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IB 499-303 Rev. A

EIA PROGRAMMING GUIDE

ALL HYBRID SYSTEMS JULY 2000

EIA PROGRAMMING GUIDE NORTHROP GRUMMAN-CANADA, LTD. 777 Walkers Line Burlington, Ontario, Canada L7N 2G1 Tel: (905) 333-6000 Fax: (905) 333-6004 Email: [email protected] Find us on the World Wide Web at: Copyright

©

http://www.ngcan.com/lin

1999-2000 – Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. All rights reserved.

It is understood and agreed that this document contains information that is proprietary to Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. and, as such, is to be treated as strictly confidential. No portion of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein. Moreover, because Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. is constantly striving to improve its high-quality products, the information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. Every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual. Nevertheless, Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained in this publication.

Manufactured or sold under one or more of the following patents: Canada

U.S.A.

U.-K.

Japan

France

Italy

Australia

Switzerland

914,773 930,795 950,553 972,446 1,005,540 1,005,548 1,077,775 1,082,333 4,195,265

3,740,372 3,727,120 3,860,862 3,883,735 4,197,453 4,128,297 4,160,158 4,146,801

1,292,507 1,384,253 2,008,343 1,578,514 2,054,198

756,804 844,232

2,066,164 2,213,543

916,825 930,838

450,468 3,725,761

531,395 1,445,253

and pending appplications in Canada, U.S.A., U.K., Germany Japan, and Italy.

JULY 2000 Manual Number IB 499-303 Rev. A

v

Read, Understand and Follow These IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS Before Operation or Service 1.

Please read ALL these instructions before operating the equipment.

2.

Do not locate this equipment where moisture could cause a shock hazard.

3.

Use only the type of power source specified to operate this equipment. Ground the equipment with a properly installed 3-wire cable that is terminated either by a 3-pin grounding type power plug, or by a connection to a properly grounded distribution box. It is hazardous to defeat the purpose of this grounding.

7.

Unplug this product from the power source and refer servicing to qualified service personnel, under the following conditions: a.

4.

5.

6.

vi

b. c.

DO NOT locate the power cord where it can be walked on. Ensure that nothing is allowed to rest on the cord as this may deform or damage the cord. In general, extension cords should not be used. Where their use cannot be avoided, be sure that the cord is rated to carry the required current, and that the current capacity of the power outlet is not exceeded. DO NOT attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.

d. e.

When the power cord is damaged or frayed. If the product has been exposed to rain, water, or other liquids. If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed, adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions. Improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal operation. If the unit has been damaged. If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need for service.

8. This equipment should not be used for purposes, other than its intended and designed use.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION The parts of the control system are live. Do not misalign any PC boards or plug connections note all labeling, coding and orientation. If in doubt, refer to the Instruction Manual or check with a knowledgeable person.

4.

Observe all rules and regulations that pertain to Oxyfuel cutting.

5.

For Plasma cutting, a face shield must be worn! The plasma arc emits ultraviolet radiation.

START-UP 1.

Assembly, start-up, maintenance and repair work is to be carried out by trained electricians only.

2.

The accident prevention rules and regulations must be observed.

3.

All conductive parts that may become live in the case of a malfunction must be connected with each other and with the protective conductor.

WARNING VOLTAGES EMPLOYED IN THE EQUIPMENT ARE SUFFICIENTLY HIGH TO ENDANGER HUMAN LIFE. THIS EQUIPMENT SHOULD BE SERVICED BY QUALIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIANS ONLY. Before unplugging any PC boards or plug connections, the master switch of the system must be OFF. The master power switch should be switched OFF at the end of use or during lengthy interruptions of work.

OPERATION 1.

The door of the control unit must be closed during operation to protect the operating personnel against accidental contact with the electrical equipment and to avoid the accumulation of dust into the unit.

SAFETY 1.

A copy of these safety instructions should be supplied to every member of the operating personnel.

2.

Protect all unused sockets against fouling by means of dummy caps or dummy plugs.

2.

In order to operate the system safely, the personnel should have a thorough knowledge and understanding of the operating instructions and of the instruction manual supplied with the unit.

3.

When power is turned OFF, the unit and the power supply are not completely isolated.

3.

The accident prevention rules and regulations must be observed. vii

REPAIR

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

1.

1.

Safety devices must not be changed fuses must not be bridged and must not be replaced by amperages other than those specified in the instruction manual.

2.

If any cables, plugs, switches or other Electro-mechanical operating facilities are damaged, immediately switch off the system (master OFF switch). The defective parts are to be replaced by trained electricians only. Use only genuine spare parts.

3.

When working with grounded measuring instruments, e.g., an oscilloscope, make sure that the ground connection of the measuring instrument is always connected with the ground of the control unit.

4.

When working with grounded tools, e.g., soldering iron or portable drill, the master switch of the system must be switched OFF.

5.

When the master power switch of the system is switched OFF, the system may not be completely isolated.

6.

Only properly qualified personnel are allowed to open the unit.

ESD PRECAUTIONS Proper Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) procedures must be followed at all times when servicing one of these products. Wear a properly grounded wrist strap when handling any circuit card. All circuit cards and electronic assemblies must be handled in electrostatic protective containers when in transit or when handled by non-grounded personnel.

viii

If an accident involving electricity has occurred, proceed with the following: a.

Switch OFF the master power switch. If this is not immediately possible or has no effect, the victim must be separated from any live parts using an object that does not conduct electricity or by pulling the victim away by his clothing. The rescuer must be electrically insulated both from the machine and the victim. The rescuer must not touch anything else.

b.

2.

Seek qualified medical attention immediately.

Fires in controls or machinery should be extinguished only with carbon dioxide (CO2) or a suitable powder.

EARTH (ground) TERMINAL. Primarily used for functional earth terminals that are generally associated with test and measurements circuits. These terminals are not for safety earthing purposes but provide an earth reference point. PROTECTIVE CONDUCTOR TERMINAL. This symbol is specifically reserved for the PROTECTIVE CONDUCTOR TERMINAL and no other. It is placed at the equipment earthing point and is mandatory for all grounded equipment.

ON (supply) Note that this symbol is a bar normally applied in the vertical orientation. It is not the number 1.

OFF (supply) Note that this symbol is a circle. It is not the number 0 or the letter O.

WARNING, risk of electric shock

CAUTION, hot surface

CAUTION (refer to accompanying documents). Used to direct the user to the instruction manual where it is necessary to follow certain specified instructions where safety is involved.

ix

File Nº LR27781

The equipment described in this manual is manufactured to CSA approved standards. Any changes made to this equipment may void CSA approval.

The equipment described in this manual meets requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC, as well as the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC. Any changes made to this equipment may void compliance. NOTE: Not all systems described in this document are CE compliant. CE compliant systems will have the CE mark on the name plate.

x

TABLE OF CONTENTS EIA PROGRAMMING GUIDE ....................................................................................................................................1 1.1 INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................................1 1.2 EIA RS-274D PROGRAMMING ..................................................................................................................1 1.2.1 EIA RS-274D Program Construction ....................................................................................................1 1.2.2 EIA RS-274D Block Format ..................................................................................................................3 1.2.3 Numeric Formats ..................................................................................................................................3 1.2.4 Block Numbers (N Codes) ....................................................................................................................4 1.2.5 Comments.............................................................................................................................................5 1.2.6 Preparatory Functions (G Codes) .........................................................................................................5 1.2.7 Absolute And Incremental Programming Mode ....................................................................................6 1.2.8 English And Metric Units.......................................................................................................................6 1.2.9 Constructing EIA RS-274D Line Segments ..........................................................................................6 1.2.10 Constructing EIA RS-274D Arcs ...........................................................................................................8 1.2.11 Constructing EIA RS-274D Circles .....................................................................................................10 1.2.12 Rapid Traverse ...................................................................................................................................10 1.2.13 Delays .................................................................................................................................................11 1.2.14 Kerf Compensation .............................................................................................................................11 1.2.15 Axis Presets ........................................................................................................................................12 1.2.16 Machine Speed (F Codes) ..................................................................................................................12 1.2.17 Miscellaneous Functions (M Codes)...................................................................................................13 1.2.18 Cut Control ..........................................................................................................................................13 1.2.19 plate marking ......................................................................................................................................14 1.2.20 Program Stop ......................................................................................................................................14 1.2.21 End Of Program ..................................................................................................................................15 1.2.22 Initial Conditions..................................................................................................................................15 1.2.23 Writing EIA RS-274D Program ...........................................................................................................15 1.2.24 EIA RS-274D Programming Errors.....................................................................................................17 1.2.25 Using The System Part Programming Options With EIA RS-274D Programs ...................................17 1.2.26 EIA RS-274D Memory Requirements.................................................................................................18 1.2.27 Entering And Editing EIA RS-274D Programs....................................................................................18 1.2.28 Selecting The EIA RS-274D MDI Function.........................................................................................19 1.2.29 Entering Programs From The Front Panel..........................................................................................19 1.2.30 Entering EIA RS-274D Program Blocks .............................................................................................20 1.2.31 Editing And Displaying The Program..................................................................................................20 1.2.32 Simple Edit Sequence.........................................................................................................................22 1.2.33 Changing The Cutting Parameters .....................................................................................................22 1.2.34 Changing The X-Axis Orientation .......................................................................................................23 1.3 UPLOADING AND DOWNLOADING EIA PROGRAMS ..........................................................................23 1.3.1 Communications Protocol ...................................................................................................................24 1.3.2 Tape Mode Protocol............................................................................................................................24 1.3.3 Loading A Part From Paper Tape.......................................................................................................24 1.3.4 Punching A Part Into Paper Tape .......................................................................................................25 1.3.5 Dialog Mode Protocol..........................................................................................................................26 1.3.6 Downloading A Part Program .............................................................................................................26 1.3.7 Prompting The Machine Operator ......................................................................................................27 1.3.8 Uploading A Part Ptogram ..................................................................................................................28 1.3.9 Prompting The Machine Operator ......................................................................................................29 1.3.10 Auto-Reload ........................................................................................................................................30 1.3.11 EIA RS-274D Loading Errors..............................................................................................................31 1.4 KERF COMPENSATION ...........................................................................................................................32 1.4.1 Adding Kerf Compensation To A Part.................................................................................................33 1.4.2 Using Kerf Compensation ...................................................................................................................33 1.4.3 Geometric Considerations ..................................................................................................................35 1.4.4 Kerf Compensation Errors ..................................................................................................................36 xi

LINATROL

EIA PROGRAMMING GUIDE 1.1

INTRODUCTION The EIA RS-274D programming functions of the Hybrid family of systems allow EIA RS274D programs to be entered directly from the front panel via Manual Data Input (MDI). It may also be downloaded via the RS-232C port from a tape reader, host computer, or Computer Aided Design (CAD) system via Direct Numerical Control (DNC). EIA RS274D programs created on or downloaded to the system may also be uploaded to a paper tape punch, host computer, or CAD (Computer Aided Design) system. The Electronic Industries Association (EIA) RS-274D standard is a general-purpose CNC part programming language which is applicable to a wide range of industrial machinery, including flame and plasma cutting machines. EIA RS-274D is sometimes called 'Word Address' in reference to its format. To adapt the EIA standard language to the specific needs of cutting machines, it is necessary to define some of the general-purpose special function codes to perform specific functions. The definition of these codes-as interpreted by the system may be different from other cutting machine controls. This makes it difficult, if not impossible in some cases, to use EIA RS-274D programs prepared for use in a different control with systems. If in doubt, check the specific code definitions in the following sections. If you are unfamiliar with the EIA RS-274D programming language, or with the available special function codes, the following section provides a short tutorial on the EIA RS-274D programming language as implemented in the system.

1.2

EIA RS-274D PROGRAMMING To program a part in EIA RS-274D, the part must be defined in terms of a sequence or list of operational steps. All part dimensions must be resolved into a series of straight-line segments and/or circular arc segments, one following another, which determine the path the cutting device will take. Miscellaneous Functions (M-codes) are used to program machine action other than movement along the path. For example, Miscellaneous Functions M07 and M08 turn the cutting device on and off, respectively, allowing the cutting device to be repositioned between cutting cycles.

1.2.1

EIA RS-274D Program Construction A complete EIA RS-274D program specifies the operations of the cutting device, and the path it will take, as a sequence of steps or program blocks. Each data element in a program block assigns a value to a specific operation parameter (Cut Speed, X-axis motion, etc.), and is preceded by a letter code which identifies it (F, X, etc.). The letter code and the number that follows it comprise a word address, hence the reference to RS-274D as 'word address'.

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

1

LINATROL Data elements may be omitted if they are not needed, because the elements in the block are identified by the letter code. In fact, where a data element is omitted, it has an implicit value that is carried over from preceding blocks. It is important to note that these implied values for omitted word addresses are one of the most frequent causes of program malfunctions. Specifying all of the valid word addresses for a given block is the safest way to avoid this problem. The word addresses supported by the HYBRID models are shown below. RS-274D Word Address ASCII Character

ASCII Value

F G I J M N X

70 71 73 74 77 78 8

Y

89

Description

Feedrate (Cut Speed) Preparatory Function X axis Integrand Y axis Integrand Miscellaneous Functions Sequence Number X-Axis Endpoint or Dwell time* Y-Axis Endpoint

* When the X code is used for a dwell time, it must be preceded by a G04 code. The following ASCII characters are also defined, in addition to the word addresses shown above and the numerals 0-9: RS-274D Word Address RS-274D Additional ASCII Characters ASCII Character

ASCII Value

% + ( ) .

37 43 45 40 41 46 LF

CR Space

13 32

Description

Rewind Stop Reference Plus sign Minus sign Comment Start Comment End Decimal Point 10 Line Feed (used for End of Block) Carriage Return (ignored) Space (ignored)

Characters other than those shown in the above tables should not be used in the system EIA RS-274D programs. Be especially careful of non-printing characters that may be inserted by certain host computer systems, or inadvertently typed in when using an off-line program development system. These are not displayed when reviewing the program on the system, but will cause program errors.

2

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

LINATROL

1.2.2

EIA RS-274D Block Format EIA RS-274D program blocks are formatted as a series of ASCII (or RS-244) characters followed by an End-of-Block character. The End-of-Block character is the Line Feed, (LF,ASCII 10). A Carriage Return (CR, ASCII 13) may be used in conjunction with the Line Feed for readable printouts. The Carriage Return is ignored by the system. The following generic program block shows the standard format for an EIA RS-274D program block: N4 G02 X+xxxxxxx Y+yyyyyyy I+iiiiiii J+jjjjjj Ffffff M02

The numbers refer to the maximum number of digits for each word address value. For the X, Y, I, J, and F words, the small letters also indicate the maximum number of digits, but the exact format of the number depends on the units (English or Metric) and the numeric format (Fixed or Floating Point). See 'Numeric Formats' later in this section for more information on the X, Y, I, J, and F word formats. Note that the numerical values always appear after the word address letter code. Numerical values for certain words may optionally be preceded by a plus or minus sign (denoted by + above). A positive value (+) is assumed if no sign appears. For all word addresses except M and G codes, leading and trailing zeros are not required to specify the value of the data element. However, the M and G- codes must be specified with two digits. For example, use 'G01' not 'G1'. Only one of each type of word address code is allowed in any single program block. Additionally, the word addresses should appear in the order shown above. As shown, spaces may be used to format the program block for better readability; they are not required and, if present, are ignored.

1.2.3

Numeric Formats In EIA RS-274D, dimensional data may be formatted in two different ways. In Fixed format, no decimal point is required, but the units have a pre-defined fractional value; in Floating format, a decimal point is used to specify fractional information. The selection of fixed or floating format is made by pressing EDIT/EIA/#FORMAT and toggling the Numeric Format parameter to either FIXED or FLOATING. This parameter should be initialized before entering an EIA RS-274D program. Fixed Format - In Fixed format, dimensional values are expressed in thousandths of an inch (0.001) or hundredths of a millimetre (0.01), depending on whether the UNITS parameter of the system is set to ENGLISH or METRIC. For example, the data element X1250 is interpreted as 1.25 inches in English mode, and as 12.5 millimetres in Metric mode. Speed values (F codes) are expressed in tenths of an inch per minute (0.1 IPM) or integer millimetres per minute (mmpm). Do not enter a decimal point when using FIXED Numeric Format.

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

3

LINATROL The maximum field lengths for dimensional word addresses are shown below. EIA RS-274D Maximum Field Lengths for Fixed Numeric format Word Address F I J X Y

Max Field Length

Description

4(English) 5(Metric) 7 7 7 7

Feedrate (Cut Speed) X axis Integrand Y axis Integrand X-Axis Endpoint or Dwell time* Y-Axis Endpoint

Floating Format - In Floating format, dimensional values are expressed directly in inches of millimetres, depending on whether the UNITS parameter of the system is set to ENGLISH or METRIC. A decimal point is used to specify fractional information. For example, the date element X1.25 is interpreted as 1.25 inches in English mode, and as 1.25 millimetres in Metric mode.

The following table shows the specific numeric representation for word addresses when FLOATING Numeric Format is selected:

EIA RS-274D Word Address Formats for Floating Numeric Format Word Address

Format

Units

Description

F

XXX.X XXXXX

IPM MMPM

Cut Speed

I

±XXXX.XXX ±XXXXX.XX

Inches X-Axis Integrand Millimetres

J

±XXXX.XXX ±XXXXX.XX

Inches Y-Axis Integrand Millimetres

X

±XXXX.XX ±XXXXXX.XX

*X

±X.XX

Y

±XXXX.XXX ±XXXXX.XX

Inches X-Axis Endpoint Millimetres Seconds

Dwell Time

Inches Y-Axis Endpoint Millimetres

NOTE: * When the X code is used for a dwell time, it must be preceded by a G04 code.

1.2.4

Block Numbers (N Codes) Block Numbers may optionally be included at the beginning of any block in an EIA RS274D program. Block Numbers are specified using an N code, and may be up to 4 digits long (0 through 9999). Block Numbers may be used at the programmer's discretion for reference purposed, but are ignored by the system when the program is executed. For example, the EIA RS-274D block N28 M07 is completely equivalent to the block M07 as far as the system is concerned.

4

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

LINATROL

1.2.5

Comments Comments may be included in an EIA RS-274D program by enclosing the text of the comment in parentheses. Comments are ignored by the system when translating and calculating the EIA RS-274D program. These functions are useful, however, to allow the programmer to include comments in the part program which can be read by the system operator when the program is displayed. Additionally, these comments are helpful if the part is listed at a programming station or printed out for future reference. Comments can include any pertinent information, such as part number, type of part, type of plate, number of pieces required, etc. Individual blocks in the comment field may be of any length, although only 32 characters at a time can be displayed by the system. Any number of comment blocks may be included in the program, limited only by the memory size of the system. For example, the following comment field might be included at the beginning of an EIA RS-274D program: (Part Number: 96405 Drawing Number: 136C3486 Revision A Plate: 10 mm Stainless Number of Pieces: 18 Cut at: 1000 mm/minute Use Kerf Width of: 3 mm)

1.2.6

Preparatory Functions (G Codes) Preparatory Functions (G-codes) are used to set the mode of operation of the cutting machine. In general, the modes set by G-codes remain in effect until the end of the program unless cancelled or changed by a subsequent G code. The EIA RS-274D Preparatory Functions available in the system are shown in the table below. EIA RS-274D Preparatory Functions Code G00 G01 G02 G03 G04 G20 G21 G40 G41 G42 G82 G84 G90 G91 G92

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

Description Rapid Traverse Linear Interpolation Linear Interpolation (at programmed feedrate) Clockwise Circular Interpolation Counterclockwise Circular Interpolation Dwell Select English Units (inches) Select Metric Units (millimetres) Disable Kerf Compensation Enable Kerf Compensation Enable Right Kerf Compensation Select Oxyfuel cutting mode Select Plasma cutting mode Absolute Programming Mode Incremental Programming Mode Set Axis Presets

5

LINATROL

1.2.7

Absolute And Incremental Programming Mode Dimensional data in an EIA RS-274D program may be expressed as either absolute or incremental values. Absolute Mode is selected by placing a G90 code in a block that precedes any motion-causing blocks, while Incremental Mode is selected using a G91 code. Normally, one of these codes is placed in a block by itself near the beginning of the program, prior to any motion-causing blocks, to set the programming mode for the entire part. The programming mode must not be changed in the middle of a part, but must be followed consistently throughout. Incremental Mode - In Incremental Mode, the displacements specified by X,Y,I, and J words are offsets relative to the position of the cutting device at the start of the block. The endpoint of one block becomes the zero point of the next block. Absolute Mode - In Absolute Mode, the displacements specified by X and Y words are

offsets from an absolute reference point, which is fixed for the entire part, unless, changed using a G92 code. However, the I and J word values may be specified as relative displacements from the position of the cutting device at the start of the block (incremental), or (absolute) depending on the setting of the 'I&J Codes in Abs.Mode?' parameter in the EDIT/EIA/#FORMAT menu. Select the desired operation before entering or downloading an EIA RS-274D program by pressing EDIT, EIA, #FORMAT and then toggling the 'I&J Codes in Abs.Mode?' parameter to either INCREMENTAL or ABSOLUTE. Note that in Incremental Mode, the I and J codes are always incremental.

1.2.8

English And Metric Units Normally, English or Metric dimensioning units are selected using the AUX/UNITS menu of the system. However, the AUX/UNITS selection may be overridden for a particular EIA RS-274D program using a G20 to select English units (inches) or a G21 to select Metric units (millimetres). Normally, one of these codes is placed in a block by itself near the beginning of the program, prior to any motion-causing blocks, to set the dimensioning mode for the entire part. The dimensioning mode must not be changed in the middle of a part, but must be followed consistently throughout. In the absence of either a G20 or G21 code, the EIA RS-274D program dimensions are interpreted using the current setting of the Units parameter in the system AUX/UNITS menu. When a G20 or G21 code is present, however, a previously entered kerf value (entered in the other type of units), may be rendered invalid. In this case, the system displays Units Change: Re-enter Kerf. . Press any key to re-enter the kerf value in the newly changed units.

1.2.9

Constructing EIA RS-274D Line Segments In RS-274D, straight-line segments are specified by a block in which a G01 code is active for a given block if it is explicitly specified at the beginning of the block, or if it is still active from a preceding block. When a G01 code is active, the X and Y words specify the X and Y axis endpoints, respectively, of the line segment. The actual interpretation of the X and Y values is determined by the active selections for the Numeric Format (Fixed or Floating), units (English or Metric), and the Programming Mode (Absolute or Incremental).

6

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

LINATROL Referring to Figure 1, and assuming Floating Numeric Format with a G21 (Metric units) and a G91 (Incremental Programming Mode) active, line segment AB is constructed as follows: X Distance: Y Distance:

300mm positive 75mm negative

= =

X300.0 Y-75.0

Thus, the EIA RS-274D block for this line segment is: G01 X300 Y-75 Note that leading and trailing zeros are not required and that the decimal point is optional for integer values. The other line segments are programmed in a similar fashion. BC = G01 CD = G01 DE = G01

X75 Y75 X150 Y100

Figure 1 EIA RS-274D Line Segment Programming

If either an X or Y word is omitted in a block with an active G01 code, the value of the omitted X or Y word is implied. In Absolute Programming Mode (G90), the implied value for a missing X or Y word is equal to the last preceding X or Y word value (respectively) in the program, or to zero if there was no preceding explicit X or Y word. For example, in Absolute Programming Mode (G90), the line segments in Figure 1 are programmed as follows (assuming point A is X=0, Y=0): AB BC CD DE

= = = =

G01 G01 G01 G01

X300 Y-75 X375 Y0 X525 Y100

In Incremental Programming Mode (G91), the implied value for omitted X or Y words is zero. For example, in Incremental Programming Mode, the following blocks are equivalent: N24 G01 Y1450 N24 G01 X0.0 Y1450

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

7

LINATROL A G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, is active from block to block-even if not explicitly included in each block- until cancelled by an explicit reference to a different one of these four words. In blocks where there is no explicit X, Y, I, or J word and no explicit G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, no implicit G00, G01, G02 or G03 code is assumed to be active. However, such a block does not deactivate a G00, G01, G02, or G03 code from a previous block for subsequent blocks. For example, in the following EIA RS-274D program excerpt, N01 . . N26 N27 N28 N29 . .

G90 G01 X0 Y200 G02 X400 I-200 J0 M07 X800 I-200

block N28 does not generate any motion since no G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, or X,Y, I, or J word appears. However, in block N29, the G02 is still active from block N27, the J word is implied to be zero and the Y200 is active from block N26.

1.2.10 Constructing EIA RS-274D Arcs A block in which a G02 or G03 code is active specifies circular arc segments. A G02 specifies a clockwise arc, while a G03 specifies a counter-clockwise arc. A G02 and G03 code is active for a given block if it is explicitly specified at the beginning of the block, or if it is still active from a preceding block. Note that a G02 and G03 code cannot both be active at the same time-one cancels the effect of the preceding one. Assuming that a G02 or G03 code is active, the X and Y words specify the X and Y axis endpoints, respectively, of the arc segment. The I and J words specify the X and Y axis coordinates, respectively, of the centre of the circle of which the arc is a part. The actual interpretation of the X, Y, I, and J values is determined by the active selections for the Numeric Format (Fixed or Floating, I and J codes incremental or absolute), units (English or Metric), and the Programming Mode (Absolute or Incremental). Referring to Figure 2, and assuming Floating Numeric Format with G21 (Metric units) and G91 (Incremental Programming Mode) are active, arc segment AB is programmed as follows: X-axis Y-axis X-axis Y-axis

8

Endpoint Distance = Endpoint Distance = Centre Distance = Centre Distance =

216 79 141 51

mm mm mm mm

= = = =

X216 Y79 I141 J-51

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

LINATROL

Figure 2 EIA RS-274D Arc Programming

Thus the EIA RS-274D block is programmed as G02 X216 Y79 I141 J-51. If the first data element were G03, signifying CCW rotation, the portion of the circle shown as a shaded line would have been the resulting arc. In Absolute Programming Mode only, the I and J words may be interpreted as either incremental (measured from the start of the arc) or absolute. This selection is made in the EDIT/EIA/ #FORMAT Menu by toggling the 'I & J Codes in Abs.Mode?' parameter to either INCREMENTAL or ABSOLUTE. Be sure to set this parameter before entering a program or cutting a part to insure proper interpretation of the I and J words. If an X, Y, I, or J word, is omitted in a block, with an active G02 or G03 code, the value of the omitted word is implied. In the Absolute Programming Mode, the implied value for a missing X or Y word is the last preceding X or Y word value (respectively in the program, or zero if there was no preceding explicitly X or Y word. In the Incremental Programming Mode, the implied value for omitted X or Y words is zero. In either Absolute or Incremental Programming Mode, the implied value for an omitted I or J word is always zero. A G00, G01, G02, or G03 code is active from block to block-even if not explicitly included in each block until cancelled by an explicit reference to a different one of these four words. In blocks where there is no explicit X, Y, I, or J word and no explicit G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, no implicit G00, G01, G02, or G03 code is assumed to be active. However, such a block does not deactivate a G00, G01, G02, or G03 code from a previous block for subsequent blocks.

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LINATROL For example, in the following EIA RS-274D program excerpt, N01 . . N26 N27 N28 N29 . .

G90 G01 X0 Y200 G02 X400 I-200 J0 M07 X800 I-200

block N28 does not generate any motion since no G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, or X, Y, I, or J word appears. However, in block N29, the G02 is still active from block N27, the J word is implied to be zero and the Y200 is active from block N26. It is possible to program EIA RS-274D arc blocks with dimensions that are noncommensurate; i.e. the distance values for the data elements do not describe a real circle or arc. Blocks of this nature cause the message Bad Arc to be displayed when the program is translated by the system. For example, if the above EIA RS-274D arc block were changed to G02 X216 Y179 I141 J-51 the 'Bad Arc' message would be displayed since the arc endpoint (X=216, Y=179) does not lie on the circle whose centre is (X=141, Y=-51). Other than normal typographical errors, the most common cause of such problems is incorrect trigonometric calculations or lack of sufficient precision in the calculations. Obviously, guessing the arc parameters rarely results in the desired segment. Most part prints from which EIA RS-274D programs are written do not specify the necessary parameters explicitly. Usually, these must be calculated from a known circle radius or diameter, starting and ending angles, and standard trigonometry. In performing these calculations, it is a good idea to keep all figures to four places of precision (.0000), in English units, and three places (.001) in Metric, and round off only when translating dimensions into EIA RS-274D data elements.

1.2.11 Constructing EIA RS-274D Circles A complete circle is a special case of the circular arc described above. To ensure that a complete circle is recognized as such by the system, it is essential that the X and Y words are exactly zero. The EIA RS-274D program block for the entire 300mm circle starting at point as shown in Figure 2 is thus G02 I141 J-51 since the implied value for the X and Y words is zero in Incremental Programming Mode. Note that the EIA RS-274D block G02 X10 I141 J-51 is not a complete circle, but is instead a very short arc.

1.2.12 Rapid Traverse Rapid Traverse speed motion (as set in the system in the AUX/SETUP/SPEEDS menu) is specified by an active G00 code. The actual rapid speed is set by the Maximum Machine Speed parameter in the AUX/SETUP/SPEEDS menu; refer to the User's Manual. Blocks with an active G00 code are programmed identically to the straight-line segments discussed in 'Constructing EIA RS-274D Line Segments' above. The only difference between G00 and G01 blocks is the speed at which the machine moves when the block is executed.

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LINATROL For example, the following EIA RS-274D blocks illustrate a rapid traverse of 200mm in both the X and Y axis between two 60mm circles: G02 I30 G00 X200 Y200 G02 I30 A G00, G01, G02, or G03 code is active from block to block-even if not explicitly included in each block until cancelled by an explicit reference to a different one of these four words. In blocks where there is no explicitly X, Y, I, or J word and no explicit G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, no implicit G00, G01, G02, or G03 code is assumed to be active. However, such a block does not deactivate a G00, G01, G02, or G03 code from a previous block for subsequent blocks. For example, in the following EIA RS-274D program excerpt, N01 . . N26 N27 N28 N29 . .

G90 G01 X0 Y200 G02 X400 I-200 J0 M07 X800 I-200

block N28 does not generate any motion since no G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, or X, Y, I, or J word appears. However, in block N29, the G02 is still active from block N27, the J word is implied to be zero, and the Y200 is active from block N26.

1.2.13 Delays A delay or dwell is programmed with a G04 code. A delay may be used at corners where flame lag can cause a poor cut. If the G04 code is immediately followed by an X code in the same block, the value of the X word is used as the dwell time in seconds (between 0 and 9.99). For example, the EIA RS274D block G04 X2 causes a 2-second delay in program execution when executed. If no X code follows the G04, the Dwell Time (in seconds) is prompted for under the EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menu. The dwell time value can range from 0.00 to 650.00 seconds. Only a single value is entered which applies to all G04 blocks without an X code time value in a program. A delay can also be used to force a full stop between two segments that would normally intersect at some non-zero velocity. Program a dwell value of 0.00 to cause a full stop without introducing an actual delay.

1.2.14 Kerf Compensation Preparatory Codes G41 and G42 enable kerf compensation on the left and right side, respectively, of the torch path. The actual kerf value used is programmed in the system at run time via the EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menu (D-codes in the program are ignored).

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LINATROL The left and right sides of the torch path are defined with respect to the direction of torch motion, and can be easily remembered by the use of the corresponding hands. With the palm down, and thumb pointing in the direction of torch motion, the fingers of the left hand are on the side of the line that the torch will be on when using a G41 code (Enable Left Kerf Compensation). At the same time, the fingers of the right hand are on the side of the line the torch will be on when using a G42 code (Enable Right Kerf Compensation). Preparatory Code G40 disables all kerf compensation, and the torch path will be the programmed path regardless of the kerf value entered under EDIT/EIA/PARAMS. A complete description of the kerf compensation implemented in the system is included in of this manual.

1.2.15 Axis Presets The axis preset function (G92) is used to define or redefine the absolute position reference used in Absolute Programming Mode. For example, the EIA RS-274D block G92 X9600 Y-12000 defines the current position of the cutting device as being 9600mm in the plus X direction and 12000mm in the minus Y direction away from the absolute zero reference point. In the absence of any explicit G92 code, the position of the cutting device when the EIA RS-274D program is initiated is the absolute position reference. The G92 code does not cause motion. For example, if the following blocks appear in an EIA RS-274D program, G90 G92 X300 Y300 G01 X400 the motion is assumed to have started at X=300 and Y=300. Since the implicit Y value in Absolute Programming Mode with the G01 active is Y=300 , the X Axis (only) moves 100mmm in the positive direction.

1.2.16 Machine Speed (F Codes) Usually, the machine operator, using the AUX/SETUP/SPEEDS and EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menus of the system, sets the machine cutting and Rapid Traverse speeds. However, these preset speeds may be overridden by placing F code blocks in the EIA RS-274D program. To enable the system to interpret the F codes in the program, the 'F code' parameter in the EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menu must be set to ON. In general, an F code may be placed in any block in which a G01, G02, or G03 code is active to set the cutting speed for the part. Usually, an F code block is placed at the beginning of the program to set the cut speed for the entire part. Cut speed may be changed during the part using a subsequent F code, but care should be taken not to change cut speed while in the middle of a cut piece. If an F code is placed in a block in which a G00 code (Rapid Traverse) is active, both the rapid traverse speed and the cut speed for all future G01, G02, and G03 blocks is set to the value specified by the F code. The actual interpretation F code value is determined by the active selections for the Numeric Format (Fixed or Floating) and units (English or Metric).

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LINATROL The system may also be set to ignore any F codes in the EIA RS-274D program. If the 'F Code?' parameter in the EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menus is set to OFF, the system ignores all F codes in the program and the cut speed is the value set in the EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menu for the 'Cut Speed??' parameter. Setting this parameter to the ON state enables the F codes in the program to set the cut speed for the part.

1.2.17 Miscellaneous Functions (M Codes) Miscellaneous Functions (M-codes) are used to control the non-motion-related operations of the cutting machine. The EIA RS-274D Miscellaneous Functions available in the system are shown in the table below. EIA RS-274D Miscellaneous Functions Code M00 M01 M02 M07 M08 M09 M10 M11 M12 M15 M16 M30 M31 M50 M51 M65

Description Program Stop Optional Program Stop End Of Program Cutting Device ON Cutting Device OFF Marking Powder ON Marking Powder OFF Marker Offset ON, Marking Preheat ON Marker Offset OFF, Marking Preheat OFF Cutting Device ON Cutting Device OFF End Of Program With Tape Rewind Reset Functions to Default State Automatic Height Control OFF (Hold Position) Automatic Height Control ON End Of Program with Auto Reload Active

M codes take effect in the sequence in which they are found. This means that an M code appearing in its proper place after a G code in a block will take effect after the G code. To avoid confusion and errors, M codes should be placed in blocks without G codes or X, Y, I, or J words. In this way, the sequence of operations is easier to follow and the cutting machine is more likely to behave as expected.

1.2.18 Cut Control Miscellaneous Functions M07 and M15 turn the cutting device ON, while Miscellaneous Functions M08 and M16 turn it OFF. While Miscellaneous Functions M07 and M08 were traditionally used for Oxyfuel control, and M15 and M16 for plasma systems, they are treated the same by the system. The selection of plasma or Oxyfuel cutting is made via the GAS/TEST/PLASMA switch on the gas control panel.

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1.2.19 plate marking Miscellaneous Functions M09, M10, M11 and M12 are used in conjunction with a Plate Marking system, if installed, to mark the plate for subsequent operations. Miscellaneous Functions M11 and M12 move the machine by the X and Y Marker Offset values set in the AUX/SETUP/MACHINE menu. These Marker Offsets are the distances in both the X and Y directions between the cutting device and the marking mechanism. These Miscellaneous Functions are used to position the marking device at the current cutting device position (M11), turn on the Marking Preheat Output, to re-position the cutting device at the current marker position (M12), and turn off the Marking Preheat Output. All Marker Offset motions occur at Maximum Machine Speed as set in the AUX/SETUP/MACHINE menu. Miscellaneous Function M09 activates the Marking Powder output to activate the marking mechanism itself. Miscellaneous Function M10 deactivates the Marking Powder output. In general, the marker offset move should be performed before activating the marker to ensure that the marking mechanism is correctly positioned. A Dwell (G04 block) may be used to ensure that the marking mechanism has adequate time to activate before being turned OFF (see Delays earlier in this section). For example, the following EIA RS-274D blocks might be used with a static marker to mark the centre of a hole to be cut by a subsequent operation: M11 M09 G04 M10 M12 If the marking system is capable of marking lines on the plate while the machine moves, the EIA RS-274D blocks for the desired motion should be programmed between the Miscellaneous Functions M09 and M10. For example, the following EIA RS-274D blocks cause the marker to make a 100mm square on the plate: M11 M09 G01 G01 G01 G01 M10 M12

X100 Y100 X-100 Y-100

All motion following a Miscellaneous Function M11 occurs at the preset Marking Speed as set in the AUX/SETUP/MACHINE menu; refer to the system User's Manual.

1.2.20 Program Stop The M00 Program Stop code halts execution of the EIA RS-274D program until the Enter key on the front panel is pressed. The M01 Optional Stop code is enabled or disabled according to the Optional Program Stop Parameter in the EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menu. If the Optional Program Stop is enabled, an M01 code operates identically to M00. If the Optional Program Stop is disabled, the M01 code is ignored.

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1.2.21 End Of Program Miscellaneous Functions M02, M30, and M65 define the end of an EIA RS-274D program. All of these functions turn the cutting device OFF as a safety mechanism, but do not necessarily restore the power-up condition of all the Preparatory and Miscellaneous Functions. Make sure that the desired states are established before the end of the program or use a Miscellaneous Function M31 (see 'Initial Conditions' below). Miscellaneous Function M30 causes a Tape Rewind character to be issued to the paper tape reader, in addition to defining the end of the program. The actual tape rewind character issued is determined by the specific tape reader being used, and is programmed in the AUX/SETUP/LINK menu (refer to the system User's Manual). Miscellaneous Function M65 defines the end of the current 'piece' of the EIA RS-274D program and enables the Auto-Reload feature of the system. Refer to Uploading and Downloading EIA RS-274D Programs, for more information on Auto-Reload.

1.2.22 Initial Conditions The initial conditions-which are active whenever the system begins an EIA RS-274D program execution-are: EIA RS-274D Initial Conditions Code

Description

G91 G20 G40 M07 & M16 M10 & M12

Incremental Programming Mode English Units (Inches) Kerf Compensation Disabled Cutting Device OFF Marker OFF

In addition, the default dimensional values are X0, Y0, I0 and J0. A G92 code in a block with X and/or Y words may be used prior to the first G00, G01, G02, or G03 block in Absolute Programming Mode to set the reference point for the start of the part. The I and J values can only be changed by an explicit I or J word with a G02 or G03 active. The initial condition shown in the table above may be re-established at a time in the EIA RS-274D program using Miscellaneous Function M31.

1.2.23 Writing EIA RS-274D Program A single EIA RS-274D program defines the activity of a single session at the cutting machine. A session can involve the cutting of an entire plate, or the cutting of a portion of the plate which the programmer and operator wish to manage at one time. EIA RS-274D programs may range in size from very short to very long. Transformation Options such as Shape Repeat, Mirror Imaging, Part Rotation, and Sealing allow the operator to do a great deal of customization of an EIA RS-274D program at the cutting machine. Thus EIA RS274D programming provides a great deal of flexibility for managing the operator's activity at the machine.

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LINATROL In general, it is a good idea to keep the use of Miscellaneous Functions well organized. If two operations are active at once, the cutting machine may not work as expected. Make sure that an operation turned ON by a Miscellaneous Function is turned OFF later in the program. A Miscellaneous Function M31 restores the initial conditions (see 'Initial Conditions' above). Insofar as is possible, it is helpful to organize a program in terms of 'cut pieces'. A cut piece is a sequence of lines, arcs, and Miscellaneous Functions through which the cutting device is cutting continuously. 'Cut piece' is thus a general term for a single cutting cycle. The term encompasses both 'pieces' and 'holes' for simple shape circles and rectangles, and suggests the piece that falls out in either case. A simple shape flange consists of two cut pieces. The term also applies to cuts which do not close and where no 'piece' falls out after the execution cycle. These are still 'cut pieces', even though the analogy is not quite clear for these cases. The EIA RS-274D part program is typically comprised of several shapes, each defined as a cut piece. Rapid traverse lines generally connect these individually cut pieces (with the cutting device off). Thus the placement and orientation of several cut pieces can be planned so as to optimize plate usage, and the entire plan can be made into a single EIA RS-274D program. Figure 3 shows a typical part consisting of two cut pieces and two EIA RS-274D programs to cut it. The first program is written in Incremental Programming Mode and Fixed Numeric Format, while the second is written in Absolute Programming Mode and Floating Numeric Format. Most of the programming techniques and concepts discussed in the previous sections are illustrated here. Figure 3 EIA RS-274D Programming Example +Y

350.0 +X

120 O

300.0 500.0

A ll Dimensions A re In mm.

N01 N01 N03 N04 N05 N06 N07 N08 N09 N10 N11 N12 N13 N14 N15 N16

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G 21 G 92 (PA RT NO .2A 303) G 00 X+25500 Y+20000 G 41 M07 G 03 X-1500 I-750 I+6000 X+1500 I+750 M08 G 40 G 00 X-26500 Y-20000 G 41 M07 G 01 X+51000 Y+35000 X-50000 Y-36000 M08 G 40 M02

G 21 G 90 G 92 X30 (PA RT NO . 2A 303) G 00 X555 Y200 G 41 M07 G 03 X540 I-7.5 I60 X555 I7.5 G 40 G 00 X290 Y0 G 41 M07 G 01 X800 Y350 X300 Y-10 M08 G 40 M02

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1.2.24 EIA RS-274D Programming Errors When an EIA RS-274D part program is loaded into the system from a paper tape, CAD system, host computer, or entered from the front panel using manual data input, the system examines the program block by block to detect certain format errors. Some format errors cannot be detected so a careful manual check of the program is recommended before loading or entering. The errors that are detected are listed below: Illegal EIA RS-274D Function - This error occurs if the program contains a Miscellaneous

Function code that is not listed in the table of legal Miscellaneous Functions. This error also appears if a ')' right parenthesis is encountered prior to a '(' left parenthesis. Bad Block Format - This error occurs if any block in the EIA RS-274D program contains more than one word of the same type. No End of Program Found - This error occurs if the program does not contain a legal EIA RS-274D End of Program Miscellaneous Function. Legal End of Program Miscellaneous Functions are M02, M30, and M65 (see 'End of Program' above). Bad Comment Format - This error occurs when the EIA RS-274D program contains a '(' right parenthesis without a matching ')' left parenthesis. Bad Arc - This error occurs when the radius of the arc at the starting point and the radius of

the arc at the ending point have a discrepancy of more than 1.27mm (0.05"). If any of these error are detected in an EIA RS-274D program, the system aborts the translation and calculation of the part program and displays the appropriate error message along with the line number of the EIA RS-274D block where the error was found. Pressing any key at this time causes the system to return to the main options menu. The MDI editing features can then be used to examine and correct the offending block. If and EIA RS-274D program is in memory with an uncorrected EIA RS-274D program error, no cutting operations can be performed. The message Illegal Program in Memory!!! is displayed if a CUT or TRIAL is attempted.

1.2.25 Using The System Part Programming Options With EIA RS-274D Programs All Part Transformation Options: Mirror, Rotate, Scale and Shape Repeat, are available for EIA RS-274D part programs downloaded into the system or entered manually from the panel; Automatic Plate and Corner Alignment features are also available. When using any of the options, the entire EIA RS-274D part program is treated as a whole. All rotations, mirroring, scaling, repeats and corner alignments operate on the entire part including all cut pieces and traverse segments. Mirroring and rotation operate about the starting point of the part, i.e. the entire part is mirrored across the X and Y axis at this point. Likewise, rotations rotate about the starting point. Each time an option is activated, the entire part geometry in memory is altered (with the exception of the corner alignment function). To restore the original geometry after mirroring or rotation, the various options must be 'undone'. For example, if a part is rotated 90°, rotating to '0' can restore it. Any shape repeat option can be cancelled by turning Shape Repeat OFF via the OPTION/REPEAT menu. Also, a part can always be restored to its original definition by reloading the EIA RS-274D program.

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LINATROL Scaling - The scaling function caused the part to be completely re-translated in order to preserve the true kerf size. This means that any previous mirroring, rotation or shape repeats will be lost. If mirroring, rotation or repeats are desired on a scaled part, the scaling should be done first followed by the desired rotation, mirroring and/or repeats. When changing the Scale Factor, any previous rotations and mirroring are cancelled. The programmed kerf value is preserved, however. Kerf Compensation - Special attention must be paid if kerf adjustments are made in the system after utilizing some of the Part Transformation options. Since re-adjustment of the kerf requires re-translation of the part from its original geometry, previous transformations of mirroring and rotation will be undone (the Scale Factor is preserved). It is best to adjust the kerf to the desired value before using any of these options.

1.2.26 EIA RS-274D Memory Requirements When and EIA RS-274D program is loaded from a paper tape reader, CAD system, or host computer, each ASCII character requires 1 byte or character in part program memory. Any ASCII null characters (leader) or Carriage Returns are ignored. When loading an EIA RS-274D program, the system first stores the entire part in its original ASCII format and then translates it into an internal 'work' format in the remainder of the part program memory. If the combination of the ASCII and 'work' format exceeds the available memory, the system automatically discards the section of ASCII it has already translated and reshuffles the memory to make more space for the 'work' format. When this happens, the system momentarily displays the message Shuffling... EIA RS-274D comments do not require any memory. Shape repeats do not require any additional memory no matter how many rows and columns are specified except for the nested repeat. To generate the nested geometry, the system requires enough space to define a duplicate of the original part. If enough memory is not available, an error message is displayed and the option cannot be used. The kerf compensation process also affects the memory requirements somewhat. If a nonzero kerf value is entered, patch arcs and/or lines may be created to generate the kerf compensated path. The exact amount of extra memory required cannot be predicted as it depends on the exact geometry. It is therefore best to leave a fair amount of memory available beyond the direct needs for the uncompensated part.

1.2.27 Entering And Editing EIA RS-274D Programs The system allows entering and editing EIA RS-274D part programs from the front panel. This is called Manual Data Input (MDI) and is accessed by pressing the EDIT key on the front panel. This displays the Edit Menu as shown below: ESSI: EIA: *SHAPES

Pressing the function key directly under EIA in the display selects the EIA RS-274D MDI functions. The Edit Menu also shows other information about the part currently in the system's main part program memory. The asterisk (*) in the display shows how the current part was created. *SHAPES indicates it was created from the shapes library or by teach tracing. UNIT = METRIC indicates that the current part is dimensioned using Metric Units (millimetres). If the current part is dimensioned using English Units (inches), UNIT = ENGLISH is displayed.

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LINATROL An EIA RS-274D part can be dimensioned in either English or metric units and this information is saved with the part. The type of units of the current part determines the current 'personality' of the control: if the current part is English, all values are displayed and must be entered in inches; if the current part is metric, all values are displayed and must be entered in millimetres. To change the current type of units used to enter part dimensions, press DONE, and then AUX/UNITS. Select the desired units (English or Metric) by pressing the TOGGLE key until the desired selection appears and then press ENTER. Press EDIT followed by EIA to reselect the EIA RS-274D MDI functions. Note that when the Units are changed in this way, the current part is lost (destroyed).

1.2.28 Selecting The EIA RS-274D MDI Function Pressing the EIA RS-274D key from the Edit Menu displays the MDI functions as shown below: PROGRAM: #FORMAT: NEW :PARAMS: RECALC

These menu options allow for entering, editing, or displaying the current EIA RS-274D program (PROGRAM), changing the Axis Conversion (#FORMAT), erasing the current program (NEW), changing the cutting parameters such as Cut Speed and Kerf Width (PARAMS), and forcing a recalculation of the current EIA RS-274D part (RECALC). MDI functions are explained in the following sections.

1.2.29 Entering Programs From The Front Panel To enter a new EIA RS-274D program into the system, first press NEW followed by ENTER to erase the current program in memory. Then press PROGRAM to display the menu shown below (to edit or display a previously loaded EIA RS-274D program just press PROGRAM): LINE+ :LINE- :LINE# :INSERT:DELETE

Pressing any one of these keys erases this menu, and displays the selected line in the EIA RS-274D program. However, the function keys associated with this menu are still active as shown in yellow on the front panel. After clearing an existing program using the NEW function, the system does not have any program in its memory. In this case, attempting to display any line results in the message No Program in Memory!!!.

Blocks can, however, be entered to create a new program using the INSERT key as explained later. When EIA RS-274D program blocks are displayed, each line is terminated by and asterisk (*) representing the Line Feed end-of-block character. For example, this might be the display for line 4 of a certain program G01 X102.4 Y28*

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1.2.30 Entering EIA RS-274D Program Blocks Since the system’s keypad does not incorporate the full ASCII character set, a special technique is used to enter the necessary alphanumeric characters. The keypad incorporates a set of 'shifted' key functions that are shown in red above the normal unshifted key functions. Pressing the SHIFT key followed by the desired shifted key, accesses these shifted keys. EIA RS-274D Keypad Key Label 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 ! PAUSE SPEED/\ SPEED\/ OPTION EDIT AUX REMOTE ENTER

Unshifted Character

Shifted Character

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 !

T I J F X Y Z N M G «Space» P ( ) + E A C «LF»

To indicate that a shift is active after pressing SHIFT, the system displays a solid block or checkerboard character at the character position where the shifted key will go. After entering a shifted key, the system returns the keypad to its non-shifted state and the SHIFT key must be pressed again to enter another shifted key. In addition to the shifted keys discussed above, other required ASCII characters are available by pressing certain non-shifted keys on the keypad. For example, SPEED/\ produces an open parenthesis '(' and SPEED \/ produces a closed parenthesis ')'. The previous table shows both the shifted and non-shifted ASCII character generated by each key on the system 's front panel.

1.2.31 Editing And Displaying The Program After pressing EDIT/EIA/PROGRAM, the five function keys perform the MDI editing operations shown above the function keys and beneath the display on the front panel. The operation of these keys is explained below. LINE+ - This key displays the next line in the EIA RS-274D program. If the currently displayed line is the last line in the program, pressing LINE+ displays the first line of the EIA RS-274D program. This feature is known as 'wrap around'/. If LINE+ is pressed immediately after EDIT/EIA/PROGRAM, the first line in the EIA RS-274D program is

displayed.

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LINATROL If no program is presently in the system 's memory, the message No Program in Memory!! Is shown. Press DONE to recover. LINE- - Displays the previous line in the program. If the currently displayed line is the first line in the program, nothing happens. This is different than the operation of the LINE+ key,

which wraps around to the beginning of the program. If no program is presently in the system's memory, the message No Program in Memory!! is shown. Press any key to recover. LINE# - Displays the Line Number of the current EIA RS-274D block and requests a new Line Number to display. After pressing ENTER the requested block in the EIA RS-274D

program is displayed. If the line does not exist in the program (i.e. line 100 was requested and the program only has 50 lines), the message Line Not Found!!! is displayed, and the last line in the program is displayed. If ENTER is pressed without entering a new line number, the current EIA RS-274D block is re-displayed. INSERT - 'Opens up' the EIA RS-274D program and allows a new block of data to be inserted after the currently displayed line. If the currently displayed line is the last block in the program, the new line is inserted before the current line. If no program currently exists, the entered line becomes the first line of the program.

After pressing INSERT, the system displays a question mark to request the desired EIA RS274D data. Enter a legal EIA RS-274D program block and then press ENTER. Pressing ENTER displays an asterisk (*), and adds the Line Feed end-of-block character to the program block. DELETE - Erases the currently displayed EIA RS-274D program block (line). When deleting a line in the middle of the program, the system displays the line following the one just deleted. When deleting the last line in the program, the previous block is displayed. A single line program cannot be deleted. EDIT - Pressing the EDIT key while editing an EIA RS-274D program erases the currently

displayed line, and prompts for new data with the '?'. This is equivalent to pressing the DELETE, LINE-, and INSERT in that order. DONE - Pressing the DONE key terminates the editing or display process. If the system detects that changes or additions have been made to the EIA RS-274D program, it is retranslated and re-calculated for cutting. When calculation is complete the MAIN menu is displayed.

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1.2.32 Simple Edit Sequence Suppose we wish to program the shape shown in Figure 4. Figure 4 Sample EIA RS-274D Part

Table 1 on the next page contains information used to enter the EIA RS-274D part; English Units are used. During the time when the message 'Translating...’ appears, if any format error, are detected, the appropriate error message is displayed along with the line number of the offending block. If this occurs, re-enter the EDIT mode and correct the error using the appropriate, EDIT, INSERT or DELETE functions and then press DONE again. After successful translation, the part is adjusted for cornering velocities and kerf compensation. During this process the messages 'Calculating...' and 'Kerf Compensating Part...' appear. At the completion of this phase, the part is now ready for standard cutting operations (TRIAL and CUT) or for additional transformations such as mirroring or rotation. Refer to the system User's Manual for more information on these functions.

1.2.33 Changing The Cutting Parameters An EIA RS-274D part program which is entered via manual data input or loaded in from a paper tape reader, CAD system, or host computer, can have its cut speed, kerf value, and Dwell Time (if there are any G04 blocks without X word time values in the program) modified at any time. To change these parameters, press EDIT, EIA, and then PARAMS and the system prompts for the new values. To keep the current value, just press ENTER. To alter the current value, key in a new number and then press ENTER. To enable the system to interpret the F codes in the program, the 'F code' parameter must be set to ON. IF the 'F Code?' parameter is set to OFF, the system ignores all F codes in the program and the cut speed is the value set for the 'Cut Speed?' parameter. Setting this parameter to ON enables F codes in the program to set the part cut-speed. If the kerf value is changed, the system re-translates the EIA RS-274D program and then recalculates the geometry for the new kerf value.

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LINATROL Table 1 Information for entering an EIA RS-274D part

Display START:RIP:WORKFILE:ALIGN:SPEED ESSI:EIA:*SHAPES: PROGRAM:#FORMAT:NEW:PARAMS:RECALC: Press ENTER to confirm... PROGRAM:#FORMAT:NEW:PARAMS :RECALC: LINE+:LINE-:LINE# :INSERT:DELETE ? (P100) * ? G91 * ? MO7 * ? G01 X+5 * ? Y+2.75 * ? X-4.50 * ? Y-3.25 M08 * ? M02 * Translating... Calculating... PROGRAM:#FORMAT:NEW:PARAMS :RECALC: Cut Speed? Kerf Width? Translating... Calculating... Kerf Compensation Part... Calculating Checksum... PROGRAM:#FORMAT:NEW:PARAMS :RECALC: START:RIP:WORKFILE:ALIGN:SPEED

Operator Action press EDIT press EIA press NEW press ENTER press PROGRAM press INSERT press SPEED/\, PAUSE, 1, 0, 0, SPEED\/, ENTER, press INSERT press SHIFT, G, 9, 1, ENTER press INSERT press SHIFT, M, 0, 7, ENTER press INSERT press SHIFT, G, 0, 1, SHIFT, ., SHIFT, X, +, 5, ENTER press INSERT press SHIFT, Y, +, 2, ., 7, 5, ENTER press INSERT press SHIFT X, -, 4, ., 5, 0, ENTER press INSERT press SHIFT, Y, -, 3, ., 2, 5, SHIFT, ., SHIFT, M, 0, 8, ENTER press INSERT press SHIFT, M, 0, 2, Enter press DONE press PARAMS press 5, 0, ENTER press ., 0, 1, 7, ENTER

press DONE

1.2.34 Changing The X-Axis Orientation The system allows specifying the X-Axis as being either the Rail or Traverse axis. Selection is done in the EDIT/EIA/#FORMAT menu by toggling the Axis Conversion parameter to either RAIL or TRAVERSE. The normal setting is TRAVERSE. This parameter should be set before cutting the part.

1.3

UPLOADING AND DOWNLOADING EIA PROGRAMS EIA RS-274D parts that have been previously prepared using a CAD system or are stored on a hose computer may be downloaded to the system via the RS-232C port on the rear panel of the system. EIA RS-274D programs entered directly via the front panel may also be uploaded to a CAD system, host computer or paper tape punch. Before using any of the RS-232C port operations, the remote link parameters in the AUX/SETUP/LINK menu must be properly set. Refer to the system User's Manual for information on how to set these parameters. In addition, the Axis Conversion parameter in the EDIT/EIA/#FORMAT must be set to match the desired axis orientation.

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LINATROL The specifications for the RS-232C interface are as follows: ‰ ‰ ‰ ‰ ‰ ‰ ‰

EIA RS-232C standard interface Uses Shield, RxD, TxD, and Common (pins 1,2,3,and 5) ASCII or RS-244 character set 7 data bits, 1 parity bit, 1 or 2 stop bits Parity supported is even, odd, mark, space, or ignore Supports baud rates of 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 or 19.2K Tape read functions support XON, XOFF

Refer to the system User's Manual for details concerning setup of the RS-232C interface port.

1.3.1

Communications Protocol The system includes two built-in communications protocols for uploading and downloading EIA RS-274D programs. Tape Mode is a simple protocol usually used with paper tape readers and punches, although it may also be used for simple communications with a host computer or remote programming system. Dialog Mode is a much more sophisticated protocol usually used with a remote host computer or CAD system that allows interaction between the machine operator and the CAD system or host computer. Pressing the REMOTE key accesses both protocols. This displays the Remote Menu as shown below: UPLOAD: DNLOAD: :PUNCH : READTAPE

The Tape Mode protocol is used whenever the PUNCH key (to send a program) or the READTAPE key (to receive a program) is pressed. Dialog Mode is used whenever the UPLOAD (to upload a program) or DNLOAD to download a program) keys are pressed. Both of these communications protocols are explained below.

1.3.2

Tape Mode Protocol Tape Mode is a simple communications protocol usually used with paper tape readers and punches. It may also be used, however, to communicate with a remote programming system or host computer which does not support the more sophisticated Dialog Mode protocol. The Tape Mode protocol may be used to read and punch tapes using either the ASCII or RS-244B character codes. The desired code is selected in the AUX/SETUP/LINK menu; refer to the system User's Manual for more information.

1.3.3

Loading A Part From Paper Tape To load a EIA RS-274D program into the system, the paper tape reader or remote programming station must be ready to send the program data upon receipt of the XON («DCI») character from the system. Usually this just means that the tape should be loaded in the tape reader, and the unit should be turned on. Press the function key directly under READTAPE in the Remote menu. The system displays Kerf Width? asking you to enter the desired kerf width. Use the numeric keypad to enter the desired kerf width for the part, and then press ENTER.

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LINATROL The system then sends an XON character («DCI» = ASCII 17) from the RS-232C port to initiate sending the part program and displays Remote Link... At this point, the tape reader or remote programming station must send the EIA RS-274D program block by block to the system. The system does not echo the characters it receives. If the system does not receive a legal EIA RS-274D program character after sending the XON and before the 'DNC Timeout' time has elapsed, the message Communications Error: Timeout is displayed. This indicates that the tape reader or remote programming station is not responding with the requested program data. For information on setting the 'DNC Timeout' value, refer to the system User's Manual. The loading process is stopped when a Miscellaneous Function M02, M30, or M65 is detected from the RS- 232C port. When any of these Miscellaneous Functions are detected, the system displays Translating... indicating that it is translating the EIA RS-274D program into internal format. When a Miscellaneous Function M02 (Program End) is detected, the system immediately sends an XOFF («DC3» = ASCII 19) character from the RS-232C port to stop the tape reader. If multiple parts are stored on a single paper tape, padding characters should be added between parts. The number of padding characters required depends on how fast the tape reader responds to the XOFF but normally 5 to 10 characters is adequate. Padding characters may be any characters that are ignored by the system, including nulls (leader), rubouts, spaces, and carriage returns. When a Miscellaneous Function M30 (End of Program with Tape Rewind) is detected, the system sends the 'ASCII Rewind Character' to the tape reader instructing it to rewind the tape. The specific character used to initiate a tape rewind depends on the specific tape reader and is set in the AUX/SETUP/LINK menu. For information on setting the 'ASCII Rewind Character', refer to the system User's Manual. The system stops rewinding the tape upon receipt of a '%' character, but will also stop rewinding when the tape runs out. When a Miscellaneous Function M65 (Program End with Auto-Reload Active) is detected, the system immediately sends an XOFF («DC3» = ASCII 19) character from the RS-232C port to stop the tape reader. Padding characters should be added after the Miscellaneous Function M65 to allow the tape reader to stop. The number of padding characters required depends on how fast the tape reader responds to the XOFF but normally 5 to 10 characters is adequate. Padding characters may be any characters that are ignored by the system, including nulls (leader), rubouts, spaces, and carriage returns. Refer to 'Auto-Reload' for more information.

1.3.4

Punching A Part Into Paper Tape To punch a part onto paper tape, first make sure that the tape punch is properly configured and connected to the system. Then press the function key directly under PUNCH in the Remote menu. If you are uploading a Teach/Trace part, the system displays Part Designation? asking you to enter a part number designation. Use the numeric keypad and other keys on the front panel to enter the desired part number or other identifying designation and then press the ENTER key. The part number designation is automatically enclosed within parenthesis.

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LINATROL The system then sends a «DC2» code (ASCII 18) to the punch to enable it and displays Uploading EIA RS-274D... At this point the system sends the EIA RS-274D program blocks to the RS-232C port. For formatting purposes, a Carriage Return character (ASCII 13) is appended to each block following the Line Feed End-of-Block character. When the complete EIA RS-274D program has been sent out the system sends a «DC4» code to the tape punch to turn it off.

1.3.5

Dialog Mode Protocol Dialog Mode allows for sophisticated interaction between a host computer of CAD system and the machine operator via the RS-232C port. It allows the host computer to interactively communicate with the operator through the display and keypad. This is useful for prompting the operator for various CAD system options, selecting a program to upload/download, or specifying various parametric values such as kerf width, etc., to the host system. A Link program, running on the host computer, must be installed to utilize the Dialog Mode. Contact Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. – Linatrol Division for additional information on this Link program. To use Dialog Mode, the 'Character Code' and Dialog parameters (Dialog Start, Dialog Prompt, Dialog Acknowledge, and Dialog Done) in the AUX/SETUP/Link menu must be set properly. Character Code' must be set to 'ASCII' (Dialog Mode does not work with S244B codes). Any legal ASCII value (0 through 127) can be used for the four Dialog parameters with the exception of Carriage Return (ASCII 13), Line Feed (ASCII 10), Tilde (ASCII 126), and SUB (ASCII 26) which have defined functions in the Dialog Mode protocol. A recommended list of Dialog parameters is shown in the table below: Recommended Dialog Parameters Prompt Dialog Dialog Dialog Dialog

Value Start? Prompt? Acknowledge? Done?

33 3 62 42

Character ! ETX > *

For information on setting these parameters, refer to the system User's Manual. The information displayed on the system when using Dialog Mode is determined by the software in the CAD system or host computer. Consult the manuals for the program you are using to determine the correct data to enter for uploading and downloading part programs.

1.3.6

Downloading A Part Program To download a part program from a CAD system or host computer using Dialog Mode. press the function key directly under DNLOAD in the Remote menu. The system then sends the pre-defined 'Dialog Start' character followed by a capital 'S' (ASCII 53) to the RS-232C port and displays Dialog Mode... on the system 's front panel display.

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LINATROL Displaying Messages - The host computer or CAD system may now send a message to be displayed on the system's display by sending the appropriate ASCII characters followed by a tilde (~ = ASCII 126). This message-when received-replaces the 'Dialog Mode...' display shown above. In fact, depending on how fast the message is sent, the 'Dialog Mode...' message may be seen only briefly or not at all. If the system does not receive a character after sending the '«Dialog Start» S' and before the DNC Timeout time has elapsed, the message Communications Error: Timeout is displayed. This indicates that the CAD system or remote programming station is not responding. See the system User's Manual for information on setting the DNC Timeout value. The tilde character used to terminate messages from the host computer or CAD system also disables the DNC timeout until the next character of any kind is received. This allows the host computer or CAD system to search for requested files, etc. without running the risk of a communications timeout from the system. Additional messages may be sent (terminated by the tilde character) and they will be displayed as received.

1.3.7

Prompting The Machine Operator To prompt the machine operator for a value (kerf width, part number, etc.), send a message terminated with the pre-defined Dialog Prompt character instead of the tilde. The value entered by the operator on the system from panel-including any imbedded decimal point-is transmitted back to the CAD system or host computer in ASCII format followed by a Carriage Return character («CR» = ASCII 13) when the ENTER key is pressed. If the ENTER key is pressed without any values having been entered, the system returns only a «CR» character. For example, the system displays a file name and gives the operator choices by sending the message 'filename (0=next, 1=load, 2=name) («ETX» '. This results in the display filename (0=next, 1=load, 2=name). If the Operator presses the '0' key to see the next file name, the system returns the string '0«Carriage Return» ' to the PC which then displays the next available file on the disk by sending a message like the one above again. Sending additional messages followed by the Dialog Prompt character may prompt for additional values. Note that the Dialog Prompt character itself is not displayed, allowing any ASCII value including control codes to be used. Like the tilde, the Dialog Prompt character disables the DNC timeout. Sending the Program - To terminate the dialog with the machine operator and initiate

actual EIA RS-274D program download, send the pre-defined Dialog Done character. Upon receipt of the Dialog Done character, the system immediately transmits the Dialog Acknowledge character to signify that it is ready to receive the EIA RS-274D program. After receipt of a Dialog Acknowledge character, the CAD system or host computer should transmit the first block of the EIA RS-274D program followed by the Line Feed End-ofBlock character. The system acknowledges receipt of this data by sending another Dialog Acknowledge character. The CAD system or host computer should then transmit the next EIA RS-274D program block (terminated with a Line Feed), to which the system responds with another Dialog Acknowledge character. This process continues until the entire program has been downloaded.

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LINATROL If the system does not receive a character after sending the Dialog Acknowledge character and before the DNC Timeout time has elapsed, the message Communications Error: Timeout is displayed. This indicates that the CAD system or remote programming station is not responding. For information on setting the DNC Timeout value, refer to the system User's Manual. To conclude the download process after the CAD system or host computer has sent the last block of the EIA RS-274D program, send a «SUB» character (Control-z=ASCII 26) as an end-of-program character in response to the Dialog Acknowledge character. Table 2 illustrates the complete Dialog Mode protocol for downloading a typical EIA RS274D program. Table 2 Dialog Mode Protocol for Downloading a Typical EIA RS-274D program

Dialog Mode Download Protocol Transmit

LINK Transmit (Receive) !S

0«CR» 1«CR» > > > > > > > > >

1.3.8

Link Here! Download~Mode wait...~ PART0 (0=next, 1=load, 2=name)«ETX» PART1 (0=next, 1=load, 2=name)«ETX» * (P100)«LF» G91«LF» M07«LF» G01 X+5«LF» Y+2.75«LF» X-4.50«LF» Y-3.25 M08«LF» M02«LF» «SUB»

Uploading A Part Ptogram To upload a part program from the system to a CAD system or host computer using Dialog Mode, press the function key directly under UPLOAD in the Remote menu. The system then sends the pre-defined 'Dialog Start' character followed by a capital 'R' (ASCII 53) to the RS-232C port and displays Dialog Mode... on the front panel display. Displaying Messages - The host computer or CAD system may now send a message to be displayed on the system’s display by sending the appropriate ASCII characters followed by a tilde (~ = ASCII 126). This message-when received-replaces the 'Dialog Mode...' display shown above. In fact, depending on how fast the message is sent, the 'Dialog Mode...' message may be seen only briefly or not at all.

If the system does not receive a character after sending the '«Dialog Start» R' and before the DNC Timeout time has elapsed, the message Communications Error: Timeout is displayed. This indicates that the CAD system or remote programming station is not responding. Refer to the system User's Manual for information on setting the DNC Timeout value. The tilde character used to terminate messages from the host computer or CAD system also disables the DNC timeout until the next character of any kind is received. This allows the host computer or CAD system to sear for requested files, etc. without running the risk of a communications timeout from the system. Additional messages may be sent (terminated by the tilde character) and they will be displayed as received.

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1.3.9

Prompting The Machine Operator To prompt the machine operator for a value of filename, send a message terminated with the pre-defined Dialog Prompt character instead of the tilde. The value entered by the operator on the front panel-including any embedded decimal point-is transmitted back to the CAD system or host computer in ASCII format followed by a Carriage Return character («CR» = ASCII 13) when the ENTER key is pressed. If the ENTER key is pressed without any values having been entered, the system returns only a «CR». For example, LINK requests a name for the uploaded file by sending the message 'File name? «ETX» '. This results in the display File name? IF the Operator enters '123' by pressing the appropriate keys on the front panel, the system returns the string '123«CR» ' to the PC. Sending additional messages followed by the Dialog Prompt character may prompt for additional values. Note that the value including control codes to be used. Like the tilde, the Dialog Prompt character disables the DNC timeout. Receiving the Program - To terminate the dialog with the machine operator and initiate actual EIA RS-274D program upload, send the pre-defined Dialog Done character followed by the pre-defined Dialog Acknowledge character.

After receipt of a Dialog Acknowledge character, the system transmits the first block of the EIA RS-274D program followed by the Line Feed End-of-Block character. The CAD system or host computer should acknowledge receipt of this data by sending another Dialog Acknowledge character. The system then transmits the next EIA RS-274D program block (terminated with a Line Feed), to which the CAD system or host computer responds with another Dialog Acknowledge character. This process continues until the entire program has been uploaded. If the system does not receive a Dialog Acknowledge character after sending an EIA RS274D program block and before the DNC Timeout time has elapsed, the message Communications Error: Timeout is displayed. This indicates that the CAD system or remote programming station is not responding. Refer to the system User's Manual for information on setting the DNC Timeout value. To conclude the upload process after the system has sent the last block of the EIA RS-274D program, it sends a «SUB» character (Control~z=ASCII 26) as an end-of-program character in response to the Dialog Acknowledge character. Table 3 illustrates the complete Dialog Mode protocol for uploading a typical EIA RS274D program. This example shows the program implementation using the recommended Dialog Mode characters shown previously.

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LINATROL Table 3 Dialog Mode protocol for uploading a typical EIA RS-274D program

Dialog Mode Upload Protocol Transmit

CAD Transmit (Receive)

!R

Line Here! Upload Mode~ File name? «ETX» *> > > > > > > > > >

123«CR» (P100)«LF»¯ G91«LF» M07«LF» G01 X+5«LF»¯ Y+2.75«LF» X-4.50«LF» Y-3.25 M08«LF»¯ M02«LF» «SUB»

1.3.10 Auto-Reload The system includes a special feature, called Auto-Reload, which allows cutting of an EIA RS-274D part of 'unlimited' length without returning to the system keyboard after the initial setup. Auto-Reload is used with either the Tape Mode or Dialog Mode protocols. This is useful when the entire part is larger than the system 's memory. Activating Auto-Reload - To use Auto-Reload, values for the 'Download mem capacity as %' and 'Auto-Reload point as %' parameters in the AUX/SETUP/LINK menu must be set properly; refer to the system User's Manual. When these parameters are set, Auto-Reload is activated automatically whenever a downloaded part exceeds the specified percentage of the system 's part program memory.

When the downloaded part exceeds the specified percentage of part program memory, the system automatically inserts a Miscellaneous Function M65 at the next torch off point (Miscellaneous Function M08). If the Miscellaneous Function M08 is followed by a Disable Kerf Compensation code (Miscellaneous Function M40), the Miscellaneous Function M65 is inserted after the Miscellaneous Function M40. The Miscellaneous Function M65 activates Auto-Reload and the system will load, process, and begin cutting the next program section immediately upon completion of the present section. This process continues until a Miscellaneous Function M02 and M30 is received signifying the end of the part program. With Auto-Reload active the Cut Speed, F code action, and Dwell Time parameters may be entered only after the first section has loaded. These values, however, are used throughout the entire part. In contrast, the Part Programming Options (Shape Repeat, Mirror, Rotate, and Scale) may also be selected only after loading the first section, but the affect only the first section of the entire part. To cut the entire part, press CUT or TRIAL after the first section of the EIA RS-274D program has loaded- the following sections are loaded, processed, and started automatically in the same mode (CUT or TRIAL). While cutting with Auto-Reload active, operation of the Cut Loss Recovery operations in the system are relative to the current section. For example, pressing PAUSE followed by >START while the second section of the part is cutting returns the cutting device to the starting point of the second section, not the starting point of the entire part.

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LINATROL Specifying the Auto-Reload Point Directly - To specify the Auto-Reload point directly,

the EIA RS-274D part must be divided up into sections; each of which can be handled in a single 'chunk' by the system. Basically, this means that each section (Chunk) of the part program should contain an integral number of cut pieces. Each section (except the last) must end with a Miscellaneous Function M65 code instead of a Miscellaneous Function M02 or M30. The Miscellaneous Function M65 activates AutoReload and the system will load, process and begin cutting the next program section immediately upon completion of the present section as explained above. The last section of the part should end with a Miscellaneous Function M02 or M30. Cancelling Auto-Reload - Auto-Reload may be cancelled (inhibiting loading of the next section) by pressing the REMOTE key during the execution of the current section. The system displays Auto-Reload Cancelled... and the current section completes as if a Miscellaneous Function M02 had been found at the end of that section. To resume execution, press REMOTE again to load the next EIA RS-274D program section.

After cancelling Auto-Reload in this manner, the Cut Speed and Dwell Time parameters must be re-entered, and the cut re-started (CUT or TRIAL). This interruption capability is useful for repositioning the cutting device after a long stretch of cutting, changing cut speed or dwell values, reviewing a section, coffee breaks, etc. Auto-Reload with Tape Mode Protocol - When using the Tape Mode protocol, the tape

reader or remote programming station must stop sending EIA RS-274D program data immediately upon receipt of the XOFF character. It is highly recommended that the leader or padding characters (characters ignored by the system) be inserted after all Miscellaneous Functions M65's. This gives the tape reader time to stop without losing EIA RS-274D program data due to tape over-run. The system sends an XON character to the tape reader or remote programming station when it is ready to receive the next section of the part. The tape reader or remote programming station must remain ready to send out the new section of the part when it receives the XON character. Auto-Reload with Dialog Mode Protocol - When using Dialog Mode protocol, the system

does not send the Dialog Acknowledge character after receiving a Miscellaneous Code M65. When the current section of the part has completed cutting, the system issues the Dialog Acknowledge character and expects the first block of the new EIA RS-274D program block in response. The CAD system or host computer must remain ready to send out the new section of the part when it receives the Dialog Acknowledge character.

1.3.11 EIA RS-274D Loading Errors During the loading, translating, and calculating of an EIA RS-274D part, a number of errors may occur which are indicated on the display. Any of these errors may occur which are indicated on the display. Any of these errors abort the loading of the EIA RS-274D program. To recover, press any key to restore the main menu. Communications Errors - The most common errors during uploading or downloading are communications errors. These errors occur if the communications link parameters in the AUX/SETUP/LINK menu are not set properly (baud rate, parity), a character from the RS232C port is received incorrectly (parity, framing), or the RS-232C link is not operating properly (timing error). For more details, refer to the system User's Manual.

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LINATROL Several errors specific to the EIA RS-274D download may also occur. These are explained below: Memory Overflow!!! - This error occurs if the part being downloaded is too large to fit in

the system 's memory. The part should be broken down into smaller sections using Miscellaneous Code M65s. See 'The Auto-Reload Function' above for more information on this feature. EIA Part Too Large!!! - This error occurs if the EIA RS-274D part is small enough to fit in ASCII or RS-244 form in the system, but is too large to be translated into the internal 'work' format. These errors may be corrected by using the MDI and editing capabilities described earlier in this section. No End of Program Found!!! - Occurs if the program does not contain a Miscellaneous Function M02, M30, or M65 code to indicate the end of program. Bad Arc - This error occurs when the radius of the arc at the starting point and the radius of the arc at the ending point have a discrepancy of more then 1.27mm (0.05").

1.4

KERF COMPENSATION The fully intelligent kerf compensation system provided in the system allows an EIA RS274D part to be programmed in terms of the desired dimensions of a finished part. The system automatically computes the part path corrected for kerf width. The programmer is spared the complicated job of re-dimensioning to account for the kerf. The programmed cutting path is a sequence of arcs and lines, referred to as segments, which are entered into the system either manually (using the front panel keypad) or from a tape reader, remote programming station, CAD system, or host computer. If kerf compensation is not used, a kerf width of zero is used, the cutting device follows the programmed path. If kerf compensation is used, the cutting device follows a path that lies a distance of onehalf the specified kerf width away from the programmed path (measured perpendicular to the programmed path at any point along it). This is the kerf compensated path. The compensated path may be programmed to lie either to the left or to the right of the programmed path, as shown in Figure 5.

Figure 5 Kerf Compensation

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1.4.1

Adding Kerf Compensation To A Part If the EIA RS-274D part is being loaded via the RS-232C port (DNC), the operator is prompted to enter a value for kerf width; otherwise, the kerf value is entered via EDIT/EIA/PARAMS. Once a kerf width value has been entered, the system translates, calculates, and kerf compensates the part. Messages appear in the display, telling the operator what the system is doing. On short parts, the messages may appear too briefly to be visible. If the EIA RS-274D part is entered directly using from the front panel using Manual Data Input (MDI), there is no automatic prompting for kerf value. The last kerf value selected for any part remains in effect when the new part is entered. When the part editing is complete, the system translates, calculates, and kerf compensates the part using this kerf value. If the kerf value in effect is 0, the part is not kerf compensated. To enter a new kerf value, press EDIT, EIA, and the PARAMS. After entering the desired kerf width, the system re-calculates the part geometry for the new kerf value. The kerf value selected for a part load from the RS-232C port via DNC may also be changed in this manner.

1.4.2

Using Kerf Compensation In EIA RS-274D, kerf compensation is regulated using the three Preparatory Functions shown below: EIA RS-274D Kerf Compensation Preparatory Functions Preparatory Description

Description

G41 G42 G40

Enable Left Kerf Compensation Enable Right Kerf Compensation Disable Kerf Compensation

Preparatory Code G41 and G42 turn kerf compensation ON using the current kerf width value and generate offset segments from the programmed path to the compensated path (kerf-on segment). Preparatory Code G40 turns kerf compensation OFF and generates an offset segment from the compensated path back to the programmed path (kerf-off segment). These kerf-on and kerf-off offset segments are included to get the cutting device back onto the programmed path, and to ensure the cutting device on and off points are at known positions regardless of the kerf width value. The Preparatory Functions turning kerf compensation on and off should only be used in conjunction with the Miscellaneous Functions which turn the cutting device on and off. Kerf Preparatory Functions need not be used in a program if kerf compensation is not desired. Use with Cut Control Codes - It is important that the cutting device be off during the kerf-

on and kerf-off segments, so that the area cut out does not extend beyond what is necessary. To accomplish this, place the kerf Preparatory Functions 'outside' those turning the cutting device on and off. Figure 6 and Figure 7 on the following page illustrate both the correct and incorrect placement of the kerf Preparatory Functions relative to the cutting device on/off Miscellaneous Functions.

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LINATROL Figure 6 Correct Kerf Function Use with Cut Control

Figure 7 Incorrect Kerf Function Use with Cut Control

Use with Rapid Traverse Segments - In addition, kerf compensation should never be left

on outside a cut piece or during rapid traverse segments. For example, Figure 8 shows both correct and incorrect placement of the kerf Preparatory Functions relative Rapid Traverse segments. If the kerf control Preparatory Functions are placed outside the Rapid Traverse segments (incorrect), the angles between the traverse segments and the first and last segments of the rectangular piece are very sharp. In this case, the part may not kerf compensate correctly, or else the first and last segments of the piece may be shortened by compensation to the point where the rectangle does not close. Placing the kerf control Preparatory Functions inside the rapid traverse segments (correct) effectively isolates the first and last segments of the rectangle and the sharp angles between the traverse segments and the rectangle cannot cause a problem. The kerf-on and kerf-off offset segments assure that the cut path-from the beginning to the end of the cut piece-is sensible and predictable.

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LINATROL Figure 8 Use of Kerf Functions with Rapid Traverse

1.4.3

Geometric Considerations To understand the principles of kerf compensation, it is helpful to think of the cutting device as forming a circular hole of constant diameter in the material. As the cutting device moves, it is this diameter which determines the kerf, and which therefore equals the kerf width. In general, the compensated or actual path corresponds to the programmed path on a segment-for-segment basis. On each segment of the compensated path, the cutting device travels in the same direction as it would on the corresponding segment of the programmed path. However, the number of segments in the compensated path is greater than in the programmed path, because a short offset line is added each time kerf compensation is turned on or off, and 'patch arcs' are added to connect segments on the compensated path. This of course has direct implications on the amount of part program memory required. The system kerf algorithm creates a compensated path by either shortening the length of line segments, reducing the radius or arcs, or adding patch arcs. In general, line lengths are shortened or arc radii reduced when compensating the path 'inside' an angle of intersection of less than 180 degrees. Patch arcs are used to compensate the path 'outside' of the intersection angles of greater than 180 degrees. This applies for line-to-line, line-to-arc, and arc-to-arc, type segment intersections. The use of patch arcs rather than elongating line lengths or increasing the arc radii is advantageous from the standpoint of plate or workpiece usage. Consider the case of kerf compensating outside a sharp (small-angled) vertex of a part. The intersection point of the shifted segments could jut out considerable from the programmed part, which could gouge a neighbouring part on the work piece. By generating patch arcs, the system provides stricter dimensional control than would otherwise be possible. When planning work piece usage, the programmer need only worry about leaving a 'buffer zone' around the outside dimensions of a part, a kerf width or so wide. Kerf compensation is inherently limited by the fact that the cutting device forms a hole that is approximately circular. The wider the kerf width, the less possible it is to cut an intricate part and have it come out with the programmed form and dimensions. For example, in cutting a rectangular hole, there is no way to cut all the way into each corner without gouging the edge of the rectangle. Thus, 'fillets'-small rounded areas of material not cut out in the corners of parts-are unavoidable as long as there is a non-zero kerf width programmed.

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

35

LINATROL Even though fillets are unavoidable with many parts the edge of the part that is left after the cut should run along some portion of every programmed segment. When the kerf is too wide for this to be possible, some segments are lost (or could only be defined if the desired edge of the part were gouged elsewhere) and the part cannot be correctly kerf compensated.

1.4.4

Kerf Compensation Errors Situations can arise in which a part cannot be properly kerf compensated. As the kerf width is increased, some segments (either arcs or lines) grow shorter, and the radii of some arcs may grow smaller. These effects depend on the kerf direction (left or right) and the geometry of the part. However, in general, they are observed when compensating along the interior of a convex or protruding area of a part. As segment lengths or arc radii approach zero, a point is reached where the part can no longer be correctly compensated. One or more compensated segments (corresponding to programmed segments) disappear or are 'lost'. The kerf width at which this first happens for any segment or segments in a part, and any wider kerf width, cannot be used with that particular part. Be careful that none of the segments of the part will be lost by kerf compensation. If this situation occurs, gouging of the part or erratic cutting behavior may result. When in doubt, TRIAL cut may be used to observe the part before cutting it. Using a smaller kerf width may eliminate the problem. Note: The point at which an arc or line is lost because it is shortened by compensation is very much dependent on the part geometry. In general, the programmer should be careful about short segments found in nooks and crannies in the programmed part into which the cutter must move. As a rule of thumb, whenever the length of a segment is about the same as or is shorter than the kerf width, a problem may exist. The rule can be stated more precisely for changes in the radius of an arc. Whenever the radius of a programmed arc is (approximately) equal to, or is less than, one-half the kerf width, and the kerf direction is inside the arc (i.e., the radius would be reduced rather than increased by compensation), the arc cannot be kerf compensated. Note that an arc can be shortened to the vanishing point by compensation, even though its radius has not been reduced to zero. Figure 9 shows how the kerf compensation algorithms add patch arcs and shorten line segments to achieve kerf compensation.

Figure 9 Full Intelligent Kerf Compensation

36

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

LINATROL

ASCII

Keyboard

Description

NUL

CTRL - @

0

Null

SOH

CTRL –a

1

Start Of Heading

STX

CTRL –b

2

Start Of Text

ETX

CTRL –c

3

End Of Text

EOT

CTRL –d

4

End Of Transmission

ENQ

CTRL –e

5

Enquiry

ACK

CTRL –f

6

Acknowledge

BEL

CTRL –g

7

Bell

BS

CTRL –h

8

Backspace

HT

CTRL –I

9

Horizontal Tab

LF

CTRL –j

10

Line Feed

VT

CTRL –k

11

Vertical Tab

FF

CTRL –l

12

Form Feed

CR

CTRL –m

13

Carriage Return

SO

CTRL –n

14

Shift Out

SI

CTRL –o

15

Shift In

DLE

CTRL –p

16

Data Link Escape

DC1

CTRL –q

17

Device Control 1 (Xon)

DC2

CTRL –r

18

Device Control 2

DC3

CTRL –s

19

Device Control 3 (Xoff)

DC4

CTRL –t

20

Device Control4

NSK

CTRL –u

21

Negative Acknowledge

SYN

CTRL –v

22

Synchronous Idle

ETB

CTRL –w

23

End Of Transmission Block

CAN

CTRL –x

24

Cancel

EM

CTRL –y

25

End Of Medium

SUB

CTRL –z

26

Substitute

ESC

CTRL –[

27

Escape

FS

CTRL -\

28

File Separator

GS

CTRL -]

29

Group Separator

RS

CTRL -^

30

Record Separator

US

CTRL -_

31

Unit Separator

127

Delete

DEL

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

Value

37

LINATROL

ASCII Printing Characters

38

Char

Value

Char

Value

Char

Value

Char

Value

Space

32

3

!

33

4

Char

Value

51

F

70

Y

52

G

71

Z

89

l

108

90

m

109

“

34

5

53

H

72

[

91

n

110

#

35

6

54

I

73

\

92

o

111

$

36

7

55

J

74

]

93

p

112

%

37

8

56

K

75

^

94

q

113

&

38

9

57

L

76

_

95

r

114

‘

39

:

58

M

77

‘

96

s

115

(

40

;

59

N

78

a

97

t

116

)

41




62

Q

81

d

100

w

119

,

44

?

63

R

82

e

101

x

120

-

45

@

64

S

83

f

102

y

121

.

46

A

65

T

84

g

103

z

122

/

47

B

66

U

85

h

104

{

123

0

48

C

67

V

86

i

105

|

124

1

49

D

68

W

87

j

106

}

125

2

50

E

69

X

88

k

107

~

126

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

For more information about Linatrol products, please contact our Corporate Head Office at:

Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. A subsidiary of Northrop Grumman 777 Walkers Line Burlington, ON, Canada L7N 2G1 Tel.: Fax: Email:

+01-905-333-6000 +01-905-333-6004 [email protected]

Visit our Website at http://www.ngcan.com/lin