The Business Master (3rd Edition)

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#0 none #99 file help #1 ==================== USING HELP ======================= -To find a particular subject in the help files: 1) While normally using the system, pick a particular menu selection, INFO table entry, or use a shortcut key to select the subject item. 2) Hit the [F10] key for help regarding that subject. 3) Use the [Enter] key to scan through the help file or the [Ins] key to resume normal operation. -The next few pages explain some of the basics of NC part-programming. #9 =================== THE KEYBOARD ====================== -The three main keys on your keyboard or the buttons on your mouse (locator) are used as follows: -[Enter] or button 1: Picks a location or selected item at the cursor location on the screen. -[Ins] or button 2: (As a list is entered) Terminates the list. (as a list is scanned) Scans forward to next item. (At a filename prompt) Requests a directory. (At left edge of screen) Brings up graphic keypad. (Otherwise) Repeats the previous value or command. -[Esc] or button 3: Cancel or abort processing. #9 ==================== TERMINOLOGY ====================== -This is a CAD/CAM system: 1) CAD stands for Computer Aided Design. (or Drawing) 2) CAM stands for Computer Aided Manufacturing. -The system is used for NC (or CNC) part-programming: 3) 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): 4) A FILE is just a named storage area on the disk, like a file folder with a labelled tab. 5) 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 of a file cabinet. #9 ===================== MAIN MENU ======================= -From here, you may select: FILES: to load or merge files, or to exit. GEOM: to construct the part itself. DISP: to change views on the screen. EDIT: to change, delete, move or copy geometry. INFO: to adjust feeds etc for tooling & materials. GROUP: to label outlines, pockets, hole patterns. OPERS: to machine the paths above. PROC: to process the part for an NC/CNC machine. -The above menus are modal. They follow the locator device (mouse or pad) so that you do not need to return to them each time you need to make a menu selection. -The next few pages explain "NC programming", "Layers", and "Post processing". #9 -NC programming requires that you perform the following sequence of actions: 1. Load in a SETUP FILE. This selects the NC machine, tooling, material, speeds, feeds, etc. (These may be changed or overidden.) 2. Build the part using GEOMetry. This is often done with layer 0 active, placing all GEOM on layer 0. 3. Label the GROUPs that need to be machined by use of the GROUP menu. These GROUPs will be saved each in their own layer. 4. Machine the GROUPs that you labelled by use of the OPERS menu. Each operation will be placed in its own layer. 5. Post-PROCess the operations to a given NC/CNC machine tool. (You may want to resequence first.) #20 ================= 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. -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. #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, or post-processed. -If you make changes to a part-program, you must post- process it again. -Post-processors are program files. They have been written by a post writer, or have been made by running a post-generator program. #10 locator modes =================== LOCATOR MODES ===================== -You may select locator 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. (more...) #9 -Locator 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. #9 ================== 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. -This only works when the cursor is X shaped. -The selective pick keys are listed on the next page... #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]. #9 =================== FUNCTION KEYS ===================== [F1] Display abbreviated INFO table -Digitizing mode selections: [F2] Set digitizing mode to ENDPOINT [F3] Set digitizing mode to CENTER/MID POINT [F4] Set digitizing mode to INTERSECTION -Sprite movement control: [F5] Shrink sprite (if applicable) [F6] Enlarge sprite (if applicable) [F7] Rotate sprite counter-clockwise (if applicable) [F8] Rotate sprite clockwise (if applicable) -Miscellany: [F9] Numeric menu selection [F10] Help! #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. -Expressions may use the assignment operator: = -The factorial suffix operater (n!) may also be used. (more...) #9 (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]. -Examples: 1) R=(G<1)*TAN(22.30') (assume G=0) ...returns 0.5 as well as putting 0.5 into variable R. 2) X=VAL(1)+R ...waits for you to digitize an X, then adds R to it. #80 =================== 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 displayss the files that are loaded, cursor position, and so on. #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. #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. 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 default CDC register. (eg: T6D17) RETRACT When TURNING, this selects whether the tool should retract beyond the previous pass. (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. APPROACH (Mill) See the following pages... #1376 #1377 #1378 #1379 ===================== APPROACH ======================== APPROACH modes: 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 PREDRILL same as OFFSET, plus make a HOLES group RAMP 3-axis approach, then LEAD-IN APPROACH values: CLEARANCE safe approach distance from finish part TAIL LGT length of a "lead-in" or "wipe-on" move RAMP LGT length of a 3-axis plunge into the work #1366 ===================== AUTO MODE ======================= When AUTO MODE is enabled the system will automatically select COLOR and LINE FONT. If a material library and tool library are also 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. -Select CDC from FIN CDC for finishing operations, or ROUGH CDC for profile roughing. -Default Z levels to last Z for machining operations, or to RETRACT Z for positioning. #1300 #1301 #1302 #1303 #1304 #1305 #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 2 LAYER ent auto oper modal 4 TOOL REF oper modal 5 OPER MODE modal 6 3D PLANE ent oper modal 7 CYCLE ent oper modal 8 F PASSES ent (more...) #1309 #1310 #1311 #1312 #1313 #1314 #1316 #1317 #1318 #1319 #1320 -Machining parameters... 9 FEEDRATE ent auto oper 10 AX FEED ent auto oper 11 RPM ent auto oper 12 TOT STOCK oper 13 STEP ent auto oper 14 CSS ent auto oper 15 POWER ent oper -Tooling characteristics... (from TOOL-LIBRARY) 16 TOOLNO ent tlib sets oper 17 TOOLTYPE ent tlib auto oper 18 TURRET NO ent tlib auto oper 19 TOOL CDC ent auto oper 20 TOOL SIDE ent tlib auto oper (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 25 TOOLANG1 ent tlib auto oper 26 TOOLANG2 ent tlib auto oper 27 TOOLEDGES ent tlib auto oper 28 ROUGH CDC tlib oper 29 FIN CDC tlib oper -Operation parameters... (from MTRL-LIBRARY) 31 OPERATION ent mlib sets oper 32 MAX STEP mlib auto 33 FD/FLUTE mlib auto 34 %FEED AX mlib auto (more...) #1335 #1336 #1337 #1339 #1340 #1341 #1342 #1343 #1344 #1345 #1346 #1347 35 MAX RPM ent mlib auto 36 COOLANT ent mlib auto 37 FPM/CMPM mlib auto -Dimensional values... 39 FIN STOCK ent 40 CAP RADII modal 41 RETRACT Z ent 42 CLEAR Z ent 43 FULL Z ent -Part orientation... 44 ROT X ent oper 45 ROT Y ent oper 46 ROT Z ent oper 47 SHIFT X ent oper (more...) #1348 #1349 #1350 #1351 #1352 #1353 #1354 #1355 #1356 #1358 #1359 #1361 48 SHIFT Y ent oper 49 SHIFT Z ent oper 50 SCALE X ent oper 51 SCALE Y ent oper 52 SCALE Z ent oper 53 CYL(A)X ent oper 54 CYL(B)Y ent oper 55 CYL(C)Z ent oper -Miscellaneous values... 57 EX STOCK ent oper 58 Z-STEP ent oper 59 TEXT HGT ent oper 60 CDC REG ent 61 PECK ent (more...) #1362 #1363 #1365 #1366 #1367 #1368 #1369 #1370 #1371 #1372 #1373 #1374 -Precision 62 UNITS modal 63 CTRL KEY (reserved for special purp) modal 64 MAX CUSP modal 65 TOLERANCE modal -Modal/operational values 66 AUTOMODE modal 68 LISTINGS modal 69 ANGLE oper 70 DEC PLCS ent oper 71 MANUAL G ent oper 72 SORT oper 73 LAYR MASK modal 74 PICK MODE modal (more...) #1375 #1385 #1386 #1387 75 TYPE MASK modal 76 APPROACH oper 77 CLEARANCE oper 78 TAIL LGT oper 79 RAMP LGT oper 81 RETRACT oper 82 %STEP DEV oper 83 MAX RUN oper 84 TAB LGT oper 85 DIAM VALS modal 86 LABELS modal (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. #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. #110 #111 ==================== DIFF PART ======================== -To change to a different part (either a brand new one or an existing part): 1) Select the FILES menu, then the DIFF PART selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 111 and hit [Enter]. -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. #120 #121 ======================= EXIT ========================== -To exit the system: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the EXIT selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 121 and hit [Enter]. -The system will ask you if you want to save the part or discard the work you have done on it. #130 #131 ================= SAVE BACKUP PART ==================== -To save the current part under a different name: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the BACKUP selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 131 and hit [Enter]. -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. #140 ==================== MERGE FILE ======================= -Use these selections to copy the contents of another file into the current part program. 1) Copy a layer from a different part. 2) Copy a layer or all layers from a CAD IGES file. 3) Copy selected layers or all from a CAD DXF file. 4) Copy all sections from a CAD sculptured 3DX file. #141 ==================== MERGE PART ======================= -To merge an existing part with the current part: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then PART FILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 141 and hit [Enter]. -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. #142 ==================== READ IGES ============(optional)== -To read in an IGES data file: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then IGES FILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 142 and hit [Enter]. -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. (more...) #9 (IGES - continued) -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. #143 ==================== READ DXF ========================= -To read in a DXF geometry data file: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then DXF FILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 143 and hit [Enter]. -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. #144 ==================== READ 3DX =============(optional)== -To read in an 3D CAD exchange file: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then 3DX NCFILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 144 and hit [Enter]. -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! #145 =================== READ NC TAPE ==========(optional)== -To read in an NC TAPE or tape file: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then NC TAPE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 145 and hit [Enter]. -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. (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. Only the following M-codes are recognized: M6, M7, M8, & M9. (M6 is required for toolchanges.) -If no decimel point is used in axis values, then the DEC PLACES must be set correctly in the INFO table. -For lathe tapes, the OPER MODE must be set to LATHE, and DIAM VALS will determine the use of the X axis. -When you're done, be sure to reset the INFO table. -CTRL KEY=0: Standard NC/CNC tapes with G-codes. CTRL KEY=1: Simple XYZ line-segment tables. CTRL KEY=3: Incremental tape with G-codes. #146 ================= READ CADL FILE ==========(optional)== -To read in a CADL file: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the MERGE selection, then CADL FILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 146 and hit [Enter]. -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. #150 #151 ===================== RUN SHELL ======================= -To run a SHELL file: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the SHELL selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 151 and hit [Enter]. -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) #160 #161 =================== VIEW TAPE FILE ==================== -To view a tape or text file: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the VIEW TAPE FILE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 161 and hit [Enter]. -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. #170 #171 ==================== DELETE FILE ====================== -To delete a file: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the DELETE FILE selec- tion. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 171 and hit [Enter]. -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. #180 #181 ================== EDIT TOOL DWG ====================== -To create or edit a TOOL DRAWING FILE: 1) Select the FILES menu, then the EDIT TOOL DWG selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 181 and hit [Enter]. -The system will ask you for the name of the file that you want. 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 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. -Draw tool 1 on layer 1, tool 2 on layer 2, etc. -Tools must be drawn with their centers at X,Y,Z=0. #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. #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. #211 ================= POINT BY POSITION =================== -To construct a POINT at a given location: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the POINT type, then the POSITION method. (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [P] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, enter 211 then hit [Enter]. -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. #212 ================ POINT BY POLAR COORD ================= -To construct a POINT by distance from zero and angle: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the POINT type, then the POLAR method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, enter 212 then hit [Enter]. -The system will ask you for the actual distance to the desired point from zero, then for the angle counterclockwise from the right horizontal. -The values in the INFO table at the time that you complete the point will be attached to it. #213 =============== POINT AT CIRCLE CENTER ================ -To construct a POINT at the center of a circle: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the POINT type, then the CIRCLE CENTER method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, enter 213 then hit [Enter]. -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. #214 ==================== BREAK POINT ====================== -To break an existing geometry item and construct a POINT at the break: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the POINT type, then the BREAKPOINT method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, enter 214 then hit [Enter]. -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." #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. #221 ================= LINE BY 2 END POS =================== -To construct a LINE through two known coordinates: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the 2 END POS method. (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [L] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 221 and hit [Enter]. -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. #222 ================= LINE TAN 2 GEOMS ==================== -To construct a LINE tangent to 2 other items: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the TAN 2 GEOMS method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 222 and hit [Enter]. -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. #223 ================= LINE BY ANG & GEOM ================== -To construct a LINE tangent an item at a given angle: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the ANG & GEOM method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 223 and hit [Enter]. -You will be asked for the angle in degrees. You may use an equation such as "ATN(0.67)" (angle w/tangent of 0.67) or "DMS(15.2250)" (15 degrees, 22 minutes, 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. #224 ================= LINE AS A CHAMFER =================== -To construct a LINE that will be a chamfer: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the CHAMFER method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 224 and hit [Enter]. -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. #226 =================== VERTICAL LINE ===================== -To construct a vertical LINE: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the VERTICAL method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 226 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. #227 ============= LINE BY POS & ANG TO LINE =============== -To construct a LINE through a position but at an angle to another line: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the POS & ANG TO L method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 227 and hit [Enter]. -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. #228 =================== PARALLEL LINE ===================== -To construct a LINE parallel to another line: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the LINE type, then the PARALLEL (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 228 and hit [Enter]. -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. #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. #231 ================== ARC AS A FILLET ==================== -To construct an ARC as a fillet radius: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the ARC type, then the FILLET method. (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [F] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 231 and hit [Enter]. -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 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. #233 ================== ARC TAN 3 GEOM =========(optional)== -To construct an ARC tangent to three items: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the ARC type, then the TAN 3 GEOM method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 233 and hit [Enter]. -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. #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/EXTEND, FILLET, and CHAMFER selections. This will change a CIRCLE into an ARC. -Circles are handy for describing holes because the drilling operations can discriminate by hole size. #241 ============= CIRCLE BY CENTER AND RADIUS ============= -To construct an CIRCLE by center and radius: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the CIRCLE type, then the CTR & RAD method. (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [C] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 241 and hit [Enter]. -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. #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. (more...) #9 Note: ----- Often, there are numerous possible solutions to this definition. To select the proper solution: Make the picks near the tangency points, but offset from the tangency points in a direction toward the center of the desired circle. #243 ================ CIRCLE TAN 3 GEOMS =======(optional)== -To construct an CIRCLE tangent to three items: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the CIRCLE type, then the TAN 3 GEOMS method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 243 and hit [Enter]. -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. #244 =========== CIRCLE BY CENTER TANGENT GEOM ============= -To construct an CIRCLE by center and geometry: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the CIRCLE type, then the CTR & GEOM method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 244 and hit [Enter]. -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. #250 =================== CURVE MENU ======================== -Use these options to describe geometry composed of a series of short 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. #251 ================ CURVE BY SEGMENTS ==================== -To construct an CURVE composed of line segments: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the SEGMENTS method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 251 and hit [Enter]. -Use any pick mode (via [F2], [F3] or [F4]) that you like to construct the points. -When you are done, hit the [Ins] key. #252 =================== CUBIC CURVE ===========(optional)== -To construct an CURVE composed of short line segments that approximate a cubic curve: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the CUBIC CURVE method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 252 and hit [Enter]. -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. #253 ================== BEZIER CURVE ===========(optional)== -To construct a BEZIER CURVE: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the BEZIER method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 253 and hit [Enter]. -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) #254 ================== B-SPLINE CURVE =========(optional)== -To construct a B-SPLINE CURVE: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the B-SPLINE method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 254 and hit [Enter]. -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) #255 =================== ARCFIT CURVE ==========(optional)== -To construct an ARCFIT curve: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the ARCFIT method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 255 and hit [Enter]. -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. #256 ==================== ARC SERIES ===========(optional)== -To construct an ARC SERIES curve: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the CURVE type, then the ARC SERIES method. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 256 and hit [Enter]. -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 tangent to one another. #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 =========================== -To construct a BOLT-HOLE-CIRCLE: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the BHC selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 261 and hit [Enter]. -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. #262 ====================== GRID =========================== -To construct a GRID PATTERN: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the GRID selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 262 and hit [Enter]. -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. #263 ==================== RECTANGLE ======================== -To construct a RECTANGLE: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the RECTANGLE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 263 and hit [Enter]. -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. #264 ===================== POLYGON =============(optional)== -To construct a POLYGON: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the POLYGON selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 264 and hit [Enter]. -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 X. #265 ===================== ELLIPSE =============(optional)== -To construct an ELLIPSE: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the ELLIPSE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 265 and hit [Enter]. -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) #266 ================== GENERATE GEAR ==========(optional)== -To construct an GEAR form: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the PATTERN type, then the GEAR type. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 266 and hit [Enter]. -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 MAX CUSP. (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. #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 ===================== -To put CORNER BLENDS on a series of lines and arcs: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the SERIES type, then the C-BLEND mode. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 271 and hit [Enter]. -You will be asked for the radius. -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. #272 =================== CORNER-BREAKS ===================== -To put CORNER BREAKS on a series of lines and arcs: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the SERIES type, then the C-BREAK mode. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 272 and hit [Enter]. -You will be asked for the chamfer length. -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. #273 ==================== HOLE-TRAIN ======================= -To generate a train of equally-spaced holes: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the SERIES type, then the HOLE-TRAIN selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 273 and hit [Enter]. -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. The default is the same as the tool width. If you enter a zero, POINTS will be generated instead of CIRCLES. #274 =================== OFFSET CHAIN ====================== -To put an OFFSET CHAIN of lines and arcs parallel to existing geometry: 1) Select the GEOM menu, then the SERIES type, then the OFFSET CHAIN selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 274 and hit [Enter]. -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. #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 WINDOW command. -To back away, use the VIEW ALL command. -To experiment, use the TUMBLE command. -To print or plot, use the HARDCOPY command. #310 #311 ==================== DISP WINDOW ====================== -To zoom a portion of the part up to fit the screen: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the WINDOW selection. (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [W] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 311 and hit [Enter]. -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 ======================== -To move the center of the view on the screen: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the PAN selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 321 and hit [Enter]. -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 ===================== -To view the entire part on the screen: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the VIEW ALL selection. (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [V] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 331 and hit [Enter]. -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 ===================== -To go back to the previous view: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the PREV VIEW selection. (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [J] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 341 and hit [Enter]. -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 ====================== -To redraw the current view: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the REDRAW selection. (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [R] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 351 and hit [Enter]. -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 ====================== -To interactively change the view: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the TUMBLE selection. (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [T] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 361 and hit [Enter]. -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 #371 #372 #373 ==================== LIST GEOMS ======================= -To list geometry items within a window: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the HARDCOPY selection, then WINDOW. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 371 and hit [Enter]. -The system will ask you to select the geometry items that you wish to be 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. #374 ================== LIST GROUPS & OPS ================== -To list the contents of layers that have groups or operations: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the HARDCOPY selection, then LIST GROUPS & OPS. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 374 and hit [Enter]. -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. #375 ==================== PRINT PART ======================= -To display the current part on your printer: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the HARDCOPY selection, then PRINT PART. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 375 and hit [Enter]. -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. #376 =================== PRINT SCREEN ====================== -To copy the screen to your printer: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the HARDCOPY selection, then PRINT SCREEN. (or) 2) Hold down the [Alt] key and hit the [N] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 376 and hit [Enter]. -The current screen display, including prompts, menus, and tracking will be printed. -This operation cannot be interrupted until it is done. #377 ==================== PLOT PART ======================== -To make a plot file to drive your plotter: 1) Select the DISP menu, then the HARDCOPY selection, then PLOT PART. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 377 and hit [Enter]. -The system will generate a plot file. After you exit to the operating system, you may type the name of this plot file in order to generate a plot. -Note: This command does not plot immediately. It just builds a file to make the plot at a later time. #400 #401 ===================== EDIT MENU ======================= -The EDIT menu is used to trim, extend, delete, move, copy, and otherwise change geometry: 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. #410 ==================== TRIM/BREAK ======================= The selections here permit you you change the endpoints of existing geometry items. -TRIM BOTH chops or extends two items so that they end at their intersection. -TRIM MODAL permits you to clip off one or more items at their intersection with another item. -BREAK BOTH severs two geometry items at their inter- section, creating two new geometry items. -BREAK MODAL clips off items at their intersection with another item, retaining both parts of the original. #411 ==================== TRIM BOTH ======================== -To cause two geometry items to END at their inter- section: 1) Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the TRIM BOTH selection. (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [X] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 411 and hit [Enter]. -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. #412 ==================== TRIM MODAL ======================= -To change the length of one or more geometry items so that they end at a specified arc, circle, or line: 1) Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the TRIM MODAL selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 412 and hit [Enter]. -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. #413 ==================== BREAK BOTH ======================= -To break two geometry items into two: 1) Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the BREAK BOTH selection (or) 2) Hold down [Alt] while hitting the [B] key. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 413 and hit [Enter]. -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. #414 ==================== BREAK MODAL ====================== -To break geometry items at a given line or arc: 1) Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the BREAK MODAL selection (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 414 and hit [Enter]. -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. #415 ==================== BREAK WINDOW ===================== -To break all geometry items (within a window) that intersect one another: 1) Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the BREAK WINDOW selection (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 415 and hit [Enter]. -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. (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. #416 ================== CONTINUITY TRIM ==================== -To trim/combine/delete selected geometry items to form a continuous string of geometry: 1) Select the EDIT menu, the TRIM/BREAK selection, then the CONTINUITY TRIM selection (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 416 and hit [Enter]. -Select the geometry by window, select, chain, or layer 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. #420 #421 #422 #423 #424 #425 #426 #427 #428 #429 ==================== EDIT DELETE ====================== -To delete a geometry item or group of items: 1) Select the EDIT menu, then the DELETE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 421 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed within the window are selected. -You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key when you have selected all you want to. -You may select all of the items connected by common endpoints on the same layer. -The selected items will be erased from the part and from the screen. -A one-item-delete is avaiable using the [Del] key. #430 #431 #432 #433 ===================== EDIT MOVE ======================= -To move a geometry item or group of items: 1) Select the EDIT menu, then the MOVE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 431 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed within the window are selected. -You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key when you have selected all you want to. -You may select all of the items connected by common endpoints on the same layer. -Once you have selected the items, they will begin flashing, (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. -If you specify an angle of rotation, it will be pivoted about the reference point. -To cancel this operation, hit the [Esc] key. #440 #441 #442 #443 ===================== EDIT COPY ======================= -To copy a geometry item or group of items: 1) Select the EDIT menu, then the COPY selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 441 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed within the window are selected. -You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key when you have selected all you want to. -You may select all of the items connected by common endpoints on the same layer. -Once you have selected the items, they will begin flashing, (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. -If you specify an angle of rotation, it will be 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. #450 #451 =================== EDIT STRETCH ====================== -To change the endpoint(s) of geometry item or group of items: 1) Select the EDIT menu, then the STRETCH selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 451 and hit [Enter]. -You must place a window around the endpoints to be moved. All items entirely within this window will be moved, and all LINES that have one endpoint inside 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. #460 #461 ==================== EDIT UNDO ======================== -To restore the part-program as it was before the last command: 1) Select the EDIT menu, then the UNDO selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, enter 461 and hit [Enter]. (or) 3) 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. #470 #471 #472 #473 ==================== EDIT MIRROR ====================== -To mirror a geometry item or group of items: 1) Select the EDIT menu, then the MIRROR selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 471 and hit [Enter]. -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. #480 #481 #482 #483 =================== PROJECT ONTO ==========(optional)== -To project a group of items onto a cross-section: 1) Select the EDIT menu, then the PROJECT ONTO selec- tion. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 481 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a series of items by putting a window 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. -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. (more...) #9 (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. #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. #510 #511 ================== READ GEOM INFO ===================== -To read all INFO from an existing geometry item, and place it into the INFO TABLE: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the READ GEOM INFO selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 511 and hit [Enter]. -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. #520 #521 #522 #523 ================= WRITE GEOM INFO ===================== -To apply the entire INFO table (except layer number) to selected geometry items: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the WRITE GEOM INFO selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 521 and hit [Enter]. -You may select the items to change by placing a window around them, selecting them individually, or you may 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. #530 #531 #532 #533 ================= ALTER GEOM INFO ===================== -To change one INFO TABLE value on selected geometry items: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the ALTER GEOM INFO selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 531 and hit [Enter]. -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. #540 #541 ==================== LOAD SETUP ======================= -To load setup parameters for a specific machine: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the SETUP FILE selec- tion, then LOAD FILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 541 and hit [Enter]. -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 ======================= -To make a setup file for a specific type of work: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the SETUP FILE selec- tion, then SAVE FILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 542 and hit [Enter]. -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 ======================= -To edit a setup file for a specific type of work: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the SETUP FILE selec- tion, then EDIT VALUES. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 543 and hit [Enter]. -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. #70 ==================== 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. -The post-processor that you select determines what NC/CNC machine the tape will run on. #550 #551 ================== LOAD MTRL LIB ====================== -To read the INFO from a material library: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the MTRL LIB selection, then LOAD FILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 551 and hit [Enter]. -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 ===================== -To save the INFO to a material library: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the MTRL LIB selection, then SAVE FILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 552 and hit [Enter]. -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 ===================== -To edit the INFO in a material library: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the MTRL LIB selection, then EDIT VALUES. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 553 and hit [Enter]. -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. #560 #561 ================== LOAD TOOL LIB ====================== -To read the INFO from a tool library: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the TOOL LIB selection, then LOAD FILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 561 and hit [Enter]. -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 ===================== -To save the INFO to a tool library: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the TOOL LIB selection, then SAVE FILE. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 562 and hit [Enter]. -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 ===================== -To edit the INFO in a tool library: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the TOOL LIB selection, then EDIT VALUES. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 563 and hit [Enter]. -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. #570 #571 #572 #573 #574 #575 #576 #577 #578 #579 ================== SET DIRECTORY ====================== -To change the default directory path for a given type of file: 1) Select the INFO menu, then the SET DIRECTORY selection, then the type of file to be affected. (or) 2) 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. #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 #611 #612 #613 ================== GROUP: OUTLINE ===================== -To label a group as an OUTLINE: 1) Select the GROUP menu, then the OUTLINE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 613 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed within the window are selected. -You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key when you have selected all you want to. -You may select all of the items connected by common endpoints on the same layer. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #620 #621 #622 #623 ================== GROUP: POCKET ====================== -To label a GROUP as a POCKET: 1) Select the GROUP menu, then the POCKET selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 623 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed within the window are selected. -You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key when you have selected all you want to. -You may select all of the items connected by common endpoints on the same layer. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #630 #631 #632 #633 =================== GROUP: FACE ======================= -To label a GROUP as a FACE: 1) Select the GROUP menu, then the FACE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 633 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed within the window are selected. -You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key when you have selected all you want to. -You may select all of the items connected by common endpoints on the same layer. -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 ====================== -To label a GROUP as HOLES: 1) Select the GROUP menu, then the HOLES selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 641 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed within the window are selected. You may select ALL the items within the window, or just the circles that have a range of radii. This is done by picking the smallest circle then the largest circle desired. -You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key 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 =================== GROUP: STOCK ====================== -To label a GROUP as STOCK: 1) Select the GROUP menu, then the STOCK selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 653 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed within the window are selected. -You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key when you have selected all you want to. -You may select all of the items connected by common endpoints on the same layer. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #660 #661 #662 #663 =================== GROUP: CLAMP ====================== -To label a GROUP as an CLAMP: 1) Select the GROUP menu, then the CLAMP selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 661 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed within the window are selected. -You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key when you have selected all you want to. -You may select all of the items connected by common endpoints on the same layer. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #670 #671 #672 #673 =================== GROUP: BOUNDARY =================== -To label a BOUNDARY for machining an open contour: 1) Select the GROUP menu, then the BOUNDARY selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 673 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window around them. Only the items COMPLETELY enclosed within the window are selected. -You may select several items, hitting the [Ins] key when you have selected all you want to. -You may select all of the items connected by common endpoints on the same layer. -All of the current values in the INFO TABLE will be attached to the GROUP except for the layer number. #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: Contour Mill Lathe Wire-EDM Punch 3-D POSITION POSITION POSITION POSITION POSITION POSITION FINISH FINISH FINISH FINISH BURN FINISH DRILL DRILL DRILL REVERSE PUNCH SWEEP MANUAL PROFILE PROFILE TWOPLANE NIBBLE SWARF ZIGZAG TURN MANUAL NIB-PNCH MULT-Z PLUNGE THREAD MUL PASS BRDG-HIT HOG-AREA GROOVE R MANUAL GROOVE F #710 #711 #1410 #1411 #1510 #1511 #1610 #1611 #1710 #1711 #1810 #1811 ==================== POSITION ========================= -To move the tool to a given position for setup, tool- change, or any other purpose: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the POSITION selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 711 and hit [Enter]. -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. #720 #721 #1420 #1421 #1520 #1521 #1620 #1621 #1720 #1721 #1821 #1820 #1821 ===================== FINISH ========================== -To take a finish pass on a labelled GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the FINISH selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 721 and hit [Enter]. -Set the tool width, type, 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. -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. #730 #731 #1430 #1431 ================ DRILL CYCLES (MILL) ================== -To perform machine cycles on a labelled GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the CYCLES selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 731 and hit [Enter]. -Select the desired cycle. (in the INFO TABLE) If you use cycle 1, the system will peck-drill. Otherwise, NC/CNC machine cycles are selected. (G80..G89, etc.) -Set the step, feed, tool specs, z values, sort method, and so on, to the desired values. -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. -The FULL-Z, RETRACT-Z, and PECK from the INFO table are used to determine the machining depths. #1530 #1531 ================ DRILL CYCLES (LATHE) ================= -To perform a machine cycle to specified depth: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the CYCLES selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1531 and hit [Enter]. -Select the desired cycle. (in the INFO TABLE) If you use cycle 1, the system will peck-drill. Otherwise, NC/CNC machine cycles are selected. -Set the step, 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. -The FULL-Z, RETRACT-Z, and PECK from the INFO table are used to determine the machining depths. #740 #741 #1650 #1651 #1480 #1481 #1590 #1591 ==================== MANUAL PATH ====================== -To make a manual tool-path: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the MANUAL selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 741 and hit [Enter]. -Set the step, 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. #1440 #1441 ================== PROFILE ROUGH ==========(optional)== -To take roughing passes on a labelled GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the ROUGH selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1441 and hit [Enter]. -Set the step, speed, feed, tool specs, and so on, to the desired values. -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. -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. #1450 #1451 ====================== ZIGZAG =============(optional)== -To hog out material on a labelled GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the ZIGZAG selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1451 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1460 #1461 ====================== PLUNGE =============(optional)== -To plunge (drill) rough a labelled GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the PLUNGE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1461 and hit [Enter]. -Set the step, peck, feed, z-values, 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. -The current Z will be ignored. Instead, the FULL-Z and the RAPID-Z in the INFO table will be used. #1470 #1471 =================== HOG AREA CLEAR ========(optional)== -To hog out random material from a part: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the HOG AREA CLEAR selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1471 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1550 #1551 =================== ROUGH TURN ============(optional)== -To take turning passes on a labelled GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the ROUGH TURN selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1551 and hit [Enter]. -Set the step, speed, feed, tool specs, and so on, to the desired values. -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. #1560 #1561 ===================== THREADING ===========(optional)== -To take multiple passes on a thread: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the THREAD selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1561 and hit [Enter]. -Set the step, feed, speed, number of finish passes, tool specifications and so on, to the desired values. -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. #1570 #1571 =================== GROOVE ROUGH ==========(optional)== -To take plunge grooving passes on a labelled GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the GROOVE ROUGH selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1571 and hit [Enter]. -Set the step, feed, speed, tool specifications and so on, to the desired values. -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. #1580 #1581 =================== GROOVE FINISH =========(optional)== -To take grooving cleanup passes on a labelled GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the GROOVE FINISH selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1581 and hit [Enter]. -Set the step, feed, speed, tool specifications and so on, to the desired values. -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) #1630 #1631 =================== REVERSE FINISH ========(optional)== -To take a reverse pass on a labelled GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the FINISH selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1631 and hit [Enter]. -Set the tool width, type, 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. #1640 #1641 ==================== TWO PLANE ============(optional)== -To machine two GROUPs via two-plane swarfing: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the TWOPLANE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1641 and hit [Enter]. -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. -Set the CLEARANCE to the desired approach/pulloff distance from the bottom contour. -If points (usually BREAKPOINTS) exist in the groups, the groups will be synchronized at the locations of the points, in the order encountered. #1660 #1661 ================ MULTIPLE PASSES ==========(optional)== -To machine a GROUPs with multiple passes: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the MULTIPLE PASSES selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1661 and hit [Enter]. -Set the CLEARANCE to the desired approach/pulloff distance from the bottom contour. -Pick the group to be machined. -Set the TOOL SIDE, POWER, CDC REG, and TAB LGT values as necessary. If the CDC (left/right) is different from the TOOL SIDE, then passes will be taken in the reverse direction. If no reverse passes are taken, then you may only need a TAB LGT on the last pass. -Hit [Enter] for each pass except the last. When you hit the [Ins] key, the final pass will be generated. #1730 #1731 ===================== PUNCH ===============(optional)== -To punch various holes: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the PUNCH selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1731 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1740 #1741 ===================== NIBBLE ==============(optional)== -To nibble a contour using the NC/CNC machine nibble: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the NIBBLE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1741 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1750 #1751 ================== NIBBLE-PUNCH ===========(optional)== -To nibble a contour by generating a tape containing punches alongside the desired contour: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the NIBBLE-PUNCH selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1751 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1760 #1761 ================== BRIDGE-HIT =============(optional)== -To nibble a contour by making punches that are staggered, then returning to punch them again to break the slug loose: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the BRIDGE-HIT selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1761 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1830 #1831 ====================== SWEEP ==============(optional)== -To sweep a cross-section around a given GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the SWEEP selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1831 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1840 #1841 ====================== SWARF ==============(optional)== -To swarf the area between cross-section GROUPs: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the SWARF selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1841 and hit [Enter]. -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 over the TOP of the surface. -Machining begins at the start of the first selected GROUP. #1850 #1851 =================== MULT-Z ROUGH ==========(optional)== -To take multiple passes at succeedingly lower Z depths on a labelled GROUP: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the MULT-Z ROUGH selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1851 and hit [Enter]. -Set the step, feed, speed, tool specifications and so on, to the desired values. -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 ZSTEP 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. #1910 #1911 ====================== NOTES ==============(optional)== -To put notes on a part drawing: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the NOTES selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1911 and hit [Enter]. -The system will prompt you for the location of the note. Digitize the desired position of the lower- left corner of the first character. -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. #1920 #1921 ====================== LABEL ==============(optional)== -To put labels on a part drawing: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the LABEL selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1921 and hit [Enter]. -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. -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. #1930 #1931 =============== CONTINUATION DIMENSION ====(optional)== -To build a dimension based on the previous dimension: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then DIMENSION, then the CONTINUATION selection. (or) 2) Hold down th [Alt] key and hit [D]. (or) 3) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1931 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1932 ================ HORIZONTAL DIMENSION =====(optional)== -To build a horizontal dimension: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then DIMENSION, then the HORIZONTAL selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1932 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1933 ================= VERTICAL DIMENSION ======(optional)== -To build a vertical dimension: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then DIMENSION, then the VERTICAL selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1933 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1934 ================= ANGULAR DIMENSION =======(optional)== -To build an angular dimension: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then DIMENSION, then the ANGULAR selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1934 and hit [Enter]. -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, then use ARBITRARY DIMENSION instead. -Dimensions are normally stored on layer 250. #1935 ================ ARBITRARY DIMENSION ======(optional)== -To build a dimension with an arbitrary alignment: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then DIMENSION, then the ARBITRARY selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1935 and hit [Enter]. -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. #1940 #1941 #1942 #1943 ==================== CROSSHATCH ===========(optional)== -To put a crosshatch on a portion of a part: 1) Select the OPERS menu, then the CROSSHATCH selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1941 and hit [Enter]. -Select the geometry to be crosshatched. This must 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 stored on layer 251. #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 #811 ==================== RESEQUENCE ======================= -To resequence the operations into the desired order: 1) Select the PROC menu, then the RESEQUENCE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 811 and hit [Enter]. -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. #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 ======================== -To remove NC CTRL commands from a particular geometry item: 1) Select the PROC menu, then the NC CTRL selection, then DETACH. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 821 and hit [Enter]. -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 ========================= -To preset an axis value, an internal parameter, or a post-processor variable: 1) Select the PROC menu, then the NC CTRL selection, then SETAX. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 822 and hit [Enter]. -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. -Some of those are listed on the next page. (more...) #9 (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 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. #823 ====================== INSERT ========================= -To insert a block into the NC tape: 1) Select the PROC menu, then the NC CTRL selection, then INSERT. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 823 and hit [Enter]. -The system will ask you to type in text. -Pick a geometry item in the toolpath, toolcycle, or a toolposition. -When the tape is made, the text will be inserted immediately before the selected geometry move. -The text will be placed on a block with a move. -Begin the text with a vertical bar [|] to put it on a block by itself, if so desired. #824 ====================== COMMENT ======================== -To put a comment into the process sheet: 1) Select the PROC menu, then the NC CTRL selection, then COMMENT. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 824 and hit [Enter]. -The system will ask you to type in the comment. -Pick a geometry item in the toolpath, toolcycle, or a toolposition. -When a process sheet is made, the comment will appear before the selected geometry item. #825 ==================== POST CALL ======================== -To call the post-processor directly: 1) Select the PROC menu, then the NC CTRL selection, then POST CALL. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 825 and hit [Enter]. -The system will prompt you to enter seven numeric values. The first one will be used to select a post function. The other six are passed to that function. -Pick a geometry item in the toolpath, toolcycle, or a toolposition. -Only use this if the post-processor has a post-call capability. The author of the post can help you. (Also refer to the post help-file.) #830 #831 =================== POST PROCESS ====================== -To post-process the operations into a form that will drive an NC/CNC machine: 1) Select the PROC menu, then the POST-PROC selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 831 and hit [Enter]. -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. #840 #841 ==================== EDIT TAPE ============(optional)== -To edit the current NC/CNC machine tape: 1) Select the PROC menu, then the EDIT-TAPE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 841 and hit [Enter]. -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. (Note: The tape from the previous version of the part-program is renamed to have the ".OLD" file-type by the system.) -While in the editor (ED) you may use the [Alt]-[H] key combination for help. ***Ext-memory version of the system may be required*** #850 #851 =================== DOWNLOAD TAPE =========(optional)== -To send the post-processed tape to a tape-punch or to the NC/CNC machine itself: 1) Select the PROC menu, then the DOWNLOAD-TAPE selection. (or) 2) Hit the [F9] key, then enter 851 and hit [Enter]. -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*** #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. #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 ================== EDIT 3D-ROTATE =========(optional)== -To rotate a geometry item or group of items in space: Hit the [F9] key, then enter 1249 and hit [Enter]. -You may select a group of items by putting a window 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. #9 ==================== MISC MENU ======================== [F9] 1211 Edit abbreviated INFO table [F1] [F9] 1212 Edit full INFO table [F9] 1221 Select position mode for digitizing [F9] 1222 Select endpoint mode for digitizing [F2] [F9] 1223 Select center point mode for digitizing [F3] [F9] 1224 Select intersection mode for digitizing [F4] [F9] 1225 Select snap mode for digitizing [F9] 1231 Set absolute locator coordinates [F9] 1232 Disable absolute locator mode [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) (more...) #9 (MISC...continued) [F9] 1249 3D-Rotation of geometry [F9] 1251 Set plotfile name (w/ plot file-output only) [F9] 1279 Suspend system, execute DOS shell [F9] 1281 Invert a selected arc [F9] 1282 Invert last arc created [Alt]-[I] [F9] 1283 Calculator mode (math) [Alt]-[M] [F9] 1284 Display setup-file summary [Alt]-[S] [F9] 1285 Preset default Z depth [Alt]-[Z] [F9] 1286 Negate coordinates [F9] 1287 Re-enter part-program description [F9] 1288 Display geometry item data [Alt]-[Q] [F9] 1294 Dump specified part file to printer [F9] 1295 Dump internal parameters to printer #9 @{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{@ @ [HELP] ver 1.6 (49) @ @ Copyright (c) 1986-1991 PMX Inc @ @}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}@ *** end of help file ***