A-axis

The axis of rotation about the X-axis.

A’-axis

A Prime - the axis of rotation about the U-axis.

Accumulator

A part of the logical-arithmetic unit of a computer. It may be used for intermediate storage to form algebraic sums or for other intermediate operations.

Accuracy

Measured by the difference between the actual position of the machine slide and the position demanded.

Alphanumeric

A system of code that consists of the characters A-Z and numbers 0-9.

ANSI

The American National Standards Institute.

APT

Automatically Programmed Tools - A standard for computer-aided NC programming. It consists essentially of: 1) the input language; 2) the APT processor; 3) an APT post-processor; and 4) a computer to run the APT program. The APT system was initially developed for 3, 4 and 5 axis milling machines, but because of further development, is presently capable of a wide range of applications including point-to-point work and turning work.

Arc

A degree of measurement on the circumference of a circle.

Arc Clockwise

An arc in the clockwise direction with respect to the work-piece when viewed from the positive direction of the perpendicular axis.

Arc Counter-Clockwise

An arc in the counter-clockwise direction with respect to the work-piece when viewed from the positive direction of the perpendicular axis.

Automation

An approach under which all or part of a machining or manufacturing process is accomplished by setting in motion a sequence that completes the process without further human intervention.

Axis

The principal direction along which the relative movements of a tool or work piece occur.

B-axis

The axis of rotation about the Y-axis.

B’-axis

B Prime - the axis of rotation about the V-axis.

Basic Posts

Stripped down transfer files used to provide default responses for questions to reflect a particular controller or machine.

Basic Subdirectory

The subdirectory that contains basic post-processors, which supply machine and controller default configuration data.

Benchmark

A reference point from which measurements can be made.

Bezier Curve

A quadratic (or greater) polynomial for describing complex curves and surfaces.

Binary Code

Code based on binary numbers expressed as either 1 or 0, true or false, on or off.

BIT

Binary Digit - A binary digit has only two possible states. Eight BITS make up one BYTE.

Block

A line of code in the NC file.

Bug

A programmed error or oversight, a glitch.

Byte

A sequence of eight adjacent binary digits (BITS).

C-axis

The axis of rotation about the Z-axis.

C’-axis

C Prime - the axis of rotation about the W-axis.

CAD

Computer-aided design - Product-design functions performed with the help of computers and special software.

CAE

Computer-aided engineering - Engineering functions performed with the help of computers and special software.

CAM

Computer-aided manufacturing - Use of computers to control machining and manufacturing.

CAM-POST

An interactive NC post-processor generator that uses an advanced algorithm to generate NC post-processors capable of supporting NC machines with up to 15 axes of control, and offers features like Coordinate Frame Transformation, High Speed Machining, NURBS Fitting, and LINTOL Rotary Turnaround.

Canned Cycles

Subroutine or full set of programmed numerical control or computer-numerical control steps initiated by a single command. Operations are done in a set order; the beginning condition is returned to when the cycle is completed.

CCLW

Counterclockwise - direction of rotation.

CDC

Cutter Diameter Compensation - A system in which the programmed tool path may be altered to compensate for cutter diameter differences.

CIM

Computer Integrate Manufacturing - Automated use of computer and digital technology to completely integrate all manufacturing process with engineering design.

Circular Interpolation

The process of generating up to 360 degrees of arc using only one block of information.

CL Coordinates

Cutter Location Coordinates - the coordinate system used in the CL file.

CL Data / CL File

A cutter location, a centerline, or a cutter location file contains a program describing the tool path to machine a work piece. This program is then post-processed.

CL Record

Cutter Location Record - a post-processor command or motion data in a CL file.

CLW

Clockwise - direction of rotation.

CNC

Computer numerical control - Microprocessor-based controller dedicated to a machine tool that permits the creation or modification of parts.

Code

A system describing the formation of characters on a tape for representing information in a language that can be understood and handled by the control system.

Coding

The preparation of a set of instructions required to perform a given action or solve a given problem.

Command Line

The operating system’s prompt where the user enters the command.

Console I/O

A section within the verbose window where messages are given to the user.

Continuous Path Operation

The controlling of the motion of a machine tool in space as a function of time such that the machine travels through the designated path at the specified rate.

Contouring

The capability provided by a continuous path system, i.e. the ability to produce a contour by the moving elements of a machine tool.

Controller

The controller is a part of the CNC machine responsible to execute the NC code into machine motions.

Coordinate System

The machine’s workspace may be defined by a rectangular coordinate system. The X, Y, Z-axes allow for motion points to be defined.

Coordinate Frame Transformation

Enables the use of 2½D cycles on canted surfaces.

Curve

A line that changes direction in a smooth, continuous fashion.

Curve Fitting

The process of passing arc segments through a number of control points to create a curve.

Cutter Diameter Compensation

A method by which the programmed path may be altered to allow for the difference between actual and programmed cutter diameters.

Cutter Offset

The distance from the part surface to the axial center of a cutter (the radius of the cutter).

Cutter Path

The path of a cutting tool through a part. The optimal cutter path can be defined automatically by a CAD/CAM system and formatted into a numerical control (NC) tape to guide the tool.

Cycle

A sequence of operations that is repeated.

Data

The representation of information in the form of NC Words, symbols, numbers, letters, characters and/or digits.

Database

A large collection of data organized especially for rapid search and retrieval.

Dedicated

Process or system that is available for only one function or use.

Disk Function

Is used to list, read, save and manage all post-processor data files, which are in the post-processor database.

Display

A visual presentation of data.

DNC

Direct Numerical Control - A system in which machine coded programs are introduced into the CNC controller from a remote computer.

Dump File

Replicas of the information stored in the post-processor database.

Edge

A bounded line or curve that forms the intersection of two faces on the surface of an object.

Edit

To modify the form of data.

Editor

A program, which permits a user to create new files in symbolic form or to modify existing files.

EIA

Electronics Industries Alliance.

Environment Variables

Key platform variables, which control software behavior. See system variable.

Extending Axis

This is the quill: A linear axes located between a rotary head axis and the tool.

Feed Function

The relative motion between the tool or instrument and the work due to the motion of the programmed axis or axes.

Feed Rate

An estimate of the value needed to move material into a machine or opening in order to be used or processed.

File

An organized collection of relevant, orderly data.

File Panel

The file panel is presented as an option whenever the software is prompting for a file name.

Flame Cutting

The process of cutting two-dimensional shapes from raw material using oxy- acetylene torches controlled by NC positioning equipment.

G-Code

A word addressed by the letter G and followed by a numerical code defining preparatory functions or cycle types in a numerical control system.

GENER

Exclusive to CAM-POST. Uses the database generated by QUEST (see QUEST), along with the cutter location generated by CAM to produce the final NC control tape for each particular machine.

General NC Language Processor

A computer program developed to serve as a translating system for a parts programmer to develop a mathematical representation of a geometric form with the use of symbolic notation.

Generate Function

The generate function that generates the final data needed for the GENER post-processor.

Generated Post

A post-processor, which has been generated with no inconsistencies.

GUI

Graphical User Interface - A type of display format that enables the user to choose commands, start programs, and see lists of files and other options by pointing to pictorial representations (icons) and lists of menu items on the screen.

Hardware

The components that make up a computer or control system.

Head

A removable head attachment that holds tools at some angle, or that extends the reach or spindle RPM of tools.

Home Position

The home position or reference point, zero return or grid zero is used to provide the starting point for each axis.

HSM

High Speed Machining - faster than normal cutting, often requiring specialized controllers, machines, tooling and cutting fluids.

ICAM

Founded in 1971, Montreal based ICAM Technologies Corporation develops CAM-POST NC post-processing solutions as well as Virtual Machine graphical machine tool simulation software.

Images Subdirectory

A subdirectory that contains graphic images.

Incremental Feed

A manual or automatic input of preset motion command for a machine axis.

Input

The transfer of external data into the control system.

IPM

Inch Per Minute.

ISO

International Standards Organization - a worldwide federation of national standards.

Job

A specified group of tasks as a unit of work for a computer, usually including programs, linkages, flies and Instructions to the operating system.

Language

A set of representations and rules used to convey information.

Laser Machining

A process that removes material by focusing a concentrated laser beam onto the work piece.

Lathe

A machine in which work is rotated about a vertical or horizontal axis and shaped by a fixed tool. Usually 2-axis.

Linear Axis

An axis producing motion of the tool with a constant tool axis.

Linear Interpolation

A control function whereby data points are generated between given coordinate positions to allow simultaneous movement one, two or more axes of motion in a linear path.

Listing File

Listings are created when the print or the generate facility is used after the execution of the post-processor.

Machine Code

Code obeyed by a computer that needs no further translation.

Machine Coordinates

The coordinate system defined on the CNC machine.

Machine Language

A language written in a series of bits, which are understandable by, and therefore instruct, a computer.

Machine Tool

A power driven machine used to form or shape metal and other materials.

Machining

The process of giving work pieces a new configuration by cutting or shaping it. Typically performed on a machine tool or machining center.

Machining Center

A machine tool, usually numerically controlled, capable of automatically drilling, reaming, tapping, milling and boring multiple faces of a part and often equipped with a system for automatically changing cutting tools.

Macro

A group of instructions that can be stored and recalled to solve a recurring problem.

Macro Debugger

The Macro Debugger is a tool included with GENER to aid in the development of post-processor macros.

Macro System Variables

Variables, which can be accessed or set during a macro. These variables contain information on past, current, and future processing.

Major Word

Traditionally major words are 2000 class records but other class records do exist. The major word is the first parameter (word) in the post-processor command. Example: SPINDL/350,RPM,CLW where the SPINDL word is the major word

Maximum Value

The register's maximum numeric value.

Megabyte

One million bytes.

Milling Cutters

A rotary tool-steel cutter used in a milling machine for shaping and dressing metal surfaces.

Milling Machine

A machine tool on which work usually of metal secured to a carriage is shaped by rotating milling cutters. Usually 2 to 15-axis.

Minimum Value

The register's minimum numeric value.

Minor Word

The minor word consists of any word following the major word.

Miscellaneous Function

An off-on function of a machine such as Clamp or Coolant On.

Modal

A condition that remains in effect until it is changed.

Modeling

The use of mathematics to describe a situation or a physical object. Mathematical formulas can be used to manipulate data, to develop business plans and projections, or to evaluate the impact of proposed changes on a company's operations and financial status.

NC

Numerical Control - Any controlled equipment that allows an operator to program its movement by entering a series of coded numbers, symbols, etc.

NC Code

G, M and other codes necessary for CNC machine operation.

NC File

A file containing an entire NC code program.

Non-Generated Post

A post-processor file, which has been saved but not generated.

NURBS

Non-Uniformed Rational Bezier Splines.

Nutating Axis

A rotary head axis, normally mounted at an angle of 45 degrees, connected to a second rotary head axis (generally the C-axis). A nutating axis or nutator can orient the tool to any position within a hemisphere.

Offline

Pertaining to equipment or devices not under control of the central processing unit.

Offset

An adjustment made to the tool path to compensate for tool dimension.

Online

Pertaining to equipment or devices under control of the central processing unit.

Origin

The origin is the location from which the coordinates are taken. In CNC, the origin may be called program zero, work zero, part zero or part origin.

Output

Data transferred from an internal storage unit to storage or an output device.

Overshoot

The amount by which axis motion exceeds the target value.

PDM

Product Data Management.

Platform

A combination of computer hardware and an operating system.

Print Function

Provides a listing of all questions and corresponding answers.

Point

A position in space defined in Cartesian coordinates as (x, y, z).

Polar Axes

The fixed lines from which the angles made by radius vectors are measured in a polar coordinates system.

Post-Process

A CL file is post-processed to take into account the particular features of the machine tool/control unit combination on which the program will actually be executed and a part machined.

Post-Processor

Translates binary instructions called CL Data or APT, generated by a CAM system into a tape file (NC program), which can be understood by the NC machine.

Post-Processor Command

A single major word or a major word in combination with minor words and numerical parameters.

Program

A plan for the solution of a problem.

Programmed Acceleration

A controlled velocity increase to the programmed feed-rate of an NC machine.

Punch Press

A Machine tool used to punch holes or nibble contours into sheet metal.

QUEST

Exclusive to CAM-POST. An interactive program, which builds a database containing information entered about one or more numerically controlled machines and their controllers.

Questionnaire Function

The module, which asks for all the information about your machine and control necessary to operate it.

Quill

The extending axis: a linear axis located between a rotary head axis and the tool.

Register

A register is letter address representing functions on the controller.

Register Format

The register's format is defined by a string, which includes the register name and various formatting options. For example: 'X4.4' where 'X' is the register name and numeric format is 4 decimal positions before and after the punched decimal point.

Resolution

A register's resolution is the minimum numeric step of the actual register value to increase or decrease.

Retract

A machining move, which removes the tool from the cut.

RMD

Rapid Macro Development A CAM-POST concept allowing user to create a complex macro without programming knowledge by picking standard objects from a list.

Rotary Axis

An axis producing motion of the tool with a changing tool axis. Typically A, B, or C-axis.

Rotary Table

A table attached to a milling machine to which the work piece is fixed. The table may then be positioned to reorient the work piece during the machining process.

Roughing

Operation to remove large amounts of material prior to the finishing cut.

RTA

Rotary Turn Around - automatic retraction and repositioning during LINTOL to avoid travel limitations.

RTCP

Rotating Tool Center Point - is a feature of advanced CNC controls, which compute rotary axis pivot offsets and linearization requirements in the CNC control, instead of in the post-processor. With RTCP, XYZ coordinate data and feed rate calculations are output at the tool tip and not the control point of the machine as is the traditional case. The most significant benefits of RTCP are the ability to perform tool length and diameter compensation with the head tilted at some angle to the machine XYZ axes. Other benefits include shorter and simpler programs since they do not include linearization steps, and simpler feed rate calculations since the rotary component of the motion is not included in the feed calculation.

Run-Time

The time required to complete a single, continuous execution of an object program.

Schematic

A schematic drawing or diagram.

SDL

Syntax Definition Line.

Sensitivity

The ratio of a change in steady state output to the corresponding change of input, often measured in percent of span.

Simulator

A device or computer program that performs simulation.

Source Language

The ratio of a change in steady state output to the corresponding change of input, often measured in percent of span.

Spindle

Rotating head of machine tool. Milling spindle rotates the milling tool. Lathe spindle usually rotates the work piece.

Spline

Mathematical interpolation routine for describing curves or surfaces.

Start Up / Shut Down Macro

A post-processor macro, which activates either before or after certain post-processor commands. For example: A tool change start up macro will activate before each tool change operation specified in the CL file.

Syntax

Connected or orderly system.

System Variables

Key platform variables, which control software behavior, see environment variables.

Tape File

The file that is output after post-processing containing the NC code of a machine.

Tool Path

The given direction of the cutting tool.

Undershoot

The tendency of an NC machine to round off comers of a programmed path as a result of servo lag.

User-Defined Macro

A post-processor macro, which will activate on a post-processor command defined by a SDL.

Vector

Used as a qualifier of direction for a CNC machine.

Verbose Window Display

During GENER processing, the user has the ability to see CL input, tape output, macro trace messages, console I/O, and general statistics.

Verify

The process of comparing a copy with the original for accuracy.

Virtual Machine

A powerful graphical machine tool simulation package, that allows users to post-process and simulate NC machining at the same time and within the same product.

Water-jet Cutting

A fine, high-pressure (up to 50,000 PSI or greater), high-velocity jet of water directed by a small nozzle to cut material.

Wire EDM

Wire Electro Discharge Machine - A CNC machine that vaporizes conductive materials by controlled application of pulsed electrical current that flows between the work piece and electrode (Small diameter of copper or brass wire). Usually 2 or 4-axis.

Words Manager

The words manager panel can be accessed through the tools drop down menu in the questionnaire. It provides the user the ability to modify the standard ISO major and minor words list.

Work Subdirectory

The work subdirectory normally contains the post-processor database file(s).

X-axis

The X-axis of motion is horizontal and parallel to the work holding surface. If Z is horizontal, positive X is to the right looking from the spindle toward the work-piece. If the Z-axis is vertical, when looking from the spindle toward its supporting column(s) the positive X-axis is to the right on single column machines or forward on dual column or gantry machines. On machines generating a surface of revolution, such as lathes, X-motions shall be radial, and normally the positive direction of motion shall be away from the center of revolution. Where the linear motion can cross the centerline of rotation, positive motion shall be in the direction of maximum displacement from the center of rotation.

Y-axis

The Y-axis of motion is perpendicular to both X and Z. Positive Y is in the direction to make a right-handed set of coordinates, i.e., + X rotated into + Y advances a right-handed screw in the +Z direction.

Z-axis

The Z-axis of motion is parallel to the principal spindle of the machine. If there are several spindles, one shall be selected as the principal one. If there is no spindle the Z-axis is perpendicular to the work holding surface. If the principal spindle can be swiveled or gimbaled, the Z-axis is parallel to the spindle axis when the spindle is in its zero position. The preferred zero position is with the spindle perpendicular to the work holding surface. (On such equipment as milling, boring, drilling, and tapping machines, the spindle is the tool rotating means. On such equipment as lathes, grinders and other machines, which generate a surface of revolution, the spindle is the work rotating means.) Positive Z is in the direction from the work holding means toward the tool holding means. Positive Z motion increases the distance between the work and the tool.

Zero Offset

A characteristic of a numerical machine tool control permitting the zero point on an axis to be shifted readily over a specified range. (The control retains information on the location of the "permanent" zero.)