menu, then DIMENSION, then the HORIZONTAL selection. -The system will ask for the first (datum) position to be measured, then the second position to be measured. -The system will prompt you for the location of the tip of the arrow that contacts the first extension line. -Enter the text desired, or skip it to cause the system to measure the dimension and fill in the text. -Dimensions are normally stored on layer 250. \1931-Subsequent horizontal dims may be stacked on this one \1931 by using the CONTINUATION DIMENSION command. #90 #1933 #1092 ==================VERTICAL DIMENSION========[F9]-1933== -To build a vertical dimension: Select the OPERS menu, then DIMENSION, then the VERTICAL selection. -The system will ask for the first (datum) position to be measured, then the second position to be measured. -The system will prompt you for the location of the tip of the arrow that contacts the first extension line. -Enter the text desired, or skip it to cause the system to measure the dimension and fill in the text. -Dimensions are normally stored on layer 250. \1931-Subsequent vertical dims may be stacked on this one \1931 by using the CONTINUATION DIMENSION command. #90 #1934 #1092 ==================ANGULAR DIMENSION=========[F9]-1934== -To build an angular dimension: Select the OPERS menu, then DIMENSION, then the ANGULAR selection. -The system will ask for the first (datum) position to be measured, then the second position to be measured. -The system will prompt you for the location of the tip of the arrow that contacts the first extension line. -Enter the text desired, or skip it to cause the system to measure the dimension and fill in the text. -The dimension will be aligned with the two points that are measured. If you do NOT want this alignment, use \1935 ARBITRARY DIMENSION instead. -Dimensions are normally stored on layer 250. #90 #1935 #1092 =================ARBITRARY DIMENSION========[F9]-1935== -To build a dimension with an arbitrary alignment: Select the OPERS menu, then DIMENSION, then the ARBITRARY selection. -The system will ask for the first (datum) position to be measured, then the second position to be measured. -The system will prompt you for the location of the tip of the arrow that contacts the first extension line. -Enter the text desired, or skip it to cause the system to measure the dimension and fill in the text. -The dimension will be aligned with the first extension line, built between the first (datum) point and the location of the tip of the arrow. -Dimensions are normally stored on layer 250. #90 #1940 #1941 #1942 #1943 =====================CROSSHATCH=============[F9]-1941== -To put a crosshatch on a portion of a part: Select the OPERS menu, then the CROSSHATCH selection. \1120-Select the geometry to be crosshatched. This must \1120 be a closed contour without any breaks in it. -The system will build lines that fill the selected contour. The lines will be constructed at the given angle, using the STEP value as a spacing between them. -The FIN STOCK value may be used to generate lines that are forshortened. -Crosshatching is normally placed on the lowest vacant layer. #90 #1950 #1951 #1093 =====================DIM ANGLE==============[F9]-1951== -To build a dimension showing the angle of a wedge: Select the OPERS menu, then DIM ANGLE. -The system will ask you to select the line whose angle is to be dimensioned. -The system will prompt you to pick the reference line, usually a horizontal or vertical centerline. -Digitize or enter the radius of the measuring arc. -Enter the text desired, or skip it to cause the system to measure the angle and fill in the text. -Dimensions are normally stored on layer 250. #90 #800 =====================PROC MENU========================= -The PROC menu is used to process the operations into a form that will drive an NC/CNC machine. -Processing can be aborted in progress by hitting the [Esc] key. \810 RESEQUENCE (changes the order of operations) \820 NC CTRL (comments, insert, special post functions) \830 POST-PROCESS (generates a tapefile) \840 EDIT TAPE (allows you to edit the tapefile) \850 DOWNLOAD TAPE (sends the tapefile) \860 POST-DEPENDENT (reserved for the post) \870 UTILITY PROGRAMS (ED, MPF, MP, SC, etc) #90 #810 #811 =====================RESEQUENCE=============[F9]-811=== -To resequence the operations into the desired order: Select the PROC menu, then the RESEQUENCE selection. -A menu will appear at the left side of the screen. It will contain a summary of all of the operations that you have performed on the part. -Select the operations that you want, in the sequence that you want. If you want to omit any operations, simply leave them out. (If you resequence again, they will re-appear at the end of the list.) -This must be done BEFORE post-processing if you want to change the sequence of operations. \1154-You may move operations into and out of this table! #90 #820 =======================NC CTRL========================= The selections in this menu allow you to put special codes into the output toolpath, toolcycle, or tool- position. They prompt you to select a geometry item. The given code will be inserted to the BEGINNING of the selected geometry move in the toolpath. #821 ========================DETACH==============[F9]-821=== -To remove NC CTRL commands from a particular geometry item: Select the PROC menu, then the NC CTRL selection, then DETACH. -You will be asked to pick a geometry item. Pick any item that has NC CTRL (SETAX, INSERT, COMMENT, or POST CALL) attached to it. -Any and all NC CTRL commands that are attached to the selected item will be deleted. The geometry item itself will be left intact. #822 ========================SETAX===============[F9]-822=== -To preset an axis value, an internal parameter, or a post-processor variable: Select the PROC menu, then the NC CTRL selection, then SETAX. -Pick a geometry item in a toolpath, toolcycle, or a toolposition; or position the cursor in an open area of the screen and hit [Ins] to leave it unattached. -Positive SETAX numbers are passed to the post- processor. If the post doesn't recognize the number, it will be ignored. -Negative SETAX numbers preset the internal parameters that are used by the system and the post. \0 (more...) #9 #1109 (SETAX - continued) Negative SETAX numbers: -14 Outputs the desired M-code on the next block. -15 Presets the block number in the output tape. -16 Set to a 1 to precede blocks with a slash. -53 Sets arc interp: 0=quads 1=segs 2=full 3=sweep. -58 Sets the block number increment. -91 Invokes post MODE function: CUT -92 Invokes post MODE function: RAPID -93 Invokes post MODE function: DRILL -94 Invokes post MODE function: STOP -95 Invokes post FROM command. (Usually a G92) -96 Sets MAX CUSP to the specified value. -97 Sets TOLER to the specified value. -98 Sets the maximum allowable radius. #823 =======================INSERT===============[F9]-823=== -To insert a block into the NC tape: Select the PROC menu, then the NC CTRL selection, then INSERT. -The system will ask you to type in text. -Pick a geometry item in a toolpath, toolcycle, or a toolposition; or position the cursor in an open area of the screen and hit [Ins] to leave it unattached. -The text will be appended to the previous block. Begin the text with a bar [|] to put it on its own block. -Surround the text with parenthesis to enter a comment into the tape. eg: |(Tool 3 - Center Drill) #824 =======================COMMENT==============[F9]-824=== -To put a comment into the process sheet: Select the PROC menu, then the NC CTRL selection, then COMMENT. -The system will ask you to type in the comment. -Pick a geometry item in a toolpath, toolcycle, or a toolposition; or position the cursor in an open area of the screen and hit [Ins] to leave it unattached. -When a process sheet is made, the comment will appear before the selected geometry item. -This does NOT place comments in the tape. To do that, use the PROCESS:NC-CTRL:INSERT command, placing paren- thesis around the comment. #825 =====================POST CALL==============[F9]-825=== -To call the post-processor directly: Select the PROC menu, then the NC CTRL selection, then POST CALL. -The system will prompt you to enter a post call name or number, then six numeric values. -Pick a geometry item in a toolpath, toolcycle, or a toolposition; or position the cursor in an open area of the screen and hit [Ins] to leave it unattached. -Only use this if the post-processor has the post-call capability. The author of the post can help you. (Also refer to the post help-file.) #90 #830 #831 ====================POST PROCESS============[F9]-831=== -To post-process the operations into a form that will drive an NC/CNC machine: Select the PROC menu, then the POST-PROC selection. -If no post-processor has been loaded yet, then the system will ask you for the name of the post. You may use the [Ins] key for a directory menu. -The system will ask you to select the desired listing and tool drawing types. -You will no longer be running this system, but the post-processor program for the selected machine. The "post" (as it's called) may ask you further questions. -Use the [Space] to pause, [1]..[0] to control speed. \1128-See also: Generating a Post-Processor \1125-See also: Selecting a Post-Processor #90 #840 #841 =====================EDIT TAPE==============[F9]-841=== -To edit the current NC/CNC machine tape: Select the PROC menu, then the EDIT-TAPE selection. -If you have generated a tape from the current part- program, it will be loaded into the editor and ready for you to work on. -The previous version of the tape will be renamed to have the ".BAK" file-type. (Not to be confused with the renaming to ".OLD" that is done by the system when the part program is changed.) -While in the editor (ED) you may use the [F9] key or the LEFT mouse button for a menu. (click-drag) -The RIGHT mouse button may be used to mark zones for cut and paste. (click-drag, not double-click) ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #850 #851 ====================DOWNLOAD TAPE===========[F9]-851=== -To send the post-processed tape to a tape-punch or to the NC/CNC machine itself: Select the PROC menu, then the DOWNLOAD-TAPE selection. -If a machine-parameter file (with the ".DNC" file-type and the current post-processor file-name) exists, it will be used to determine the download conditions. -Otherwise, you will be asked to enter the baud-rate, handshake mode, etc. ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #860 #861 ====================POST DEPENDENT===================== This menu selection is normally vacant. It is there for use by post-writers that wish to attach a shell program to the system, for use only with that post. #90 #870 ===================UTILITY PROGRAMS==================== -Use this menu to run utility programs from DOS. \871 ED EDITOR (to edit tape/text files) \872 MPF (to configure DNC interface for DOWNLOAD) \873 AP AUTO-POST (to generate a post-processor) \874 MP MAKE-POST (to customize a post-processor) \875 PC POST-COMPILER (to regen a post after editing) \876 SC SHELL-COMPILER (to regen a shell aft editing) \877 NC VERIFY-TAPE (to run solid-modeller) \878 MENU NC-UTILS (runs an external menu utility) \879 DOS COMMAND.COM (to "shell-out" to DOS) ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #871 =====================ED EDITOR==============[F9]-871=== -To edit a tape-file (or any ASCII text file), select PROC, then UTILITY PROG, then ED EDITOR. -The editor (ED) will ask you to enter the name of the file you wish to edit. -If you are editing a file with a suffix other than ".TAP" then you must specify the suffix. To edit a file with no suffix, end the filename with a period. -While in the editor, the first mouse button may be hit used to bring up the main-menu, released to pick. -The second mouse button may be used to mark zones by using the click-drag-release method. -When you are done, hit [Alt]-[Q] to return to the CIM system. (this software) ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #90 #872 =================MPF DNC-CONFIGURATOR=======[F9]-872=== -To configure DNC for downloading or punching, select PROC, then UTILITY PROG, then MPF DNC-CONFIG. -MPF will ask you to enter the name of the machine-file you wish to edit. Enter the same name as the post- processor listed in the status area, but with no suffix. (eg: if the post is DOB-TIK7.MCH, just enter DOB-TIK7) -Once configured, whenever you select DOWNLOAD from the PROCESS menu, no questions will be asked. Instead, MPF configures the download parameters based upon the post that is selected. -When you are done, hit [Esc] to return to the CIM system. (this software) ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #873 ==(option)=========AP AUTO-POST=============[F9]-873=== -To generate a post-processor, based upon sample tapes that are now present on this computer (on the A:, B:, C:, or D: disk drive), select PROC, then UTILITY PROG, then AP AUTO-POST. (Post-Processor Dev Kit is req'd!) -AUTO-POST will ask you to enter the name of the post you wish to build. (the NC/CNC machine) -You will be asked to enter the names of tape-files that are formatted to drive that machine. After AP analyzes those tapes it will build a post-processor that can generate new tapes for that same machine. \40 -See also: Post Processors -When you are done, hit [F10] to generate the post and return to the CIM system. (this software) ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #874 ==(option)=========MP MAKE-POST=============[F9]-874=== -To generate a new post-processor, or to further cus- tomize a post that was built with AUTOPOST (AP), select PROC, then UTILITY PROG, then MP MAKE-POST. -MAKE-POST will ask you to enter the name of the post you wish to build or customize. (the NC/CNC machine) -If this is a brand-new post, you will be asked to select the base-post (class of NC/CNC machines). -A table of customizable values will appear. You may use the [Arrow] keys to move up and down through the table - adjusting appropriate values as desired. \40 -See also: Post Processors -When you are done, hit [F10] to generate the post and return to the CIM system. (Post-Proc Dev Kit req'd!) ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #875 ==(option)========PC POST-COMPILER==========[F9]-875=== -To compile a post-processor, select PROC, then UTILITY PROG, then PC POST-CMPLR. (Post-Proc Dev Kit req'd!) -PC will ask you to enter the name of the post. \40 -See also: Post Processors -Generally, you will have already edited the post-proc- essor (filename.PST) with ED before doing this. Note that once you edit a post, you should never use AP or MP on that post again, or your changes (made with ED) will be overwritten. -PC reads in a source-code post (.PST) and generates a usable machine post (.MCH) from it. ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #876 ==(option)========SC SHELL-COMPILER=========[F9]-876=== -To compile a shell-program, select PROC, then UTILITY PROG, then SC SHELL-CMPLR. (Adv App Dev Kit is req'd!) -SC will ask you to enter the name of the program. -Generally, you will have already edited the shell-pro- gram (filename.NCB) with ED before doing this. Shells are programs written in NC/BASIC for building family- of-parts, customizing the CIM system, or adding new menu items. -SC reads in a source-code shell (.NCB) and generates a executable shell (.SHL) from it. \151 -See also: SHELL (run NC/BASIC shell program) ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #877 ===================NC VERIFY-TAPE===========[F9]-877=== This runs an external program (optional purchase) to backplot the NC/CNC tape as a solid model. A special tool-library must first be built to define all of the tools. This selection merely runs the batch file: "UTIL7.BAT" ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #877 ===================MENU NC-UTILS============[F9]-878=== If you install an external menuing system for NC tape management, downloading, or other functions - then this is where you should install it. This selection merely runs the batch file: "UTIL8.BAT" ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #879 ===================DOS COMMAND.COM==========[F9]-879=== -To "shell out" to DOS, select PROC, then UTILITY PROG, then DOS COMMAND.COM. -You may issue any valid DOS commands, such as "DIR", "COPY", "CHKDSK", etc. -If you reconfigure (CONFIG), the changes will not take affect when you resume. (-first you must restart the CIM system.) -Do NOT edit, delete, move, rename, or otherwise change any of the CIM system data or scratch files (files w/ a .DAT or .$$$ suffix) while the system is suspended! -To return to the CIM system, get back to the original directory, then hit [Enter] without typing anything. ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #90 #900 #901 ====================USER/MISC MENU===================== Note: This menu will NOT appear unless a shell program has properly attached it! The default title of this menu is MISC, but the shell program may change it. This menu contains selections that have been installed by shell files. The selections are also shell files in themselves. For help regarding a particular selection, highlight it by positioning the cursor on it, then hit the [F10] key.* *Shell files do not always have accompanying 'HELP' files. Consult the author of the shell file if more help is needed. #1249 #1049 ===================EDIT 3D-ROTATE===========[F9]-1241== -To rotate a geometry item or group of items in space: Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1249 and hit [Enter]. \1120-You may select a group of items by putting a window \1120 around them, or by selection or chaining. -You will be asked to choose from four common quadrant orientations, or to rotate by GIVEN RX, RY, RZ angles. -If arcs or circles are rotated out of the XY plane, they will be converted to a series of line segments. -Standard geometric rotation sequence is used. This means that Z is rotated BEFORE X and Y. -Positive rotation is CCW when looking in the +axis direction. #90 #1106 =====================MISC MENU========================= [F9] 1211 Edit abbreviated INFO table [F1] [F9] 1212 Edit full INFO table \1103[F9] 1221 Select position mode for digitizing \1103[F9] 1222 Select endpoint mode for digitizing [F2] \1103[F9] 1223 Select center point mode for digitizing [F3] \1103[F9] 1224 Select intersection mode for digitizing [F4] \1103[F9] 1225 Select snap mode for digitizing \1231[F9] 1231 Set absolute locator coordinates \1232[F9] 1232 Disable absolute locator mode \1233[F9] 1233 Enable absolute locator mode [F9] 1241 Set reference origin [Alt]-[O] [F9] 1242 Set cylindrical "leave" stock on geom(s) [F9] 1243 Toggle INFO table display (numeric/text) \0 (more...) #1172 (MISC - continued) \1249[F9] 1249 3D-Rotation of geometry [F9] 1251 Set plotfile name (w/plot FILE output only) \879 [F9] 1279 Suspend system, execute DOS COMMAND.COM [F9] 1281 Invert a selected arc [F9] 1282 Invert last arc created [Alt]-[I] \30 [F9] 1283 Calculator mode (math) [Alt]-[M] \1157[F9] 1284 Erase/Regen T-PATH (use w/in OPER) [Alt]-[E] \1127[F9] 1285 Preset default Z depth [Alt]-[Z] [F9] 1286 Negate coordinates [F9] 1287 Re-enter part-program description \1126[F9] 1288 Display geometry item data [Alt]-[Q] [F9] 1295 Dump internal parameters to printer [F9] 1297 Display/Erase axis lines/grid [Alt]-[Y] \0 (more...) #9 ===============ADVANCED SYSTEM COMMANDS================ *** Ext-memory version of system required for below *** [F9] 1245 (MISC) Save graphic area to FPIC file (EGA) [F9] 1246 (DISP) Map 1" x 1" to 44 x 44 pixels (EGA) [F9] 1247 (MISC) Pick ULC, Save to ICON.DAT file (EGA) [F9] 1248 (MISC) Compress the HELPPICS.DAT file. *** Ext-memory version of system required for above *** [F9] 1259 Prompt/display comment on screen [Alt]-[G] [F9] 1289 Set internal geonum increment (1..1024) \1159 . =============MENU NUMBER CHART ON NEXT PAGE============ \0 (more...) #9 \1131 FILES Menu numbers 100...199 \1132 GEOM Menu numbers 200...299 \1133 DISP Menu numbers 300...399 \1134 EDIT Menu numbers 400...499 \1135 INFO Menu numbers 500...599 \1136 GROUP Menu numbers 600...699 \1141 OPERS: CONTOUR Menu numbers 700...799 \1138 PROCESS Menu numbers 800...899 \1106 MISC Menu numbers 1200..1299 \1142 OPERS: MILL Menu numbers 1400..1499 \1143 OPERS: LATHE Menu numbers 1500..1599 \1144 OPERS: WIRE-EDM Menu numbers 1600..1699 \1145 OPERS: PUNCH-PRESS Menu numbers 1700..1799 \1146 OPERS: 3D-OPERS Menu numbers 1800..1899 \1147 OPERS: DETAILING Menu numbers 1900..1999 #90 #1177 ===================ERROR MESSAGES====================== -For more information, pick from the following list of error messages: (three pages...) \41 Error: OPENING FILE \42 Error: READING FILE \43 Error: WRITING FILE \44 Error: CLOSING FILE \45 Error: DELETING FILE \46 Error: FILE DATA \47 Error: FILE NOT FOUND \48 Error: BAD FILE \49 Error: OLD FILE REV \50 Error: DIVIDE BY ZERO \0 (more...) #9 \51 Error: (Warning) \52 Error: BAD EXPRESSION \53 Error: BAD SYNTAX \54 Error: BAD VARIABLE \55 Error: COMPLEXITY \56 Error: BAD FUNCTION \57 Error: BAD NUMERIC \58 Error: BAD GROUP \59 Error: IN GEOMETRY \60 Error: NO INTERSECTION \61 Error: LAYER NUMBER \62 Error: NOT ENOUGH MEM \63 Error: POST PROCESS \0 (more...) #9 \64 Error: NOT NESTABLE \65 Error: OPT NOT AVAIL \66 Error: MIXED LAYERS \67 Error: SHELL FILE \68 Error: BAD VALUE \69 Error: TOOL PATH GEN \70 Error: BAD CONFIG \1175 Error: INTERNAL ERROR \1178 Fatal: BREAK.PRT SAVED \1176 Fatal: PDF n/n/n \1180 Warning: STACK DUMPS *** end of error messages *** #90 #41 ===============ERROR: OPENING FILE===================== This error message indicates the following condition: You have attempted to READ a file that doesn't exist, to CREATE a new file with an illegal file name; or a selected setup-file, post, or library can't be found. -Make sure that you are specifying a (3-letter) file suffix if required, or that you are NOT specifying one where it is prohibited. -Check that the specified directory path is legal. -Check your configuration (CONFIG) and directory (in the INFO menu) to assure that the directory exists. #90 #42 ===============ERROR: READING FILE===================== This error message indicates the following condition: The file (part-program, tape-file, DXF, etc.) that you specified (or that the system MUST read in order to run a command) has been truncated or is faulty. -If you previously created the file, check it to see if has been damaged. -Run your operating system utilities to check the disk for errors. #90 #43 ===============ERROR: WRITING FILE===================== This error message indicates the following condition: The system is attempting to save a file, but cannot because of "lack of disk-space", "a bad-spot on the disk", or an "illegal filename". -Are you specifying a directory that does not exist? -Is the filename and suffix typed-in correctly? -Check your configuration (CONFIG) and directory (in the INFO menu) to assure that the directory exists. #90 #44 ===============ERROR: CLOSING FILE===================== This error message indicates the following condition: The specified file cannot be closed. -Does a previous version of the same filename exist, and has been marked "Read-Only"? -Have you run out of disk-space? -Check your \CONFIG.SYS file for a "FILE=" specifi- cation. It should be at least 20. Re-boot. #90 #45 ===============ERROR: DELETING FILE==================== This error message indicates the following condition: The operating system will not let the software delete the specified file. -Has the file been changed to "Read-Only" via the ATRIB command or some external utility program? -Have you specified an illegal directory path? -Check your configuration (CONFIG) and directory (in the INFO menu) to assure that the directory exists. #90 #46 #48 ===============ERROR: FILE DATA======================== This error message indicates the following condition: The specified file has been corrupted. -During the last "save" command, was power-lost or the computer powered-down before the "save" was complete? -Is your disk full? -Run your operating system utilities to check the disk for errors. #90 #47 ===============ERROR: FILE NOT FOUND=================== This error message indicates the following condition: The system is attempting to READ a non-existant file, (...usually a setup-file or a mtrl- or tool-library) -Are you loading a SETUP file that selects a tool or material library that does not exist? -Make sure that you are specifying a (3-letter) file suffix if required, or that you are NOT specifying one where it is prohibited. -Check your configuration (CONFIG) and directory (in the INFO menu) to assure that the directory exists. #90 #49 ===============ERROR: OLD FILE REV===================== This error message indicates the following condition: When trying to read a part (.PRT) file, the system found that it contained illegal "codes". -The system automatically converts "old rev" files. So this error is normally not a problem unless a file (old OR new) has been damaged. -Was power lost in the middle of the last SAVE command? -Was the disk full or nearly full when last saved? #90 #50 ===============ERROR: DIVIDE BY ZERO=================== This error message indicates the following condition: An expression or mathematic operation contained a division-by-zero. (Which is illegal - infinity) -If you typed the expression, correct it and try again. -If the error was caused by construction geometry, then you are attempting to do something illegal, such as create a fillet between points. -If this happens during a machining operation, check to make sure you have not used a "crazy" value for the TOOLWDT, FIN STOCK, TOTAL STK, STEP, etc. #90 #51 ===============ERROR: (Warning)======================== This error message indicates the following condition: You have used values that are not illegal, but that the software considers questionable. -Have you used the same tool-changer position (TCHGR) number for two different tool numbers? (TOOLNO) or Have you tried to use the same tool number (TOOLNO) in two places, yet different tool-changers? (TCHGR) *You may continue, but it is best to unload the tool- library (set TLB to nothing) before post-processing. -Have you properly set-up the system for use with the options/commands requested? #90 #52 #53 ===============ERROR: BAD EXPRESSION=================== This error message indicates the following condition: An illegal mathematical expression has been entered. -Check your syntax for illegal operators such as "2-*3" or "3+(5*A". -Make sure that you have used only the characters "A-Z" for variables. (one-character variable names) -To clarify your intent, remove spaces and use paren- thesis to control precedence. #90 #54 ===============ERROR: BAD VARIABLE===================== This error message indicates the following condition: An illegal variable named was encountered. -Have you used bad punctuation, such as "2+%"? -Have you tried to use a variable name of more than one character in length? -Have you left out an operator? (eg: "3A+4") #90 #55 ===============ERROR: COMPLEXITY======================= This error message indicates the following condition: The mathematical expression solver has run out of stack space in trying to evaluate the expression. -Do you have improperly nested parenthesis? -Are you running an untested post-processor or shell- program that may have extremely complex expressions? #90 #56 ===============ERROR: BAD FUNCTION===================== This error message indicates the following condition: You used a word in a mathematical expression, using it incorrectly or mispelling it. -Check the spelling of functions such as "TAN", "SQR", or "ABS". -Make sure you are using the right number of arguments. (values that follow the function) -Are you attempting to use variables of more than one character in length? #90 #57 ===============ERROR: BAD NUMERIC====================== This error message indicates the following condition: The system encountered an illegal character when trying to evaluate a numeric. -Did you hit an illegal numeric character? (eg: "34.R") -Did you use more than one decimel-point in a number? -Did you use the letter "O" where you meant to use the number "0"? #90 #58 ===============ERROR: BAD GROUP======================== This error message indicates the following condition: The system was expecting a group of a certain type but a different kind of group was chosen. This may mean the name of the group is wrong, or its contents. -Are you trying to DRILL lines or ROUGH-TURN circles? -Are you using a closed-contour as a FACE in SWEEP or a group with multiple contours in SWARF? -Generally, this error indicates that a nonsense oper- ation is requested. #90 #59 ===============ERROR: IN GEOMETRY====================== This error message indicates the following condition: The command you have attempted is impossible or has an indeterminant answer. -Are you trying to fit a radius between geometry items that are too far apart? Are you attempting to fillet parallel lines or concentric circles? -Is there an infinite number of answers without giving further information? You may need to add some more construction geometry. -Are you using a curve-fit method improperly? #90 #60 ===============ERROR: NO INTERSECTION================== This error message indicates the following condition: When calculating a geometric intersection, an error occured. -Check that you "picked" the desired items. -You may not even be looking for an intersection when this error occurs. For instance, you may be trying to fillet two circles. However, in order to fillet the two arcs, the system must find the center of the fillet by offseting-and-intersecting the circles. #90 #61 ===============ERROR: LAYER NUMBER===================== This error message indicates the following condition: You are attempting something that cannot be done, given the state of the layer-usage and numbering. -Are you attempting to use a layer less than zero or greater than 254? -Are you attempting to add a new layer when all layers (0...254) are already used? #90 #62 ===============ERROR: NOT ENOUGH MEM=================== This error message indicates the following condition: The system cannot get enough memory to perform the requested command. -Exit the system, saving your work. Try to free-up memory by customizing your \AUTOEXEC.BAT & \CONFIG.SYS files - then reboot. -You may need to add extended memory and load an XMS, DPMI, or VCPI memory-manager program. #90 #63 ===============ERROR: POST PROCESS===================== This error message indicates the following condition: The post-processor generated an error. -Check to assure that the OPER mode (mill, lathe, etc) is set appropriately for the post. -Consult any documentation or help-file regarding the post for requirements or limitations it may have. -The number listed may be cross-referenced to the post-processor by running PC with diagnostics ON. #90 #64 ===============ERROR: NOT NESTABLE===================== This error message indicates the following condition: You have attempted to use nested commands (usually via the [Alt]-key) that cannot be nested that deeply. -Many commands cannot be nested more than three levels. This means that if you are already in an [Alt] command, you may issue only one more [Alt] command before both of them must be completed. -Some commands (such as many machining operations and post-processing) cannot be nested at all. #90 #65 ===============ERROR: OPT NOT AVAIL==================== This error message indicates the following condition: You do not have this option on your system. -Consult your dealer for further information. #90 #66 ===============ERROR: MIXED LAYERS===================== This error message indicates the following condition: You are attempting to perform a command on geometry that is on more than one layer. This is NOT illegal, but recommended-against. You may hit [Enter] to do it anyway! -This normally arises when using CONTINUITY-TRIM. It is unwise to perform such an operation on a group or operation, as it may alter the sequencing of the items within the layer. #90 #67 ===============ERROR: SHELL FILE======================= This error message indicates the following condition: A shell-program generated an error. -Consult any documentation or help-file regarding the shell for requirements or limitations it may have. -The number listed may be cross-referenced to the shell-program by running SC with diagnostics ON. #90 #68 ===============ERROR: BAD VALUE======================== This error message indicates the following condition: The specified value in the INFO table is illegal for the current command or operation. -You may be attempting to machine a part with the feed- rate set to zero, or to take multiple passes with a step of zero. -Refer to the help regarding the INFO table entry that is listed in the error message for details. #90 #69 ===============ERROR: TOOL PATH GEN==================== This error indicates one of the following conditions: -OPEN OR OVERLAPPED CONTOUR You are attempting to machine a POCKET or OUTLINE, or crosshatch an area that does not end where it starts, or you have selected overlapping geometry. (For the latter condition, delete the group layer then run a CONTINUITY-TRIM on the underlying geometry.) -MULT CONTOURS This operation permits only a single contour. Re-group the geometry to correct this. \0 (more...) #9 -MULT OPEN CONTOURS The selected operation permits only a single contour. (except for closed-contours, such as pockets with islands) Re-group the geometry to correct this. -DIFF NUM OF POINTS You are attempting to synchronize contours that do NOT contain the same number of sync-points. Correct this then try again. \1195-TOOL WON'T FIT \1195 The contour cannot be machined given the current \1195 tool-size and finish stock. (click here for more...) \0 (more...) #9 -CLOSED CONTOUR This operation requires an open contour, like a cross- section. You have selected a group that loops around to where it started. -Z LEVELS MUST DIFFER The desired operation requires contours at different Z-levels. Use EDIT:MOVE to correct the Z-levels. *** end of "ERROR: TOOL PATH GEN" help *** #90 #70 ===============ERROR: CONFIG FILE====================== This error message indicates the following condition: The CONFIG.DAT file that controls the personality of the system is corrupt. -Have you attempted to edit this file? -If you run CONFIG and select "Undo last CONFIG", you will restore the previous CONFIG.DAT. #90 #1178 ================FATAL: BREAK.PRT SAVED================= When you see this message, it indicates that your work has NOT been lost but saved under the partname "BREAK". You should NOT overwrite your original part, but copy or rename the BREAK.PRT to a new filename (such as NEWPART.PRT) via the operating system. Then you may restart the CIM system and load in THAT partname to resume where you left off. If you hit [Ctrl]-[Break], a complete memory-failure occurs, or the file system is corrupt, the system will attempt to save your work as BREAK.PRT before aborting. (Note: It is unwise to ever use BREAK as a partname.) #90 #1175 ================ERROR: INTERNAL ERROR================== This message indicates that the system discovered an internal condition that should not be possible, such as geometry that exists on an illegal layer. Do a SAVE-BACKUP to a different filename (such as TEMPSAVE) before continuing. Please contact your dealer or our office immediately. If you are experimenting with the NC/BASIC or NCL, you may create geometry that causes an internal error. If not, then you may have discovered a way of thwarting the system's internal error-checking. We would like to know how this happened so that we may prevent it's occurence in future versions. Thank you. #90 #1176 ================FATAL: PDF n/n/n ====================== This error message indicates the following condition: The system encountered a disk error when trying to maintain the current part-program. (Part Data File) -Is your disk full or nearly full? -Where are you placing your scratch files? (run CONFIG) -Run your operating system utilities to check the disk for errors. #90 #1180 ================WARNING: STACK DUMPS=================== This message indicates that minor unexpected conditions occurred while the system was running. It may mean that you have asked the system to do the impossible (eg: to take the tangent of 90 degrees) or that the system was trying to do the impossible. (while picking, etc.) In normal usage, these errors can be ignored. However, if the system is not functioning as expected, we may ask you about stack dumps to help us isolate a problem. The stack dumps are saved in files named STACK.0 thru STACK.999. You may safely delete these files at any time if desired. #90 #1129 =========================QUIZ========================== -Guess, then pick each one to find the correct answer: \1181 1-Do you know how to enter degrees/minutes/seconds? \1182 2-Do you know the shortcut key for entering a zero? \1183 3-How do you enter incremental/relative coordinates? \1184 4-Can you change the feedrate on a single TPATH move? \1185 5-How do you measure the distance between two lines? \1186 6-What 2 things must be done in order to edit a TPATH? \1187 7-Can you add/delete entries from the RESEQ table? \1188 8-How would you tilt in YZ without affecting geometry? \1189 9-How would you update a TPATH after adding a fillet? -Tricky questions; but did you learn anything? Score: 0=beginner 2=novice 4=good 6=expert 8=cheater! #90 #1181 =============ANSWER TO QUIZ QUESTION 1================= EASY: Do you know how to enter degrees/minutes/seconds? -There are two ways to enter DMS angles: 1) Use the DMS function, eg: DMS(25.4751) 2) Use minute (apostrophe) and second (quote) signs: 25.47'51" \1165-See also: Entering angles. \1129-Pick here to return to the Quiz questions. #90 #1182 =============ANSWER TO QUIZ QUESTION 2================= EASY: Do you know the shortcut key for entering a zero? -Use the [Comma] key! A [Comma] normally acts just like the [Enter] key or mouse button [1]. In fact all three are identical if you type in an answer. However, if you type nothing, (default) they act differently: [Enter] ...last digitized/typed-in value Mouse button [1] ...digitize new value [Comma] ...zero \1111-See also: [Enter], [Comma], Mouse button 1. \1129-Pick here to return to the Quiz questions. #90 #1183 =============ANSWER TO QUIZ QUESTION 3================= EASY: How do you enter incremental/rel coordinates? -Use the [@] (AT-sign)! For instance, to enter a point that is 5 above the previously entered location, type: Locate X: @ Y: @+5 -The [@] always contains the last digitized or typed-in X, Y, and/or Z value. \1158-See also: Math expressions, variables, & the [@] key. \1129-Pick here to return to the Quiz questions. #90 #1184 =============ANSWER TO QUIZ QUESTION 4================= Can you change the feed on a single TPATH move? -Change feeds, speeds, CDC, etc. on individual moves or several moves (or an entire T-PATH) by using the ALTER GEOMS command in the INFO menu! -You may also use this to change colors, tchgr numbers, coolant, or other INFO table (non-coordinate) values. \1151-See also: ALTERING INFO ON A T-PATH \1129-Pick here to return to the Quiz questions. #90 #1185 =============ANSWER TO QUIZ QUESTION 5================= How do you measure the distance between 2 lines? -Use [Alt]-[Q] to bring up the Query command, pick one line, hit [Ins], then pick the other line! Distances in X, Y, Z, and overall (hypoteneuse) will be shown. -Note that this does NOT work for staggered lines, as the distance is between the line endpoints nearest where you pick. To measure a perpendicular distance construct a perpendicular line, break it at both of the lines, then Query the two endpoints of that line. \1126-See also: THE QUERY COMMAND. \1129-Pick here to return to the Quiz questions. #90 #1186 =============ANSWER TO QUIZ QUESTION 6================= What 2 things must be done in order to edit a TPATH? 1) Set the LAYER number (NOT mask) to the layer that contains the TPATH. 2) During editing/construction, you must PICK geometry that is in the TPATH. This implies the cutting sequence to the CIM system. To make this easier, you may wish to set the LAYER MASK to the same layer as the TPATH. \1152-See also: TPATH EDITING. \1129-Pick here to return to the Quiz questions. #90 #1187 =============ANSWER TO QUIZ QUESTION 7================= TRICKY: Can you add/del entries from the RESEQ table? -Indirectly, YES! You cannot add or delete the RESEQ table entries individually. But you may alter a TPATH to move it to a new layer, or add it to a layer that contains a different TPATH. This will add or delete corresponding entries from the RESEQ table! -Shh! If you have the AADK, you may use the RESEQ shell program to edit the RESEQ table directly! (dangerous) \1154-See also: MANIPULATING THE RESEQUENCE TABLE. \1129-Pick here to return to the Quiz questions. #90 #1188 =============ANSWER TO QUIZ QUESTION 8================= TRICKY: How can you tilt in YZ w/o affecting geometry? -If you change the ROT/SHIFT/SCALE/CYL values in the INFO table prior to an OPER, then when that OPER is post-processed, the generated tape will be affected! -Note: Don't forget to set these values back to zero after doing the OPER, or you may also affect other OPERs that you don't wish to change. \1344-See also: ROT/SHIFT/SCALE/CYL TRANSLATION \1129-Pick here to return to the Quiz questions. #90 #1189 =============ANSWER TO QUIZ QUESTION 9================= How would you update a TPATH after adding a fillet? -If you stretch, fillet, or otherwise change a group that has already been machined (via an OPER), you may regenerate the T-PATH using the same tool, feeds, speeds, and step via the ERASE & REGEN T-PATH command. -Do the OPER as you normally would, but before hitting [Ins], hit [Alt]-[E] then pick the existing T-PATH. The new T-PATH will replace the old one. \1157-See also: ERASE & REGEN T-PATH \1129-Pick here to return to the Quiz questions. #90 #1155 #1001 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++ ++++++++ ++++++++ * SHOPCAM is a SHOP SYSTEMS Inc. ++++++++ ++++++++ product. All rights are re- ++++++++ ++++++++ served in the USA & worldwide. ++++++++ ++++++++ Toolpath processing methods ++++++++ ++++++++ are patented. This is a pro- ++++++++ ++++++++ prietary software package and ++++++++ ++++++++ may not be copied or modified ++++++++ ++++++++ in any way without expressed ++++++++ ++++++++ written consent of SHOP SYSTEMS ++++++++ ++++++++ Inc. Fort Wayne IN USA ++++++++ ++++++++ ++++++++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ \1155 #90 #2 ==========NO MORE HELP AVAILABLE ON THIS TOPIC========= Please do one of the following... [Ins] -Goes back to previous help screen (...or...) [Esc] -Cancels Hypertext Help System (...or...) \1 \1 Pick here to return to Help Index \1 \1 #90 #1159 ================INTERNAL HELP FILE LOG================= Fixed usage... 0 MORE 1 USING HELP 2 NO MORE HELP 9 NEXT-PAGE 10 PICKING 20 LAYERS/LAYER MASK 30 EXPRESSIONS 40 POSTS 41-78 ERROR CODES 1..38 79 SETUP 80 INFO TABLE REF 90 TERMINATE HELP \0 (more...) #9 100-99 FILES MENU 200-99 GEOM MENU 300-99 DISP MENU 400-99 EDIT MENU 500-99 INFO MENU 600-99 GROUP MENU 700-99 CONTOUR OPERS MENU 800-99 PROCESS MENU 900-99 FUTURE 1000-99 (FIGS - SEE BELOW) 1100-99 (GOTOS - SEE BELOW) 1200-99 MISC MENU 1300-87 INFO TABLE ITEMS \0 (more...) #9 1400-99 MILLING OPERS MENU 1500-99 LATHE OPERS MENU 1600-99 WIRE-EDM OPERS MENU 1700-99 PUNCH OPERS MENU 1800-99 3D-OPERS MENU 1900-99 DETAILING OPERS MENU \0 (more...) #9 Figures... 1001 HELP LOGO 1002 PICK MODES 1003 TRIM BOTH 1004 TRIM MODAL 1005 BREAK BOTH 1006 BREAK MODAL 1007 BREAK POINT 1008 TOOL REF PT 1009 MOUSE 1010 CHAIN 1011 WINDOW 1012 LASSO \0 (more...) #9 1021 LINE: ANG & GEOM 1041 PROJECT ONTO 1044 MILL PROFILE ROUGH 1045 MILL ZIGZAG 1046 SCREEN LAYOUT 1047 CAP RADIUS 1048 SORT METHODS 1049 3D-ROTATE 1062 MILL TOOL TYPES 1063 LATHE TOOL TYPES 1064 2 PLANE WIRE 1066 MULT PASS WIRE \0 (more...) #9 1076 APPROACH METHODS 1083 SWEEP 1084 SWARF 1091 ABOUT LABELS 1092 LINEAR DIMENSIONS 1093 ANGLE DIMENSIONS 1094 TOOL ORIENTATION 1097 MEAS ANGLES 1098 TOOLPATH EDITING \0 (more...) #9 Misc GOTOs... 1101-10 MAIN INDX 1111-13 MOUSE USE 1114-19 INFO VALUES 1120-24 MULT G PICK METHODS 1125-29 MISC STUFF 1130-39 MAIN MENU 1140-49 OPERATIONS 1150-59 ADVANCED 1160-69 FUNDAMENTALS 1170-80 MISC INDEX 1181-89 QUIZ 1190-99 TROUBLE SHOOTING \0 (more...) #9 \1155-Remember: Run HINDEX after making any changes to this file! (end of help.dat) #90