It is a common practice in many shop floors to use variables instead of hard-coded numbers for CNC program data such as feed rates, drilling cycle parameters or even tool numbers. This method allows operators to make quick changes to the program by simply altering the values of a few parameters. The example below illustrates [...]
Some controllers require an initialization of the graphics area by setting up the overall dimensions of the “blank” or the total travel envelope. For example, on a Heidenhain iTNC 530 control programmed in ISO format, the two lines below will define a 100 x 80 x 30 mm blank, with the origin located in the [...]
Mastercam programmers have various options (clearance, retract, feed plane) for defining approach and exit moves, however all these options can only generate motions along the tool axis. On a machine with a C rotary table, 5-axes contouring operations such as the one illustrated below pose a significant problem when the machine is programmed in RTCP [...]
During continuous 5-axes operations, whenever a rotary axis approaches an orientation where the tool becomes parallel or nearly parallel to the axis of rotation, the machine may unexpectedly start to describe large rotations with that rotary axis. These rotations, although large, have very little effect on the tool-to-part relative orientation. This situation is commonly referred [...]
The Floating License Manager can be used for the following purposes: 1. Verify whether the license key has been updated 2. Find out how many licenses are currently loaded 3. Find out how many licenses are available on the license server This information can be accessed from the client workstation, without the need [...]
When the same post-processor is executed independently by different users on a LAN, the post can be configured to display the user name along with the other startup information included at the beginning of the NC program. To do so, the following lines can be inserted in the Machine Startup Macro of the post: $$ [...]
Filleting inserts tangential circular or helical moves between consecutive linear motions in the CL data while in diameter compensation. The inserted fillets (circles or helices) are always in the plane of the compensation. If the inserted fillet end points are in different planes, then the generated move is a helical interpolation, otherwise it is circular. [...]
All floating licenses provided by ICAM are issued for a particular maximum user count. This number represents the maximum number of individual client workstations that can request a license from the license server. If the maximum user count is exceeded, the license server will refuse the license request. For example, if your license has a [...]
To setup CAM-POST to run within your CAM system, you must do one of the following, in Windows, go to: Start > Programs > ICAM Productivity Tools V20 > Setup > Kits: This utility allows you to define the current version of CAM-POST and indicate the locati on of the default ICAM database. You can [...]
Some machines offer a WIPS (Wireless Intuitive Probe System) option, allowing for the automatic tool calibration and setup of length and diameter offsets. This function is usually activated by a subprogram call (example: G65 P9023 T##). In order support this option in Mastercam, two actions are required: The first consists in customizing Mastercam to [...]
