AsperWin

ASPERWIN VERSION 3.7 USER MANUAL November 2020 Document UAW-01-V2.40-20EN Original instructions Table of contents INTRODUCTION..................................................................................10 Changes with respect to version 3.6..................................................................................... 10 General 10 Features................................................................................................................................ 10 Asper family products........................................................................................................... 11 Support................................................................................................................................. 12 How to use manual............................................................................................................... 12 FILE FORMATS....................................................................................13 Input formats........................................................................................................................ 13 CAD drawings 13 Cutting programs 14 Format *PLA 14 Library shapes 14 Output formats..................................................................................................................... 14 INSTALLATION....................................................................................15 System requirements............................................................................................................ 15 Installation procedure........................................................................................................... 15 Registration........................................................................................................................... 15 HW license dongle 16 TERMINOLOGY...................................................................................16 BASIC ACTIVITIES................................................................................28 Loading data......................................................................................................................... 28 Manual nesting of parts....................................................................................................... 29 Ordering................................................................................................................................ 29 Generating and storing cutting plan....................................................................................30 Simulation............................................................................................................................. 30 Special activities.................................................................................................................... 30 Modification of starting point 30 Modification of lead-ins and lead-outs 30 Change of cutting order 31 WORKING WITH PROGRAM...............................................................31 Program appearance............................................................................................................ 31 Application button 33 Quick access toolbar 34 Ribbon 36 Additional functions 36 Cutting plan elements 37 Co-ordinate system............................................................................................................... 38 Ribbon items......................................................................................................................... 39 “FILE” RIBBON....................................................................................39 “File” group........................................................................................................................... 40 New <Ctrl+N> 40 Open <Ctrl+O> 41 Close <Ctrl+F4> 42 End <Alt+X> 42 “Quick import” group........................................................................................................... 42 “Insert file” group................................................................................................................. 43 Insert DXF <Ctrl+D> 43 Insert STEP (Optional) 43 Insert DSTV <Shift+W> 49 Insert ESSI 50 Insert CNC 50 Insert PLA 50 “Save” group......................................................................................................................... 51 Save <Ctrl+S> 51 Save as 51 Export as DXF 51 Generate <Ctrl+G> 51 “File information” group...................................................................................................... 51 Properties <Alt+Enter> 52 Simulation <Ctrl+T> 52 Economy file <Ctrl+E> 53 “Print” group......................................................................................................................... 56 Print <Ctrl+P> 56 Print preview 56 Printer setup 57 “EDIT” RIBBON...................................................................................57 “Undo – Redo” group............................................................................................................ 58 Undo <Ctrl+Z> 58 Redo <Ctrl+Y> 58 Last action 58 “Clipboard” group................................................................................................................. 59 Cut <Ctrl+X> 59 Copy <Ctrl+C> 59 Paste <Ctrl+V> 59 Delete <Del> 59 3 “Multi-head cutting” group.................................................................................................. 60 Create copies <K> 60 Multi head cutting <Ctrl+Alt+Space> 60 Convert to single head 61 “Remnant of sheet” group.................................................................................................... 61 Automatically 61 Manually 62 Automatically - line 62 Load 62 Save 62 Cancel 62 Save as DXF 63 “Scrap” group....................................................................................................................... 64 Create grid 64 Cancel grid 64 “Edit” group.......................................................................................................................... 64 Common-line cut <$> 64 Transform circular holes 65 Part properties <*> 65 NC start location 65 NC end location 66 “Parts libraries” group.......................................................................................................... 66 “PART NESTING” RIBBON (OPTIONAL)...............................................66 “Part nesting” group............................................................................................................. 67 New nesting task <Ctrl+Alt+N> 67 Run nesting 74 Improve position 76 Rotate parts 76 Ignore lead-ins/-outs 76 Nest into holes 77 Nest group as a block 77 Inside sheet only 77 “Nesting direction” group..................................................................................................... 77 “DISPLAY” RIBBON.............................................................................77 “Display” group..................................................................................................................... 78 Zoom window <F4> 78 All parts <F5> 78 Complete sheet <Ctrl+F5> 78 Height of plan <Shift+F5> 78 Single part <F7> 79 Single chain <F6> 79 Zoom out <F8> 79 4 Redraw <Ctrl+R> 79 “Measurements” group........................................................................................................ 79 Measure distance <?> 79 Measure angle C-S-E <<> 80 Measure angle S-C-E <>> 80 Measure line angle <}> 81 “Show” group........................................................................................................................ 81 Part names <S> 81 Section points <Q> 82 Entity properties <Shift+Enter> 83 Horizontal windows 83 Vertical windows 83 Scale reference circle 84 Status line 84 “View mode” group.............................................................................................................. 84 “POINT” RIBBON................................................................................90 “Point” group........................................................................................................................ 90 Absolute placement <:> (colon) 90 Relative placement <'> (apostrophe) 91 Polar placement <;> (semi-colon) 92 Projection <,> 92 Snap <.> 93 Displacement <"> 93 Cut start 94 “Marking” group................................................................................................................... 94 Drilling <!> 94 Marking <#> 95 Line <_> (underline) 95 Line of mark points <Ctrl+#> 95 Surface detection group....................................................................................................... 97 Set 97 Delete 97 Delete all 97 Set <Ctrl+Shift+S> 97 Delete all 97 “SELECT” RIBBON...............................................................................98 “Select” group....................................................................................................................... 98 Part <F9> 98 Chain <Ctrl+F9> 98 Section <Shift+F9> 98 Entity <Alt+F9> 99 Pointwise <Ctrl+Alt+F9> 99 5 By part name 99 Invert selection <Shift+F2> 99 Parts <F2> 100 Parts outside sheet 100 Parts inside sheet 100 Cancel selection <Ctrl+F2> 100 “Select by window” group.................................................................................................... 100 Parts <F3> 100 Chains <Ctrl+F9> 101 Sections <Shift+F9> 101 “Advanced selection” group................................................................................................. 101 Chains <Ctrl+Shift+F9> 101 Sections <Shift+Alt+F9> 102 “MOVE” RIBBON................................................................................102 “Move” group....................................................................................................................... 103 Drag <D> 103 Move 103 Rotate <O> 104 Mirror <M> 104 Mirror horizontally <H> 104 Mirror vertically <V> 105 Nest parts 105 “Push to” group.................................................................................................................... 105 Left 105 Right 105 Up 106 Down 106 “Align” group........................................................................................................................ 106 Left 106 Right 106 Up 107 Down 107 “SECTION” RIBBON.............................................................................107 “Section” group..................................................................................................................... 107 Split <L> 107 Split and insert loop <Ctrl+Shift+L> 108 Merge <C> 109 Change start-point <R> 109 Change cutting direction <@> 109 Copy start point <Ctrl+Alt+C> 110 Copy shape of lead-ins/-outs <Ctrl+Alt+L> 110 Disable/enable cut <Shift+E> 111 6 Compensation on/off <[> 111 Compensation side <{> 111 Pre-piercing 111 IHS offset 112 Priority 112 “Tools” group........................................................................................................................ 113 “Modify parameters” group................................................................................................. 113 Arc <Shift+G> 114 Corner <Shift+F> 114 Cancel <Ctrl+F> 115 Modify all 115 Remove all 115 Change settings of section end <]> 115 Cancel settings of section end <Alt+]> 116 “Lock tool height” group....................................................................................................... 116 Complete section 116 Pointwise 116 Border 116 “Multi-head cutting” group (optional)................................................................................. 117 Simultaneous cuts <F> 117 Head index 117 “Bevel cut” group.................................................................................................................. 118 Bevel cut 118 Bevel ATHC expert 118 “Dynamic piercing“ group.................................................................................................... 120 Add line <Shift+L> 120 Add spiral <Shift+K> 120 Modify <Ctrl+K> 121 Delete <Shift+Ctrl+K> 121 Add globally 121 Remove all 121 “LEAD-INS/-OUTS” RIBBON................................................................121 “Lead-ins/-outs” group......................................................................................................... 122 Add lead-in 122 Add lead-out <Shift+I> 122 Remove lead-in 122 Remove lead-out <Shift+U> 123 Modify lead-in <N> 123 Modify lead-out <Shift+N> 124 Add overlap 124 Loop <Ctrl+L> 124 Compensate 125 “Global modifications” group............................................................................................... 125 7 Add to selected 125 Remove selected 126 Add all 126 Remove all 126 Refresh all 126 “MICROJOINTS” RIBBON....................................................................126 “Microjoints” group.............................................................................................................. 127 Create <Ctrl+M> 127 Create on selection 127 Delete <Ctrl+Shift+M> 127 Remove all 127 Microjoint properties <Shift+M> 127 “ORDERING” RIBBON.........................................................................128 “Ordering” group.................................................................................................................. 129 Automatic <A> 129 Manual <Z> 129 Cancel <W> 130 Break <Alt+W> 130 Break between parts 130 Manual common-line cut <Shift+Z> 130 Test <T> 131 Cancel all <Ctrl+A> 131 “Advanced ordering functions” group.................................................................................. 131 Chain cut <%> 131 Finish cut 132 Create junction <J> 132 Create junctions by line <Ctrl+J> 133 Delete junction <Shift+J> 133 Traverse path 134 “SETTINGS” RIBBON...........................................................................134 “Plan settings” group............................................................................................................ 134 Sheet <Alt+Shift+P> 134 Technology <Alt+Shift+T> 135 Starting points <Alt+Shift+A> 138 Transformation of circles <Alt+Shift+I> 139 Microjoints <Alt+Shift+D> 144 Lead-ins/-outs <Alt+Shift+N> 145 Bevel ATHC expert <Alt+Shift+X> 150 Automatic parameter changes <Alt+Shift+W> 152 Nesting <Alt+Shift+U> 157 Ordering <Alt+Shift+E> 160 Pre-generating <Ctrl+Shift+G> 164 8 File generation <Alt+Shift+G> 165 NC program <Alt+Shift+R> 171 Scrap cutting <Shift+Alt+Y> 174 “Template” group................................................................................................................. 176 Save plan settings <Shift+Alt+S> 176 Save basic settings <Shift+Alt+M> 176 Export program settings 176 “Program settings” group..................................................................................................... 176 Tools <Alt+Shift+C> 176 Layers <Alt+Shift+L> 181 Input <Alt+Shift+V> 184 Display <Alt+Shift+Z> 187 Colours <Alt+Shift+F> 189 Auxiliary points <Alt+Shift+B> 192 Text substitutions 192 Miscellaneous <Alt+Shift+O> 193 APPENDICES.......................................................................................195 CAD tools - errors and troubleshooting................................................................................ 195 9 Introduction AsperWin (in the manual referred to as Asper), is a software package that belongs to the CAM (computer aided manufacturing) software family. The program is intended to process drawings from some external CAD software and generate CNC program. The main application field is 2D cutting of planar sheets. Asper generates direct NC code, cutting plan record (PLA) and economy file for nesting efficiency evaluation. The software supports different CNC technologies (e. g. plasma, laser, water jet, oxyfuel, etc.) Beside this, Asper provides means for preparation of CNC cutting programs for special technologies like plasma and water-jet bevel cutting, drilling and milling, pipe cutting, inkjet, etc. Disclaimer: The manual describes recent version 3.7 of Asper. The software continuously undergoes development and some features implemented in last recent versions might differ from description given herein. Some features described in the manual are not available in all installations because they are available based on registration. Changes with respect to version 3.6 General  GUI improvements ◦ New menu style – ribbon ◦ Drawing shapes with antialiasing – smoother shapes ◦ light colour scheme recommended ◦ better layout of controls in nesting task window  Automatic nesting ◦ “free rotation” option for parts with fit type set to GRID Features Asper has been designed to support fast, efficient, and user-friendly generation of cutting programs. Optionally, Asper is installed with advanced nesting module that enables to place parts on sheets so that material area is optimally utilised. An important 10 feature of Asper is the possibility to prepare user-defined templates defining behaviour of Asper during input file processing. TEMPLATES (SETTINGS AND PARAMETERS)  DRAWING  EXISTING PROGRAM  LIBRARY SHAPE  Asper  CUTTING PROGRAM  ECONOMY REPORT  PLAN Fig. 1. Schematic diagram of Asper interface Asper family products Asper family products are summarised in the following table: CLASS PROGRAM NAME Basic version Asper WSelect Automatic nesting Options Libraries Bevel cutting COMMENT Library of standard shapes Add-on for advanced automatic nesting Support for plasma, oxy-fuel, and water jet bevel cutting Non-parallel cutting Cutting non-rectangular stripes using two heads AirSelect Library of shapes for air-conditioning duct systems PipeSel Straight cutting into pipes, combination of joints SolidSel Cutting into domes using rotator PipeCut Supporting module for SolidSel, cutting into cylindrical and rectangular pipes, for cylindrical pipe 2- or 3-axis cutting Tab. 1. Asper family products The components are based on registration only, there is no need for additional installation. 11 Support To get any technical support, preferably send e-mail message to address: technology@microstep.sk Reporting a problem Any request for support or advice should contain data that enable to identify and trace particular installation of Asper unambiguously: Serial number of the machine Version and build information Installed libraries or modules Language version In case of problems related to Asper, additional information is needed:  Detailed description of a problem and circumstances  .PLA file  .CNC file  Original CAD drawing file  Photo of final product Generally, the more detailed information about the problem is provided, the faster and more competent answer can be sent. How to use manual The first part of the manual provides introductory information about background and usage of Asper. The second part is intended to be used as a reference manual and contains description of available functions. The last part describes advanced features, e.g. bevel cutting, etc. Screenshots presented in the manual include names of functions available at the time of writing the manual. Particular installations of Asper may use different names. Description of CNC code used in presented examples is beyond the scope of the manual and can be found in separate document describing implemented codes. Note: Colours in screenshots presented in the manual have been customised so the appearance of the screenshots differs from default settings. 12 File formats Input formats Accepted input formats can be divided into three main groups (see also scheme in Fig. 1): 1. CAD drawings 2. Existing cutting plans 3. Library shapes CAD drawings Formats of drawing files that can be imported and processed by Asper are summarized in the table Tab. 2 below: FORMAT NAME FILE EXTENSION DESCRIPTION DXF *.DXF IGES *.IGS Initial Graphics Exchange description DC2 *.DC2 DesignCAD file format for 2D ASCII drawing in CAD application by IMSI Design LLC. DC2 is a plaintext (ASCII) format to save two-dimensional drawings, or projections. DSTV *.NC DSTV format is a text file in ASCII format. It is an industrial standard defined by the German Steel Construction Association (Deutsche Stahlbau-Verband) used for communication between design software and CNC machines. It is typically used in the fabrication of structural steel. MI *.DAT Standard format of ME10 program (by Hewlett-Packard) AutoCAD open format available in most CAD programs Important: Only ASCII version of DXF files are supported Tab. 2. Acceptable formats of input CAD drawing files 13 Cutting programs FORMAT NAME FILE EXTENSION REZ *.REZ Old format of cutting programs by MicroStep DESCRIPTION CNC *.CNC G-codes and M-codes ESSI *.ESI International standard format Tab. 3. Accepted input formats of cutting plans Format *PLA Format *PLA (plan) is a category itself, because usage of this format is different relative to importing this format to the Asper. By using button [Open], Asper executes importing of all data and setting from the specific “*PLA” file and by using button “Insert PLA”, Asper enables only importing of the specific parts and shapes without any parameters, settings and other data that are included in whole “PLA” file. Library shapes Depending on installed libraries, it is possible to export parametrised shapes into Asper from corresponding library interface. Output formats FORMAT NAME CNC code Asper plan Plan backup FILE EXTENSION DESCRIPTION *.CNC G-codes and M-codes *.DIN Standard used NC code *.ESSI Standard used NC code *REZ Standard used NC code *.PLA Asper native program data file – plan *.CAL Auxiliary file containing calculations for economy file *.DBF DBase file for economy report *.EKO Economy file (Asper 3.1 style) *.PLB Asper program data backup file of a plan *.RST Asper program data for rest of sheet Tab. 4. Asper output file formats 14 Installation System requirements Asper program can be used on any personal computer running under operating system Microsoft Windows 7 with most recent updates, or newer. Recommended graphical resolution is full HD 1920  1080 pixels or better. Installation procedure To install the Asper, run “Setup.exe” from installation media. During setup, the installation program prompts for language version for setup procedure. The language version can be anytime altered to any of available languages using “Select language” software tool that is automatically installed together with Asper. Registration Asper is copy-protected. For full functionality it is necessary to enter appropriate authentication code. The procedure is referred to as registration. At the first run of the program, an information appears that Asper is not registered (error message “Configuration file cannot be opened”). A window for entering a password appears after [OK] button is pressed: Fig. 2. Registration window with floating code A password can be obtained upon request from MicroStep technical support department. A password is generated on basis of so-called floating code. Floating code is a text string that appears in upper line in password window (Fig. 2). The supplier provides corresponding counter-code that should be entered into empty text line. The text is confirmed by clicking on [OK] or pressing [Enter] key and registration of Asper is completed. 15 When an invalid code is entered or [Esc] key is pressed then Asper runs in so-called demo mode – all operations are allowed except that generation of a CNC program is not allowed. The floating code changes after every failed attempt to enter the code. In case when [Esc] key is pressed without trying to register, the floating code remains unchanged. It is possible to repeat installation (in case of hard disk data damage or computer replacement) and ask (e.g. by phone) again for new password. The window for entering a password can be activated also from the Asper main menu through items menu: “Help  About Asper  Register”. HW license dongle Optionally, Asper license can be protected by means of HW dongle. In this case there is no need to enter any registration code. Registration info is stored in the dongle that must be present in a USB port of the computer all the time when Asper is used. Terminology Prior to start work with the Asper software, it is useful to understand terminology that is used throughout the document. The terms are ordered alphabetically. Alignment points Alignment points are used to align actual detected position of the sheet and a cutting plan. The method can be used only in systems equipped with camera. The machine control system automatically identifies alignment points in CNC program and modifies starting point and sheet rotation accordingly in case when the sheet is not aligned with the machine. Auxiliary points Auxiliary points are used especially for selection of various objects of the plan. The points can be located arbitrarily on the working area or “snapped” to any significant point in the plan. Selection of significant points can be carried out in program parameters (see section “Auxiliary points <Alt+Shift+B>”, page 192). 16 Chain Chain is a group of adjacent sections. Any single part consists of one chain describing the outer contour and of other chains describing inner holes (openings). Chains are mostly closed, i.e. the first and the last point of a chain are identical. Open chains are rare and their processing is special. Normally, a chain is identical to a section. It is possible to split a chain into more sections in order to perform special technological operations – it is the only reason for distinguishing sections and chains. Chain cut Chain cut is a method for cutting more parts in a single take without switching the tool off. The section where the tool remains on is defined by an auxiliary point. The method is used in case of short movements with cutting between two parts that does not collide with any other parts. The movements are performed only through the waste area of a plan. The program does not check for this so the use of this function is strictly under consideration of a user. It is recommended to adjust lead-ins and leadouts of the neighbouring parts so that they ensure cutting out of contours. The method is especially suitable for thick sheets where piercing takes a long time and may cause excessive wear of tool components. Some plasma sources have maximum piercing thickness significantly smaller than maximum cutting thickness. The chain cut enables to eliminate inevitable additional technological operation like drilling holes for piercing, etc. The first start point is placed directly onto a sheet edge or into a position where the edge has been already created by cutting some other part. Connection for chain cut Fig. 3. Example of chain cut applied to two squares 17 Common-line cut Common-line cut enables on to place two parts so that their two adjacent edges can be cut simultaneously by single cut. The method is applicable only for cutting technologies that provide equal cutting quality independent on the side of the tool. Compensation of the common-line is performed on basis of kerf width value entered in Asper settings for the technology “Settings  Technology” (Fig. 4). Fig. 4. Parameter for adjusting kerf compensation common line Fig. 5. Example of common-line cut Cutting plan record Cutting plan record is information about the quantity, position, and other attributes of parts belonging to a sheet. Asper generates it as an output file with extension “PLA” that includes all necessary information in addition to an CNC code (file with corresponding extension e.g. “ESI”, “REZ”, or “CNC”). This file can be later loaded into Asper and it is possible to modify existing parts layout or their amount with no need to repeat all operations from the beginning. Drilling (canned) cycle A drilling cycle is an elementary drilling operation represented by a dedicated instruction in CNC code. Arguments of drilling cycles include depth, direction of 18 rotation, time dwell. Asper supports the following drilling cycles: “G81”, “G82”, “G83”, “G84”, “G85”, “G86”, and “G89”. Entity An entity is a fundamental unit of each drawing. Typical examples of entities are lines, poly-lines, circles, arcs, texts, punching points, and drilling holes (see Fig. 6). Entities are described mostly by points. In case of poly-line, the points are poly-line intersections; an arc is described by its centre, start and end points. Any drawing should consist only of mentioned entities. All other entities (e.g. text, mark, dimensioning, etc.) are ignored. In case when entities are not implemented in the control system, they have to be substituted by arcs and lines before loading them into Asper (to “split” them). CAD programs usually comprise such a function. Actual version of Asper enables even reading of entities “SPLINE” and “ELLIPSE” by an internal conversion to a series of short lines. Tip: Recommended way how to read an ellipse into Asper is to substitute it by arcs already in stage of drawing. AutoCAD and IntelliCAD programs enable to set function “PELLIPSE” to value 1 (write “PELLIPSE 1” in the command line). Tip: “ELLIPSE” and “SPLINE” are automatically converted to a series of very short lines when being read. It is better for optimal program functioning and the cutting itself to let Asper change series of short lines into longer lines with specified tolerance. Fig. 6. Illustration of some basic terms used in Asper 19 IHS (initial height sensing) The IHS abbreviation means initial height sensing and denotes the process of searching for top surface of material before cutting. The process of IHS starts usually when the head is in the parking position (head fully up), the head is then moved downwards and the process is completed when the head stops in the position where the tool remains in cutting height. The cutting height is specified in tool parameters (for details see “iMSNC Operator Manual”). Junction Junction is a special example of chain cut. The section is split as close as possible to the connected part. Cutting order is modified so that parts connected via junction are cut in single step. Transition between the parts is completed without switching off the tool. After the circumference of the connected part is completed, the tool returns along the same path in the opposite direction and finishes cutting of the first one. Transitions are made with kerf compensation enabled to ensure that returning torch does not travel along the line of cut. Junctions reduce the number of tool starts. junction Fig. 7. Tool path (red line) for two squares connected by a junction Kerf compensation In practice, tool kerf width (diameter of tool effective part e.g. water jet beam diameter) is never zero and depends strongly on applied technology. With no compensation, kerf width affects part dimensions (outer dimensions of parts tend to be reduced, inner holes would be larger). 20 Part contour Tool path Fig. 8. Illustration of kerf width compensation In most cases this feature is not acceptable and there are only few applications where accuracy requirements are so low that the lack of compensation can be tolerated. The compensation means offset of actual tool path with respect to part contour by a half of the actual kerf width, offset direction depends on whether the contour is outer or inner. The kerf compensation is usually handled by machine control system. In some cases the kerf width compensation can be included directly in generated code. Values of kerf with are usually available in data provided by supplier of the technological tool. Actual value of kerf width can be obtained also experimentally. Lead-in and lead-out At the beginning of cutting, it is necessary to make a hole into the sheet (to perform piercing) first and only then it is possible to start movement of a cutting tool along the given trajectory. Usually, the area in the neighbourhood of piercing point is damaged, which is not desirable for part contour. Therefore cutting process should be started from a place out of the part contour (in the waste). Designers of drawings usually do not add this technological feature into drawings because it is neither necessary nor desirable. Therefore Asper creates an auxiliary cutting element positioned out of a contour referred to as a “lead-in”. Similarly, the cutting tool is lead-out of contour after cutting has been finished in order to exit the contour continuously and to provide complete separation of a part from the sheet. The element is referred to as a “lead-out”. Asper enables manual modification of the way of lead-in and lead-out creation and a change of the lead-ins and lead-outs. Asper does not create lead-ins and lead-outs for 21 open chains automatically because there is no outer and inner area defined for them and location of waste area is not clear. Sometimes it is inevitable to start from sheet edge especially for cutting thick materials. It is caused by the fact that for example plasma source can usually cut thicker materials than it can pierce. Loop A loop is a curve inserted usually into a corner (intersection of two linear entities). The loop significantly improves corner cutting quality but requires more space. loop Fig. 9. Example of a simple square without (left) and with loops (right) inserted into three corners Marking Marking is a special technological operation when a tool is used to write contours or characters on a surface of a sheet. The principle is based on the fact that the tool does not use sufficient power to penetrate through the sheet. Microjoint A microjoint is a special type of a (usually short) section that is skipped during cutting. It connects a part with waste area to prevent unwanted movements of the part during cutting. In case when a 3D milling machine is used, the bridge can be cut to a certain depth and the rest remains connected to the waste. 22 microjoint Fig. 10. Example of a simple square without (left) and with automatically inserted microjoints (right) Multi-head cutting Multi-head cutting is a special operation mode of a machine that includes more than one cutting head with the same technology, and each head can be separately positioned along the machine gantry, i.e. each head has it own dedicated Y drive. Necessary condition for multi-head cutting is that in “Settings  Tools” corresponding tools have value of parameter “No. of heads” greater than 1 (see section “Tools <Alt+Shift+C>”). Multi-head cutting can be used for parallel cutting when the heads are moved along identical trajectories with constant offset in Y direction, or for non-parallel cutting when the offset between trajectories is variable. In the second case it is important to realize that cutting speed can be kept exactly only for one head. NC code (cutting program) The result of work with Asper is a file containing NC code. The code is a normal text file containing instructions for controlling machine and technological device. Asper preferably supports DIN format (so called G-codes). On demand it is possible to adapt NC code format according to control system requirements or to create a postprocessor (code generator) for control system of a machine from a different manufacturer. An example of a simple CNC program and NC code is displayed in Fig. 11. 23 Fig. 11. Example of CNC program When necessary, NC code generated by Asper can be later edited. More information about NC codes can be found in a user guide for a particular control system. Overlap An overlap is a short section of the contour in between the lead-in and lead-out that is cut by the cutting tool twice. The second pass should minimize the lead-in trace caused by lagging of the bottom part of the beam behind the tool. Fig. 12. Example of lead-in and lead-out without (left) and with 10 mm (right) overlap Part A part is a construction element consisting of one closed outer chain. It can also include other inner closed chains (holes) and inner open chains (arcs or lines). Single CAD file should contain only drawing of a single part. 24 Fig. 13. Definition of the part Point tolerance (identity tolerance of points) In some cases the lines in input drawings that actually should have common vertex are separated by a small gap. The gap is usually too small to be noticed on a computer screen. The program helps to solve these situations by a parameter menu: “Section  Merge” enabling to join all points where mutual distance is less then the threshold parameter (see section “Input <Alt+Shift+V>”. This feature is very useful in cases when closed chains are designed as part contours and this is the only correct solution. It is necessary to set this tolerance very carefully because when too big tolerance band is set, the program merges together points that should normally stay apart. The most suitable solution is to edit the drawing. Tip: Asper can distinguish open and closed chain by colour, so part colour should be watched. If the colour is different than expected then it should be immediately fixed up. Asper distinguishes compensated and non-compensated chains. However, when all closed chains are set as compensated and open chains are set as non-compensated, it is not possible to determine the inner side of the chain. This way an appearance that Asper distinguishes open and closed chains by colour is created. Punching Punching is a special technological operation when cutting tool, e.g. plasma torch, is used as a punching tool to mark points on the sheet surface, where the subsequent operation has to be performed (drilling, cutting a thread, etc.). Note that not every plasma source enables such an operation. Please contact your plasma source supplier prior application of this method. 25 Points for punching can be placed during drawing the part (DesignCAD, entity “PointMark”, AutoCAD and other CAD programs enable to create DXF outputs, “Point entity”) or afterwards directly in Asper (menu: “Point  Mark”). Position of points can be entered before the function “Mark” is activated or marking can be activated without entering the points. In the latter case, the system asks for the points and gradually processes them. Press key [Esc] or [Enter] after all points are entered. Marking points behave always like separate chains, however it is not allowed to attach lead-ins and lead-outs to them. It is necessary to use marking points feature only if CNC control system is also compatible with this method. Scrap Scrap refers to material left after cutting that is considered to be worthless and is not intended to be used later as a workpiece. It is possible to define a cutting grid to cut the scrap into small pieces for easier disposal. Section A section is a group of adjacent entities. The program searches for corresponding entities and then during processing of drawing it merges them into sections according to certain rules. Although drawing may be designed so that entities are drawn in a different order than it seems in picture, Asper looks after their proper linking. Each section can also contain single lead-in and lead-out. Sheet (workpiece) A sheet is usually a rectangular piece of material intended for cutting: a metal sheet for plasma and flame cutting; metal, wood, plastic, or any other suitable material for laser cutting. The water jet is even capable to cut glass, ceramics, and other material. The term “Sheet” is in the document used also in a more general way, it describes a workpiece of any shape including also special cases like a dome, a profile, etc. Starting point Starting point is the first point of a contour in the section; the lead-in and lead-out are usually attached to this point. Starting point is automatically defined on the very first entity that belongs to a particular section. Location of starting point can be modified manually. 26 Surface detection Surface detection is a method of scanning sheet surface in order to improve tracking capability of a cutting head over the sheet. Scanning procedure is based on measurement of Z co-ordinate of sheet top surface. Depending on the area of interest, two or three different detection points are needed to calculate parameters of approximate surface (line or plane). Then, the approximate surface can be used as a reference for Z-axis height control. When only single detection point is used, the system assumes constant height. Typical application of surface detection is the voltage learning stage in case of plasma bevel cutting. Template Template is an empty cutting plan that contains no parts but only settings of all parameters. Asper enables to set name and location of the default template independently for each set of tools. The default template and keeps the most universal parameter settings. This template is used when a new cutting plan is created and no specific template is used. Templates are used to fit particular target application of the plan. Some technologies require to adjust specific parameters in order to finely tune the technological process. Asper enables to store settings and pre-defined values of all parameters and apply the settings for creating cutting plans. Specific configuration can be saved in the menu “Settings”. Subsequently, a dialogue window “Save as” is displayed for entering template name without extension. The settings can be modified on-the-fly while using Asper. Any set of settings can be stored into a separate template. A template file contains user-defined settings (i.e. size of sheet, technology source type, parts layout method, size and shape of lead-ins and lead-outs, etc.). Templates are used to customize cutting from various materials with various thicknesses, and qualitative characteristics that require different parameter settings. The templates then can be used for creating a new cutting plan for the given material. For more efficient organization of templates, they can be saved into directories, e.g. according to material type. Template organization depends exclusively on a user. Reasonable usage of templates can significantly reduce the time and increase the efficiency of preparation cutting plans for any particular technology and sheet. Effort invested into careful preparation is later counter-balanced by sets of pre-prepared templates ready to use. 27 Basic activities This chapter describes the sequence of basic steps illustrating proper use of the program. More detailed description of commands and parameters description is available in the following chapters. Simple example of cutting plan creation is presented in the Appendix. The normal sequence of creating a new cutting plan consists of following steps: 1. Loading part or parts 2. Nesting of parts (manual or automatic) 3. Special activities (not obligatory) 4. Ordering (definition of plan processing sequence) 5. Cutting plan generation 6. Simulation – testing (recommended but not obligatory) Typical Asper workflow is designed to provide simplicity of program use. Desired result can be achieved by using only few actions accessible via menu commands or hot keys, respectively. Despite the simplicity of usage, the programs offers a high degree of flexibility by possibility to change many attributes of a cutting plan. It is always reasonable to check and when necessary to modify Asper settings. Loading data The first immediate activity when working with the program is loading data. Asper enables to read parts prepared in a CAD program in form of DXF (AutoCAD), or DSTV formats. Most of standard CAD programs are able to convert their native format into/from DXF format. One CAD file should always contain only single drawing and the description of part should not have additional technological add-ins (lead-ins, lead-out, etc.) The most frequent error when creating a part is caused by duplicity of some entities because they are not visible in CAD program. Another common error is the situation when two endpoints of neighbouring entities are not identical. If their distance is very small it is not visible. In some cases, for dimensioning purposes normal lines are used, that are internally represented by line entities. In that case, the program accepts them too and erroneously they become an active part of drawing. Asper is able to read parts from CAD programs and also its own output data, especially cutting plan data (PLA) and the NC code itself. However, trouble-free reading of NC codes is not guaranteed due to possible changes in this file outside of Asper, which might be made externally (by user) or due to reading of code created by different software. During part file reading the program executes the following functions: 28  Detection of mutual planar relations between existing entities  Merging entities into sections and chains  Chain cutting direction settings (inner and outer)  Setting cutting direction of individual chains After the part is loaded and above-mentioned functions have been completed successfully, the part is displayed on a computer screen and is automatically placed in the position determined by the program. The program then tries to place all loaded parts as efficiently as possible from the left bottom corner. Positioning pattern can be modified in settings (menu: “Settings  Nesting  From right” or “From top”). It is possible to change values of various parameters and thus influence the nesting procedure and processing (see section “Input <Alt+Shift+V>”, page 184). Correctness of loaded part can be checked in the window with information about the number of loaded parts, chains, open and closed contours (menu: “File  Properties”). The information about the number of open contours is the most important because it often indicates a mistake because normally all chains should be closed. The program enables to detect the order of entity points (menu: “Display  Section points”), so it is easy to find possible duplicity or any other error. Asper also determines the starting point and the type of lead-in and lead-out immediately after loading the part. After completing the ordering (menu: “Order  Automatic”), the chain index is displayed (menu: “Settings  Display”). Manual nesting of parts Preliminary placement of parts nesting generated by Asper at the beginning of the work can be modified using various functions, e.g. moving and rotation of selected part or group of parts, mirroring in vertical, horizontal or general axes (given by two points), moving parts closer one to one another, etc. (see menu: “Move”). It is also possible to copy parts as single parts or as a group. Ordering Asper evaluates layout of parts automatically. It designs ordering of cutting, computes parameters of cutting for economical information system and adds technological information according to parameters setting. The program calculates also basic attributes of a cutting plan such as the cutting trajectory length, time needed for cutting the parts, etc. When ordering is finished, the whole design of a cutting plan is essentially completed. When necessary, it is possible to modify the design later. 29 Generating and storing cutting plan After the work has been completed, the layout of parts and other properties of the drawing are satisfactory, the plan (as a file with extension “.PLA”) and NC code (file extension “.CNC”) can be saved to a disk. At the same time, the economical information file (file extension “.EKO”) can be stored. Generation of different files can be turned off in program menu (menu: “Settings  File generation”). Created CNC file is ready to be transferred directly to a machine and executed. Simulation For verification of generated plan can be used NCSim program. Description of the program is beyond the scope of this manual, details can be found in dedicated NCSim documentation. Special activities In most cases when program settings meet technology requirements, there is no need to modify the plan. In practice, there are situations where some modification leads to improved quality of cutting process. Modification of starting point Starting point can be moved into arbitrary point on section. In that case lead-in and lead-out are moved together with this point but their format is changed according to the type of new starting point (e.g. sharp edge and round edge cases are different). This function is extremely important from technological point of view, starting point position influences thermal distribution and sheet deformation. Modification of lead-ins and lead-outs Lead-ins and lead-outs created by the program are not necessarily satisfactory. Layout of parts is often complicated and the program cannot consider all possible combinations. It is time consuming to test whether created lean-in or lead-out does not go inside another part or whether distance between a piercing point and a part is big enough. Therefore it is possible to modify them and finalise the layout. 30 Change of cutting order Ordering sequence of cutting particular parts is designed by the program in order to minimize distance between two starting points, or to cut parts in specific direction (e.g. left → right, top → bottom). There is a rule that all holes have to be cut before the cutting of outer contour is started. When convenient, this feature can be switched off. Designed order does not necessarily meet all user requirements (e.g. due to thermal deformation of a part of the sheet) and so it can be changed manually using various functions. Working with program The program is designed as a multi-document application (MDI - Multiple Document Interface). That means that it is possible to access and edit simultaneously several plans; each of them displayed in separate window on the screen. Note: Program Asper is in state of permanent development. This user guide describes version 3.7.0.SVN=21583i, release date 17. 10. 2017. Different versions might contain some new functions and some functions could be removed or slightly changed. The version number and release date can be verified in: “Help  About Asper”. Fig. 14. Information about current Asper version Program appearance The most significant visual change of Asper graphical interface with respect to previous versions is implementation of so-called ribbon-style interface (Fig. 15, Fig. 16). 31 Working area Sheet border Status line Co-ordinates Fig. 15. Appearance of Asper 3.7 The interface reflects recent trends in user interface and provides access to individual functions represented by an icon and name. The interface improves navigation throughout available Asper functions. The largest portion of program window represents the working area (Fig. 15). A rectangle with coloured borders inside of it represents a sheet with given size. The sheet size can be stored into configuration template. The rectangle is used as a reference visual information for zooming and viewing tool for placing parts on the sheet. Moreover, its dimensions are used for sheet usage calculations. On the very bottom of the program window there is a status line. The status line displays information about the number of auxiliary points, cursor co-ordinates and miscellaneous information displayed depending on current activity. 32 Fig. 16. Asper 3.7 ribbon Asper functions can be invoked from the top part of the graphical interface (Fig. 17). The menu includes for basic elements: 1. Application button. The button opens windows with basic file handling functions. 2. Quick access toolbar. The bar comprises icons to access most frequently used functions. 3. Menu bar. Menu bar changes current ribbon with corresponding functions. 4. Ribbon. The ribbon provides access to individual functions. Application button Quick access toolbar Ribbon Menu bar Fig. 17. Asper 3.7 ribbon elements Application button Application button is located in the top left part of the Asper screen (Fig. 17). The button opens a window with functions for handling Asper files. Except functions, the window displays also the list of last recently used plans. 33 Fig. 18. Application button menu Quick access toolbar Quick access toolbar is located in the topmost part of the Asper screen and comprises buttons to access the most frequently used functions. Fig. 19. Asper 3.7 quick access toolbar The functions available in the quick access toolbar listed below are described in description of corresponding function organized for individual menu items. 34 Icon Function New Open Close Generate Save Save as Undo Redo Select Associated sub-functions None None None None None None None None Display View mode Move Push to Align Nesting direction Point Ordering Customize quick See (Fig. 20). access toolbar 35 Fig. 20. Customizing options for quick access toolbar Ribbon Ribbon (Fig. 16) comprises most of then functions available in Asper. The functions are represented by dedicated icons with short text indicating functionality of each button. When the cursor is hovering above a button, more detailed description of the function including associated key shortcut is displayed for a short time. Note: Appearance of the ribbon depends on computer screen width, on different monitors some icons are displayed in simplified versions with reduced size or even only in the form of text menu items. Additional functions There are some additional functions that can be found in the top right corner of the ribbon (Fig. 21). Change Asper appearance to the menu style Display basic information about the program (Fig. 2) Display electronic version of Asper manual <F1> 36 Fig. 21. Functions in top right corner of ribbon Switching to “menu” appearance Asper can be operated with standard menu-oriented appearance, i.e. ribbon style can be abandoned. The change is performed by function “Menu” that changes appearance to the menu style. Switching to “ribbon” appearance When Asper 3.7 is running in menu style fashion, it is possible to invoke ribbon style by function “Display  Ribbon” (Fig. 22). Fig. 22. Display menu with function for switching to ribbon-style menu Cutting plan elements Cutting plans processed in Asper contain several types of elements that are displayed in different fashion (Fig. 23). 37 Auxiliary point Sheet border NC start Location of IHS Traverse path Lead-in Lead-out NC end Fig. 23. Fundamental elements of layout Co-ordinate system Sheet layout in Asper is displayed as a rectangle (Fig. 24). Asper uses an orthogonal coordinate system that corresponds to the co-ordinate system used in MicroStep CNC machines. Co-ordinate origin is located in the bottom left corner of a sheet. 38 Y+ X+ 0 Fig. 24. Co-ordinate system in Asper Ribbon items The ribbon consists of different items and sub-menus that provide access to all implemented functions of Asper. The functions are described in detail in following chapters. The functions in a ribbon that are related are organized into so-called function groups, referred to as groups. “File” ribbon “File” item provides various functions for work with plans and files. It enables loading parts from CAD programs, other cutting plans, NC code files and standard file functions (“Print”, “Preview”, “File properties”, “Exit”, etc.) familiar to Windows users. It also provides functions for generation of cutting plans and economy files, launching simulation, etc. Fig. 25. “File” ribbon functions 39 “File” group New <Ctrl+N> “New” item is used for creating a new empty plan. After Asper is started, it automatically creates an empty plan called “Asper1.pla”. Numbering of empty plans is incremented according to the number of new plans. An empty plan is created according to the selection of a template. When this operation is performed from program menu, a dialogue window for selection of available templates is displayed. When a new plan is created from toolbar or by using shortcut keys <Ctrl+N>, Asper automatically loads standard “Normal.cfg” template without asking for template selection. Sheet in file Part rotation Do not place No sheet The file contains only parts. Only sheet The file contains only the shape of the workpiece (sheet). Sheet and parts The file comprises complete nesting, the outer contour is the shape of the workpiece Original (from file) The part is imported “as it is” without any changes. Minimal width Prior to insertion to a plan, the part is rotated to achieve minimum width of the circumventing rectangle provided that rotation is enabled. Minimal rectangle Prior to insertion to a plan, the part is rotated to achieve minimum area of the circumventing rectangle provided that rotation is enabled. After import the part is not put on the sheet, it remains exactly on the coordinates given in the original “.DXF” file. There is no collision detection. Keep lead-ins/-outs When the input file comprises lead-ins and lead-outs, Asper attempts to identify them and keep their shape. Settings The button opens window for Asper settings for “Input” so that it is possible to edit the settings for the new plan. Save type and path The function assigns up to five types and directories as shortcuts to speed-up accessing to frequently used items. The five sets are accessible from the Asper as quick import toolbar. 40 Open <Ctrl+O> Cutting plans already created and saved can be loaded into Asper using the “Open” function. It is then possible to modify the plan, add new parts and CAD files into the cutting plan and edit it. When opened cutting plan file contains tool codes that are not defined in the Asper list of tools, the program suggests to define missing tools together with information about not defined tools: Fig. 26. Warning message for undefined tool For definition of new tools, a dialogue from program settings is opened (Fig. 27) with the tool code from the plan that is not defined in Asper. Fig. 27. Dialogue for definition of a new tool Detailed description of tool management is presented in section “Tools <Alt+Shift+C>”, page 176. 41 Close <Ctrl+F4> “Close” command terminates work with current cutting plan. Provided that any changes have been made, Asper displays a dialogue asking for saving the changes (Fig. 28). Available options are: [Yes] (save changes), [No] (discard changes), and [Cancel] (resume exiting). Fig. 28. Dialogue displayed when exiting modified plan End <Alt+X> This command terminates entire work with program. Asper asks for saving unsaved or changed documents in the same ways as in case of menu: “File  Close” function (Fig. 28). “Quick import” group Functions in the quick import group provide access to up to five defined folders. The folders can be assigned in the “File open” dialogue window using the buttons displayed in Fig. 29. Quick import from appointed directory No. 1. Directories No. 2 to No. 5 are accessible in the same way. Fig. 29. Buttons for assignment of directories for quick import 42 “Insert file” group Insert DXF <Ctrl+D> The function inserts external “DXF” drawing into current cutting plan. It is the most common way how to create a cutting plan. Insert STEP (Optional) The function inserts external “STEP” drawing into current cutting plan. The function “Insert STEP” is optional and is available only upon corresponding registration key. After proper registration key is entered, Asper should be restarted in order to make the registration effective. A STEP file is a 3D model file formatted in an ISO standard exchange STEP format (Standard for the Exchange of Product Data). Prerequisites The STEP format is supported from version Asper 3.7.0 SVN=37146i (build date 18 Nov 2020) onwards. The function for importing STEP files into Asper is used to import parts that are designed to be made from sheets. Any workpiece types other than sheets are not applicable. Parts that can be inserted into Asper plan from STEP files are no arbitrary, they shall match specifications that are specified below. STEP files include also the information about sheet thickness and so it is not required to set the sheet thickness needed for bevel cutting in Asper settings. If the imported STEP files contain parts designed for multiple sheet thicknesses, Asper automatically creates sheets wit corresponding thicknesses and properly inserts the parts into particular sheets. 43 Supported shapes  Shapes with straight cuts where the cutting tool is perpendicular to the sheet surface (Fig. 30) Fig. 30: Example of imported STEP file – straight cut  Shapes with bevel cuts with constant bevel angle "K", "Y", "L", "X", "V", "A" on both inner and outer contours (Fig. 31) Fig. 31: Example of imported STEP file – “X” bevel cut  Shapes with variable bevel cuts that can be cut using tangential control of tool movement (Fig. 32) 44 Fig. 32: Example of imported STEP file – variable bevel cut  Assemblies of multiple sheets in a single STEP file (Fig. 33). The file may contain also other types of workpiece but they are excluded from import into Asper. Fig. 33: Example of imported STEP file - assembly Conditionally supported shapes Some shapes that do not fall strictly into categories of supported or unsopported shapes can be imported and processed in Asper only under certain conditions. In case of any questions, it is recommended to contact MicroStep technical support. 45 Shapes not supported  Parts with intersecting bevel cuts (Fig. 34) Fig. 34: Example of imported STEP file – intersecting bevel cuts Fig. 35 reveals the intersection of bevel cut edges in the example part from Fig. 34 that cannot be properly processed. Fig. 35: Example of imported STEP file – intersecting bevel cuts 46  Bevel cut inner corners (Fig. 36) Fig. 36: Example of imported STEP file – bevel cut inner corners  Partial truncating of edges, i.e. straight edge with “Y” (Fig. 37) Fig. 37: Example of imported STEP file – partial truncating of edge  Transformation of drilling cycles (partial counterboring, Fig. 38) Fig. 38: Example of imported STEP – drilled hole 47 Usage The function “Insert STEP” opens a dialogue window for selection of a STEP file to be imported. The selection can be made more convenient if the option “Preview” is selected (Fig. 39). Fig. 39: Dialogue window for inserting STEP file Selected STEP file is then displayed in an external window (Fig. 40). Fig. 40: Part in external window The left part displays a list of identified and imported parts. The parts that can be imported are marked by green colour, the parts that do not meet requirements are 48 marked by red colour. Selection of parts for import is made by the elements at the bottom of the window. View of imported parts can be filtered by function “Show importable plates only” so only parts that can be properly inserted into Asper are displayed. Selection is made by ticking the part. There are also functions “Select all” and “Deselect all” that can be used in a selection process. It is possible to import parts from multiple STEP files in a single step by using “Add step” function. Import is performed by “Import n out of m planar shapes to Asper” (the button imports only n parts selected for import from all m parts identified in STEP files). The right part displays a preview of a part. The buttons in the top right corner change view mode. “3D” button displays the part in 3D view. Current view can be adjusted using a mouse by clicking and dragging. Buttons “YZ”, “XY”, and “XZ” display the part as a 2D projection onto respective planes. Repeated click flips the 2D view. Part preview can be modified by the buttons at the bottom of the preview section “Fit all to screen” and “Show/hide viewer objects menu”. Insert DSTV <Shift+W> The purpose of the function is inserting CAD drawings that represent parts. Basic CAD file formats compatible with Asper are listed in Tab. 2. The purpose of the function is inserting CAD drawings that represent parts. Basic CAD file formats compatible with Asper are listed in Tab. 2. Tip: It is strongly recommended to store single part in one CAD file! After loading parts, Asper automatically performs the following operations:  Transformation of any discontinuous entities into continuous chains  Evaluation of closed or open chains  Adding of lead-ins and lead-outs wherever it is allowed and possible  Placement of parts into free space on the sheet using nesting strategy according to program settings (menu: “Settings  Nesting”). The work with loaded and processed part is finished by establishing order of processing for individual section or chain. The “DXF” format is the most preferred format of supported CAD formats. It is a public format that is supported by all commonly used CAD programs. Other formats are supported only to meet individual needs of customers and requirements. 49 Insert ESSI The function enables to read ESSI code (conforming ESSI international standard) into the cutting plan. When it is not necessary to use this feature, it is recommended to use only CAD files or plans and to avoid reading CNC code whenever possible. Important: It is important to note that lead-ins and lead-outs are not components of CAD drawings and they are added by Asper. When Asper is supposed to read a file where due to presence of lead-ins and lead-outs the part is not closed, it has to be processed in a special way. Asper is able to handle the situation but it is not guaranteed that the result is acceptable under all circumstances. Sometimes CNC code is adapted manually by user. Some changes might be incompatible with Asper. In order to read the file by Asper successfully, such changes have to be revised (extra commands should be deleted, etc.) Insert CNC The function enables to read NC code (conforming DIN international standard) into the cutting plan. The above comment regarding insertion of NC code into Asper is valid also here. Insert PLA The function inserts existing cutting plan in Asper format into a current one. It is possible to merge multiple plans in this way and use previously designed cutting plans. The function different is from function “Open” where only single plan is loaded into a new window. It is possible to use all functions and to manipulate imported parts, or to combine different ways of loading parts, etc. Imported “.PLA” have set the properties from templates. 50 “Save” group Save <Ctrl+S> Current cutting plan can be saved to any connected and recognized storage device (e.g. a disk, external drive, or computer network) even before it has been finished by using the command “Save”. Save as Current cutting plan can be saved under different name. The way of usage of this function is the same as in any Windows programs. Export as DXF The function exports the plan into a DXF file. Generate <Ctrl+G> This function differs from previous functions in the way that not only a plan is stored but all necessary files according to settings, including a plan (Asper “PLA” file), NC code (“CNC” file) and economy file. This is the only way of generating NC code (see also settings in menu: “Settings  File generation”). “File information” group File information contains three functions intended for handling opened plan. 51 Properties <Alt+Enter> The function displays significant properties of the current cutting plan (Fig. 41). The window provides a quick overview of loaded parts and after insertion of particular part, it enables to perform a basic visual check. The information is important in case when some of inserted CAD drawings are not correct and it is inevitable to find and fix open chains, duplicate entities (circles one on another), etc. Detailed description of the content can be obtained by inspection of an economy file. Fig. 41. Plan properties Simulation <Ctrl+T> The function invokes simulation of the current plan in dedicated CNC simulation software-tool NCSim. The simulator is an independent program and can be used also separately. In case when the simulator is activated from Asper after NC code is generated, Asper provides a link to the corresponding NC code (simulator automatically compiles NC code to internal format). NCSim program is described in detail in a separate user guide. 52 Economy file <Ctrl+E> The function generates an economy report used for analysis of economy parameters of the plan. Output format is set in “Settings  File generation  Economy file  Generate  Economy information”. Preferred output format is “Intranet”. Description of Intranet usage is out of the scope of the manual. Following description relates to the cases when the output format is set to “Report v3.2-3.4” and “Economy file (version 3.1) (.eko)”. Report V3.2 – 3.4 This function is used for viewing and printing the content of an economy file (see Fig. 42). Auxiliary files necessary for economy files are created during generation of a cutting plan. In order to generate a report, it is necessary to switch on the option in menu: “Settings  File generation  Economy file” to generate the economy file whenever a cutting plan is generated. Otherwise, the information can be incorrectly displayed or not displayed at all. machine data sheet data tool data calculated usage data calculated cutting data summary Fig. 42. Economy report in Asper versions 3.2 - 3.4 Economy report provides basic information about a cutting plan, nesting efficiency, working time, material consumption, etc. The report is used for comprehensive display 53 of economic information related to technological process, especially sheet usage and basic calculations regarding quantity, unit price, etc. A report can be then previewed and printed. Relevancy and usability of the report depend on careful setting of process data in menu: “Settings  Technology”. Currency entry is set also in the same folder. Economy report data is divided into five main parts. Generated tables contain following data (Fig. 42): Machine data File name Name of file and path of file location Machine Machine identification name defined in “Settings  Technology  Machine” Traverse speed Speed of traverse movement expressed in [mm/min] specified in “Settings  Technology  Traverse speed” Date Date of file generation inserted automatically Hour cost Unit cost per hour e.g. [EUR/h] “Settings  Technology  Price/hour” Sheet data Dimensions Correspond to sheet size (menu: “Settings  Sheet”) and material thickness (menu: “Settings  Technology  Material thickness”) Material Text description of sheet (menu: “Settings  Technology  Sheet type”) Sheet weight Weight of complete sheet in [kg], based on material density and calculated volume (menu: “Settings  Technology  Material density”) Unit sheet price Unit price of the sheet per kilo (menu: “Settings  Technology  Price/kg”) Total sheet price Price of complete sheet calculated as: Total sheet price = Sheet weight ´ Unit sheet price Tool data Tool Tool type set in (menu: “Settings  Technology  Technology tool”) Cut price Unit price per 1 m of cutting path (menu: “Settings  Technology  Price/meter”) Starting time Sum of piercing time, parking time and time of moving the head from parking position to cutting height (Settings  Technology  Piercing time) 54 Speed Cutting speed of the tool in [mm/min] (menu: “Settings  Technology  Cutting speed”) Calculated cutting data Cutting time Expresses total cutting time, depends on cutting length and cutting speed Traverse time Calculated including traverse length and speed Starting Specifies number of starts and starting times Total time Overall sum of all times Calculated usage data Parts Total area of parts [m2] Waste Resulting waste area [m2] in a plan Sheet Overall sheet area [m2] Usage Relative usage [%] of sheet (parts area relative to overall area) Economy file (version 3.1) (.eko) In case when generation of economy file of 3.1 version is set (menu: “Settings  File generation  Economy file (version 3.1)”), the economy file is a simple text file with “EKO” extension that is easy to be modified afterwards. 55 Fig. 43. Economy report in Asper version 3.1 and older Asper generates this file with name that is identical with the name of the cutting plan. This text file can be printed out or saved together with cutting plan for archiving purposes and normative processing. “Print” group Asper enables to print a plan in selected section of sheet or complete sheet. It is possible to display only a detail of the cutting plan and print it like a hardcopy from a window. Only cutting plan portion displayed in current window can be printed out. Print <Ctrl+P> Print active document. Print preview The function “Preview” is a standard function supported by Windows operating system. It enables to preview and verify the look of a printout before real printing (see Fig. 43). 56 Printer setup The item “Printer setup” enables to change printer settings or to choose different printer when working in computer network, etc. Fig. 44. Example of print preview “Edit” ribbon “Edit” ribbon is used for standard editing operations as it is usual in most Windowsbased programs. It enables to undo and repeat recent operations, handle block of objects via clipboard. Moreover, it is used to display of part properties, application of some instructions and list of installed shape libraries. Standard Asper installation includes at least WSelect shape library of basic geometric shapes. Other shape libraries are optional and are described in dedicated documentation. 57 Fig. 45. “Edit” menu ribbon “Undo – Redo” group Undo <Ctrl+Z> Asper enables to resume the latest activities or functions. The “Undo” function provides means to fix up some situations, e.g. recover a part deleted by mistake, etc. It is possible to return backwards in the history of last recent activities and resume them step-by-step. Redo <Ctrl+Y> The function allows to resume operations in cases when function “Undo” has been used before. Last action The command repeats the last recent action but all needed parameters should be entered again. If, for instance, a lead-in has been modified (that means invoking “Redo” action, selection and positioning of current lead-in), the command only runs the function; selection and positioning of the lead-in should be done manually. Repeating of a function that needs more auxiliary points requires entering absolute co-ordinates of the first point and then absolute co-ordinates of the auxiliary point. Usage of this function is convenient especially in case when a function needs single auxiliary point (detailed description can be found in “Auxiliary points <Alt+Shift+B>”, page 192). When the function is used in a standard way for the first time, it is needed only to position cursor over other objects and press corresponding key shortcut for repeating. To repeat only last recent command, <Ctrl+Space> can be used. 58 “Clipboard” group The menu comprises standard functions enabling to copy and move parts within one plan or between more plans using the clipboard. The functions do not enable to copy any parts into other programs. Cut <Ctrl+X> Cut selection and copy to clipboard. Copy <Ctrl+C> Copy selection to clipboard. Paste <Ctrl+V> Paste contents of clipboard into the current plan. Delete <Del> The function deletes a single part or a group of parts. It is also possible to delete inner holes. More parts can be deleted simultaneously or individually using commands from menu: “Select”. The command is useful e.g. in case when two parts differ just in number of inner holes. It is not necessary to load two parts; the first part can be simply copied and holes in the copy deleted. Then it is recommended to rename the second part. Deletion of holes influences calculation of parts area and cutting efficiency. When the hole belongs to the part but it is supposed to be processed using different technology, “Section  Disable/enable cut” function instead of “Delete” function can be used. 59 “Multi-head cutting” group Create copies <K> The function is intended for copying part or group of parts. For copying a group of parts, commands from menu “Select” should be used. The function prompts for a number of copies. The number excludes the original object, when e.g. it is required to prepare six identical parts then number of copies is five (one original and five copies). Fig. 46. Dialogue window for entering number of copies Multi head cutting <Ctrl+Alt+Space> Simultaneous parallel cutting of identical parts by two or more technological heads placed on the same gantry. Number of cutting heads must be properly set in menu “Tools”. If the number of heads is 1 then corresponding error message is displayed. The function displays a window for definition of mutual spacing between the heads. Note: The function is optional and is available upon corresponding registration code. 60 Fig. 47. Dialogue window for definition of spacing for multi-head cutting (button “0 0 ..” zeroes offsets) Note: The function does not perform check for placing parts out of working area. Convert to single head The function cancels multi-head mode for a group of parts and changes the mode into the single-head mode, the parts remain unchanged but are processed with a single head. “Remnant of sheet” group The function is used when the sheet is utilised for cutting only partially. Remaining part of the sheet referred to as remnant can be used later with rectangular cut-off. In order to use the function, it is necessary to specify a portion of a sheet to be considered as a rest and a portion used for cutting. Automatically Create remnant automatically according to defined parameters. 61 Manually Create remnant manually by a poly-line. The function enables to specify divisions of a sheet by piecewise linear segments. The segments are defined by a sequence of points manually placed by a mouse. The entering sequence is completed by pressing [Enter] button (Fig. 48). When entering of points is completed, it is possible to prepare cutting out the rest of a sheet. Automatically - line Create remnant by a single straight line. Load Load remnant from a file. Function “Load” is used to load previously saved rest of sheet in “RST” file format. Later it can be used as a sheet for preparation of a new cutting plan. The dialogue window displayed after running the function enables to browse for a “RST” file and provides a preview of a rest with dimensions. Save Save remnant to a file. Function “Save” enables to save specified portion of a sheet. The rest is saved into a “.RST” file that is actually a “.PLA” file containing only information about working area dimensions. Cancel Cancel remnant cut - revert back to original sheet shape. 62 Save as DXF Save remnant as a DXF file. Fig. 48. Definition of an arbitrary portion of a sheet Fig. 49. Dialogue window for cutting out the rest of a sheet Fig. 50. Final shape of sheet portion prepared for cutting out (grey colour indicates non-compensated sections) 63 “Scrap” group Create grid The function creates a scrap cutting grid consisting of regularly spaced horizontal and vertical cutting lines to slice leftover scrap after cutting in order to make manipulation with the scrap easier. Parameters of the grid are set in “Settings  Scrap cut grid”. Cancel grid Remove scrap cutting grid. “Edit” group Common-line cut <$> The command changes placement of two defined parts so that two selected edges can be cut simultaneously by single cut. Before activating the function, it is important to check kerf width setting in menu: “Settings  Technology  Kerf width”. The parameter value should match actual tool kerf width. To create a common-line cut, the function expects selection of two edges. Compensation is performed on outside chains of both connected parts, the second part is automatically moved towards first part to create a common-line cut. The parts visually appear as a single part. More parts can be added to the already existing pair by repeating these steps. The block of parts created in this way are non-compensated. Compensation is executed automatically in Asper by means of co-ordinates (command “G41” or “G42” – switch on compensation is not inserted into cutting code before cutting). The last step of common-line cut preparation is definition of cutting order. This is usually done manually using function menu: “Ordering  Manual common-line cut”, 64 because automatic ordering may fail. Manual ordering should be performed carefully to prevent falling down unfinished parts. Transform circular holes The function applies transformation of the circular holes on all the parts of the current cutting plan. Transformation means substitution of all circular holes falling into separate class given by their size by drilling with a tool with assigned diameter. Substitution table is defined in Asper settings. For details see “Transformation of circles <Alt+Shift+I>”, page 139. Part properties <*> The function enables to change the name of single part or a group of parts. To rename multiple parts in a single step, commands from “Select” menu should be used to select the parts. Part name is used in the economy file. The dialogue window for the function displays also calculated part area [mm2] and adjustable attribute for enabling collision check with other parts in a cutting plan. Fig. 51. Part properties NC start location The command is used to define co-ordinates of an auxiliary point where NC program starts. The location is specified by clicking the mouse button. An alternative way is to change cutting program settings (menu: “Settings  NC program  NC start location”). 65 NC end location The command is used to define co-ordinates of an auxiliary point where NC program ends. The location is specified by clicking the mouse button. An alternative way is to change cutting program parameters (menu: “Settings  NC program  NC end location”). “Parts libraries” group Other items in “Edit” menu serve for running macros and part libraries. The Select library is a part of standard installation and it contains standard parts. Other libraries and programs were created for specific applications – e.g. Airsel library (air-conditioning ductwork) or programs for cutting pipes and rectangular profiles. The add-ins are often customised for individual customers and they are described in special user guides. For overview of options see section “Asper family products”, page 11. “Part nesting” ribbon (optional) The ribbon includes a function intended for creating a new nesting task. The nesting task consists of creation of a new list of parts that should be placed on sheets and a list of available sheets. An optional part of the program is automatic saving – it is not included in the standard installation. Fig. 52. “Part nesting” ribbon It is not required to select a template. When template selection is cancelled, a default template for particular machine is used. Parameters for each sheet can be individually modified later by selecting a sheet and modification of parameters. When a partially filled rest (*.RST) or a plan (*.PLA) is used as a sheet, the program uses settings from the respective files. First, a configuration file should be created where all new plans are saved, i.e. plans will adopt all settings of the document. Parameters can be modified directly in the nesting window as well as in the drawing. A new window is created where user creates lists of parts and sheets – nesting task window. 66 “Part nesting” group New nesting task <Ctrl+Alt+N> The function prepares automatic optimal placement of parts available for particular plan. For a new nesting task it is possible to select appropriate template that is used as a basis for newly created plans, template settings are then adopted for the given document. When reasonable, it is possible to modify the parameters in nesting task window. Nesting task screen is divided into two main parts. In the top left part, there is a list of parts and buttons for inserting and editing. In the top left part, there is a list of available sheets and buttons for creation and modification of the list. Insert Fig. 53. Nesting task definition window Adding sheets In the nesting task definition window (Fig. 53) there is a list of sheets used as a target material for output of nesting tasks. Sheets can be added, removed, and it is possible to select an option that automatically adds another sheet when available area for particular placement is not sufficient. Available functions are as follows: 67 Add Add a sheet to the list. The sheets can be added from different formats (Fig. 54): New sheet Add an empty sheet of defined dimensions and quantity. Existing plan Add sheet from already existing nesting plan (*.PLA). DXF Add sheet, the shape of the sheet is defined by drawing in a *.DXF file. Remnant of sheet Import sheet (*.RST) with shape generated by Asper by using option: “Edit  Remnant of sheet”. Remove Remove existing sheet from the list. Add sheet automatically Add another sheet to the list automatically when available area for nesting is not sufficient. A new empty sheet with same parameters as the latest used one in the current list is created in such s case. Fig. 54. Dialogue for adding sheets Nesting settings Confirm nesting Enables to confirm each nesting before parts are placed on the sheet and nesting task is only displayed in the preview window. The setting is valid for all above options. Generate NC program for unfilled sheets The setting causes that CNC program is automatically generated even for the last nesting that may be only partially filled when all parts are processed. 68 Automatic part dividing Function performs automatic splitting of large parts so that the split parts are placed on two different sheets. Close when completed The selection causes closing nesting task window after all parts are placed. Optimizer Usage of optimizer algorithm may increase nesting efficiency. The optimizer changes nesting parameters and tries different method for optimization of placement. Optimizer Enable usage of optimizer. Configure optimizer Enabled optimizer provides multiple options for optimization of placement (Fig. 55). Detailed description of the options is out of the scope of the manual. Fig. 55. Optimizer configuration options Multi-head nesting The function is used when the intention is to cut using simultaneously multiple heads. The function can be used only provided there is a tool assigned to multiple heads. Number of heads Number of used heads. Min. cut off utilization [%] Requirement for minimum utilization of sheet in the nesting area. If the specified utilization cannot be achieved with N heads, the algorithm tries to use N-1 heads, etc. until only single head is used. 69 Minimum head gap [mm] Minimum space between respective heads. Remnant of sheet The settings define constraints of shape of the rest. Remnant shape Options available for shape of the remnant: None The shape of the remnant is left unchanged. True shape Remnant is cut as close as to parts possible. Stepped Shape of the remnant is created so that parts are replaced by rectangles. Clean out Simple cut. ... Open remnant parameters dialogue (Fig. 56). Remnant shape Selected shape Min. remnant area Minimum requested area expressed in [mm2]. Min. remnant width Parameter for design of the remnant shape. Higher value prevents creation of undesirable narrow salient offshoots. Fig. 56. Remnant parameters Adding parts An important step is to select parts for placement onto defined sheets. The parts are added by right mouse button clicking on the left area of the nesting screen. The function “Insert” opens a dialogue window for selection of files. First, parts for nesting preferably in “DXF” format should be loaded from “Insert” menu. The menu is displayed after clicking the mouse on big “plus” button. 70 The associated context menu provides means to manipulate selected or right mouse clicking marked entities, sections, parts (Fig. 58). Fig. 57. Nesting screen with added parts Fig. 58. Context menu for manipulation objects For imported item it is possible to specify (Fig. 59): File name Filename for parts. Material Assumed material type. Specification More detailed specification of material. For example, if several types of stainless steel are used, it is possible to distinguish between respective types. Thickness [mm] Material thickness. Placement pattern Selection of placement pattern for nesting individual parts. According to plan Parts are nested according to placement pattern that is assigned to the plan that is used for nesting. The pattern setting does not employ several options a part is placed on the first available location. Speed Optimized for maximum speed of nesting. 71 Centre of gravity 1 Parts are nested one-by-one. Centre of gravity 2 Parts are nested one-by-one. Part rotation Grid 1 Nesting considers parts as a grid and places the parts to remaining area one-by-one. Grid 2 Nesting considers parts as a grid and places the parts to remaining area one-by-one. Selection of rotation mode for parts entering into a nesting task. Original (from file) The part is imported “as it is” without any changes. Minimal width Prior to insertion, the part is rotated to achieve minimum width of the circumventing rectangle provided that rotation is enabled. Minimal rectangle Prior to insertion, the part is rotated to achieve minimum area of the circumventing rectangle provided that rotation is enabled. Quantity Number of pieces to be nested. Part placement Assignment of priority for placement, parts with higher priority are nested first. priority Free rotation Nesting may use any convenient rotation of a part. Use listed angle Discrete rotation angles can be entered as comma separated values expressed in degrees, e.g. “10, 25, 115”. rotations Rotation step [°] An alternative way to define discrete rotation angles by specification of rotation angle steps. Fig. 59. Settings for part for nesting 72 Parts inserted into the nesting task are displayed in the top left part of the screen (Fig. 60). Fig. 60. Window with parts selected for nesting Output settings Output settings define overall nesting process. Destination Specification of target folder for saving files. directory Placement The first selection window contains options for placement of parts and interruption of placement on a sheet. There are three available options (Fig. 53): Until end Nesting process continues until all parts and sheets are processed. Until end with Nesting process continues until all parts and sheets are processed, then nesting is paused to confirm plan file name. When the file name filename confirmation is not confirmed (key [Esc], [Cancel]), placement is interrupted. Interrupted task can be used to manual modification of placement. The last method of placement is suitable when placement of the parts appears to be not as efficient as required. Full sheet The process is completed when nested sheet is filled. 73 Fig. 61. Items for definition of nesting process Run nesting The function launches nesting function After nesting task is launched, a window displaying progress and results of the nesting task is displayed (Fig. 62). The nesting process can be terminated at any time by pressing the [Stop] button. However, response to this button can be sometimes delayed. Fig. 62. Window displaying progress and results of current nesting task with set option “Confirm nesting” 74 When the nesting is finished or a sheet is filled, the program prompts for confirmation of the suggested nesting. When nesting is confirmed by is [OK], the window is closed and the nesting is imported into the current plan (Fig. 63, “N” denotes number of parts that remain unplaced). The nesting (DXF layouts and RST files, part properties like leadins/-outs, micro-joints, etc.) can be modified also manually. Otherwise, nesting is terminated without any changes to the plan. Parameters of automatic nesting can be changed and the task can be run it again. Parts that are not placed properly can be moved manually to meet placement criteria. Interruption of nesting is suitable mainly in cases when user experience allows to gain higher efficiency of nesting. Fig. 63. Asper screen after nesting task has been completed Nesting task can be saved by menu: “File  Save as…”. Then, a simple file containing list of parts to be nested and list of sheets is created. Adding a part or change of requirements on this part (number, fit type) can be changed by “Edit” button. In case of adding a part selection window appears automatically. When a file is selected, a part specification window appears (Fig. 64): 75 Fig. 64. Editing parts for nesting Improve position The setting specifies whether the nesting algorithm moves loaded part towards neighbouring part to increase nesting efficiency. Rotate parts The setting allows rotation of parts during nesting. Ignore lead-ins/-outs The function should be set prior to any nesting process. For nesting, the setting ignores already existing lead-ins and/or lead-outs. Nesting gap is then the distance between the contours i.e. the distance between two neighbouring sides of cut parts ignoring the length of existing lead-ins and lead-outs. 76 Nest into holes The setting enables automatic nesting of parts into the holes inside other parts and thus to improve nesting performance. Nest group as a block This option is selected for placing a group of parts (e.g. HVAC parts). If this option is not active, the program places all parts at once while respecting their original layout. This feature is applicable also for parts imported from other input formats. Inside sheet only This feature does not allow placement of parts out of the sheet during automatic nesting. “Nesting direction” group Buttons available in Nesting direction group are used to define direction of parts nesting. Functions of individual buttons are illustrated graphically directly on the buttons (Fig. 65): Fig. 65. Buttons for setting nesting direction “Display” ribbon Display ribbon functions are used to display individual parts of the plan, verification measurement of angles and distances, and apply various display settings. 77 Fig. 66. “Display” ribbon “Display” group Zoom window <F4> The command enables to zoom-in a detail of working area given by a rectangular window. The program expects two points (corners of a rectangle to be zoomed-in) to define a window. The view of detailed area is then enlarged to the entire desktop working area. Original view can be accomplished by pressing [Esc] or [Break] instead of entering auxiliary points. All parts <F5> Viewing all parts placed on the sheet is accessible via “All parts” function. Asper displays only the rectangular portion of the sheet containing placed parts. Complete sheet <Ctrl+F5> This function displays all parts and the entire sheet. Height of plan <Shift+F5> This function modifies the display scale so that full height of the current plan is displayed. 78 Single part <F7> The function displays a single part given by one auxiliary point close to the part. Single chain <F6> The function zooms-in a particular chain. The function prompts for a point to define a chain. If the point belongs to an outer contour, the resulting view is identical to the “Single part” view. Zoom out <F8> This command returns the zoom factor one step back. Redraw <Ctrl+R> The command redraws the entire working area, it is helpful in case of incorrect displaying, e.g. after switching between other running programs using text mode and graphic mode, etc. “Measurements” group Measure distance <?> The function measures the distance in [mm] between two points. The command displays diagonal distance between opposed corners, horizontal (in X-axis direction) and vertical (in Y-axis direction) distances, and the angle with respect to X-axis. If both points have the same X co-ordinate, and the distance and difference between the Y co-ordinates are identical, the difference between the X co-ordinates is zero and the angle is either +90° or +270°. 79 Fig. 67. Measured distance (100 mm in vertical direction) The measurement procedure is as follows: 1. Select the function “Measure distance” from “Display” menu 2. Specify auxiliary points for distance measurement 3. Measured distance is displayed in dedicated window The same procedure is used for other available measurements. Measure angle C-S-E <<> This command enables to measure the angle given by three auxiliary points (abbreviation C-S-E stands for Centre, Start, and End). The result of angle measurement is expressed in degrees and gives two values for inner angle and outer angle being complement of the inner angle to 360°. Measure angle S-C-E <>> This command enables to measure the angle given by three auxiliary points (abbreviation S-C-E stands for Start, Centre, and End). The result of angle measurement is expressed in degrees and gives two values for inner angle and outer angle being complement of the inner angle to 360°. 80 Measure line angle <}> The command measures the angle between two lines even in the case when the lines do not have any common point. Each line is defined by two points. It is not necessary to enter points lying on the lines; arbitrary four points can be entered. The result of angle measurement is expressed in degrees and gives two values for inner angle and outer angle being complement of the inner angle to 360°. “Show” group Part names <S> Displaying of parts names can be immediately turned on or off by repeated usage of this function (Fig. 68 and Fig. 69). The feature can be used to provide better orientation especially in cases when a number of different parts is present in a plan. Part names are given in imported “DXF” file, or defined in WSelect part library. In newer versions of WSelect part library, part names can be defined by user. When exporting to Asper, in WSelect use button name prior to export. to prompt for part Fig. 68. Part names display switched on 81 Fig. 69. Part names display switched off Section points <Q> This command displays indexes of vertices for given section. Function expects a point to select a section (Fig. 70). Repeated usage of this command switches off displaying of indexes of vertices. The function helps to check correctness of the parts. Normally, a chain consists of a single section. If the part is correct, the indexes are labelled incrementally. In case of an open chain, that is a most common error during construction, it is easy to find the starting point. Fig. 70. Display of section points 82 Entity properties <Shift+Enter> The function displays properties of a selected entity. Fig. 71. Display of entity properties Horizontal windows The function creates a new horizontal tab group. Vertical windows The function creates a new vertical tab group. 83 Scale reference circle Displays/hides 10 mm scale reference circle for better user dimensional reference. Status line Displays/hides status line at the bottom of the Asper screen. “View mode” group Information about setting of various technology properties for sections and entities, e. g. compensation, cutting speed, etc., can be displayed in different colours to simplify identification of distinctive features of a plan: Examples of different display modes Following examples illustrate different display modes. Each display mode displays basic shape of a part and additional properties of entities are shown in different colour. Assignment of colours can be modified by user in Asper settings (see section “Colours <Alt+Shift+F>”, page 189). “N” (normal) display mode Displays all cutting paths in standard colour scheme – i.e. cutting paths are distinguished by colour with regards to their characteristics – compensated or not, bevel edge, microjoint, lead-ins/-outs, etc. Normal display mode is the most commonly used mode. 84 Fig. 72. Example of “N” (normal) display mode “T” (tool) display mode Tool display mode is useful for plans that use different tools for different entities. For example, when one side of a square is prepared for bevel cutting and remaining three sides are cut with straight plasma, then the display mode results in a view as displayed in Fig. 73. Fig. 73. Example of “T” (tool) display mode (distinguished straight and bevel cutting) 85 “A” (ATHC) display mode ATHC display mode enables to distinguish different modes of ATHC. Example in Fig. 74 illustrates a situation for bevel cutting with plasma. Different colours of bevel cut edge reveal different methods of ATHC (height control according to detected surface, voltage learning, adaptive height control according to plasma arc voltage.) Fig. 74. Example of “A” (ATHC) display mode “H” (head index) display mode Head index display mode is useful for plans prepared for machines (multi-head option) that have more than one head with the same technology. The example in Fig. 75 illustrates a situation with simultaneous cutting of a square with two heads. 86 Fig. 75. Example of “H” (head index) display mode “S” (speed) display mode The mode displays cutting paths by different colours according to their relative cutting speed (ten different colours, each colour covers the range of 10 %). The mode is suitable when lower speed on certain entities (e.g. in corners) is applied. For example, to improve the quality of cut for water jet cutting, it is reasonable to reduce speed in the corners as illustrated in (Fig. 76). Fig. 76. Example of “S” (speed) display mode 87 “W” (power) display mode Power display mode distinguishes different values of relative power. Typical application is a laser cutting machine where in many cases it is desirable to apply different settings of laser output power. Fig. 77. Example of “P” (power) display mode Manual parameter adjustment A typical example of manual parameter adjustment is slowing-down in corners for water jet cutting, or reducing laser power for laser cutting. The purpose in the first case is to enable the water jet to be straightened before approaching the corner and the result is significant improvement of corner quality. Automatic slowing down can be set in Asper settings (see section “Automatic parameter changes <Alt+Shift+W>”, page 152). Manual slowing-down can be performed in several steps: 1. Locate a point on the given entity using mouse cursor 2. Split the entity into two parts (use Asper function menu: “Point  Displacement” for defining desired distance of the point from the beginning or end of the contour). 3. Open the menu by right click of the mouse and select menu: “Entity  Split” item. 4. Mouse cursor should be moved to the created entity part and then right mouse button should be pressed. The following dialogue window is displayed by selecting “Entity  Properties”: 88 Fig. 78. Entity properties It is possible to modify following entity properties: Relative speed [%] The parameter enables to use modification of cutting speed relative to the cutting speed set in tool parameters (iMSNC). Relative power [%] In case of cutting plan for laser technology it is also possible to set relative source output. Pause before entity [s] When the option is enabled, Asper inserts into the cutting program an instruction “G4” for pause (e.g. instruction “G4 F5.0” means “wait 5 seconds”), parameter value expresses waiting time in [s] inserted before selected entity. Pause after entity [s] When the option is enabled, Asper inserts into the cutting program an instruction “G4” for pause with, parameter value expresses waiting time in [s] inserted after selected entity. Cooling before entity When the option is enabled, Asper inserts into the cutting program dedicated sequence of instructions “M5” (“stop tool”) and “M3 D2” (“perform cooling”). Custom technology speed It is possible to set custom technology speed in [mm/min] for each entity. However, it is recommended to modify the speed by means of relative speed. Custom r.p.m. Custom setting of r.p.m. is used mainly for milling machines or in general for tools where cutting is executed by a rotating tool that can rotate clockwise or anti-clockwise). This function distinguishes by colour assigned to standard direction of rotation (clockwise for DIN code “M3”) and anti-clockwise rotation (for DIN code “M4”). ATHC mode The parameter enables to assign one available ATHC modes: Detected surface The head tracks surface detected in detection points by means of dedicated sensors. 89 Voltage learning The head is held in constant height and the control system maps arc voltage that is later used as a reference. Learned voltage The height of the head is controlled according to the arc voltage mapped in “Voltage learning” mode. Standard ATHC is performed on basis of dedicated head-tosurface sensor. Off ATHC is disabled, the head after IHS remains in constant height. “Point” ribbon Usage of auxiliary points represents an important aspect of the entire work in Asper. The reason is that many program functions need to have some reference points to identify location for particular function to be completed. The menu provides functions for handling auxiliary points, i. e. advanced placement and functions that directly utilise auxiliary points. Fig. 79. “Point” ribbon “Point” group Absolute placement <:> (colon) Create an auxiliary point where absolute placement of auxiliary point is given by co-ordinates with respect to the co-ordinate origin [0, 0] on a sheet. When launched, the function prompts for entering X and Y co-ordinates. Note: Entered co-ordinates should be separated by comma or space, period (dot) is used as a floating-point separator. 90 When at least one co-ordinate is not entered, Asper completes the missing co-ordinate from the latest entered point. When no values are entered, Asper accepts current position of the mouse cursor. Y co-ordinate can be entered alone by starting typing with the comma sign followed by Y co-ordinate. Number of auxiliary points is displayed in status line (Fig. 80). Auxiliary points can be created using mouse clicks and cancelled in reverse order by [Esc] key. Fig. 80. Display of information about auxiliary points Relative placement <'> (apostrophe) Auxiliary point given by relative co-ordinates can be created by using “Relative point” function. First, the program prompts for entering a reference point used as a basis for given resulting point. It is often convenient to use “Snap” function for entering reference point. Last recently given auxiliary point can be used as a reference by pressing [Enter]. If no reference point is entered, after pressing [Enter] current cursor co-ordinates are accepted. The program then prompts for entering relative co-ordinates. New auxiliary point is created at the co-ordinates obtained by sum of entered offsets and co-ordinates of the reference. Note: Entered co-ordinates should be separated by comma or space, period (dot) is used as a floating-point separator. 91 Empty co-ordinate that has been not entered is substituted by corresponding coordinate of the latest auxiliary point. If no point is entered, Asper accepts current position of the mouse cursor. Y co-ordinate can be entered alone by starting typing with comma sign. Polar placement <;> (semi-colon) The command is used to create an auxiliary point given by polar co-ordinates. The position of the entered auxiliary point is defined by angle from X-axis in degrees and distance (radius) from the reference co-ordinate. The program prompts for entering a reference point. It is convenient to enter this point using the “Snap” function. Last recently given auxiliary point can be used as a reference by pressing [Enter]. If no reference point is entered, after pressing [Enter] current cursor co-ordinates are accepted. The next prompt expects relative co-ordinates. Co-ordinates of the new auxiliary point are calculated by Asper as a sum of user specified co-ordinates and reference ones. After that, the program prompts for entering polar co-ordinates. Co-ordinates angle (U) and radius (R) should be entered separated with comma or space, period (dot) is used as a floating-point separator. Projection <,> The command is used to create an auxiliary point by perpendicular projection of the given point on the nearest section. 92 Snap <.> Create auxiliary point in the closest significant point. The command can be used also with right mouse button together with [Shift] key. It is possible to create an auxiliary point in so-called significant location. That means that mouse cursor “jumps” to the closest significant point (e.g. the chain vertex, centre of circle, corner, etc.). Co-ordinates of significant points are selectable in menu: “Settings  Auxiliary points” (see Fig. 162). When the function is called from the menu, the program prompts for entering a reference point. It is convenient to give this point as free. During movement of the mouse cursor in the working area, a cross-hair skips between auxiliary points. The program finds significant point closest to current cursor location and creates there a new auxiliary point. Displacement <"> This command enables to create an auxiliary point onto an existing entity or section in defined distance. Depending on the sign of the entered distance, the new auxiliary point is either advancing (positive distance), or lagging behind the first reference auxiliary point (negative distance). The function is used in two different ways depending on location of reference auxiliary point: 1. Reference auxiliary point located in a place where two neighbouring entities join. The function expects a reference point. Then it makes a perpendicular projection to the nearest entity and prompts for the direction of displacement. Available direction can be changed to other neighbouring entities using [Tab] key. [Enter] confirms the selected direction; [Esc] cancels the function. Then the program prompts for entering a distance in [mm]. The function finds a projection along the section and creates an auxiliary point in defined distance. 2. Reference auxiliary point located on a single entity. the function just prompts for reference auxiliary point and automatically creates auxiliary point in specified distance in direction of tool movement. The procedure can be illustrated by an example of a square with edge length 100 mm. When desired projection is in the middle of the edge and the distance is 100 mm, a new auxiliary point is created in the middle of adjacent edge in direction of tool movement. That corresponds to the travelled distance 100 mm along the contour. 93 Fig. 81. Dialogue window for displacement Note: Entered distance should be shorter that the distance between the projection and beginning/end of section (the distance should not point out of the section). E.g. when a reference auxiliary point is set 50 mm before the end of cutting path and the entered distance is +100 mm, Asper announces an error message indicating that such an attempt is illegal. Cut start The command places auxiliary points to the beginnings of cutting paths. Actually, for cutting technology, the cut start corresponds to piercing point. When material is too thick to be pierced by plasma in a standard way, these points can processed by drilling provided that the machine comprises a drilling tool. “Marking” group Drilling <!> The command creates holes for drilling. It is available only where switching between technological tools is supported and with a defined drilling tool. Program prompts for a diameter of a drilling hole. The diameter value is accepted only provided that corresponding item is defined in the circle transformation table (see section “Transformation of circles <Alt+Shift+I>”, page 139). When entered value is not defined in the table, an error message is displayed: “Cannot assign drilling parameters to diameter value”. 94 Marking <#> This command creates marking points given by locating auxiliary points in the plan where marking is desired and pressing [Enter]. Line <_> (underline) The function creates a line by a sequence of auxiliary points. The line is considered to be an individual part. It is an open chain, no lead-in or lead-out can be added. This kind of lines can be used for parts with undercuts for folding, etc. When necessary, the command can be used to create a simple part consisting of only one type of entity – line (auxiliary points can be absolute, relative, located in grid corners, etc.) The chain is closed by the function “Snap” applied on the first point of the sequence. Line of mark points <Ctrl+#> The command creates a line that consists only of mark points. The program prompts for approximate distance of individual points in [mm] that are supposed to create the line. Real distances are recalculated so that the distances between neighbouring points are equal. When creating the line of mark points, the first step is to define points of a line outline (see example in Fig. 82). 95 Fig. 82. Outline of a line given by three points Then approximate distance between marking points should be entered (Fig. 83). Fig. 83. Dialogue window for entering approximate distance between individual marking points Then resulting line composed of marking points with defined span is created (Fig. 84). Fig. 84. Resulting line created from marking points 96 Surface detection group The function provides means to manage detection points used for surface detection. The group of associated functions is available also as a separate toolbar to speed-up work with detection points. Set Detection points can be set for selected entities in the plan by means of auxiliary points, the points can be defined in advance, or after running the function. The function can be applied provided that a selection of entities is made (menu: Select). The number of points is given by a user. Delete Already set detection points can be deleted individually for selected entities by selection of the points. Delete all The function is used to delete all detection points defined for selected entities. Set <Ctrl+Shift+S> Alignment points are set by selection of an entity and points that are intended for being used as alignment points. It is possible to define the points in a standard way used in Asper. Delete all The function is used to delete defined alignment points . 97 “Select” ribbon Asper works with parts in two different ways. Either the current part, or a group of parts (block) is processed. A group of parts can be selected in several ways using commands from menu: “Select”. Fig. 85. “Select” ribbon “Select” group Part <F9> This command selects only single part. Repeated use of the command cancels previous selection. Chain <Ctrl+F9> The command selects a chain defined by a single auxiliary point. Repeated use of this command cancels previous selection. Section <Shift+F9> The command selects a section. Repeated use of this command cancels previous selection. 98 Entity <Alt+F9> The command selects an entity. Repeated use of this command cancels previous selection. Pointwise <Ctrl+Alt+F9> The command is typically used for definition of segments by placing points along contours in the direction of cutting. The first point starts the first segment, the next ends the first segment, the next starts another segment, etc. The segments are intended for modification of properties, e.g. it is possible to disable ATHC on specified segments. By part name The command selects parts by their name, it opens a window (Fig. 86) for entering part name. It enables to select all parts in the plan that have identical name. Fig. 86. Dialogue window displayed for selecting parts by name Invert selection <Shift+F2> The function inverts the selection for all objects in the plan. 99 Parts <F2> This command selects all parts present in the plan. If some parts have been selected prior to calling the command, the selection is cancelled and new selection is performed. Parts outside sheet Select all parts that are outside a sheet. Parts inside sheet Select all parts that are located inside a sheet. Cancel selection <Ctrl+F2> The command completely cancels any previously made selection. “Select by window” group Parts <F3> The command selects all parts within a rectangle defined by two auxiliary points. The function is finished without change of selection by pressing [Esc] or [Break] instead of entering both rectangular points. Repeated use of this command cancels previous selection. 100 Chains <Ctrl+F9> The command selects all chains within a rectangle defined by two auxiliary points. Repeated use of this command cancels the previous selection. Sections <Shift+F9> The command selects all sections within a rectangle defined by two auxiliary points. “Advanced selection” group The functions are used to select several objects according to selected criteria. It is advantageous to use these functions in case when it is intended to carry out an operation with large number of sections or chains that fulfil the same criteria. All sections or chains fulfilling the selected criteria are selected/unselected by pressing [OK] button. Chains <Ctrl+Shift+F9> For advanced selection of chains there are several criteria for selection that filter only chains with specific properties. Action Available options are: “Select”, “Cancel selection”, and “Invert selection”. Maximum length [mm] Definition of maximum chain length for selection Contour / hole Available options are: “Outer contours only”, “Holes”, and “Any” Open / closed Available options are: “Open”, “Closed”, and “Any” Maximum rectangle size Dimensions of sides of a rectangle entered in form of a product: A ´ B X [mm] ´ Y [mm] Area less than [mm2] Selection of chains given by area size Area greater than [mm2] Selection of chains given by area size 101 Sections <Shift+Alt+F9> Sections can be selected by application of one or both of criteria: Action Available options are: “Select”, “Cancel selection”, and “Invert selection”. Tool Selection of sections according to applied tool available from list of tools (menu: “Settings → Tools”). “Move” ribbon Asper offers various functions for parts or part group manipulation. Most of them can be found in the ribbon: “Move”. Fig. 87. “Move” ribbon Generally, moving functions operate in the following fashion:  If no chains are selected then points in their neighbourhood should be defined. The points can be entered in advance or the function prompts for them. When it is necessary to enter more points, the second way is more transparent because the called function announces desired number of points and their function in proper order. If the entire part should be moved, that is the most common case, a point defining part outer contour chain should be entered. When a reference point is located close to a hole, outer contour chain is not moved, only the hole or other chains inside it are moved.  If some chains are already selected, it is not necessary to enter points to define them. The difference between this and previous method is that only the selected objects are moved. That means that if only outer contour is selected, the holes remain in the same position. Usage of function “Select” provides more flexibility because it is more likely required to move entire part. Moreover, it is possible to work with chains in the same manner like with a group. The function leaves selection of parts unchanged and thus it is possible to call another moving function for the same group afterwards. In case when the collision control is active (menu: “Settings  Miscellaneous  Enable collision check”), position correctness of all the moved parts is tested. When the program detects a collision (i.e. any two parts get closer to each other than a minimum 102 distance defined for nesting in “Settings  Nesting  Nesting gap [mm]”), the program displays corresponding warning message. “Move” group Drag <D> This command enables to change the position of a part. The part is selected with an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part. The selected part is displayed in different colour and can be moved using cursor keys or mouse. It is possible to rotate the part using [+] and [-] keys. For more precise positioning, [+] and [-] can be used simultaneously with the [Ctrl] key. The angle of rotation can be specified exactly by pressing the [Backspace] key. New position of the part is defined by entering the second auxiliary point. New position depends on given co-ordinates and the program does not check for collisions of parts. When original part position should be preserved, then [Esc] or [Break] should be pressed instead of entering the second point. When the function finds selected parts, it handles them as a group. Another possibility is to finish positioning by pressing [Enter] key. In such case Asper tries to drag the part or a group of parts in defined direction closer to the other parts or to the sides of the sheet. Move A part can be more precisely positioned using the command “Move”. The part is selected by an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part. The program then prompts for entering the moving vector by two auxiliary points (start, end). New position depends on given co-ordinates, the program does not check for part collision. To preserve original part position, instead of entering the second point press [Esc] or [Break]. When the function finds selected parts, it handles them as a group. 103 Rotate <O> The command enables to precisely rotate a part or group of parts. The part is selected by an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part. The program then prompts for entering rotation midpoint and rotation angle. The angle is given either by two auxiliary points (start, end) or directly by a numerical value after pressing the [Backspace] key. The new position depends on given co-ordinates, program does not check for part collision. To preserve original part position, instead of entering the second point press [Esc] or [Break]. When the function finds selected parts, it handles them as a group. Mirror <M> This command is used to change the position of a part by mirroring around general axes. The part is selected by an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part using left mouse button. Then two points should be entered defining the mirror axis. New position depends on given co-ordinates, program does not check for part collision. To preserve original part position, instead of entering the second point press [Esc] or [Break]. If the function finds selected parts, it handles them as a group. In order to maintain technological requirements, the program automatically changes cutting direction and leadins / lead-outs of the section (clockwise or counter-clockwise). Mirror horizontally <H> The command is used to change the position of a part by mirroring around axis parallel to X-axis. The part is selected by an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part. To preserve original part position, instead of entering the second point press [Esc] or [Break]. The program does not check for part collision. If the function finds selected parts, it handles them as a group. In order to maintain technological requirements the program automatically changes cutting direction of the section and lead-ins / -outs. 104 Mirror vertically <V> The command is used to change the position of a part by mirroring around axis parallel to Y-axis. The part should be selected by an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part. To preserve original part position, instead of entering the second point press[Esc] or [Break]. The program does not check for part collision. When the function finds selected parts, it handles them as a group. In order to maintain technological requirements the program automatically changes cutting direction of the section and lead-ins / -outs. Nest parts Execute positioning of parts according to given nesting settings (see “Nesting settings”). “Push to” group Left Move part to the left so that it is aligned with the left border of the sheet or with the right border of other parts. Right Move part to the right so that it is aligned with the right border of the sheet or with the left border of other parts. 105 Up Move part up so that it is aligned with the top border of the sheet or with the bottom border of other parts. Down Move part down so that it is aligned with the bottom border of the sheet or with the top border of other parts. “Align” group Alignment is started by selection of part or group parts to be aligned. The function then requires selection of a reference part. The parts are aligned so that their edge are aligned with the reference part in given direction. Available directions are “Left”, “Right”, “Up”, “Down”. The second co-ordinate is changed in order to keep the distance between parts corresponding to settings (menu: “Settings  Nesting  Nesting gap [mm]”). Left Move parts to the left so that they are aligned with the left border of the selected part. Right Move parts to the right so that they are aligned with the right border of the selected part 106 Up Move parts up so that they are aligned with the top border of the selected part. Down Move parts down so that they are aligned with the bottom border of the selected part. “Section” ribbon Section ribbon is used to perform operations, especially modification of properties, on selected sections. Fig. 88. “Section” ribbon “Section” group Split <L> The command is used to split a section into two sections. Location of the split point is given by an auxiliary point. The function calculates perpendicular projection onto the nearest section and adds lead-ins and lead-outs according to predefined parameters. It is convenient to create more sections on a single chain e.g. in case when cut part suffers from significant thermal deformations. The first section should be designed so that the cut part remains connected to the sheet in the places where the strongest thermal stress exists. Next sections can be cut later when the part cools down. In the meantime it is even possible to cut other parts. Thermal deformations are more visible at long and narrow parts. A typical 107 example is a long and narrow rectangle. Underestimation of the thermal deformation leads to “sabre effect” when the rectangle is twisted along the loosened edge. Split and insert loop <Ctrl+Shift+L> The command is used when a section should be split into two sections. Location of a split is given by an auxiliary point. The function connects both new sections by a curve referred to as a loop (Fig. 89). The function can be advantageously employed especially for cutting part corners from thick materials. The loop guarantees cutting of following entity continuously without stopping the tool. This feature contributes to sharp and vertical cutting edges. The same effect can be achieved by combination of the functions from the “Section” and “Lead-ins/-outs” menus. The size of the loop can be changed by the function “Lead-ins/-outs  Change lead-in”. In case when a loop in the joint point of two sections is created (the chain has been already split), the function “Loop” from “Lead-ins/-outs” menu can be used. Fig. 89. Example of split section and insert loop 108 Merge <C> The command merges two neighbouring sections of a chain into a single section. Change start-point <R> The function is used to define location of the start point by an auxiliary point. The function changes lead-ins and lead-outs according to the parameter settings. In most cases it is more comfortable to place the auxiliary point using the “Snap” function (see page 93). This feature enables to increase the speed and efficiency of work as most chains consist just of one section (by pointing to a desired point on a chain contour, the starting point is directly changed). The same effect can be achieved by using the function menu: “Section  Split” and menu: “Section  Merge”. Change cutting direction <@> The command reverses cutting direction of a section given by an auxiliary point. The function is mostly used for open chains, because in such case the program cannot find automatically the proper direction. Desired direction is mostly given by technological requirements. In order to maintain technological requirements the program automatically changes lead-ins and lead-outs. Fig. 90. Original (default) cutting direction CW 109 Fig. 91. Reversed cutting direction CCW Copy start point <Ctrl+Alt+C> The command copies the position of a starting point of single-section chain from one part to other parts. This command is used to copy starting points of identical chains – usually created as copies. Any attempt to copy starting point to different chains may lead to unexpected results. First, select all chains subjected to change of starting points. Then the program prompts to specify the original chain (the source of starting point position) by an auxiliary point and completes the operation. Copy shape of lead-ins/-outs <Ctrl+Alt+L> The command copies lead-ins and lead-outs of a single-section chain from one part to other parts. First select all destination chains for changing lead-ins and lead-outs and then the program prompts to select an auxiliary point of the original chain (the source of lead-ins or lead-outs position). 110 Disable/enable cut <Shift+E> This command is used to select sections and disable or enable cutting. The section marked as “disabled cut” is not included into cutting ordering. Subsequent application of the functions enables and disables cut. For example, sometimes it is required to create a rectangle with a circular hole so that one edge has been or will be processed using different technology. It is recommended to create the entire shape first, then to split outer contour into two parts, and finally disable cut for one part. This provides correct information about holes and their appropriate compensation, and the lead-ins are created on the correct side. Compensation on/off <[> The command changes kerf compensation attribute of the closest section given by an auxiliary point. Compensated and non-compensated section can be toggled on and off by consecutive application of the function. The function is typically employed for open chains where Asper cannot find kerf compensation side automatically and therefore compensation should be set manually (see also section “Compensation side <{>”). Compensation side <{> The command changes the side of compensation for the closest section given by an auxiliary point. The function is employed mainly for open chains where program cannot find compensation side automatically and compensation should be set manually (see also section “Compensation on/off <[>”). Pre-piercing Pre-piercing comprises additional technological operations that help to pierce thick sheets. For example, in some plasma cutting situations it is possible to drill holes for piercing in advance. Setting of parameters for pre-piercing (Fig. 92). 111 Fig. 92. Pre-piercing parameters IHS offset This command places location of IHS measurement independently from starting point of cutting. It is usually used in cases when induction and capacitive sensors are used for IHS measurement. These devices behave differently above a non-cut sheet and in the space with missing part of sheet. Therefore it is reasonable to relocate IHS so that it is executed above a non-cut part of the sheet. The IHS point is usually placed inside the part and out of the holes. Offset of IHS point is carried out by selection of section and placement of the cursor by mouse. Priority This function affects automatic ordering of cutting. The standard priority value is given by the tool assigned to the section under consideration. If necessary, priority of any section can be modified. The rule for priority is: the greater is the number, the higher is the priority and more advanced position in the cutting ordering with respect to the limits for the ordering parameter settings. Value “1” means default priority, i.e. that the section does not have it own priority, its priority is derived from the priority assigned to particular tool in “Settings  Tools”. 112 “Tools” group The command is used to select and assign a tool from the list of available tools when multiple tools are used. Fig. 93. Assign tool menu “Modify parameters” group The commands in this menu are used to modify crucial sections identified as “Arc” (mostly parts of small circular holes) or “Corner”. These sections can be cut with modified parameters to improve the quality of cutting. The change of parameters can be done in two ways: 1. Selection of different parameter setting (similarly to the case of choosing a different tool in Asper) 2. Setting the relative value of these parameters directly by using one of the functions in “Modify parameters” menu for a corner or arc (in case only one or two parameters are to be changed – usually speed and ATHC). Function “Modify all“ applies changes according to the automatic parameter settings. The windows for parameter settings are the same as the windows for automatic change settings in menu: “Settings  Automatic parameter changes” (page 152). 113 Arc <Shift+G> Change parameters in the selected arc. When the cursor is moved above parts, any candidate entity is highlighted by colour. After an arc is selected, it is possible to modify its properties (Fig. 94). Fig. 94. Settings for selected arc Corner <Shift+F> Change parameters in the selected corner. When the cursor is moved above parts, any candidate entity is highlighted by colour. After a corner is selected, it is possible to modify its properties (Fig. 94). Fig. 95. Settings for selected corner 114 Cancel <Ctrl+F> Cancel slow down on selected entity. Modify all Apply parameter changes globally to all arcs and corners in the plan. Remove all Cancel all settings for slow down globally. Change settings of section end <]> The command is designed preferably for laser cutting but it can used also for other technologies. It enables to modify cutting parameters settings in a defined distance from the end of cutting (Fig. 96). It is usually used for sections without any lead-outs. When the section contains also a lead-out, its length is included into the overall distance before end. Item “Relative power“ can also be used with technologies that contrary to laser do not allow changes in the cutting technology power. Setting this value to “0” disables cutting; this can be often used instead of a microjoint. Fig. 96. Settings for section end 115 Cancel settings of section end <Alt+]> The command cancel any modifications of section end. “Lock tool height” group The command disables adaptive tool height control for the closest section given by an auxiliary point. The change of tool height control can be done for the whole section at once, or it can be changed just in a portion of the section given by points. This feature has been modified when compared to the previous versions: the parts with ATHC disabled are not displayed by a cross but they can be viewed in a special display mode (“ATHC view mode” button in the toolbar) with coloured display of entities with enabled/disabled ATHC. The purpose of the function is to disable ATHC in cases when e.g. performance of automatic parameter changes (see section “Automatic parameter changes <Alt+Shift+W>”, page 152) is not satisfactory, or it is more convenient to disable ATHC manually when reasonable (corners, small circular holes, etc.) Complete section The command disables/enables ATHC for complete section. The section is identified by an auxiliary point. Pointwise This option is used to define a segment on a section with disabled/enabled ATHC. The segment is defined by a start point and end of a section. Border The option disables ATHC in given distance from the sheet margin, and when necessary the entities are split. 116 “Multi-head cutting” group (optional) Simultaneous cuts <F> “Simultaneous cuts” is a function that is used to cut long pieces with nonparallel sides in “X” direction (Fig. 97) simultaneously using two heads. It can be used provided that the machine and corresponding tool settings in Asper comprise multiple heads suitable for simultaneous cutting. If the selected tool not comprise multiple heads, the function has no effect. Note: The function is optional and is available upon corresponding registration code. The function saves time and heat induced deformations is reduced. The angle between the non-parallel sides being a measure of divergence of sides should be as small as possible to prevent undesirable difference of cutting speeds in “X” direction for the heads. This might cause noticeable and undesirable difference of cutting quality. An ideal case is when the sheet is positioned on the bed so that the contour is symmetrical with respect to axis parallel to “X” axis. Usage of the function is so that it is required to select the sections that should be cut with the leading (master) head, remaining sections are then cut with the other head. The selection is completed by a double click. Fig. 97. Simultaneous (non-parallel) cutting example Head index The function is used in machines with two or more cutting heads with the same technology with separate Y drives. The function assigns different cutting head to selected parts or selected contour. It is used in special situations where a part of a cutting contour is out of working area of selected head and so the part can be cut with another head. 117 Fig. 98. Activate cutting head index “Bevel cut” group The functions are used for definition of bevel cutting for a given section. The command can be used only provided that material thickness set in technological parameters is non-zero (menu: “Settings  Technology  Material Thickness”). When material thickness is not set, the item is disabled. The section is defined by an auxiliary point or by selection. The function finds the nearest section and displays a dialogue window “Bevel edge properties” (Fig. 99). Bevel angles are defined separately for to and for bottom bevel. Starting and end bevel angles are also entered separately. This is intended for variable bevel cutting. Note: When a bevel angle is being entered, Asper automatically sets end bevel angle according to the starting bevel angle value, provided that the machine supports variable bevel cutting then end bevel angle can be modified according to requirements. Bevel cut Bevel cut setting can be used only provided that tool settings (“Settings  Tools”) include a bevel cutting tool and material thickness is properly entered in “Settings  Technology  Material thickness [mm]”. The function applies bevel cutting on selected section. After a section is selected, bevel edge properties should be set (Fig. 99). Bevel ATHC expert Bevel ATHC expert parameters define behaviour of Asper in case of automatic setting of bevel cutting sections. It is located in “Menu  Parameters settings  Bevel ATHC expert”. This function automatically activates settings adjusted in Bevel ATHC expert parameters. 118 Fig. 99. Bevel edge properties Data required for the “Bevel edge properties” window are parameters of the bevel edge, method of tool behaviour prior to bevel cutting (Fig. 99). Angle 1 is entered into the first window as a positive number with respect to vertical axis and it is given in degrees. Direction of torch slope is entered into the second window by selection from graphical menu (slope is expressed with respect to the bottom edge of cutting material). The height of vertical cutting section is entered into the third window (maximum height equals to the material thickness). The slope with respect to vertical axis is given in degrees. Positive direction of the angle is always assumed to the left with respect to tool movement direction. Available methods of torch sloping prior to slanted cutting are as follows: 1. Straight piercing with rotation during first part of lead-in 2. Straight piercing and in place rotation 3. Straight piercing and first part of lead-in parallel to section start (the method is available only for rotator type “Plasma/WaterJet V1”) 4. Bevelled piercing with rotation completed in advance Entered values are confirmed by [OK] button and the selected edge is displayed as follows:  Edge loaded from part source file (e.g. in DXF format) is displayed in colour assigned to vertical edges. Section plan represents part margin.  Full yellow (or in customized colour) line expresses the edge on the upper side of the part 119  Dashed yellow (or in customized colour) line is assigned to edge on bottom side of the part If the size of vertical part of cut Tn is zero, only the original edge representing part margin is displayed. On the bottom side of the sheet the edge is displayed as a yellow line. The sign of the bevel angle determines what line is located on the top and bottom side of metal sheet, and if it is inner or outer chain of the part. As there are various parameter settings applied in practice for vertical and bevel cutting, it is possible to set a different tool for vertical and bevel cutting respectively in the window. The tools can also represent in Asper various parameter settings. “Dynamic piercing“ group Dynamic piercing is a special piercing process where the head above the piercing place is not stationary but performs movements in defined ways. This feature is used in water-jet or gas cutting especially for piercing thick materials. Dynamic piercing can significantly shorten piercing process. Add line <Shift+L> Definition of the first type of dynamic piercing - movement forth and back along a line with defined length and number of cycles (see Fig. 100). Fig. 100. Line properties for dynamic piercing Add spiral <Shift+K> Definition of the second type of dynamic piercing - movement along gradually growing semi-circles (spiral, see Fig. 101). 120 Fig. 101. Spiral properties for dynamic piercing The same result can be reached in a different way – making the lead-in longer and setting shorter piercing time parameter so that the lead-in movement starts before the material is pierced. The use of dynamic piercing function is recommended only in cases where simpler methods of piercing process shortening cannot be used. Modify <Ctrl+K> The function enables to modify dynamic piercing settings. Delete <Shift+Ctrl+K> The function removes particular dynamic piercing. Add globally The function creates dynamic piercing globally in the plan. Remove all The function removes dynamic piercing globally from the plan. “Lead-ins/-outs” ribbon The functions within the ribbon are used to handle lead-ins and lead-outs of the parts in the plan. 121 Fig. 102. “Lead-ins/-outs” ribbon “Lead-ins/-outs” group Add lead-in The command adds a new lead-in to a section defined by an auxiliary point. A lead-in is added to the section according to actual settings (“Settings  Leadins and lead-outs”). If the auxiliary point is located in the place with already existing lead-in, the function adds another lead-in to the existing one with parameters from Asper settings. The program calculates lead-in size and shape depending on situation in the lead-in area. The program does not solve the problem of possible collision with other parts. Add lead-out <Shift+I> The command adds a new lead-out to a section defined by an auxiliary point. A lead-out is added to the section according to actual settings (menu: “Settings  Lead-ins and lead-outs”). If the auxiliary point is located in a place with already existing lead-out, the function adds another lead-out to the existing one with parameters from Asper settings. The program calculates lead-out size and shape depending on situation in the lead-out area. The program does not solve the problem of possible collision with other parts. Remove lead-in The command removes a lead-in defined by an auxiliary point. If the lead-in includes more components, the function deletes the first component from the beginning according to cutting direction. 122 Remove lead-out <Shift+U> The command removes a lead-out defined by an auxiliary point. If the lead-out consists of more components, the function will delete the last component from the end according to cutting direction. Modify lead-in <N> This command enables to modify selected lead-in manually. Provided that parameter “Display dialogue for lead-in / lead-out modification” in “Settings  Miscellaneous” is set, then a dialogue window is displayed (Fig. 103). The window contains information about actual settings of currently selected lead-in or lead-out. Fig. 103. Dialogue window with lead-in properties Lead-in can be modified by mouse movement, in case of arc by [+] and [–] keys on numerical keyboard or by the mouse scroll. Contrary to other commands, this activity does not finish by pressing [Esc] key. The management is done by an auxiliary window. The lead-in stops responding to the mouse movement and it can be changed by changing values in the auxiliary window. The program does not control a lead-in created by user therefore when a lead-in interferes with another part, the program understands it as a user’s intention. Tip: To keep a smooth line between lead-in and contour during manual change of lead-in, set the angle in auxiliary window to 0. Similarly you can change the length of lead-in, or in case of arch its diameter, to the required value. 123 Modify lead-out <Shift+N> This command enables to modify selected lead-out manually and its use is the same as the one of “Change lead-in”. Note: The functions (“Add”, “Modify”, “Delete”) used to be the same for lead-ins and lead-outs in the previous versions of Asper. In this version they are separated as e.g. lead-in might overlap the lead-out in case of a small circular hole and it was not possible to define the one user wanted to modify. Add overlap The functions adds an overlap (see “Overlap”). Loop <Ctrl+L> The command creates a loop at a junction of two sections. Loops enable to achieve sharper corners (Fig. 104). Inserted loop Fig. 104. An example of a simple square with inserted loop In places where cutting direction steeply changes (sharp corners), a significant undercutting of thick materials occurs. To eliminate this effect, corners need not be cut not directly, but the following approach can be used: 124 1. Continue cutting in original trend also after leaving the contour 2. Create an arc in sufficient distance from the point of departure in order to align cutting direction with the first entity following after the corner 3. Continue cutting until the contour after the corner is reached. The function simplifies cutting of lead-ins and lead-outs. The same effect can be achieved by combination of functions from menu “Section” and menu “Lead-ins/-outs”. Loop size can be modified by function menu: “Lead-ins/-outs  Modify”. Compensate The command is used to change compensation of a lead-in or lead-out. Lead-ins and lead-outs are usually compensated in the same way as the section they belong to. In some situations it is better to start compensation just after lead-in. Typical example can be a linear lead-in in very small circle hole (assuming that the lead-in starting point is in the middle of the hole). If there is not enough space for compensation therefore the first move (lead-in) leads directly from circle centre in radial direction, its length is equal to the circle radius reduced by kerf width (tool radius). Fig. 105. Lead-in compensation “Global modifications” group Add to selected The command adds lead-ins and lead-outs to selected parts. 125 Remove selected The command removes lead-ins and lead-outs from selected parts. Add all The command is used to create complete set of lead-ins and lead-outs according to settings for all sections without lead-ins or lead-outs and can be created automatically. It does not create lead-ins or lead-outs at the ends of open chains, because it is not clear what is the part side and what is the waste. The program calculates lead-in/lead-out size and shape based on situation in the target area. The program does not solve the problem of possible collision with other parts. Remove all The command deletes all lead-ins and lead-outs in a plan. Refresh all The command cancels lead-ins and lead-outs and generates new according to actual parameters. “Microjoints” ribbon The functions in the menu are used to manage microjoints in current plan. Fig. 106. “Microjoints” ribbon 126 “Microjoints” group Create <Ctrl+M> The command creates a microjoint. The centre of a microjoint is defined by an auxiliary point. Microjoint length and other parameters are set in actual parameters setting in menu: “Settings  Microjoints”. Create on selection The command creates microjoints on all selected sections. Microjoint length and all the other parameters are set in actual parameters setting in menu: “Settings  Microjoints”. Delete <Ctrl+Shift+M> The command deletes a microjoint defined by an auxiliary point, or when the key shortcut has been used, by location of mouse cursor. Remove all The command deletes all microjoints. Microjoint properties <Shift+M> The command enables changes the properties of a single microjoint or more microjoints at once. It modifies properties only of selected microjoints (Fig. 107). If no microjoint is selected the function is applied to a microjoint defined by an auxiliary point. 127 Fig. 107. Microjoint properties Length [mm] Definition of the microjoint length. Cut at the end Microjoints are automatically cut after the program is finished. Depth Used only for milling machines, in other cases is meaningless and is automatically disabled. The parameter defines depth of microjoint created by milling. Keep complete microjoint The setting retains microjoint complete in terms of material thickness. Parameter “Keep complete microjoint” is intended only for milling machines, in other cases is meaningless and is automatically disabled. Depth [mm] Used only for milling machines, in other cases is meaningless and is automatically disabled. The parameter defines depth of microjoint created by milling. “Ordering” ribbon Beside file generation, setting of cutting order is the only obligatory activity. Asper offers several possibilities; the simplest one is to use automatic ordering method. After ordering is completed, the cutting plan is ready to be generated. Fig. 108. “Ordering” ribbon 128 “Ordering” group Automatic <A> The command is used for automatic ordering settings. This function is normally used as preferable ordering action and in most cases it is sufficient. Manual ordering should be used only in case of special ordering requirements; e.g. for minimization of thermal deformation of the material. Ordering algorithm properties are adjustable in menu: “Settings  Ordering”. After completed ordering, every starting point is enumerated by an index. Tip: Automatic ordering does not create a completely new cutting order but it connects existing partial orders. This is very useful in case of special cutting order requirements in a part of cutting plan. When copying a part or a group of parts also cutting order in this group is copied. If there is a special cutting order requirement to a part, it is useful to set this order manually immediately after the part is loaded into Asper and to copy it afterwards. Manual <Z> The command enables to set the cutting order manually. First section in ordering is selected by using first auxiliary point, other sections should be then selected so that they are correspondingly ordered. [Esc] key can be used to resume the last ordering index. The function is terminated when ordering is complete, or anytime the [Enter] key is pressed. It is possible to create several local orderings, e.g. to specify an order for inner holes of a single part, copy the part and then to finish definition of a global ordering. Finally, local orderings are merged into a global ordering. The function is continuously checking whether a new index meets rules defined in parameters setting. If not, then the index is not allowed to be added into global order. The function does not run when the order is already complete. To perform re-ordering procedure, the original ordering for the section should be modified or deleted. 129 Cancel <W> Specified portion of complete ordering can be cancelled by selection of the first and the last section of the portion. Both sections should be in the same sequence. Complete ordering can be cancelled using “Cancel All” function. Break <Alt+W> This command is used to break the cutting order. The ordering is broken following a section given by an auxiliary point. Break between parts This function cancels the ordering of cutting after every section where the next section belongs to a different part than the previous section. It removes ordering between parts but preserves ordering inside the parts. Tip: The function is designed mainly for the situation where it is necessary to order the sections manually, but ordering of holes inside these holes can be made using the automatic ordering. In this case, first make the complete ordering automatically and then use the function “Break between parts”. Then all parts have their sections ordered. It is then possible to connect complete parts using automatic ordering. Manual common-line cut <Shift+Z> After defining parts and their edges cut by common cut, Asper splits the chains into individual sections. The command then enables to define cutting order of the sections manually. The ordering is then defined by consequent clicking on the sections. Ordered section is colourhighlighted. After clicking on the last section, the function ends automatically and on the cutting plan is displayed with corresponding paths. For manual ordering of group of sections mutually coupled by a common-line cut it is possible to define at the same time also direction of cutting the sections. The end of 130 section that is closer to the clicked point, is considered to be the beginning and when necessary, the direction can be reversed. Test <T> The command checks correctness of actually defined ordering, whether none of rules defined in settings have been violated. A section violating some rules is highlighted by a different colour. In addition, functions for zoom change are enabled to visualize the problematic place that is often not visible in current view. This test is performed automatically also prior to code generation. Cancel all <Ctrl+A> This function cancels the ordering of cutting after every section where the next section belongs to a different part than the previous section. It removes ordering between parts but preserves ordering inside the parts. The function cancels complete or individual orderings of cutting. To cancel only a part of ordering, or to split ordering into two parts, function “Cancel” can be used. In case when ordering being cancelled contains traverses without switching off the technology (chain cutting), there is also an option to cancel these transfers. “Advanced ordering functions” group Chain cut <%> The command enables to cut more parts without switching the tool off. The section where the tool remains on is defined by an auxiliary point. It is convenient to use this command for short movements by cutting between two parts that do collide with other parts but cut only through waste. The program does not perform collision check, so usage of this function should be carefully considered by the user. In that case it is recommended to modify lead-ins and lead-outs of the neighbouring parts so that cutting is performed away from part contours. 131 The method is suitable especially for thick sheets where piercing takes a long time and causes excessive wear of tool components. Some plasma sources have maximum piercing thickness significantly smaller than maximum cutting thickness. Chain cut enables to eliminate inevitable additional technological operation (like drilling holes for piercing, etc.) The first starting point is placed directly onto the sheet edge or into the position, where the edge has been already created by cutting previous part. It is important to realise that plasma cutting process needs to have “technological pauses” to prevent overheating of the torch. Therefore it is better to create a cutting program that involves more plasma starts than to create a program with single start that needs user interrupts. The chain-cutting feature is automatically cancelled after any reordering due to safety reasons. Finish cut A finish cut is (almost) straight splitting cut in direction of Y axis with no or minimum movement in direction of X axis that is used to finish cutting of several parts. Typical usage is cutting mostly rectangular parts on a DS machines where instead of gantry, a metal sheet is moved in X axis. The aim is to increase efficiency of cutting process because after cutting of a part is completed, it is necessary to move the sheet so that the finished part is above the conveyor where the part falls out and is transported by the conveyor, otherwise finished parts may cause problems when the sheet is moved in X direction and may collide. Therefore it is more convenient to split cutting by single final cutting to separate a group finished parts. Create junction <J> The function creates a junction between two parts. Placement of the junction is given by the cursor. During cursor movement, Asper automatically suggests location of the junction as illustrated (Fig. 109). The junction enables to cut two or more parts with single tool start. During the creation of a junction the part being connected to another part is distinguished by different (by default yellow) colour. In case of simple circumference, the original lead-in and lead-out on the connected part are automatically cancelled to cut in single step. 132 Fig. 109. Selection of junction placement Create junctions by line <Ctrl+J> Create junctions for several parts along a user defined line. The line is defined by two points. Delete junction <Shift+J> The function cancels existing junction between two parts. The parts are selected by the cursor. Sometimes it is necessary to modify lead-ins and/or lead-outs. 133 Traverse path The function enables to modify traverse path between two sections by specifying transition points. This feature is used to bypass potentially problematic areas. For example, when cutting thin metal sheets using laser technology, to speed-up the process, traverse movements are executed without lifting the cutting head. When direct traverse path leads through previously cut area, a danger of collision arises. “Settings” ribbon All Asper settings are available from menu: “Settings”. The settings are divided into two groups: 1. Plan settings influence current cutting plan, i.e. document in the active window in the foreground. All settings are staved together with part layout into a file with extension “PLA”. There is an option to use templates (or configuration files) where all parameters can be pre-set (“CFG” files). 2. Program settings influence all documents. Most of the program settings are saved in “Param.xml” file stored in the same directory as the main executable “Asper.exe”, while others are in are stored separately for each user in the Windows registry database. Fig. 110. “Settings” ribbon “Plan settings” group Sheet <Alt+Shift+P> A sheet is used as a workpiece, it is space for placing parts. The folder enables to define size of displayed sheet by entering X and Y dimensions in [mm]. Sheet dimensions are used for nesting and economy calculations. Nesting efficiency is then calculated from total parts area and the sheet area. 134 Fig. 111. Sheet shape and dimensions for “Rectangle” sheet shape Sheet shape Default sheet shape is a “Rectangle”. Other shapes are available only for Asper installations with dedicated postprocessors, e.g. “RotProf” or “ProfiCut”. Technology <Alt+Shift+T> Parameters in this folder are used as a base for economy files, if economy report of version 3.2-3.4 is selected. In case that “Intranet” type of economy report is selected, these values have no influence on results. Provided that given parameters are correct for the technology, it is possible to get more accurate information in economy files. Price calculation in economy files is based on three cost-related parameters:  cost of 1 hour of machine operation  cost of 1 meter of cut  cost of 1 kg of sheet material The resulting cost in the print-out is the sum of the three entries. All relevant data are evaluated for each part separately. Part material cost includes also percentage ratio part of the waste. If a part weighs 1 kg and utilisation of the material is 50 %, part material cost corresponds to 2 kg of the material. 135 Fig. 112. Technology settings Machine For time calculations based on given speeds it is important to realize that it is only an estimate because the tool is not moved all the time with a constant speed. Estimate of times can be made more accurate when all times needed for technological operations are included in time calculations. These times are more difficult to estimate because they depend on many other factors. Inaccuracies of time estimation due to variable (speed) can be reduced by setting correct values of machine acceleration. Machine User-entered machine name used for identification in economy files. Tool change time [s] Used to improve accuracy of time statistics by including time duration of tool change process. Price / [hour] Cost of 1 hour of machine operation. Traverse speed [mm/min] Information about traverse speed of a machine improve accuracy of time statistics by including time duration of tool change process. Acceleration [mm/s2] Machine acceleration is used for further refinement of time estimates by assuming more realistic data of motion trajectory. Sheet type User-entered sheet type used for identification of material sheet type used later in economy report. Available sheet types for selection are displayed in Fig. 113. 136 Specification More detailed specification of material used to define the material uniquely. Remark The item is used to enter any user text remark used later in economy report. Material thickness Material thickness together with sheet dimensions are used in economy files for calculation of sheet volume and subsequently of a sheet price. [mm] Material density [kg/m3] Material density is used in economy files for calculation of sheet weight based on sheet dimensions. Price / kg The parameter is used in economy files to calculate total price of material. Fig. 113. Available material types Important: Correctly entered material thickness is fundamental for all bevel cutting technologies. Tool technology Technology data are used in economy files to refine description of a technological process. Setting of technology tool is important especially for the machines that enable to use several technologies. Particular tool is selected from the list of available tools. Cutting speed [mm/min] Actual value of cutting speed is one of the most important technological parameters and it is used for time calculations. Kerf width [mm] Definition of tool beam diameter according to tool parameters in iMSNC control software. Non-zero kerf width means that in cutting process some amount of material is removed and this removal is accepted in calculations. Piercing time [s] Time calculations are more accurate when piercing time (tool parameter) is appropriately set. It is important especially for cutting plans with many piercing points. Include acceleration The setting enables to include in time calculations also actual machine acceleration rate parameter that is given by a dedicated parameter. Price / meter The item is used for entering unit price for 1 m of cutting path. 137 Starting points <Alt+Shift+A> The folder contains items for setting starting points of a cutting plan. It is possible to set preferred corner of placement of the starting point for a part. Fig. 114. Starting points Outer contour Definition of “reference” corner by selection from four options (Fig. 114). Prefer sharp corners When a contour contains sharp corners, the starting point is placed into the sharp corner that is closest to the selected corner of part bounding box. Inner contour Settings for start points for inner contours. Holes without sharp corner For inner contours without sharp corners it is possible to select preferred entity type for placement of the starting point: “Any entity”, “Line”, and “Arc”. A typical application is cutting oval holes where Asper normally creates a special type of hole on the curved part similarly to circular holes. If it is not suitable, “Line” type is selected. Preferred angle Definition of starting angle. Cutting start direction for salient corner When no sharp corner is found or if “Prefer sharp corners” is reset, it is possible to define initial direction of cutting in the starting point. Direction is entered in degrees, left-to-right horizontal direction is entered as “0”, bottom-to-top vertical direction is entered as “90”. 138 Transformation of circles <Alt+Shift+I> Transformation of circles is a function that replaces cutting of circular holes by drilling. Transformation parameters define classes of holes to be transformed and the way of processing classified holes. Fig. 115. Transformation of circles Circular holes are very common shapes found in cutting programs and unlike other types of holes they can be processed in several different ways:  Cutting the holes using available tools  Drilling the holes provided that the machine is equipped with a drilling head  Marking the holes by punching provided that it is supported by technology of the particular machine.  A special option is cutting the holes with extended radius: - Transformation to quality hole (plasma cutting, TrueHole by Hyperthem) - Transformation to quality hole (plasma cutting, ContourCut by Kjellberg) - Transformation to power hole (plasma cutting, PowerHole by MicroStep) 139 Asper provides two lists for transformation: a list for particular plan or template, and a global list that contains generally used transformations regardless of material type, thickness, etc. • For this plan / template only • Global transformations Asper attempts to apply transformations in the order as they are written. Whenever it finds a transformation suitable for particular hole, it is applied and evaluation is completed. First, it searches transformations for a plan, then global transformations. Beside this, a sort of hidden transformations for quality hole might exist. The transformations are defined by quality hole settings that enable to define range of hole diameters by multiples of material thickness. Diameters range for transformations can be defined in two ways. The first method filters all circular holes with diameter falling into the specified interval. The second method filters all circular holes with diameter matching the specified diameter with given tolerance. When holes in a single part are supposed to be processed by different ways, it is possible to limit execution of the transformation only for circles defined in a specified layer of a “DXF” file. For more complicated situations (e.g. cutting threads, holes with large diameter) it is possible to use pre-drilling. Then a hole is processed by two subsequent drilling operations with possibly different parameters. In this case Asper sets an especially higher priority for pre-drilling to ensure a correct sequence of operations. 140 Fig. 116. Dialogue window for definition of a new circle transformation Circular hole definition Transformatio n type Specification of circular holes that are intended to be processed automatically in specified manner. Interval Method for entering range of hole diameters by means of interval of the type “from-to” (Fig. 117). Diameter Method for entering range of hole diameters by means of diameter and tolerance (Fig. 118). Use only for DXF layer The parameter enables to apply transformation only for DXF layer specified by name (Fig. 116). Definitions of individual transformations. Drilling Definition of a list of transformations processed by drilling (Fig. 119). Name Define name of transformation (Fig. 119). Cycle type Select drilling cycle from the list. 141 Description Description of drilling operation entered by Asper. Add Add new drilling operation. Edit Edit selected drilling Delete Delete selected drilling operation. Move up Move drilling operation up. Move down Move drilling operation down. Retain original circle The original circle can be preserved even after applying the transformation. In that case the priority is also set so that the circle is cut out first and then finely finished by a drill. Markpoint Replace circular holes with marking points for subsequent processing. Radius change Change selected radius to a new one. Quality hole Radius change [mm] Change current radius to entered value. Tool Selection of tool for selected radius. It is possible to keep current tool assignment (“Don’t change”) or select a tool from the list of available tools. Perform quality hole cutting on selected hole. Fig. 117. Definition of circular hole by means of interval of type “from-to” Fig. 118. Definition of circular hole by means of diameter and tolerance 142 Fig. 119. Definition of a drilling (canned) cycle For this plan / template only Diameter [mm] Diameter of hole intended for transformation(Fig. 117, Fig. 118). Layer (DXF) Name of DXF layer intended for transformation (Fig. 116). Description Additional information about transformation provided by Asper based on entered transformation type (Fig. 119). Edit Opens editing window for selected transformation. New Define new transformation. Delete Delete already defined transformation. Up Move selected transformation up. Down Move selected transformation down. To global Move selected transformation to global list. Global transformations Diameter [mm] Diameter of hole intended for transformation (Fig. 117, Fig. 118). Layer (DXF) Name of DXF layer intended for transformation (Fig. 116). Description Additional information about transformation provided by Asper based on entered transformation type (Fig. 119). Edit Opens editing window for selected transformation. 143 New Define new transformation. Delete Delete already defined transformation. Up Move selected transformation up. Down Move selected transformation down. To plan Move selected transformation to current plan list. Microjoints <Alt+Shift+D> The folder is used to set microjoint placement parameters. Similarly as in the case of lead-ins, parameter change refers only to newly created microjoints not to already existing microjoints. Fig. 120. Settings for microjoints Microjoints Create during import The option creates microjoints automatically during part import. Microjoints are created according to set parameters with pre-set span between the microjoints. Span [mm] Distance between microjoints Microjoint length [mm] Length of microjoints 144 Lead-ins/-outs <Alt+Shift+N> The parameters influence automatic creation of lead-ins and lead-outs. Moreover, the folder comprises also parameters of other add-ons like loops, microjoints. Manual modifications are available in dedicated menu functions or by means of shortcuts. The parameters of lead-ins and lead-outs should be set so that they match corresponding technological requirements and the need for manual change of parameters is minimised. Modification of the parameters does not influence already existing lead-ins and lead-outs. Fig. 121. Lead-ins and lead-outs For contours and holes it is possible to set separately appropriate type of lead-in and lead-out by selecting one of available types: 1. Arc - An arc-type lead-in tangentially connected to the contour is created on arc or on an insufficiently acute angle where a straight lead-in would be too close to the contour. 145 2. Line - a line-type lead-in is created in a corner where it is possible to create a straight line lead-in, or in case when the lead-in is created on a straight line. This type is the most preferred type. 3. Line and arc - when lead-in or lead-out type is set to “line and arc”, Asper automatically selects the most suitable type of lead-in or lead-out. The selection is not valid for microjoints and neighbouring sections where line-type lead-ins and lead-outs are created automatically perpendicularly onto them. Despite the fact that the microjoint is defined as a section with disabled cutting, lead-ins and lead-outs are necessary also for them due to special attribute of the microjoint – it is possible to cut the microjoint automatically after cutting of the whole plan is completed. Angles of connection of lead-ins and lead-outs to contours can be defined according to settings in “Type” subsection. Connecting angles of the lead-ins for acute angles are set in the item marked as “< 150°” (usually there is no reason to use a value different than 0° – direct lead-in). Item “> 150°” defines connecting angle of a line lead-in in case of a plane or in an obtuse angle. Value of 150 is used as the internally used boundary between the obtuse and acute angle. Parameter “R” defines radius of an arc used as an insert between the linear part and the entering point to a contour. Angles of connection of lead-ins and lead-outs to contours can be defined according to settings in “Type” subsection. Connecting angles of the lead-ins for acute angles are set in the item marked as “< 150°” (usually there is no reason to use a value different than 0° – direct lead-in). Item “> 150°” defines connecting angle of a line lead-in in case of a plane or in an obtuse angle. Value of 150 is used as the internally used boundary between the obtuse and acute angle. Parameter “R” defines radius of an arc used as an insert between the linear part and the entering point to a contour. Properties for lead-ins and lead-outs in outer contours and holes, microjoints, and overlaps can be set separately. They are created and modified also during operations of file insertion, parts mirroring and section change. Length of lead-outs in holes should be short enough to prevent falling down of already cut pieces. Otherwise, the tool keeps working and THC is trying to follow the falling material which often results in tool collision. In practice, the length of lead-outs in holes is usually a compromise between several controversial requirements. Contour Type of lead-in Select type of lead-in for the contour. Available options of the lead-in type are: “Line”, “Arc”, and “Line or arc”. Type of lead-out Select type of lead-out for the contour. Available options of the lead-out type are: “Line”, “Arc”, and “Line or arc”. Lead-in [mm] Length of lead-ins for outer contours. Lead-out [mm] Length of lead-outs for outer contours. 146 Overlaps [mm] Length of overlaps. Parameters Loop radius [mm] The item enables to set the size of the circular loop by means of setting the loop radius. Straight lead-in An insertion of straight cut portion to the lead-in start is used in situations length for bevel cut when plasma bevel cutting is applied on thicker metal sheets. Then, the first part is cut with azimuth axis already properly rotated but the torch remains [mm] straight. The benefit of this approach is reduced risk of plasma arc ignition. Bevel lead-in length The parameter defines a correction factor for modification of lead-ins for bevel cutting where the length of a lead-in is multiplied by the parameter. factor Slow down at lead-in start The setting enables to modify initial part of a lead-in, I. e. to modify speed and power for defined length of lead-in start and so to define the performance of the first part of the lead-in. They are useful especially for laser cutting. Slow-down [mm] The parameter defines length of lead-in start with modified parameters. Relative speed [%] Modification of speed. Relative power [%] Modification of power. Dynamic piercing In the part “Dynamic piercing” it is possible to set the parameters of dynamic piercing provided that the piercing method is automatically applied during insertion of parts. The dynamic piercing is described in part “Dynamic piercing”, page 120. Screenshot in Fig. 122 displays parameters for dynamic piercing methods – line and spiral: Fig. 122. Dynamic piercing settings for line (left) and spiral (right) Type Selection of path shape for dynamic piercing Line Select linear shape for dynamic piercing 147 Quantity Number of passes along defined path X- travel [mm] Length of travel in X direction Y- travel [mm] Length of travel in Y direction Speed [%] Speed scale Spiral Select spiral shape for dynamic piercing Number of cycles Number of cycles (rounds) of the spiral path Starting radius [mm] Starting radius of the spiral path Speed [%] Speed scale Contour Enable dynamic piercing for outer contour Hole Enable dynamic piercing for inner hole Hole Type of hole lead-in Select type of lead-in for the hole. Available options of the lead-in type are: “Line”, “Arc”, and “Line or arc”. Type of hole lead-out Select type of lead-out for the hole. Available options of the lead-out type are: “Line”, “Arc”, and “Line or arc”. Hole lead-ins [mm] Length of lead-ins in holes Hole lead-outs [mm] Length of lead-outs in holes Overlaps in holes [mm] Length of overlaps in holes Small hole diameter [mm] The parameter defines the threshold for setting the shape of lead-in e.g. in circular or oval (with corresponding radius) holes. In that case, circles with diameter less than parameter value have linear lead-in perpendicular to the contour, and circles with larger radius have arc lead-in. The threshold value should respect distinctive properties of particular technology. Microjoint parameters Lead-ins for microjoints [mm] Length of lead-ins for microjoints Lead-outs for microjoints [mm] Length of lead-outs for microjoints 148 Change parameters at section end Settings similar to lead-in start can be applied also for end part of a section. There is also a possibility to lock height of Z-axis, i.e. to use fixed position of Z-axis instead of ATHC-based control. Change parameters at section end The setting enables/disables to modify parameters of section ends. Slow-down [mm] The parameter defines length of section end with modified parameters. Relative speed [%] Modification of speed. Relative power [%] Modification of power. Lock height The setting disables adaptive height control. Use lead-in to cut waste inside circular hole The function is used so that lead-in path except its original function is utilized to cut inner areas of holes into smaller pieces. The holes are defined by diameter range. For explanation see Fig. 123. Into halves - diameter The lead-in is performed so that the inner part of the hole is split into two identical parts (Fig. 123 - left). Into quarters - diameter The lead-in is performed so that the inner part of the hole is split into four identical parts (Fig. 123 - right). Distance from contour Definition of distance of lead-in cutting path from a contour. Fig. 123. Example of circular holes split by lead-in into halves (left) and into quarters (right) 149 Bevel ATHC expert <Alt+Shift+X> Bevel ATHC expert parameters define behaviour of Asper in case of automatic setting of bevel cutting sections (Fig. 124). Fig. 124. Bevel ATHC Expert parameters Bevel cut settings Square size for plane detection points [mm] Side of square that is applied for classification of parts when Bevel ATHC expert is used. Parts or sections with size smaller than the parameter are considered to be suitable for cutting according to detected plane. For bigger parts or sections, the accuracy is improved by application of arc voltage learning. Plane detection is used as a priori information for learning mode. Learning mode is then applied on basis of parameters listed below. Pre-learn cut length [mm] Length of cutting where tool height is controlled on basis of measured plane. The section is used to provide some delay for plasma arc voltage measurement so that at the start of measurement, the arc is already stable. The length excludes lead-in. Learn cut length [mm] Length of section for learning, i.e. the tool height is controlled on basis of measured plane and plasma arc voltage is measured. The tool cuts with specified bevel and measured plasma arc voltage value is then used as a reference for ATHC. 150 Apply automatically during import The setting enables automatic run of Bevel ATHC expert algorithm for situations where CAD drawing already includes specification of bevel. Run before automatic ordering Run of Bevel ATHC expert algorithm before automatic ordering. Single detection point The setting enables to use single detection point. Normally, for surface detection two or three points are used. Single detection point is recommended for thick metal sheets where the surface is considered to be relatively flat and probability of improperly laid sheet is very low. Surface detection and voltage learning Usually, three-point surface detection is used only for bevel cuts on small areas. Straight cutting utilizes standard ATHC. In some cases it is more convenient to control tool height according to detected plane also for straight cut sections of of “K” and “Y” bevel edges and for simple straight cut sections. Therefore it is possible to select one of the following options: Bevel cuts only Straight sections of Y- and K-type bevels Include all straight cuts Bevel cut V→Y conversion In order to increase accuracy of cutting surface contours for bottom bevels, it is possible to define parameters for automatic substitution of plain bevel cut into Y-cut with defined upright section (land) (Fig. 125). The tick-mark enables entering of parameters “Bevel” and “Nose” that shape bevel cut conversion V→Y. Entering is managed by functions “Add”, “Delete”, and “Edit”. Fig. 125. Parameters for V→Y conversion of bevel cuts Technologies The system also enables to define different parameter groups for different situations, the situations differ on current thickness of a metal sheet. For example, different parameter groups can use different cutting speeds because the thickness of the edge for over-cutting is different for the edge where undercutting has been already 151 completed, generally less or equal to original sheet thickness. The settings are available in “Technologies”. Usually, machines comprise different tools for straight cutting, top, and bottom bevel. Asper enables to assign the tools for full thickness, reduced thickness, top bevel, straight cut, bottom bevel, and variable bevel (Fig. 126). Fig. 126. Bevel ATHC Expert parameters for technologies Automatic parameter changes <Alt+Shift+W> The folder comprises settings for automatic parameter changes that are applied during importing parts into a cutting plan. It is often necessary to modify some cutting parameters of some part of a section to achieve maximum cutting quality. Common examples of candidates for parameter modifications are arcs with small radius (mainly circular holes) and corners. Asper enables to define automatic modifications of some parameters for arcs and corners separately. 152 Fig. 127. Automatic parameter changes In arcs Automatic modifications in arcs assume definition of desired behaviour on certain curved entities for different radii. The function is typically used for circular holes, functionality has been extended so that the settings are used also for other types of holes (e.g. oval holes) with area (2⋅R)2 (Fig. 127). It is also possible to modify relative values of most significant technological parameters and assign them for arcs with radii less or equal to parameter value (Fig. 128). Modification of parameters is then performed automatically during loading of a part for all arcs matching selection criteria. A definition of automatic modification for arcs comprises “Radius [mm]”, “Relative speed [%]”, “Relative power [%]”, and “ATHC mode”. In case of arcs with radii matching several settings (for example an arc with 5 mm radius for settings in Fig. 129), only modifications defined for nearest radius greater than the arc radius are applied. In the presented case, for the 5 mm arc Asper applies settings for 6 mm arc defined in the table. New definition is entered by using [New] function, properties can be modified by [Edit] function, any definition can be deleted by [Delete]. 153 Fig. 128. Definition of parameter changes in arcs Fig. 129. Example of automatic parameter changes for different arcs In corners Modifications of parameters for corners can be defined for different angles of corners. The angle of the corner represents the change of path direction in the corner. During import the setting is applied to all corners matching angle criteria. Angle parameter means that modifications for all corners with angle greater or equal than specified value. Corner parameters can be defined for different angles. When corner angles match several settings, only modifications defined for nearest angle less than the corner angle are applied. New definition is entered by using [New] function, properties can be modified by [Edit] function (Fig. 127), any definition can be deleted by [Delete]. Corner parameters Parameters that are changed for corners – junction of two straight paths. Angle [°] Specification of angle of intersecting straight paths for application of specific changes. Pause in corner [s] Dwell time in a corner. Cooling in Especially for the optimisation of laser cutting it is possible to enable cooling, pause for cooling the material, or a change of path shape in corner 154 corners. Path in corner There are four options how to modify tool path in corners: Standard Corner path remains unchanged. Loop A loop is inserted in the corner (Fig. 132). Loop radius is defined in “Settings  Lead-ins and lead-outs  Loop radius”. Angle axis Corner path is modified by inserting a short linear path in direction of angle axis (Fig. 132). Length of the path is given by bigger value of parameters for lead-ins and leadouts for given type of contour (outer, inner). Rounded Corner path is modified by inserting an arc with specified radius (Fig. 132). Arc radius is given by parameter. WJ leadout Corners are cut so that the tool is moved a little bit further in the direction of approaching the corner and then it returns back to the corner vertex and proceeds along the cutting contour. The method is typical for water-jet cutting to improve cutting quality of corners. Before corner Parameter changes applied for path approaching a corner. Length [mm] Length of path before corner for parameter changes. Speed [%] Setting for speed scale. Power [%] Setting for power scale. Disable ATHC Flag to disable or enable adaptive height control. Set same parameters after corner Use parameters set for “Before corner” for “After corner” to define symmetrical changes. After corner Parameter changes applied for path leaving a corner. Length [mm] Length of path after corner for parameter changes. Speed [%] Setting for speed scale. Power [%] Setting for power scale. Disable ATHC Flag to disable or enable adaptive height control. 155 Fig. 130. Parameter changes in corners Fig. 131. Example of automatic parameter changes for corner 156 Fig. 132. Example of automatically modified corner – from left to right: loop, angle axis, rounded corner with reduced speed Fig. 133. Example of automatically modified corner – WJ lead-out Apply parameter changes on respective lead-ins Enable/disable automatic parameter changes for lead-ins Apply parameter changes on respective-outs Enable/disable automatic parameter changes for lead-outs Nesting <Alt+Shift+U> “Nesting” folder contains settings used for automatic placement of parts on a sheet. 157 Fig. 134. Nesting settings Nesting settings Parameters in this window describe options of automatic nesting of a part on a sheet with respect to already placed parts on the sheet. Nesting sequence is defined by combination of items “From right”, “From top”, and “Y-axis first”. Selected combination is immediately indicated by animation. From right Parts placement in X-direction is started from the right side of the sheet. From top Parts placement in Y-direction is started from the top side of the sheet. Y-axis first Parts placement is started vertically. Fit type Fit type defines nesting strategy for the automatic nesting task. The setting of fit type is used as predefined nesting strategy for parts that have their nesting strategy set to “According to plan settings”. Available fit types are: “Speed”, “Centre of gravity 1”, “Centre of gravity 2”, “Grid 1”, and “Grid 2”. Group oneby-one This option is selected for placing a group of parts (e.g. HVAC parts). When this option is active, Asper tries to place parts of each group one by one. If this option is not active, the program places all parts at once while respecting their original layout. This feature is applicable also for parts imported from other input formats. Ignore leadins / leadouts The function must be set prior to any nesting process. For nesting, the setting ignores already existing lead-ins and/or lead-outs. Nesting gap is then the distance between the contours i.e. the distance between two neighbouring sides of cut parts ignoring the length of existing lead-ins and lead-outs. 158 Rotate parts The setting allows to rotate parts during copying. A part can be rotated in 90 degree steps. When the part is inserted into the plan by automatic nesting, the setting represents a flag to enable rotation generally so that nesting follows rotation steps defined for individual parts. Nesting in holes The setting enables automatic nesting of parts into the holes in other parts. Inside sheet only This feature does not allow placement of parts out of the sheet during automatic nesting. It can be used only provided if the installation of Asper includes Automatic nesting option. Borders The parameter defines minimum clearance between part edges and sheet border. The clearance is defined by components in X- and Y-directions. X Left [mm] Minimum distance to sheet border in X+ direction X Right [mm] Minimum distance to sheet border in X- direction Y Top [mm] Minimum distance to sheet border in Y+ direction Y Bottom)[mm] Minimum distance to sheet border in Y- direction Fig. 135. Illustration of borders at X- and Y- borders of sheet (borders are represented by red hatched area) 159 Nesting gap The parameters specify minimum distances between outline rectangles of neighbouring parts. The gap is defined by components X (first value) and Y (second value). Minimum recommended and technologically accepted value for plasma cutting of sheets with thickness up to 50 mm is 10 mm. Asper respects nesting gap values even when “Move  Align” function is used. X [mm] Minimum nesting gap in X direction Y [mm] Minimum nesting gap in Y direction For automatic nesting, nesting gap in X and Y axis is not treated separately, the resulting nesting gap for different setting of X and Y is selected as a maximum of the respective values. Improvements for rectangular nesting (copy) The settings in this section are applicable only for manual copying provided that “Inside sheet only” is disabled. When “Inside sheet only” is active then true shape automatic nesting is used for all copy operations. Rectangle division The parameter defines resolution N of grid for manual nesting and copying of parts. The grid divides a sheet into equal rectangular areas to refine nesting. Then nested parts are not represented by a single rectangle but by a N  N array of rectangles. With increasing number of rectangle division, the nesting speed is significantly decreased. Nesting efficiency also is decreased when compared to the case where N = 1. Improve rectangular position The command moves loaded part towards neighbouring part to increase nesting efficiency. Ordering <Alt+Shift+E> The folder contains definition of settings for automatic ordering function located in menu: “Ordering  Automatic”. 160 Fig. 136. Ordering settings Ordering settings Basic ordering strategy The most important setting is the selection of basic ordering strategy. It is possible to select from two choices. From border Sections are ordered so that according to possibilities cutting is performed from one sheet edge to the other. The direction is selected by the user. Closest point Asper searches in all sections available for ordering for the section with starting point located closest to an ideal point. An ideal point can be e.g. the end of the current cutting ordering (then the transfer can be as short as possible), or a point placed in a given distance from the centre of the last recent section of the ordering. This option is used for laser cutting to prevent the tool staying too long in one part of the sheet that could lower cutting quality. According to Direction of ordering is the same as currently set direction of nesting direction nesting. Other settings Main direction Left to right Right to left 161 Top to bottom Bottom to top Complementary Left to right direction Available if setting of “Main direction” is set to “Top to bottom” or “Bottom to top” Right to left Available if setting of “Main direction” is set to “Top to bottom” or “Bottom to top” Top to bottom Available if setting of “Main direction” is set to “Left to right” or “Right to left” Bottom to top Available if setting of “Main direction” is set to “Left to right” or “Right to left” Arbitrary Holes first The choice ensures that each outer contour is placed into cutting order only after all its inner holes are ordered. Usually there is no need to turn off this function. Part at once The choice prefers cutting of complete parts (e.g. for a given part, the machine cuts a hole, then outer contour, and proceeds to the next part). The function enables to ignore sections to be processed by a marking tool. Usually, the marking tool has a higher ordering priority for ordering and so all markings are made first and then individual parts are cut. Ignore for The function further modifies the order of operations in case when the option “Part at marking once” is active so that complete marking is carried out prior to processing the parts oneby-one. “Closest For ordering holes within single part or a group of parts connected to a common line cut, point” for the order does not start from an edge but starts from the closest section. holes of one part Automatic When two adjacent section of a chain are ordered one after another (with preceding chain cut splitting performed either automatically or manually resulting in creation of a corner), traverse path with cutting (chain cut) is created automatically. in split corner According Asper orders all the cuts with respect to complexity of technological operation. The order to bevel of operations is given so that “K” cut is the first followed by “Y” cut and then by “V” cut. complexit y (K-Y-V-I) 162 Ignore cutting zones for noncutting tools This function allows to ignore cutting zones for non-cutting tools like e.g. InkJet writer. This type of tool operates throughout whole sheets but not within smaller cutting zones. Finish cuts Finish cut is the function that performs end of cutting of two or more parts by (almost) direct cut in Y direction. The function is used especially for DS machines that move plates under stationary gantry. When cutting a part is completed, the part is pushed out by movement of the whole plate to be transported away by a conveyor. The operation is time consuming and so it is suitable to perform the operation after cutting as high as possible number of parts. Create finish cuts Enable automatic finish cuts for conveniently placed parts (aligned to the left or to the right depending on machine configuration). Minimum length Minimum length of a set of parts for finish cuts to prevent too short chain cut. Maximum column width for chaincut in opposite direction In case of narrow parts it is possible to employ chain cut for all transitions between parts (Fig. 137, items 2, 3, 4). The width can be limited to prevent collision with partially cut parts due to thermal deformation. Fig. 137. Example of finish cuts 163 Small parts The setting defines how Asper handles parts that are considered to be small and should be treated in special way. Parts that are considered to be small are identified by their size (outline side in [mm]). Small parts There are three options to handle small parts: Standard way Asper calculates cutting path according to minimum travel distance criterion Small parts first Small parts are cut first Small parts last Small parts are cut last Small part size (outline side [mm]) The parameter defines a threshold for part size that is considered by Asper to be small. The size is defined so that when a part fits into a square with side equal or smaller than the parameter value is treated as small. Pre-generating <Ctrl+Shift+G> “Pre-generating” folder provides settings for tests and actions. The test may be used e.g. for checking for any potential collision so that also leadins and lead-outs are taken under consideration. The actions settings define auxiliary activities that are performed prior to program generation. Fig. 138. Pre-generating tests 164 Test Lead-ins and lead-outs Setting for inclusion/exclusion of lead-ins and lead-outs for collision check. Lead-in start gap [mm] Distance of lead-in starts from a contour. Lead-out end gap [mm] Distance of lead-in ends from a contour. Disable ATHC near border Disable ATHC when a head is too close to a border where e.g. accuracy of inductive height sensors may be significantly decreased. Border width [mm] Distance from border. THC mode for bevel cuts Enable warning for bevel that the section intended for bevel cutting has standard height measurement instead of detected plane based control or voltage learning. In most cases this is an error. Parts out of the sheet Enable warning for parts out of sheet or too close to a border. File generation <Alt+Shift+G> The parameters are applied in the process of creation new cutting programs. 165 Fig. 139. File generation settings NC code Output format The setting is used to define output format of a NC code (cutting program). Standard setting is “DIN” format (G-codes and M-codes). Setup Use reference point When ESSI format is used as the output format, it is possible to define additional settings for the NC code as illustrated in Fig. 140. Beside other, it is possible to specify filename extension (ESI, ESS, or MPG), and end code (“63”, “99”, or “0 +0 +0 98”). When enabled, Asper inserts into the program a command for motion into selected reference point. The reference points are set in iMSNC so it is recommended to make sure that the locations of the reference points are conveniently set. Actual No motion command is generated. 1 (G54) Move to the reference point No. 1 2 (G55) Move to the reference point No. 2 3 (G56) Move to the reference point No. 3 166 Multi-tool plans 4 (G57) Move to the reference point No. 4 5 (G58) Move to the reference point No. 5 6 (G59) Move to the reference point No. 6 When a plan uses several different tools, it is possible to generate the program for all applied tools, or only for selected tools. All tools The program is generated with all tools used in the plan with corresponding “M6” instructions (change/set tool). Selected tools During generation of a program, Asper prompts for manual selection of tools from the list (Fig. 141) and only portions relevant to selected tools are generated. Relative coordinates Depending on selected output format, the item defines usage of co-ordinate arguments in NC program. By default, generated NC code uses absolute coordinates with respect to starting point of the program. When relative addressing method is set, co-ordinates refer to the end point of the previous entity. Comments The function switches on/off generation of comments accompanying each generated NC command to make the generated code more readable. Park non-active heads The parameter is used when variable number of heads is used in the program. If this option is active, any change of activity of heads results is followed by an internal command that moves inactive heads out of the working area. Force tool change command When the parameter is active, Asper always inserts a command for tool selection “M6” (“set tool”) followed by a tool code at the beginning of NC code even in the case when the program uses only one cutting tool. Generate arcs as poly-lines In some cases it is not suitable to generate arcs (e.g. for some postprocessors that are not able to process arcs, in case of some complex contours) and so the arcs are replaced by sequences of short lines. Tolerance [mm] The parameter is used to set the accuracy of poly-line approximation of arcs. The lower the tolerance, the more linear segments are used to approximate an arc. Push out plate after The function is implemented for DS machine type. After a CNC program in the zone is finished, the sheet is pushed forward. Waste material falls off the finishing zone cutting table and the sheet is pulled back into working position. Push-out speed [mm/min] Set speed for pushing sheets out. Push-out min length [mm] Length of travel of a sheet during push-out. Use guiding device during push-out Enable guiding rollers for push-out operation. 167 Fig. 140. Setup of ESSI code generation Fig. 141. Dialogue for selection of tools Generate The section contains items that define actions related to generation of output files. It is possible to select what files are generated simultaneously during file generation. Economy information version The item defines whether also data files utilised for economy files are prepared during plan generation. Details about economy files can be found in section “Economy file <Ctrl+E>”, page 53. Note: NC code for bevel cutting can be generated only in DIN format. Other formats do not support this function. Intranet Preferred format of economy files. When Intranet type of report is selected, server IP or network name is important. In this page it is only displayed, can be changed in “Cutting tools” settings for each cutting tools configuration individually. 168 Economy file (version3.1) (.eko)) Setting of the item enables to generate obsolete format of economy files, instead of report form, a simpler text file is generated similarly to Asper version 3.1. Report v3.2-3.4 Version adopted from older versions of Asper. NC code The item is set by default to generate NC file (DIN format). In the demo mode the size of generated NC plan is limited. Display economy calculations immediately The item enables immediate print preview of an economy file after generation of the plan is completed. When the setting is not active, the economy file can be displayed on computer screen later. Display original rectangle size of part in printouts Setting the item active puts information outline rectangle size for each part in economy file printout. Server Displays and address of server for “Intranet” setting of economy information. The address is set in “Settings  Tools  EcoInfo Server”. Plan The item is used to set automatic generation of “PLA” file (native format of Asper plans). “PLA” file can be generated manually using command menu: “File  Save”. Display directory name in printouts Setting the item active extends information about parts in economy file printout by including directory information to the part name. Note: NC code for bevel cutting can be generated only in DIN format. Other formats do not support this function. Postprocessors In standard Asper installations, postprocessors are located relative to Asper directory: ..\Bin\PostP and corresponding language files with error messages are located also in Asper path: ..\Bin\Texts\PPName\Language\PPName.ini “PPName” refers to particular postprocessor and the term should be replaced by the name of particular postprocessor. The term “Language” refers to corresponding language folder. Inclusion of a postprocessor with specification of its command line arguments is performed by starting detection of postprocessor plug-ins (button “Detect postprocessor plug-in”, see Fig. 139) and enabling particular postprocessor from the list of detected postprocessors. Name Name of particular postprocessor program (Fig. 143). 169 Parameters Setting of command line structure. Behaviour of particular postprocessor is defined by its command line switches and parameter values. Postprocessor purpose is briefly explained in accompanying description of individual switches. Description Brief text description of a postprocessor function (Fig. 143). Move up Change of postprocessor ordering. Move down Change of postprocessor ordering. Edit Modification of properties of particular postprocessor selected from the list of detected postprocessors. A window with postprocessor properties is displayed (Fig. 143). Detect The function automatically detects all available postprocessors for particular Asper postprocess installation and enables to select a postprocessor from the list of detected or plug-in postprocessors (Fig. 142). Fig. 142. List of detected postprocessors Fig. 143. Postprocessor settings – ProfiCut example 170 NC program <Alt+Shift+R> The folder “NC program” contains settings that directly influence contents of generated cutting plan. Fig. 144. Cutting program settings Cutting program settings Depending on technology used, cutting direction has a significant influence on cutting quality. For instance, plasma cutting technology swirls plasma gas into a spiral and the result is that the right side of cut is better. In such case, inner holes should be cut in clockwise direction and contours in opposite way. This rule depends on technology and Asper enables to change cutting directions for inner holes and outer contours separately. Hole cutting direction Available options are: CCW Counter clockwise CW Clockwise Available options are: 171 Contour cutting direction CCW Counter clockwise CW Clockwise Kerf compensation The item enables to specify how the kerf compensation is performed. There are three options: performed by Control system Normally, kerf compensation is performed by the machine control system. Kerf width is set in tool parameters and control system modifies cutting path in order to achieve proper part dimension. Asper only inserts corresponding NC commands for the start, end, and side of compensation. When the kerf width is changed, it is sufficient to modify just the tool parameter, NC program remains unchanged. Asper In some cases, kerf compensation can be performed by Asper. Then it is important to set correct value in “Settings  Technology  Kerf width [mm]”. The compensation is implemented by modification of motion path in NC program. Anytime the kerf width value is revised, NC program should be generated again. No In special cases it is possible to switch off generation of compensatio additional commands into NC code (option “No compensation”). n Head start position It is possible to set initial head position, i.e. whether at the beginning of a technological process the head is in “parking position” or in down close to the sheet. Proper setting depends on particular technology and control system. NC start location Down The setting is used in situations when at the beginning it is reasonable to force parking of a head by inserting “M21” (“Head up”) command. Up The option “Up” is commonly used for plasma and oxy-fuel technologies. By default, Asper generates the NC code so that program start is placed in the bottom left corner of the sheet. Sometimes it is required to move a program start point to different location. For example, when a single circle can be cut with an already marked centre. Generally, it is more difficult to find a precise corresponding program start at the contour of a circle than to use its centre. The options for NC start locations are as follows: Corner – according to nesting XY co-ordinates [mm]  [mm] Bottom left corner Top left corner Bottom right corner 172 Top right corner Asper enables also to set the point by entering co-ordinates. An alternative way to set the point is to use the function from menu: “Point  Cut Start”. It is also possible to set the starting point on one of the corners of the sheet. When the dimensions of the sheet are changed, the starting points are also moved. NC end location Machine tool can be positioned also after finishing of work. Asper offers the following options: No motion Tool position remains unchanged. Return to start The tool returns back to program start position. Further to next start The tool moves to a new start point suitable for next start. It is useful when the cutting plan is designed not to fill entire sheet, but parts are arranged in “columns” or “rows”. The program positions the tool into new starting place, there is no need to move it manually. Next start position is set also taking into account settings in menu: “Settings  Nesting  Nesting Style”. XY co-ordinates [mm] x [mm] The end position of NC program is given directly by absolute co-ordinates. Co-ordinates entry is accessible only when option “NC end location” is set to “XY”. Use guiding device The setting indicates usage of guiding mechanisms. IHS co-ordinate The parameter is used to define a border (Fig. 145) where prevent IHS is not limits [mm] x [mm] allowed to be performed. It can be applied e.g. for capacitive height sensor where measurements close to the edge of a metal sheet are not sufficiently accurate More, generally, it is possible to exclude specific part of the sheet where height measurement is not reliable. When starting point is located in the excluded border, the program includes instruction for moving the head into permitted area, completing IHS and slow returning back to the starting point. Fig. 145. Explanation of excluded border 173 Tool head parking When cutting is finished, the control system usually moves the cutting tool to a safe position to prevent a collision with material. Parking is a time-consuming operation and it can be switched off when reasonable. There are several options defining head behaviour. Parking The item defines head behaviour after cutting is finished. It is important to understand that it is always a risk to select any other option than “Always full”. Another viable option is to select “Limited – distance dependent” option for all movements or for movements shorter than given distance. In limited parking the head is not lifted to maximum (parking) height, but only of the given height. Available parking options: Always full The head is always lifted into standard parking position Never After cutting is finished, the remains in cutting height Full - distance dependent The head performs full parking after travelling the distance in XY plane given by “Distance [mm]” parameter. Limited – dista The head performs limited parking after travelling the distance nce dependent in XY plane given by “Distance [mm]” parameter. Always limited The head is never parked, it is moved in cutting height. Full parking for When a tool travels above a closed contour that has been completely cut prior to the traverse, the tool performs full parking. traverse over previously cut area Distance [mm] The parameter specifies the distance for application of “Full – distance dependent” or “Limited – distance dependent” parking. Scrap cutting <Shift+Alt+Y> The folder contains settings for scrap cutting. 174 Fig. 146. Scrap cut parameters Grid settings Tool Selection of tool from available cutting tools that is used for slicing scrap areas. Vertical lines distance Definition of vertical spacing of the basic grid. In areas where the lines pass through scrap areas, it is possible to create slicing cuts. Horizontal lines distance Definition of horizontal spacing of the basic grid. Minimal length Lines shorter than the limit are not cut. Gap Minimum space between a slicing line and a contour. Cuts divided in middle Slicing cuts are divided in the middle, i.e. each line is cut in two steps. Cut from middle Slicing cuts are cut from centre to ends. Do not cut small holes If a line crosses a hole smaller than given limit, it is not cut. The limit for small holes is entered in parameter “Minimal hole dimension [mm]”. Do not cut large holes If a line crosses a hole bigger than given limit, it is not cut. The limit for large holes is entered in parameter “Maximal hole dimension [mm]”. 175 “Template” group Save plan settings <Shift+Alt+S> Save actual parameters into a user template, the function prompts for a file name. Save basic settings <Shift+Alt+M> Save actual parameter settings as a basic template (“Normal.cfg”). Export program settings Export program parameter settings to a “*.reg” file, the function prompts for a file name. There is also a way how to import exported program settings but it requires an experienced Windows user. Import is carried out by entering exported “*.reg” file into the registry database of the target computer. “Program settings” group Tools <Alt+Shift+C> The folder contains definitions of tools. These tools can be assigned to the individual sections of a plan for processing. 176 Fig. 147. Definition of tools parameters – example Tool configurations Configuration of tools is an essential procedure for preparation of plans for more complicated machines. Management of tool configurations comprises three functions: + (New) New configuration is used for definition of a new tool configuration X (Delete) The function is used to delete selected configuration. … (Rename) The function is used to change name of selected configuration. Tool configurations comprise following items (Fig. 148): Tool code Identification code for tool used for “M6” instruction (change/set tool). Even in case of plans with single tool it is possible to force generation of the instruction. The code should match configuration of tools in iMSNC. Tool name User-defined name of the tool Ordering priority Numerical value used for automatic ordering. Higher value means higher priority level. It is used in multi-tool plans to define an order of technological operations. For example, drilling and tapping should performed prior to cutting. Program index The value is used for distribution of the plan into multiple CNC programs in cases when the NC program should be generated separately for different machines. 177 Rotator type Selection of rotator type in order to generate appropriate instruction that respect individual features of each available bevel cutting tool: None Straight cutting Plasma V1 Plasma rotator Waterjet V1 Water jet rotator Oxy triple-torch head Oxy-fuel triple torch head Plasma/Waterjet V2 Rotator with defined kinematics Plasma/Waterjet/Laser V3 Rotator with defined kinematics ABC on straight cuts Enable/disable automatic compensation of natural curvature of water jet beam on straight cuts. Triple torch offset For triple torch technology. Offset between the middle torch and side torches in [mm]. Variable bevel Bevel cutting with variable bevel angle. In this case it is assumed that the machine uses an inductive sensor. supported Enable bevel cutting with standard THC Bevel cutting with standard THC is cutting without detection points or arc voltage learning. The cutting height is controlled according to an inductive sensor. Bevel cut starting direction [°] Definition of cut start placement for closed bevel cut contours. The setting is intended for older versions of rotators that have limited range of azimuth movement. The direction is defined with respect to X axis (0° means X+ direction, 90° means Y+ direction). Diameter of IHS probe Diameter of IHS probe is used for automatic placement of detection points for plane detection or voltage learning. Number of heads The parameter is used to define number of heads for machines that comprise more than one head with the same technology for multi-head cutting. Minimum torch gap Minimal distance between two technological heads following from geometrical relations. Variable spacing The parameter is used for multi-head cutting. It is applicable only for machines with independent Y-drives for all heads with the same technology . Enable tool parking Flag that enables parking of a tool. Cutting tool Flag that indicates that the tool is intended for cutting. 178 Change direction when mirrored Flag that sets reversed cutting direction for mirrored parts. Marking points supported Indication that the tool provides means to make marking points. Use traverse speed for work Use traverse speed for work, traverse speed is a parameter of particular machine typically used for fast movement with idle technological operation. Change outer contour startpoint when position changes When a part is moved, starting point is placed automatically. The parameter should be set when it is important to preserve starting point e.g. in the bottom right corner regardless of part rotation. Change inner hole startpoint when position changes Change inner hole starting point when position is rotating or mirrored. Enable limited Specification that the tool supports limited parking . parking Disable tool turn off The parameter defines behaviour of the tool during traverse movements between technological operations. Typical examples when the tool should not be turned off is drilling. Then, it is neither necessary nor desirable to turn off the spindle. Disable ATHC for created loops Disable high control mode ATHC in loop. Quality hole support Applicable only for True Hole technology (Hypertherm) and Contour Cut (Kjellberg) plasma cutting tools. When the feature is used, it is important to meet limitations imposed by specifications (e.g. permissible range of radii) of respective methods. Usage of quality holes should be limited by multiples of sheet thickness. PowerHole support Enable PowerHole method of cutting holes. Actual configuration of tools is displayed in the bottom part of the window. 179 Fig. 148. Dialogue window for tool configuration Sweeping after drilling Sweeping is an auxiliary function available for machines with brush. The brush is used for automatic cleaning of sheet surface from chips after preceding drilling operation. Available options are: “None”, “Left to right”, “Right to left”, and “Pause”. Dumping of finished parts Dumping of finished parts is an auxiliary function for removing finished parts. The function is applicable for machines with conveyor. EcoInfo Server Address of EcoInfo server when Intranet is used. Basic template Path to default template for Asper. Technology specification The parameters are used for setting and management of technology specifications. None Technology specification is not included into generated CNC program. Select before generating Opens a window for selection from defined specifications. CNC program Use selected Select specification from the list of defined specification. 180 Other settings include: Dump after holes wider than Parts that are narrower than specified margin entered in [mm] need not to be dumped, they fall to the bottom of the table. X limit for guiding device side Definition of upper limit for X axis in [mm] to disable guiding devices. Layers <Alt+Shift+L> The folder is intended for definition of actions to be performed during import of a “DXF” drawing. It is possible to customize behaviour for different layers of imported drawing. Fig. 149 Parameters of layers Read all layers This function is applicable for processing drawings in formats supporting multiple layers. It is possible to load entities from all layers, or to customize specific ways of processing entities in different layers. DXF Asper enables to handle layers in imported “DXF” drawings by filters applied on layers organized into groups. Filters can be selected to be applied only provided that “Read all 181 layers” option is disabled. A layer group is a user defined group of layers with that should be processed in certain way. Filters The functions used for definition of “DXF” layer groups are [Rename], [New], [Delete] (Fig. 149). For definition of a new filter, a dialogue window is displayed for entering a filter name. The same dialogue window is displayed also for renaming the layer. Properties of individual layers are set in “DXF layers setting” item. Each layer group is defined by a list of layers assigned to the group and each layer has separate settings (Fig. 150). DXF layers setting The list of all layers defined as a source for loading entities in case that reading of all layers is disabled. Properties of individual layers are defined when new layer setting is created, or existing setting is modified. Available settings for a layer are displayed in Fig. 151. Edit info text The button opens a window for entering useful text information (see Fig. 152). settings DC2/IGES layer number The parameter is used for processing drawings in DC2/IGES format and specifies the number of. When “Read all layers” option is disabled, all entities in other layers are ignored. 182 Fig. 150. Example of settings for added DXF layers Fig. 151. Add new layer for bevel cutting Fig. 152. Settings for information text 183 Input <Alt+Shift+V> These parameters are used for automatic processing of inserted files. Fig. 153. Input parameters Input settings Modification of any parameter value in this folder affects subsequent loading of a file. It does not affect already loaded data. Files already loaded with incorrect parameters should be closed, parameters should be appropriately modified and then files can be loaded again. Point identity During file insertion Asper tests for proper joining of processed entities. The parameter defines maximum tolerance band in [mm] for any two points that should tolerance be identical. For too small values some entities might remain disconnected and open band [mm] chains are created. Too large value may join together some smaller objects that are intended to stay separated. Moreover, it may also lead to situation that lines shorter than the tolerance are ignored. The colour of inserted parts helps to identify open chains that are usually displayed in different colour then closed chains. Occurrence of an open chain in an unexpected place should be fixed. 184 Ignore duplicate entities If two identical entities appear in single inserted file, the program automatically ignores one of them. In case of partial overlapping of lines, line ends are automatically modified so that they touch without overlapping. Merge entities The item enables to join automatically entities drawn with imprecision smaller than defined “Point identity tolerance band”. Units This function defines a unit of measure for imported “DXF” drawings – metric [mm] or imperial [inch]. It is also possible to set a custom scale. Metric Metric units are default for Asper, also all internal calculations are performed in metric units. Imperial (UK and US) Depending on CAD drawing, also imperial units can be used. Then multiplier value is fixed to 25.4 mm per inch. Display dialogue for selection The option enables to display a window that offers selection from three alternatives: metric, imperial, and automatic. The window is displayed after selection of a “DXF” file for import into Asper. Automatic The selection respects setting that is directly embedded in DXF. Be careful because there are DXF drawings that are set to “inches” (only for although actual dimensions are in [mm]. DXF) User defined Multiplier User defined units require entering correct conversion rate between user units and millimetres. The conversion rate of units used in original “DXF” drawing for user defined units of measure is entered in parameter “Multiplier”. Constant for multiplication of dimensions used for “User defined” selection in “Units”. ESSI – Conversion factor for units used in ESSI files. By default, “1” in ESSI file denotes dimension unit 0.1 mm. size Automatically Corners where direction changes by more than define value are automatically split during import. split bevel corner when direction changes more than [°] Disable placement The setting is used to preserve part co-ordinates as they are defined in the entry. Asper does not place the part onto a sheet and does not check for collision with other parts. 185 Change sheet If the part is loaded (group of parts) is greater than the current sheet, adjust the size size according sheet. to setting in imported file Ignore technological info stored in file Based on agreement, inserted parts in some situations may contain in defined layer additional information about material, thickness, number of pieces, etc. The parameter enables to ignore the additional information. DXF – ignore scale in INSERT DXF The scale may be indicated, for example 2:1, i.e. all dimensions are displayed scaled. Sometimes this is unintentional and the result is that also part dimensions do not match the dimensions specified in the drawing. In such cases it is possible to ignore the scale. Smoothing When an input file includes contours composed of many short lines, it is convenient to approximate these short lines with a smaller number of longer lines. The approximation is performed with respect to accuracy settings given by “Smoothing tolerance [mm]”. It is recommended to use smoothing to improve cutting quality and speed-up processing contours composed of small lines. Smoothing tolerance [mm] The parameter is used to specify smoothing accuracy, i.e. permitted deviation of smoothed entity from a reference entity. Smoothing angle The parameter is used to specify smoothing accuracy in angle, i.e. permitted deviation of smoothed entity from a reference entity. [°] DSTV Settings for import of DSTV files. Quantity This function is used to set required number of parts imported from a DSTV file. Ignore special holes The parameter is used to ignore holes that in DSTV format have different shape than standard circular shape throughout the whole sheet thickness, for example drilling into specified depth, countersinking, threaded holes. Text for writing The function imports file also texts from a DSTV to be written by a tool suitable for writing vector characters (e.g. Arcwriter or Inkjet writer). When imported “DXF” file contains any errors, a warning message is displayed. The most common error is existence of open chains detected during drawing import. Then a corresponding message is displayed and further action should be selected: 186 Continue import Ignore results of detection and continue Select unclosed outer contours After the drawing is imported, unclosed outer contours are selected and prepared for further manual processing. Select all contours After the drawing is imported, all contours are selected Cancel import Importing is discarded and no drawing is imported Display <Alt+Shift+Z> Parameters of this window are used for settings of displaying various objects. The settings have no influence on the plan data. If for example, displaying names of parts is disabled, names of parts remain but are not displayed. Displaying can be disabled e.g. in cases when objects make orientation in the plan difficult, or displayed information is useless in some situation. Fig. 154. Display parameters Show Selection of items to be displayed. Cutting direction Use arrows on cutting path to indicate direction. 187 Move Display traverse path. Moving direction Use arrows on traverse path to indicate direction. Section index Display section identification index. Part name Display part name. Point to snap Display significant points in the plan that can be used for snapping. Fill parts Display part with filled inner area. Cutting direction Part name Point to snap Move Section index Moving direction Fig. 155. Displayed elements Part table in printout The setting enables/disables inclusion of a table of parts in the plan into a printout. Font size – part table [mm] Definition of font size for text in the part table. Font size – plan [mm] Definition of font size for text in the plan. 188 Colours <Alt+Shift+F> The folder enables to customize colours and line types for all elements that can be present in a cutting plan. The colours can be customized for different view modes. Set line style Fig. 156. Colours settings – standard view mode Colour settings Set display style for individual items (Fig. 158). View mode Assignment of colours for different viewing modes. See Fig. 159 to Fig. 161. Colour Parameter settings in this window does not effect data; they are used only for displaying. The colours are set by default to ensure correct display also in graphic modes with smaller number of colours. The colours are ordered according to priority. Each object can be in more states and a state is represented by corresponding colour. When the object is moved, its colour is changed according to the new status. The colour is returned back to previous one after finishing this operation, or it changes with respect to eventual new status of object resulting from the operation. Template Preview of selected colour setting. 189 Font size [mm] Set font size for displaying text information. Set line style Line style is set in dedicated element (see Fig. 156), available styles ale presented in Fig. 157). Change The button opens a standard dialogue window for selection from available standard system colours. The button changes currently selected item from “Colour” section. Default dark colours The function sets dark colours that are suitable for long lasting work in Asper. Default light colours The function sets bright colours that are more suitable especially for presentation and printing. Fig. 157. Line style settings Fig. 158. Colours settings – available view modes 190 Fig. 159. Colours settings – normal view mode (left) and technology view mode (right) Fig. 160. Colours settings – relative value view mode (left) and activity view mode (right) Fig. 161. Colours settings – ATHC view mode 191 Auxiliary points <Alt+Shift+B> Auxiliary points aid more precise positioning of a pointer, usually a cursor. The settings are used for function menu: “Point  Snap”. The points can be assigned to significant points present in a plan. Available significant points that can be used as auxiliary points are listed in the screenshot in Fig. 162. Fig. 162. Auxiliary points Text substitutions The folder enables to define attribute of texts for automatic description provided that Asper settings include a marking tool. 192 Fig. 163. Text substitutions Automatic description Font size [mm] Definition of font size for describing text. Minimum part size [mm] Specification of parts for automatic description. Only parts with shorter side greater than the value set in the parameter are automatically described immediately after inserting. Part name Definition of position of describing text with respect to part outline. Do not write Center Bottom left Bottom right Top left Top right Miscellaneous <Alt+Shift+O> Miscellaneous settings comprise various parameters used to define behaviour of Asper in different situations. Fig. 164. Miscellaneous parameters 193 Additional settings Enable points in The option enables to enter auxiliary points first and then apply a corresponding function. advance Smart object assignment Smart object assignment enables to significantly speed up the work in Asper. It is closely related to the way of running functions. There are three ways how to run functions that need single auxiliary point: 1. From menu 2. From toolbar 3. Using key shortcut In the first two methods, mouse movement is be performed first and then coordinates for auxiliary points should be defined. If the function is run using a key shortcut, required co-ordinates are determined from the mouse cursor position and there is no need to enter an auxiliary point. This logic is acceptable for most cases because the invoked function calculates the perpendicular projection onto the nearest entity and the given point is related to that entity automatically. When some co-ordinates are defined explicitly, then the auxiliary point can be entered in advance, or the function can be run from the menu. Smart object assignment works only for functions that need exactly one auxiliary point. Other functions need all auxiliary points to be entered. Some commands work with the selected group or block of objects and then there is no need for an auxiliary point. Multiple actions When a new function is run and some other function has been already launched, it is possible to cancel the new function or terminate currently executed function. interrupt If a call of new function occurs during the run of current one, it is possible to ignore it or to abort current function Detail is a standard activity Functions that change current display can be run simultaneously without interrupting current activity, or they are handled in standard way. Cut rest cut from middle The setting defines that a line created from auxiliary points and automatically created for cutting-out rest are split in the middle and cutting direction is from the middle toward the ends. It is possible to call functions, which change current display, either without interrupting of current activity or in the standard way. Lead-in change When common cuts are ordered, new lead-ins and lead-outs are created. In case this function is active, ordering of a section that will be moved will be stopped until during user does not confirm direction of new lead-in and lead-out. common-line cut ordering Always create new plan from template All new planes are open from created templates. 194 Display dialogue for lead-in / leadout modification The setting has influence on a way of modification of lead-ins and lead-outs. For more information see also description of menu item “Modify lead-in <N>”, page 123. how plans in Windows taskbar The parameter enables to display individual plans in the Windows taskbar in case when multiple plans are opened in Asper. Enable collision It is possible to enable/disable checking for mutual collision when objects in the plan are moved. In particular it is determined rather if this control should be check applied after the creation of lead-ins with destination. Change section Moving the starting point for a simple closed contour. start Autosave period Period for automatic saving of plans, “0” turns autosave off. [min] Appendices CAD tools - errors and troubleshooting In some cases Asper does not recognise the number of parts or their shape properly. It happens especially in cases when some errors are made during parts construction in CAD. To minimize potential problems in processing of drawings, it is recommended to put any single part into a single file. For Asper it is confusing when drawings contain more parts with identical name (at the beginning). It is recommended to check the correctness of parts loaded into Asper using the info window (see “Properties <Alt+Enter>”, page 52). It is important to check if the number of chains and parts (open and closed) detected by the program matches expected quantities. In some cases parts are dimensioned by line and arc entities instead of dedicated dimension lines but. Asper includes the entities into calculations, so they have to be deleted prior proceeding to next steps. A common construction error is that endpoints of two adjacent entities are not perfectly identical. If the distance between them is small, it is not necessary to revise the drawing, it is sufficient to modify slightly the value of “Point identity tolerance band” parameter in the menu: “Settings  Input”. To prevent this situation, for construction 195 of points of corresponding entities, “Point capture” function should be used instead of setting the coordinates by position (either numerically or using a mouse). Sometimes two neighbouring entities overlap partially (example: line 0, 0-20, 0 and line 10, 0-30, 0) and it is not noticeable on the screen. Then the program does not recognise closed chain (usually it is important to see closed chain). An open chain is displayed in a colour different than a closed chain. For this chain use function “Section points” to place ordering numbers on all entity beginnings. When an extra entity (for instance line 10, 0-20, 0) is loaded that lies directly on the desired entity (line 0, 0-50, 0). In the display it visible that the closed chain containing the desired entity (0-50) has a section in a different colour due to opened chain (10-20). If the extra entity has been drawn prior to a normal chain, it is not visible on the screen. The program recognises the extra (open) chain. It depends on situation whether the chain belongs to a part or it is an independent part. In case of an independent part, it is enough to catch the part and move it aside on the screen. The extra part remains on its original place. The situation is a little more complicated in the second case when the extra chain belongs to a normal part (than both are moved together). If the extra one is hidden under the hole, it is enough to move the hole. When there are too many holes (it would take to much time moving all the holes), or the chain is under contour chain (it is moving with the whole part), run “Analysis” and switch on display moving trajectories (ordering indexes of chains). Single trajectory should be attached to single chain normally. 196

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