home
***
CD-ROM
|
disk
|
FTP
|
other
***
search
/
Media Share 9
/
MEDIASHARE_09.ISO
/
progmisc
/
cams305.zip
/
CAMSMAN.EXE
/
VIDEOPP.TXT
< prev
Wrap
Text File
|
1993-05-20
|
51KB
|
1,404 lines
CAMS
PC VIDEO POSTPROCESSOR
Reference Manual
Version 3
Modification 02
Copyright (C) 1993
by Computer Geometry Co.
March 20, 1993
Computer Geometry Co.
26624 Whispering Leaves
Newhall, CA 91321
(805) 252-4938
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
VIDEOPP comes with no warranties, expressed or implied,
of any kind; it is available as-is. Computer Geometry
Company would like to be informed of any problems that
users of the program encounter, but makes no promise or
guarantee that such problems will be fixed. In no
event will Computer Geometry Company be liable for any
damages, including any lost profits, lost savings,
failure to perform, or other incidental or
consequential damages arising out of the use, or
inability to use, the VIDEOPP program, even if Computer
Geometry has been advised of the possibility of such
damages, or for any claim by any other party.
Disclaimer Page 2
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The CAMS VIDEO postprocessor (VIDEOPP) is designed for use with
the IBM PC/XT, PC/AT and compatibles. It will produce a PC
display screen sized plot of the cutter path as calculated by
CAMS. VIDEOPP supports CGA, EGA and VGA compatible display
devices.
Certain guiding principles are established which govern
postprocessor behavior. These are stated in this introduction to
give the user as clear an understanding as possible of the
program's behavior patterns.
The postprocessor uses the entire PC display screen, producing a
7 1/2 x 10 plot showing part or all of the cutter path generated
by CAMS1 and CAMS2. Execution of VIDEOPP is broken into four
distinct phases, each of which is associated with a distinctive
display screen.
The first of these is the identification screen. It contains the
postprocessor identification. After displaying this screen,
VIDEOPP waits for you to press the "Enter" key to begin plotting.
Pressing Ctrl-C at this time will permit you to abort execution
of the postprocessor.
The second screen is the plot. The plotting region consumes the
entire PC display screen, producing a plot of approximately 7 1/2
x 10 inches. This is called the plotting window. The default X
axis is parallel to the long dimension of the screen. The cutter
path you wish to examine must be transformed, using a CAMS
matrix, in such a way as to show in the plotting window to its
best advantage.
After the entire CL path has been plotted on the PC display,
VIDEOPP waits, retaining the completed plot on the screen, until
you press the "Enter" key. At that time, the final screen is
displayed. This re-iterates the postprocessor's identity, and
displays pertinent information about the plot, including
recommendations for plotting transformations which may improve
the cutter path display. At the end of this display, you are
given the opportunity to replot the CL file. Should you opt not
to proceed, the VIDEOPP process terminates.
Should you opt to replot the CL file, the fourth screen allows
you to define...
1. The coordinates of the point to be moved to the window
center.
2. The plot scale.
3. The XY rotation angle for the plot.
4. The YZ rotation angle for the plot.
5. The ZX rotation angle for the plot.
6. The ISN range to be plotted
7. Establish single step operation with plot color control.
Chapter 1. Introduction Page 3
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
Upon verifying these parameters, a new plotting matrix is
calculated and the CL file is replotted. Upon reaching the third
screen again, the new plotting matrix is displayed, and you are
once again asked if you want to replot. (Note, if you have
trouble with matrices, do a "Shift/PrtSc" and print this screen.
You can use the matrix in subsequent PLT/ statements for later
plotting to a pen-plotter.)
If the coordinate origin is within the plotting window, a
coordinate axis logo will be plotted in the window. This logo is
rotated, translated, and scaled with the cutter path. It serves
to visually inform you of the plot axis relationships.
A sample part program may be found in appendix A.
Chapter 1. Introduction Page 4
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
2.0 VOCABULARY
The VIDEO postprocessor vocabulary is used to control the actions
of the postprocessor. Only a very minimum of vocabulary is
required. Only the PLT/ statement is unique to the VIDEO
postprocessor. All other vocabulary words are unchanged from the
way they are used by the machine postprocessor for which the part
program is being generated.
What follows is a complete list of all of the CAMS vocabulary
words recognized by the postprocessor, together with a
description of how these words (and statements) are interpreted
by the program.
2.01 CYC/<parameters>
The CYC/ command is used to control certain of the built-in
machining cycles available in the NC controller, e.g.
drilling, step-drilling, boring, and tapping. When using
these built-in cycles, the part programmer merely specifies
a list of points at which the cycle is to be applied. The
VIDEO postprocessor will plot a special symbol at each of
the listed points at which the cycle applies. What follows
is a list of the plot symbols used for each cycle type...
CYC/DRL,<parameters>
CYC/PEK,<parameters>
CYC/BOR,<parameters>
CYC/TAP,<parameters>
CYC/CBOR,<parameters>
All other cycle types are ignored by the postprocessor
except for the CYC/OFF statement, which terminates the
generation of symbols at the cycle points.
Chapter 2. Vocabulary Page 5
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
2.02 FROM/<point>
The FROM/ point is used to establish an origin for the
machine control data. The FROM/ statement tells the
postprocessor that the plot begins at the FROM/ point. It
will move to this position with the pen up.
2.03 MCH/<n>
The MCH/ statement is used to both select the VIDEOPP
postprocessor and to determine the type of display to be
used. CGA (Composite Graphics Adapter), EGA (Enhanced
Graphics Adapter) and VGA (Video Graphics Array) display
devices are supported. The numeric value <n> establishes the
plotting mode as follows...
n = 0 ..... CGA 640x200 resolution monochrome plot.
n = 1 ..... CGA 320x200 resolution color plot.
n = 2 ..... EGA 640x350 resolution monochrome plot.
n = 3 ..... EGA 640x200 resolution color plot.
n = 4 ..... VGA 640x480 resolution color plot.
If the MCH/ statement is omitted from the part program, the
VIDEOPP postprocessor will attemp to determine the best
resolution display possible on your equipment and use it.
Note that EGA displays may use all modes less than 4,
whereas a CGA display may only be used with n=0 or n=1. All
modes listed may be used on a VGA device.
The higher resolutions produce finer screen plots. The
color plots, while of coarser resolution, can sometimes
improve the differentiation between closely spaced tool
paths. Obviously, the EGA compatible devices will produce
visibly better plots than will the CGA compatible displays,
and the VGA compatible devices will produce the best looking
plots of all.
WARNING: If you do not have a display/controller for EGA (or
VGA), then attempting to plot in EGA (or VGA) mode will
cause strange things to happen on your screen. You may need
to perform a reset (Ctrl-Alt-Del) to clear it up. The same
thing can happen if you let the internal algorithm decide
what the display resolution should be - and it fails to do
so correctly.
2.04 PNO/<alphanumerics>
The PNO/ command must be the first record on the CL file.
Chapter 2. Vocabulary Page 6
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
It is used to establish the plot identifior, and is
reproduced in the plot's final screen. To improve the
recognition of the plot's content, it is recommended that
the alphanumerics contain the part number, a descriptive
title (usually taken from the blue-print title), and the
date of program processing.
Chapter 2. Vocabulary Page 7
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
2.05 PLT/ ON
<matrix>
<n>
OFF
The PLT/ command (Postprocessor PLOT) is used to 1) enter
the plotting transformation, 2) enter the pen (color)
number, and/or 3) temporarily or permanently terminate
plotting activity.
If a numeric value appears as the only parameter in the PLT/
statement, that number, modulo 5 for CGA displays (modulo 8
for EGA displays), will be used as the VIDEO pen number.
Using modulo 5 (or modulo 8) insures that the following
relationships hold...
0 <= <n> <= 4 for CGA compatible color plots.
0 <= <n> <= 7 for EGA or VGA compatible color plots.
Of course, pen numbers will be ignored when using the
monochrome plotting options. If <n> modulo 5 (or 8) = 0 the
color selected becomes the background color, and the
remainder of the plot is immediately rendered invisible.
If a PLT/ statement with a matrix is omitted from the part
program, then the most recently defined matrix definition
will be used. (The default matrix is a unit matrix, i.e. no
translation or rotation applied.)
Each plot is controlled by a transformation matrix of your
choosing. You must enter the symbol for a pre-defined
matrix into the PLT/ statement.
Using transformation matrices, you may view a cutter path
from any perspective. Any matrix archtype, or combination
of archtypes, may be used. This includes translation,
rotation and scale.
To turn plotting off, use the statement "PLT/OFF". To
resume plotting, use the statement "PLT/ON". You may also
resume plotting with a "PLT/<n>" or a "PLT/<matrix>
statement. If the new value for <n> is different than the
preceeding <n> value, a color change will take place before
the plotting resumes. In any case, if "PLT/<matrix>" is not
used, the previous transformation applies.
The default plot origin is at the center of the plotting
sheet. The default plot scale is at full scale (1:1) in the
XY plane. Using these defaults, the lower left hand corner
of the plot is at coordinates [-3.5,-4.45], the upper right
hand corner at [3.5,4.45]. If the CL file that you wish to
plot exceeds these dimensions, then it will be necessary to
provide an appropriate plotting transformation to bring the
entire cutter path into the plotting window.
Chapter 2. Vocabulary Page 8
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
2.06 RPD
The RPD command (RaPiD traverse) is used to inform the
postprocessor that the next upcoming move is to be done at
high speed for the machine tool. RPD is one-shot; that is
to say, it provides a one-move override to the prevailing
(modal) feedrate. Once the single move is completed,
feedrate control is resumed.
The VIDEO postprocessor displays rapid motion as dashed
lines. Therefore, each RPD statement turns on the dashed
line generator for exactly one motion. After the motion is
completed, solid lines are generated to signify motion at
feedrate.
Chapter 2. Vocabulary Page 9
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
3.0 EXECUTING THE POSTPROCESSOR
The postprocessor is invoked from the command line by simply
entering its name and the filename of the CL data file. An
example of how the PC's screen will look before execution of the
plotting phase is as follows....
C>VIDEOPP THINGMJ.CLF
========================================
CAMS Post Processor
IBM PC & COMPATIBLES
Version 3, Modification 00
Copyright 1987 by Computer Geometry Co.
All Rights Reserved
========================================
Date: 26-Dec-87
**** Press ENTER to begin plotting ****
Once you have pressed the "Enter" key, the CL plot will be
displayed.
WARNING: STRANGE THINGS HAPPEN TO YOUR SCREEN IF YOU USE THE EGA
PLOTTING OPTIONS ON A CGA DISPLAY, OR VGA OPTIONS ON LESSER
RESOLUTION DEVICES. This usually happens to part programs that
may have been downloaded to a CGA equiped system from a system
having an some other display. DON'T PANIC! An escape valve has
been included which will restore your display. USE THE "Esc"
KEY. This should restore your display, and abort the VIDEOPP
processor. If the "Esc" key fails, the only way out is to re-
initialize DOS (using "Ctrl/Shift/Del"). Then you must edit the
CAMS source part program to put in the proper MCH/<n> statement,
where <n> is appropriate for you display device.
The plotting action may be stopped at any time by pressing the
space-bar. You can single-step through the plot by continued
pressing of the space-bar key. Continuous plotting may be
resumed by pressing any key other than the space-bar.
Once you are in single step mode, you can clear the screen by
entering the character "C" (either upper or lower case). This is
useful if previously plotted tool paths obstruct your view of the
current motion.
If you have established a color plot in your part program by an
appropriate "MCH/..." statement, and you are in single step
operation, then you can also control the plot color by using the
numeric keys. For CGA color mode, numeric keys 1, 2, and 3 are
active. For EGA or VGA color mode, numeric keys 1 thru 7 are
active. Should you be in one of the black and white modes, the
Chapter 3. Executing The Postprocessor Page 10
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
numeric keys are ignored. Note that if a "MCH/..." statement is
omitted, the default is CGA black and white mode.
With a successful operation, the CL plot will remain on the
screen until you press "Enter" again, at which time the following
screen will be displayed...
========================================
CAMS Post Processor
IBM PC & COMPATIBLES
640x200 CGA B&W Monitor
Version 3, Modification 00
Copyright 1987 by Computer Geometry Co.
All Rights Reserved
========================================
Date: 26-Dec-87
PNO/ CAMS TEST CASE #1 - THINGAMAJIG - 12/17/86
RECOMMENDED TRANSLATION: .37500 2.22500 -.41250
RECOMMENDED SCALE [X,Y,Z]: 1.22759 1.57303 1.00000
LOWER LEFT CORNER: -4.00000 -4.45000 -.05000
UPPER RIGHT CORNER: 3.25000 .00000 .87500
**** 0 ERRORS ****
[Y/N] PLOT AGAIN?
After all cut vectors in the CL file have been processed, the
postprocessor will print the recommended plot parameters on the
screen. These parameters may be used to maximize the use of the
plotting window to display the CL data. The translation
represents the X, Y, and Z translation factors to move the center
of the plot into the center of the plotting window. The scale
factors in X and Y will work with the translation to utilize the
full window area for plotting. Using the example portrayed
above, the following CAMS statements will produce an optimum plot
of the CL file...
MAT/M1=TRN,0.375,2.225,-.4125
MAT/M2=SCL,1.2,M1
PLT/M2
A word of caution about the use of these parameters is in order.
The postprocessor computes the parameters of the plot from ALL of
the motions in the CL file. On some machines, the tool changer
is far away from the workpiece area. The tool change position
would be included in the plotting window. In this case, using
the parameters may not produce as good a result as you would get
Chapter 3. Executing The Postprocessor Page 11
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
by leaving the tool change position off-window.
This screen terminates in a request line which permits you to
generate further plots from the CL file. Only a "Y" or a "y"
(upper or lower case Y) will permit you to continue plotting.
Should you enter anything else, the postprocessor will terminate
and return to DOS.
If you chose to continue by entering a "Y", a new message appears
at the bottom of the screen as follows...
[Y/N] SAME?
Responding with an "Enter", "Y", or "y" will produce an immediate
replot of the CL file without changing the currently effective
parameters. Should you press any other key, the screen clears to
the following display:
=========== VIDEOPP ===========
EDIT PLOT PARAMETERS
===============================
PLOT CENTER X = .00000 ?
This line shows the X coordinate of the current default plot
center. The plot center is defined to be a point in your CL file
space that you want centered in the plotting window.
At this entry, only two responses are recognized; an "Enter",
which indicates acceptance of the value displayed, or a numeric
value followed by an "Enter", which will replace the value
displayed. Should you key anything else, the request line will
be stubbornly reiterated until a satisfactory response is
entered. In any case, when "Enter" is keyed, with or without a
replacement number, the program requests the next entry.
=========== VIDEOPP ===========
EDIT PLOT PARAMETERS
===============================
PLOT CENTER X = .00000 ? -.4
PLOT CENTER Y = .00000 ?
Immediately after entering the plot center X coordinate, the
request for the plot center Y coordinate appears on the screen.
The rules for entry are the same as for the X coordinate. This
entry pattern continues until you have entered or accepted
coordinates for the 3 dimensional plot center, as follows...
Chapter 3. Executing The Postprocessor Page 12
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
=========== VIDEOPP ===========
EDIT PLOT PARAMETERS
===============================
PLOT CENTER X = .00000 ? -.4
PLOT CENTER Y = .00000 ? -2.2
PLOT CENTER Z = .00000 ? .4
PLOT SCALE = 1.00000 ?
The request for the plot scale appears on the screen after the
plot center point is completely entered. The plot scale is
defined as a positive number greater than 0.001. Values less
than or equal to 0.001, including negative entries, are not
acceptable. As before, the default scale value is displayed, and
the rules for accepting or rejecting the default value are the
same as with the plot center coordinates.
The next parameters to accept or enter are the XY rotation, the
YZ rotation, and the ZX rotation to be applied to the CL data.
These rotations are taken about the plot center, and at the scale
specified by the above inputs. The same rules of data entry
apply. Completion of the plot rotation input sequence produces a
screen that looks like ...
=========== VIDEOPP ===========
EDIT PLOT PARAMETERS
===============================
PLOT CENTER X = .00000 ? -.4
PLOT CENTER Y = .00000 ? -2.2
PLOT CENTER Z = .00000 ? .4
PLOT SCALE = 1.00000 ?
XY ROTATION = .00000 ? 20
YZ ROTATION = .00000 ? 30
ZX ROTATION = .00000 ?
MINIMUM ISN = 1.00000 ?
You now must specify the range of ISN numbers to be plotted in
the next frame. The default value always specifies the minimum
ISN of the part program, as it appears on the CL file. The
program will only accept those values for minimum ISN that lie
between the actual minimum and maximum ISN numbers on the CL
file.After the minimum ISN is entered, the program will request
the maximum ISN, whose default is the maximum actual ISN number
detected on the CL file. Again, the same rules of data entry
apply. Completion of the input sequence produces a screen that
looks like ...
Chapter 3. Executing The Postprocessor Page 13
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
=========== VIDEOPP ===========
EDIT PLOT PARAMETERS
===============================
PLOT CENTER X = .00000 ? -.4
PLOT CENTER Y = .00000 ? -2.2
PLOT CENTER Z = .00000 ? .4
PLOT SCALE = 1.00000 ?
XY ROTATION = .00000 ? 20
YZ ROTATION = .00000 ? 30
ZX ROTATION = .00000 ?
MINIMUM ISN = 1.00000 ?
MAXIMUM ISN = 40.00000 ?
INPUT VERIFICATION: PLOT CENTER = -.40000 -2.20000 .40000
PLOT SCALE = 1.00000
XY ROTATION = 20.00000
ZX ROTATION = 30.00000
YZ ROTATION = .00000
MINIMUM ISN = 1
MAXIMUM ISN = 40
[Y/N] OK? y
[Y/N] SINGLE STEP?
As you can see, the system produces a verification list of the
data you have either entered or accepted, and gives you the
opportunity to edit these parameters before proceeding by
entering a "N". Pressing a "Y" or "Enter" key will bring the
single step option on-screen, as shown above. Pressing a "Y" or
"y" key will immediately produce the modified CL plot. Pressing
any other key is interpreted as a "N" response. In either case,
the system will then immediately begin the plotting session.
After the new plot has completed, you will then see the following
screen...
Chapter 3. Executing The Postprocessor Page 14
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
========================================
CAMS Post Processor
IBM PC & COMPATIBLES
640x200 CGA B&W Monitor
Version 3, Modification 00
Copyright 1987 by Computer Geometry Co.
All Rights Reserved
========================================
Date: 26-Dec-87
MANUAL INPUT PLOT MATRIX: .93969 -.34202 .00000 -.37657
.29620 .81380 .50000 1.70883
-.17101 -.46985 .86603 -1.44848
PNO/ CAMS TEST CASE #1 - THINGAMAJIG - 12/17/86
RECOMMENDED TRANSLATION: .37500 2.22500 -.41250
RECOMMENDED SCALE [X,Y,Z]: 1.22759 1.57303 1.00000
LOWER LEFT CORNER: -4.00000 -4.45000 -.05000
UPPER RIGHT CORNER: 3.25000 .00000 .87500
**** 0 ERRORS ****
[Y/N] PLOT AGAIN?
Notice that this screen shows the calculated plotting matrix for
the view of the CL data you have just seen. The matrix may be
recorded (preferably by using the "Shift/PrtSc" key combination
to send it to the printer) and entered into the CAMS source part
program. It is particularly useful if you wish to plot the
generated view later on a pen-plotter.
A word about the relationship between the coordinates of the plot
center and the translation factors as shown in the recommended
plot parameters. The one is the negative of the other. The
translations factors are the values which, when added to the
coordinates of any point in the CL file (e.g. the plot center)
will produce a point in the display space. In particular, when
they are added to the plot center, the result is the point
[0,0,0]. Therefore, if you enter the negative of the translation
factors when asked for the plot center, you will produce a plot
at the geometric center of all motions on the CL file.
COMMAND LINE PARAMETERS
In addition to the plotter controls provided for in the CAMS part
program, you can also control the VIDEOPP plot parameters at
execution time. In fact, you can do this even if there are no
plotter control statements in the part program at all. This is
accomplished by entering control parameters on the command line.
Chapter 3. Executing The Postprocessor Page 15
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
In this manner, you can control the way in which the first plot
of the cutter path is displayed. Subsequent displays are then
conrolled as described above. The following section provides a
detailed description of each of the supported parameters, their
use and meaning.
/MNm The "/MN" parameter permits you to specify the minimum
part program ISN number to be plotted. The value "m"
must be an integer in the range 1 < m < 32768. In the
absence of a "/MXn" parameter on the command line, the
postprocessor will not plot CL data generated by part
program statements with an ISN number smaller than "m".
If an "/MXn" parameter is also present on the command
line, then the range of ISN numbers from "m" to "n"
will be plotted. "m" must be strictly less than "n".
The default value of "m" is 1.
/MXn The "/MX" parameter permits you to specify the maximum
part program ISN number to be plotted. The value "n"
must be an integer in the range 1 < n < 32768. In the
absence of a "/MNm" parameter on the command line, the
postprocessor will not plot CL data generated by part
program statements with an ISN number greater than [n].
If an "/MNm" parameter is also present on the command
line, then the range of ISN numbers from "m" to "n"
will be plotted. "n" must be strictly greater than
"m". The default value of "n" is 32767.
/SCs.s The "/SC" parameter permits you to set the plot scale.
The decimal point in the parameter value is NOT
optional. Failure to include it will produce an
incorrect plot. If present in the command line, all
plotting transformations established by "PPLOT/"
statements in the CAMS part program will be completely
ignored. It can be used in conjunction with any of the
other transformation parameters on the command line to
form a composite transformation to control the plot.
The default scale value is "s.s" = 1.0.
/SXx.x The "/SX" parameter permits you to set the plot scale
for X values in the CL file independent of the other
axes. This results in a distortion of the part
display, but can be usefull for parts that are long in
the X dimension. The decimal point in the parameter
value is NOT optional. Failure to include it will
produce an incorrect plot. If present in the command
line, all plotting transformations established by
"PPLOT/" statements in the CAMS part program will be
completely ignored. It can be used in conjunction with
any of the other transformation parameters on the
command line to form a composite transformation that
will control the plot. The default X scale value is
"x.x" = 1.0.
/SZz.z The "/SZ" parameter permits you to set the plot scale
Chapter 3. Executing The Postprocessor Page 16
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
for Z values in the CL file independent of the other
axes. This results in a distortion of the part
display, but can be usefull for parts that are long in
the Z dimension. The decimal point in the parameter
value is NOT optional. Failure to include it will
produce an incorrect plot. If present in the command
line, all plotting transformations established by
"PPLOT/" statements in the CAMS part program will be
completely ignored. It can be used in conjunction with
any of the other transformation parameters on the
command line to form a composite transformation that
will control the plot. The default Z scale value is
"z.z" = 1.0.
/PXx.x The "/PX" parameter permits you to set the CL file x
coordinate which you want to be at the center of the
plotting frame. The decimal point in the parameter
value is NOT optional. Failure to include it will
produce an incorrect plot. In this manner, you can
establish a translation in x for the current plot. If
present in the command line, all plot transformations
established by "PPLOT/" statements in the CAMS part
program will be completely ignored. It can be used in
conjunction with any of the other transformation
parameters on the command line to form a composite
transformation to control the plot. The default /PX
value is "x.x" = 0.0.
/PYy.y The "/PY" parameter permits you to set the CL file y
coordinate which you want to be at the center of the
plotting frame. The decimal point in the parameter
value is NOT optional. Failure to include it will
produce an incorrect plot. In this manner, you can
establish a translation in y for the current plot. If
present in the command line, all plot transformations
established by "PPLOT/" statements in the CAMS part
program will be completely ignored. It can be used in
conjunction with any of the other transformation
parameters on the command line to form a composite
transformation to control the plot. The default /PY
value is "y.y" = 0.0.
/PZz.z The "/PZ" parameter permits you to set the CL file z
coordinate which you want to be at the center of the
plotting frame. The decimal point in the parameter
value is NOT optional. Failure to include it will
produce an incorrect plot. In this manner, you can
establish a translation in z for the current plot. If
present in the command line, all plot transformations
established by "PPLOT/" statements in the CAMS part
program will be completely ignored. It can be used in
conjunction with any of the other transformation
parameters on the command line to form a composite
transformation to control the plot. The default /PZ
value is "z.z" = 0.0.
Chapter 3. Executing The Postprocessor Page 17
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
/XYr.r The "/XY" parameter permits you to establish an XY
rotation of the plotting frame about the plot center as
defined by the "/PX", "/PY" and "/PZ" parameters. The
decimal point in the parameter value is NOT optional.
Failure to include it will produce an incorrect plot.
If present in the command line, all plot
transformations established by "PPLOT/" statements in
the CAMS part program will be completely ignored. It
can be used in conjunction with any of the other
transformation parameters on the command line to form a
composite transformation to control the plot. The
default XY rotation value is "r.r" = 0.0.
/YZr.r The "/YZ" parameter permits you to establish a YZ
rotation of the plotting frame about the plot center as
defined by the "/PX", "/PY" and "/PZ" parameters. The
decimal point in the parameter value is NOT optional.
Failure to include it will produce an incorrect plot.
If present in the command line, all plot
transformations established by "PPLOT/" statements in
the CAMS part program will be completely ignored. It
can be used in conjunction with any of the other
transformation parameters on the command line to form a
composite transformation to control the plot. The
default YZ rotation value is "r.r" = 0.0.
/ZXr.r The "/ZX" parameter permits you to establish a ZX
rotation of the plotting frame about the plot center as
defined by the "/PX", "/PY" and "/PZ" parameters. The
decimal point in the parameter value is NOT optional.
Failure to include it will produce an incorrect plot.
If present in the command line, all plot
transformations established by "PPLOT/" statements in
the CAMS part program will be completely ignored. It
can be used in conjunction with any of the other
transformation parameters on the command line to form a
composite transformation to control the plot. The
default ZX rotation value is "r.r" = 0.0.
The easiest way to develop a useful plot from a CL file in which
there are no plotter control statements is to run the
postprocessor once to establish the recommended plot parameters.
Then, observing the final screen (see above), the optimum plot
center is the NEGATIVE of the translation factors in X, Y, and Z.
Enter the NEGATIVE of each of these as /PX, /PY, and /PZ
parameters. Then observe the recommended scale factors in X, Y,
and Z. In general, you would be advised to use the SMALLEST of
these as /SC. From the example shown above, the following
command line entry would produce a satisfactory plot.
A>VIDEOPP THINGMJ.CLF /PX-.375 /PY-2.225 /PZ.4125 /SC1.0
Chapter 3. Executing The Postprocessor Page 18
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
After that, anything goes. Remember, spaces are significant, they
are used to separate the parameters. Do not try to separate the
number from the text for each parameter. Notice also that the
extent [.CLD] is understood, if it is omitted from the file
specification. However, if you forget to enter the file
specification, the program will prompt you for it.
If you make a mistake in entering a parameter, the postprocessor
will produce an error diagnostic, then wait for your action. You
must either enter a "Ctrl-C" or "Enter" from the keyboard to
continue. The message looks as follows...
C>VIDEOPP THINGMJ.CLF /mn55
ILLEGAL OPTION: "/mn55"
Ctrl-C to abort; Enter to continue.
All control parameters must be in upper case characters. The
above error is due to the lower case option.
Chapter 3. Executing The Postprocessor Page 19
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
4.0 ERROR MESSAGES
The postprocessor will ignore part program statements whose major
words are not in it's vocabulary. However, if the statement's
major word is in the postprocessor vocabulary, a syntax check of
the CL record will take place. Those statements not formulated
as described above will not be properly processed, and an error
message will be generated.
Upon discovering an erroneous input, the postprocessor will
produce one of several messages. These messages will provide
useful clues as to the source of the error. A list of the
messages and their meanings follows...
** CL FILE READ FAILED
The postprocessor encounterd a read failure on the CL
file, possibly caused by faulty disk media.
** CYCLE PARAMETERS MISSING
The cycle statement does not contain a cycle type (e.g.
DRL,TAP). Check the section in chapter two on CYC/.
** LINEAR MOTION ERROR
This error occurs when the CL file is improperly
formatted for linear motion. Please contact Computer
Geometry if this error is encountered.
** PLT/ PARAMETER ERROR
The VIDEO postprocessor is unable to interpret the
plotting parameters as either the canonical form of a
matrix, a pen number, or the minor words ON or OFF.
Chapter 4. Error Messages Page 20
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
4.0 SAMPLE PART PROGRAM
To illustrate the use of the VIDEO postprocessor, the same sample
part used in the CAMS Part Programmer's Manual will be augmented
with plotting parameters and plotted. The sketch and text of the
part program are reproduced herein for your convenience.
Appendix A Sample Part Program Page 21
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
========================================
C A M S Section 1
Version 3, Mod 00
Copyright 1987 by Computer Geometry Co.
All Rights Reserved
========================================
Date: 20-Mar-93
Source File: THINGMJ.NC
1 PNO/ CAMS TEST CASE #1 - THINGAMAJIG - 12/17/86
2 MCH/1
3 MAT/M1=TRN,0.0,2.0,0.0
4 PLT/M1
5 #/S0=185
6 #/R1=.25
7 #/Z1=.625+.25
8 #/Z2=-.05
9 #/Y0=1.725-.4+2
10 #/X0=3
11 PLN/Q1=0,0,1,Z2
12 LIN/L1=0,-Y0,1,-Y0
13 LIN/L2=-X0,0,-X0,1
14 LIN/L3=-X0,2-Y0,COS(15)-X0,SIN(15)+2-Y0
15 LIN/L4=PARL,L1,YL,1.725
16 LIN/L5=PARL,L2,XL,6
17 CIR/C1=0,0,2
18 REM/ ** COMPUTE SPINDLE RPM (S1) SUCH THAT 100 <= S1 <= 4000
19 #/S1=MAX(100:MIN(4000:(S0*12/(3.1416*R1*2))))
20 REM/ ** COMPUTE FEEDRATE; .004 PER EDGE FOR 2 FLUTE CUTTER
21 #/F1=.004*S1*2
22 PRT/S1,F1
S1 2104 1413.29300
F1 2104 11.30634
23 FROM/P255=-(X0+1),-(Y0+1.125),Z1
24 FED/F1
25 CUTR/2*R1
26 RPD
27 PS/Q1
28 GO/TO,L2,TO,L1
29 GO/PAST,L3,TO,L2
30 GO/PAST,C1,TO,L3
31 REM/ *** GEOMETRY TO COMPUTE ARC END ANGLE USING A CIRCLE
32 CIR/C100=YL,L4,XL,IN,C1,R1
33 ARC/.003,CCW,CTR,C100,IN,C1
34 GO/PAST,L5,TO,L4
35 GO/PAST,L1,TO,L5
36 GO/PAST,L2,TO,L1
37 RPD
38 GTO/P255
Appendix A Sample Part Program Page 22
MARCH 20, 1993 PC VIDEO Postprocessor Reference Manual
39 PRT/ALL
M1 041A 1.00000 .00000 .00000 .00000 .00000 1.00000
.00000 2.00000 .00000 .00000 1.00000 .00000
S0 2104 185.00000
R1 2104 .25000
Z1 2104 .87500
Z2 2104 -.05000
Y0 2104 3.32500
X0 2104 3.00000
Q1 010A .00000 .00000 1.00000 -.05000
L1 010A .00000 -1.00000 .00000 3.32500
L2 010A 1.00000 .00000 .00000 -3.00000
L3 010A .25882 -.96593 .00000 .50339
L4 010A .00000 -1.00000 .00000 1.60000
L5 010A 1.00000 .00000 .00000 3.00000
C1 0210 .00000 .00000 .00000 .00000 .00000 1.00000
2.00000
S1 2104 1413.29300
F1 2104 11.30634
P255 0008 -4.00000 -4.45000 .87500
C100 0210 1.11355 -1.35000 .00000 .00000 .00000 1.00000
.25000
40 FIN
**** 0 ERRORS ****
0
Only three additional statements were required to obtain the
sample plot. These are...
:
2 MCH/1
3 MAT/M1=TRN,0.0,2.0,0.0
4 PLT/M1
:
The MCH/1 invokes the postprocessor and establishes that the plot
is to be a CGA 320x200 color plot. Note, however, that since no
pen numbers are requested in the PLT/ statements, the plot will
still be white on black, since white is the default pen color.
The matrix definition in statement number five establishes a
2.000 inch transformation up in Y. This serves to more centrally
locate the cutter path in the plotting window, but does not lose
the axis logo off the window.
The PLT/M1 statement (statement number 4) informs the VIDEO
postprocessor to begin plotting, and provides the transformation
necessary to move the cutter path into the plotting window.
Appendix A Sample Part Program Page 23