AcuBeam v2_XX Laser Galvo Control Software User's Guide

AcuBeamAcuBeam Laser Control Software User’s Guide

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software

User’s Guide Software Version: 2.XX

By Preco, Inc.

AcuBeam Laser Control Software User’s Guide

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CopyrightThe contents of this manual are the property of Preco, Inc., Somerset, Wisconsin. Any reproduction of this information without the express written permission of Preco, Inc. is prohibited.

Non DisclosureThe contents of this manual and all referred or associated documents marked Preco, Inc. confidential, are provided to the original purchaser of the system for internal use only. Any disclosure of documents marked Preco, Inc. confidential to outside parties without the express written permission of Preco, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Any and all illustrations, drawings, schematic diagrams, and other related materials in this document are only representative of the objects being depicted. They are not always exact representations of the actual objects (e.g., components, circuits, parts, etc.).

PolicyThis manual is based upon the data available at the time of publication. While sincere effort has been made to make the manual accurate, the information contained herein does not claim to cover all the details or variations in hardware or software, nor to provide for every possible contingency concerning installation, operation, maintenance, repair or replacement.

The Preco, Inc. policy is one of continuous improvement. Therefore, the information in this manual is subject to change without notice and should not be construed as a commitment by Preco, Inc. Preco, Inc. also assumes no obligation to notify manual holders of subsequent revisions.

NoticeEvery attempt has been made to ensure that all information in this manual is accurate. The information included in this document is subject to change without notice. This material is furnished “as is” and Preco, Inc. makes no representations or warranties of any kind regarding this material, including but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Preco, Inc. shall not be held responsible for errors contained herein or any omissions from this material or for any damages, whether direct, indirect, incidental or consequential, in connection with the furnishing, distribution, performance or use of this material. Preco, Inc. reserves the right to revise this information at any time without prior notice.

This document contains proprietary information which is protected by copyright and all rights are reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, copied, translated or incorporated in any other material, graphic, electronic, mechanical or otherwise, or given out to any third party, without the prior written consent of Preco, Inc. Copyright protection claimed includes all forms and matters of copyrightable material and information now allowed by statutory or judicial law or hereinafter granted.

Project: AcuBeam © 2008 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.


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Produced byCopyright © 2008 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

500 Laser Drive Somerset, WI 54025 USA

Telephone: 715.247.3285 Fax: 715.247.5650 Sales toll free: 1.800.77.LASER Service toll free: 1.800.799.2583 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.precoinc.com

© 2008 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved. Project: AcuBeam


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AcuBeam Laser Control Software User’s GuideContents

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ContentsIntroduction

Overview....................................................................................................................................1Guide Comments .......................................................................................................................1About this Guide ........................................................................................................................1How To Use This Guide ............................................................................................................2Alert Messages...........................................................................................................................2How this Guide is Organized.....................................................................................................3Notations and Conventions ........................................................................................................4

Standard Conventions ..........................................................................................................4Mouse Conventions .............................................................................................................4Keyboard Conventions ........................................................................................................5

Software DescriptionOverview ...................................................................................................................................7Application.................................................................................................................................7

Web: Cut-on-the-fly ............................................................................................................7Web: Indexed ......................................................................................................................7Individual Parts ....................................................................................................................8

AcuBeam Functional Modes .....................................................................................................8Multi-station Mode ..............................................................................................................8Stand-alone Mode ................................................................................................................8

AcuBeam Application Terms ....................................................................................................9Operating System.......................................................................................................................9Distribution ................................................................................................................................9Hardware Architecture.............................................................................................................10

Operator Interface

Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11AcuBeam Main Screen Layout................................................................................................11Job Executer Mode Interface ...................................................................................................11

Single System ....................................................................................................................12Dual System.......................................................................................................................13

Job Executer Main Screen Regions .........................................................................................14Job Executer Menu Tool Bar Region ................................................................................14Job Executer Mode File Menu...........................................................................................14

Job Executer Mode File Menu Options ........................................................................................14Job Executer Mode View Menu ........................................................................................15

Job Executer Mode View Menu Options ......................................................................................15Cell Layout ...................................................................................................................................15Sub-Cell Layout ............................................................................................................................15Show partial/ full screen ...............................................................................................................15

Job Executer Mode Units Menu ........................................................................................16


AcuBeam Laser Control Software User’s GuideContentsviContents
Job Executer Mode Units Menu Options ..................................................................................... 16
Inch ............................................................................................................................................... 16Metric ........................................................................................................................................... 16

Job Executer Mode Diagnostics Menu ............................................................................. 17Job Executer Mode Diagnostics Menu Options ........................................................................... 17Scanhead Status ............................................................................................................................ 17PMAC Auxiliary I/O... ................................................................................................................. 17PMAC AXIS I/O... ....................................................................................................................... 17PMAC Standard I/O... .................................................................................................................. 17Opto 22 I/O... ............................................................................................................................... 17

Job Executer Mode Diagnostics Menu Windows ................................................................... 17Scanhead Status Window.................................................................................................. 17RTC Status – System 1 ..................................................................................................... 18

Digital I/O Window ...................................................................................................................... 19PMAC I/O Window ..................................................................................................................... 19

PMAC Axis I/O Window.................................................................................................. 20Job Executer Mode Help Menu......................................................................................... 20

Job Executer Mode Help Menu Options ...................................................................................... 20Manuals ........................................................................................................................................ 20About ............................................................................................................................................ 20

Job Executer Status Bar Region........................................................................................ 21System Mode Buttons Region ...................................................................................................... 22

System Alarms Window ................................................................................................... 23Job Executer Mode Drawing Palette Region ............................................................................... 24

Job Executer Mode Properties Region.............................................................................. 25Job Tab ......................................................................................................................................... 25Message Tab ................................................................................................................................. 26Vision Tab .................................................................................................................................... 27

Job Executer Mode System Region .................................................................................. 28Job Executer Mode Control Buttons Region .................................................................... 29Job Executer Mode Control Windows .............................................................................. 30MDI Mode Windows ........................................................................................................ 30RTC Control Window ....................................................................................................... 30AcuPower Control Window.............................................................................................. 31Delta Tau PMAC Control Window................................................................................... 31Jog Mode Window ............................................................................................................ 32Calibrate Mode Window ................................................................................................... 34

Scan Head Information ................................................................................................................ 34Galvo Tab ..................................................................................................................................... 34Focus Line .................................................................................................................................... 35Grid Calibration ........................................................................................................................... 36Field Setup ................................................................................................................................... 36Offset ............................................................................................................................................ 37Galvo Offset ................................................................................................................................. 37Rotation ........................................................................................................................................ 38



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Galvo Rotation ..............................................................................................................................38Vision Tab .....................................................................................................................................40Coordinate Calibration ..................................................................................................................40Camera Coordinate Calibration ....................................................................................................40Calibrated Camera Position ..........................................................................................................40Laser Tab ......................................................................................................................................41Power Calibration .........................................................................................................................41Laser Trigger .................................................................................................................................41

Job Executer I/O Control Buttons Region .........................................................................42Setup Mode Interface...............................................................................................................43

Setup Mode Main Screen...................................................................................................43Setup Mode Main Screen Regions.....................................................................................44Setup Mode Menu Tool Bar Region..................................................................................44Setup Mode File Menu ......................................................................................................44

Setup Mode File Menu Options ....................................................................................................45Setup Mode Edit Menu ......................................................................................................52

Setup Mode Edit Menu Options ..................................................................................................52Setup Mode View Menu ....................................................................................................53

Setup Mode View Menu Options ................................................................................................53Setup Mode Units Menu ....................................................................................................54

Setup Mode Units Menu Options .................................................................................................54Setup Mode Draw Menu....................................................................................................55

Setup Mode Draw Menu Options .................................................................................................55Setup Mode System Menu.................................................................................................57

Setup Mode System Menu Options ..............................................................................................57Setup Mode System Configuration Windows .........................................................................58

Screen 1 – System Configuration – General Property Tab ...............................................59Screen 1 – System Configuration – Templates Display ....................................................61Screen 2 – System Configuration – Blocks Property Tab .................................................63Screen 3 – System Configuration – Cells Property Tab ....................................................65Screen 4 – System Configuration – Process On The Fly Tab ..........................................69Setup Mode System Table Parameters Window................................................................72Setup Mode System Web Indexer Parameters Window....................................................75

Setup Mode Settings Menu......................................................................................................78End Point Tolerances Option .............................................................................................78

Snap Mode Option ........................................................................................................................78Setup Mode Tools Menu....................................................................................................79

Setup Mode Tools Menu Options .................................................................................................79Setup Mode Help Menu.....................................................................................................80

Setup Mode Help Menu Options ..................................................................................................81Setup Mode Status Bar Region..........................................................................................81Setup Mode Drawing Palette Region.................................................................................82Setup Mode Properties Region ..........................................................................................83

Automation Tab ............................................................................................................................83Vision Tab..........................................................................................................................86


AcuBeam Laser Control Software User’s GuideContentsviiiContents
Galvo – Pen Settings Tab ............................................................................................................. 87
System Pen Settings ..................................................................................................................... 87Throughput Control ...................................................................................................................... 88Power Control ............................................................................................................................. 89Analog Controls ........................................................................................................................... 90Group/Path Settings Tab .............................................................................................................. 91Layer Selection ............................................................................................................................ 91Group/Path/Primitives .................................................................................................................. 91Group Information ....................................................................................................................... 91

Transform Window ........................................................................................................... 92Array Window................................................................................................................... 93

Operating ProceduresTo Load the AcuBeam Software Program .............................................................................. 95To Exit the AcuBeam Software Program................................................................................ 95Galvanometer Calibration Procedures .................................................................................... 96Beam Focus ............................................................................................................................. 96

Focus Using the Smallest Point......................................................................................... 96Focus Using the Tent-shaped Target Method ................................................................... 97Focus Using the Measured Cut Method............................................................................ 98

Grid Calibration ...................................................................................................................... 98Galvo Rotation Calibration ................................................................................................... 103Offset Calibration.................................................................................................................. 106Vision Calibration Procedures .............................................................................................. 109

Engineering Units (EU) Calibration ............................................................................... 109Coordinate Calibration (In-field Method) ....................................................................... 110Coordinate Calibration (Outfield Method)...................................................................... 113

Power Probe Checks ............................................................................................................. 116Laser Calibration Procedure.................................................................................................. 118

Programming ReferenceOverview .............................................................................................................................. 119File Type and File Interaction Overview .............................................................................. 120AcuBeam Rule Sets and Assignments .................................................................................. 121Prepare and Execute A Cut Path in AcuBeam ...................................................................... 122

Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Procedural Steps Flowcharts

Appendix B: Galvo and Laser DelaysLaser Delays.......................................................................................................................... 127LaserOn Delay ...................................................................................................................... 127LaserOff Delay ..................................................................................................................... 127Scanner Delays...................................................................................................................... 129Jump Delay ........................................................................................................................... 129Mark Delay............................................................................................................................ 130



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Polygon Delay........................................................................................................................131Variable Polygon Delay.........................................................................................................132Maximum Polygon Delay......................................................................................................133Optimizing Delays .................................................................................................................134

GlossaryA ......................................................................................................................................137


AcuBeam Laser Control Software User’s GuideContentsxContents


Introduction1

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IntroductionOverview This guide was designed to provide operating and programming information for the laser control software designed by Preco, Inc.

This user guide assumes the reader is familiar with the Microsoft Windows operating system.

Guide Comments At Preco, Inc., our policy is one of continuous improvement. We appreciate your comments regarding the information in this guide. After reading this guide, if there is any information you feel to be incorrect, missing or difficult to understand, please contact us using one of the following methods:

Preco, Inc. Service Department 500 Laser Drive Somerset, Wisconsin 54025 USA

Voice: 715-247-3285 Facsimile: 715-247-5650 Sales: 1-800-77.LASER Service: 1-800-799-2583 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.precoinc.com

Please be as specific as possible when you submit a correction or suggestion. Information such as guide title, revision date, section titles, page numbers and figure numbers make it easier for us to reference the material when reading your comments. Preco, Inc. makes the final decision as to what information, if any, is incorporated into a guide. Preco, Inc. appreciates the time you take to offer comments and will consider all comments received.

About this GuideThe operator must completely read and clearly understand the information contained in this manual before any attempt is made to operate or maintain the laser system. If there are any doubts or questions related to safety or operation, call the Preco Service Department for clarification.

Every Preco laser system is built to suit each customer's requirements. A wide variety of optional accessories/component assemblies, laser enclosure configurations and power levels are available. This manual provides all the information needed to properly unpack, install, operate, pack and ship your Preco laser system. This manual is not designed to assist with any type of service function. If any problem is experienced with your laser, please contact Preco Service Department.

© 2008 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved. Project:AcuBeam

Introduction2Introduction

At the front of the manual is a Reader's Comment Form. We would very much appreciate your help in evaluating the manual. Please complete the form and return it to the address shown at the beginning.

This will greatly assist us in further refining and improving the laser system's documentation.

IMPORTANT

Operators should never make unassisted attempts to troubleshoot or repair internal problems with the laser. Troubleshooting and repair procedures are not included in this publication because many of them are potentially hazardous and should only be performed by qualified, Preco Trained Service Technician.

This manual is designed to provide the operator with the information needed to run the laser system safely and effectively. All laser service operations must be performed by either a qualified in-house Preco Trained Service Technician or by a Preco Service Technician.

The operators should read and familiarize themselves with Chapter 2 -“Safety” of this manual. Additional safety information is presented later in this section and throughout the manual.

How To Use This Guide This user guide contains detailed information about using the laser control software pre-loaded onto your system’s computer. Read this guide in its entirety before using the system. Information given in a previous section may be needed to understand or complete a step in a subsequent section.

Alert MessagesThroughout this manual, special warnings and cautions are given as needed. Important information and special hazards are also identified with symbols (icons) as shown below.

DANGER

Whenever this “DANGER” symbol appears, a hazard may exist that will result in death or serious injury. A description of the potential hazard is supplied for the users' information. It is the users' responsibility to take all necessary steps to prevent injury to themselves or other personnel. Preco, Inc. has taken all reasonable steps to warn users of the most commonly known hazards. However, users should not assume that the absence of a “DANGER” symbol implies that a hazardous condition does not exist. A Preco, Inc. laser system is a sophisticated piece of machinery. There is no substitute for your judgment, knowledge or experience.


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WARNING

Whenever this “WARNING” symbol appears, a hazard may exist that could result in death or serious injury. A description of the potential hazard is supplied for the users' information. It is the users' responsibility to take all necessary steps to prevent injury to themselves or other personnel. Preco, Inc. has taken all reasonable steps to warn users of the most commonly known hazards. However, users should not assume that the absence of a “WARNING” symbol implies that a hazardous condition does not exist. A Preco, Inc. laser system is a sophisticated piece of machinery. There is no substitute for your judgment, knowledge or experience.

CAUTION

Whenever this “CAUTION” symbol appears, a description of potential damage to the laser is supplied. It is the users' responsibility to understand this information and use it to prevent any damage to the machinery. If a user does not understand the information or is not sure how to proceed, immediately call the Preco Service Department for further instruction.

IMPORTANT

Whenever this “IMPORTANT” symbol appears, the information that follows will inform users on how to correctly operate, maintain or store the Preco, Inc. laser system. It is the users' responsibility to understand the information supplied and use it correctly. If users have any questions about this information, contact the Preco Service Department for further clarification. This information will ensure the reliability, dependability and performance of your Preco laser system.

NOTEWhenever this “NOTE” symbol appears, the information that follows is supplied to assist users with reminders, short cuts, additional information, etc. Users should follow the information to assist them whenever possible.

How this Guide is Organized This laser control software’s user guide is designed to provide information on how to use and program Laser Control Software pre-loaded on your system’s computer. This guide is organized as follows:

• Introduction – This section provides a description of how this guide is designed, conventions used in the guide, reference information and so on.

• Software Description – This section provides an overview of the software and its components.



• Operating Interface – This section provides a description of the operating interface. It describes the main screen regions and operator functions.

• Operating Procedures – This section provides procedures for operator activities.• Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Procedural Steps Flowcharts – This section

provides step-by-step flowcharts that outline the calibration procedures. • Appendix B: Galvo and Laser Delays – This section provides• Glossary – this section provides a

Notations and Conventions Several different notations are used throughout this guide. For example, all reference to buttons, switches or indicators on the system will be indicated in the text in bold initial capital letters.

Example: The Coolant Interlock light will illuminate if….

Standard Conventions The following table lists the text standard conventions used in this guide.

Mouse Conventions The left mouse button is the one to use most of the time (unless you have the mouse configured differently). The following terms are used in this guide to describe mouse pointer directives.

Convention Meaning

Bold type Text we ask you to type appears in bold.

Bold initial capital letters All reference to buttons, switches or indicators on the system.

Initial capital letters All reference to the titles of screens and fields.

Italic initial capital small capital letters All reference to the titles of sections and guides.

Italic lower case letters Indicates a sample name or file name, for example, test.cfg.

Menu > path The greater-than sign (>) is used to give the path for a drop down menu option, for example, file > save as.

Convention Meaning

Point Point means to position the mouse pointer so the tip of the pointer rests on whatever you want to point at on the screen.

Click Click means to press and then immediately release the mouse button without moving the mouse.

Double-click Double-click means to press and immediately release the mouse button twice without moving the mouse.


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Keyboard ConventionsKey combinations and key sequences appear in the following format:

Drag Drag means to select and hold down the mouse button while moving the pointer across the screen.

Select Select means to highlight a word, line or paragraph by placing the pointer on the desired item and clicking, double-clicking or dragging.

Right-click Right-click means to press on the right-side button of a two-button mouse pointer.

Convention Meaning

Key1+Key2 Hold down the first key while you press the second key. For example, “press Ctrl+C” means that you press Ctrl and hold it down while you press C.

Key1,Key2A comma (,) between key names means you must press the keys in sequence – for example, “press Alt,F10” means that you press and release the Alt key, and then press and release the F10 key.

Convention Meaning


Software Description7

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Software DescriptionOverview This section provides an overview of the AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software designed and developed at Preco Inc. For more information regarding the operating interface or programming, refer to the OPERATING INTERFACE and PROGRAMMING REFERENCE sections in this guide.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software provides a method to control galvanometer-based laser cutting systems. The Software is comprised of two main components:

• A module for setting up a new job for production. This module will be referred to as the AcuBeam Setup Mode.

• A module for controlling the laser and motion system to process parts. This module will be referred to as the AcuBeam Execute Mode and typically interacts with the hardware.

The AcuBeam Laser Control system includes the following main features:

• Operator interface to set laser control parameters (also called Pen Parameters).• CAD User interfaces for cut path viewing and manipulation. • Implementation of multiple galvanometers and multiple galvanometer fields. • A method for controlling cut paths depending on external inputs. • I/O diagnostic capability. • Machine control panel for Start/Stop, and other functions.

ApplicationAcuBeam Laser Control software is intended to be used in the following converting type applications:

Web: Cut-on-the-fly The Web: Cut-on-the-fly converting application is for web-based operations where the cutting patterns are cut on the moving web. AcuBeam does not control the web, but may be interfaced to a sensor that determines when to cut the pattern. If the galvanometer cutting system is one of many operations on the web, the customers in-house web controller typically controls the web. Otherwise, a web-handling device, such as the type from Deacro or Stanford, controls the web with its own independent controller.

Web: Indexed The Web: Indexed converting application is an application where the part is cut on the web, but the web is indexed and subsequently stopped for the cutting process. This is generally a multi-station process where AcuBeam is a single station in the production line. Other stations could include processes such as a vision system that determine the part location



Software Description

based on fiducials. A PLC or a separate application running on the PC may control the web handling.

Individual PartsThe Individual Parts converting application typically, but not always, cut parts out of a sheet of material. The parts can be fed manually, from a sheeter or an index table. AcuBeam does not control the automation but may accept start/stop signals from the operator or another process. Typically, a PLC or a separate application running on the PC will control the automation.

AcuBeam Functional ModesTo fit into these applications, AcuBeam has essentially two functional modes:

Multi-station ModeAcuBeam can be integrated as a station in a multi-station production line. In this mode, an OPC interface communicates control and exchange data between stations. Different processes, such as pre-process part location, vision inspection, and so on, can be done on the same computer or different computers as need be, at any location in the part process with all processes operating simultaneously.

Stand-alone ModeAcuBeam can have multiple stations, but the stations operate sequentially. That is, only a single station is operating at a time. In this case (for example) a pre-process part location that was obtained by a vision system is done first, cutting is done next and vision inspection is done last. All processes operate on a single computer. Part feeding is generally done manually in this mode, but could have some simple automation integrated to the system.



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AcuBeam Application Terms

Operating SystemAcuBeam PC application software component is designed to be operated on Windows® XP operating systems.

DistributionAcuBeam Laser Control Software is distributed on a CD-Rom using an install program. A custom diskette that contains configuration files is distributed on a 3.5 inch floppy diskette.

Primitives A Primitive is the base geometric element or entity in TrueCAD. Two types of Primitives are allowed in AcuBeam: arcs and lines.

Group A Group is a method of handling a set of primitives as one entity.



Software Description

Hardware ArchitectureThe typical hardware layout for the AcuBeam Laser Control System is shown in the following figure:

Figure 1: AcuBeam Hardware Architecture


Operator Interface11

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Operator InterfaceOverviewThis section describes the AcuBeam Laser Control Software operating interface in the Windows® environment. For more information about the AcuBeam Laser Control Software program, refer to the SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION section of this guide.

The AcuBeam Laser Control Software program provides operator and control interface to the system for programming and selecting the laser control parameters. For programming information, refer to the PROGRAMMING REFERENCE section of this guide.

AcuBeam Main Screen LayoutWhen the system starts, the initial screen displayed is main operator control interface. This is the starting point for both system operation and configuration. The AcuBeam operating interface window consists of two main regions:

Drawing Palette: The drawing palette displays a graphic representation of the part geometry after a cut path file is loaded. You can also draw the geometry that represents the cut path for new parts on the drawing palette.

Property Tabs: The Property tabs are use to monitor and modify system information for the associated tab:

• Job Executer: Job, Message and Vision tabs.• Setup Mode: Automation, Vision, Galvo-Pen Settings and Group Setting (cut

order) tabs.

The AcuBeam Laser Control System Software can be used to control a single or dual system.

Job Executer Mode InterfaceThis section describes the AcuBeam Job Executer Mode operating interface. For information regarding the AcuBeam Setup Mode, see SETUP MODE INTERFACE later in this section.



Operator Interface

Single SystemThe following figure displays the main screen for a single system. See the JOB EXECUTER MAIN SCREEN REGIONS later in this section for a description of the main screen regions.

Figure 2: AcuBeam Job Executer Main Screen – Single System



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Dual SystemThe following figure displays the main screen for a dual system. See the JOB EXECUTER MAIN SCREEN REGIONS later in this section for a description of the main screen regions.

Figure 3: AcuBeam Job Executer Main Screen – Dual System



Operator Interface

Job Executer Main Screen RegionsThe following Job Executer main screen regions are described in this sections.

Job Executer Menu Tool Bar RegionThe Job Executer Menu Tool Bar topics is displayed in a drop-down menu when you select an option. Move your mouse pointer to select (highlight) an option. The menu topics are discussed in the following sections.

Job Executer Mode File MenuThe File menu lists options for opening files. This menu also displays a list of the most recently opened documents.

Job Executer Mode File Menu Options

The File menu options are described in the following table.

Option Description

Open...

Displays the Open dialog box.If a drawing is displayed on the screen that has not been saved, the open option displays the save dialog screen to save the current drawing. The Open option lets you open the AcuBeam *.glv files.

Remote File List (Optional) This list may not be enabled on your system.



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Job Executer Mode View MenuThe View menu lists options for manipulating the visual display of the current application. Select the desired option.

Job Executer Mode View Menu Options

The View menu options are described below:

Cell Layout

Check Cell Layout to display the cell layout template.

Sub-Cell Layout

Check Sub-Cell Layout to display the sub-cell layout template.

Show partial/ full screen

Check Show Partial/Full Screen to display the entire screen (no tabs along the right of the screen).

Exit

Exits the AcuBeam system. A dialog screen is displayed requesting verification to exit the system

Click on Yes to exit the system, click on No to cancel the request to exit the AcuBeam system.If AcuBeam is exited, all motion is stopped, the laser is shut off and the shutter is closed (if the laser is not in manual mode).

List of Recently Opened Files List of the last eight (8) files opened.

Option Description



Operator Interface

Job Executer Mode Units MenuThe Display menu lists options for measurement. Select the desired measurement to select either inches (Inch) or millimeters (Metric).

Job Executer Mode Units Menu Options

The Units menu options are described below.

Inch

Selects inches as the unit of measure.

Metric

Selects metric as the unit of measure.



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Job Executer Mode Diagnostics MenuThe Diagnostics menu lists options for displaying diagnostic status windows. The input and output indicators are normally green. A red light on any of the inputs and outputs indicators means that the System Controller has detected an error that prevents system operation in a particular area. The error must be corrected before processing can continue.

Job Executer Mode Diagnostics Menu Options

The Diagnostics menu options are described below.

Scanhead Status

Displays the RTC Status window for system 1 and system 2.

PMAC Auxiliary I/O...

Displays the Auxiliary I/O window.

PMAC AXIS I/O...

Displays the PMAC Axis I/O window.

PMAC Standard I/O...

Displays the Standard I/O window.

Opto 22 I/O...

Displays the Opto 22 I/O window.

Job Executer Mode Diagnostics Menu WindowsThe Diagnostics menu windows are described as follows:

Scanhead Status WindowThe Scan head Status window displays input and output information for the scan head. Two (2) options can be displayed, System 1 and System 2.



Operator Interface

RTC Status – System 1The RTC Status System 1 window displays the driver and firmware files version information, and system status information for the installed galvanometer(s).

Version Driver-DLL

Driver-DLL Displays the software version number of the Driver-DLL file.

Firmware-Hex File Displays the software version number of the firmware-Hex file.

GALVO 1 Displays Galvos 1 through 4 per system configuration.

RTC3 hardware version Displays the hardware version number of the installed RTC board.

Serial number Displays the serial version number of the installed RTC board.

Installed options Displays the available options of the installed RTC board.

Temperature ScanHead sensors (green – OK, red – NOK)

Power ScanHead sensors (green – OK, red – NOK)



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Digital I/O Window

The Digital I/O window displays AcuBeam digital input and output status information. The inputs and outputs are configurable on a digital I/O board. Twelve (12) inputs and twelve (12) outputs are defined and configured from the acubeam.ini file. This file contains parameters for activating the I/O as well as the identifier strings for the I/O. These I/O are scanned and updated on a continuous basis when this screen is open.

PMAC I/O Window

The PMAC I/O window displays Standard PMAC eight (8) inputs and eight (8) outputs status through the Dual Ported Ram. The strings associated with these I/O are contained in the acubeam.ini file.

X-position ScanHead sensors (green – OK, red – NOK)

Y-position ScanHead sensors (green – OK, red – NOK)

Version Driver-DLL



Operator Interface

PMAC Axis I/O WindowThe PMAC Axis I/O window displays PMAC axis input and output status information for each axis.

Job Executer Mode Help MenuThe Help menu displays the available online help topics.

Job Executer Mode Help Menu Options

The Help menu options are described below.

Manuals

Opens the AcuBeam Laser Control Software User’s Guide.

About

Displays a screen that lists information about the AcuBeam application such as the version number, how to contact PLS (telephone numbers, address and email addresses).



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Job Executer Status Bar RegionThe Job Executer mode status bar region displays directives from the software when an action is required.



Operator Interface

System Mode Buttons Region

The System Mode buttons are used to display system alarms and to switch between Job Executer and Setup Mode.

Single System Dual System

AlarmsSingle System Dual System

The Alarms buttons are used to view and hide the System Alarms window for the associated system. The Alarms buttons are only visible in Job Executer mode. The Alarms button turns:

RED during system Fatal and Stop alarm conditions.

YELLOW during system Message and Warning alarm conditions.

Single System Dual System

Job ExecuteThe Execute buttons are used to switch views to jobs running in System 1 and 2. When you click on the Execute button, it turns green and displays the Job Executer screen for the selected system.

Setup ModeThe Setup Mode button is used to display the Setup Mode screen. When you click on the Setup Mode button, it turns green and the Setup Mode screen is displayed.



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System Alarms WindowThis window displays system alarm messages.

Check the alarm list and resolve the problem.

Click on the Reset button to clear the alarms and continue processing.

Click on the Close button to close the Alarms window.



Operator Interface

Job Executer Mode Drawing Palette Region

The Job Executer drawing palette region displays the drawing layout as drawn in Setup Mode.



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Job Executer Mode Properties RegionThe Job Executer Mode Properties region contains two (2) tabs that when selected display system information for the current job.

Job Tab

The Job tab is used to display part count information for the current job. Click on the Reset button to reset the part count field values of the associated field.

Job Tab: Displays part count information for the currently-loaded cut file name.

Total Number Of Parts: Displays the total number of parts processed for this job. The Reset button can be clicked on to reset total number of parts to zero (0) at the beginning of a job.

Number Of Parts Passed: Displays the number of parts that were passed. It is updated automatically by the System Controller as parts cycle through the system. The Reset button can be clicked on to reset the value to zero (0) at the beginning of a job.

Number Of Parts Failed: Displays the number of parts that failed. It is updated automatically by the System Controller as parts cycle through the system. The Reset button can be clicked on to reset parts failed to zero (0) at the beginning of a job.

Max Vision Captures Failed: Displays the maximum number of failed vision captures allowed. Enter the maximum amount of vision capture failures allowed before an alarm occurs.

Enabled: Check this check box to enable vision failed alarming.

Select Starting Subcell: Displays the subcell from which to begin processing.

Process only the selected subcell: Check this check box to enable limited processing from selected cell.

Cycle Time: Displays the cycle time (how long it takes to run one part: from part header to part footer, see the AUTOMATION TAB).



Operator Interface

Format: hour:minute:second.millisecond (hh:mm:ss:ms)

Runtime: Displays the runtime (cumulative total of cycle times).

Format: day:hour:minute:second (dd:hh:mm:ss)

Message Tab

The Message tab displays information about the condition of the system hardware and software. These status messages may give the operator important information regarding the status of the machine that may require operator action.



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Vision Tab

The Vision tab is used to display the nominal and actual fiducial positions. It is also used for making small adjustments to the cut position of a vision-registered part. Using the radio buttons, you can enable/disable the entire vision system or each camera individually.

Vision Enable: This check box is used for disabling vision-based part processing.

X Offset (mm): Used to adjust the position of parts that are located through using vision.

Y Offset (mm): Used to adjust the position of parts that are located through using vision

Rotate (deg): Used to adjust the rotation position of parts that are located through using vision

Scale (%): Used to adjust the scale position of parts that are located through using vision.

Camera 1 Galvo 1: Displays the Nominal and Actual X/Y position of the fiducial last captured by using camera 1.

Enable: Enables camera 1.

Disable: Disables camera 1.

Camera 2 Galvo 1: Displays the Nominal and Actual X/Y position of camera 2.

Enable: Enables camera 2.

Disable: Disables camera 2.



Operator Interface

Job Executer Mode System RegionThe Job Executer Mode System region contains the Cycle buttons and Feedrate settings.

Cycle Control Buttons

Click on the Run button to execute the selected action.

Click on the Stop button to stop processing immediately. You may continue processing the part by clicking on the Run button.

Click on the Load/Unload button to move the table to the Load/Unload position that is configured in Setup Mode. See SETUP MODE SYSTEM MENU later in this section.

Click on the Single Part button to run one part from part header to part footer.

Click on the Single Index button to allow single stepping through all automation steps.

To view single indexing,

1.Select the Message tab to display the Message window.2.Click on the Auto Mode button.3.Click on the Single Index button.4.Click on the Run button.

Select the Dry Run button to test run a part program to ensure that the machine motions are correct without firing the laser.

Click on the Abort button to clear the current actions and restart at the beginning of the part. Feedrate Controls



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The Feedrate control fields are used to override feedrate controls in a fixed beam system.

The Index Rapid feedrate control is used to override the rapid feedrate. This setting refers to Fixed Beam systems. Index Rapid controls the speed of movement between cells.

The Cut feedrate control can override the programmed feedrate. This setting refers to Fixed Beam systems. The Cut switch has a range of 0 to 200 percent of the programmed feedrate, and overrides the programmed feedrate by a pre-determined percent increment (default is 10%).

Job Executer Mode Control Buttons RegionThe Job Executer control mode buttons are described as follows:

Auto (automatic) mode is used for program execution.

Manual Device Interface (MDI) mode displays the MDI window. See MDI MODE WINDOW later in this section.

Jog mode displays the Jog window. Jog mode is used for systems with X-Y tables. See JOG MODE WINDOW later in this section.

Home mode is used for systems with X-Y tables. It is used to move all active axes to a pre-determined machine zero location called the Home position. This position is established through using a home limit switch mounted on the machine. The execution of machine HOME establishes the machine system. Since all of the work systems are referenced from the zero point of the machine system, none of these features is available until the machine homing operation has completed.

Calibrate mode displays the Calibration window. Calibrate mode is used to align galvanometers (galvos) and then align the galvo system to the table and/or work surface. See CALIBRATE MODE WINDOW later in this section.



Operator Interface

Job Executer Mode Control WindowsThe Mode control windows are displayed when you click on the associated Mode control button.

MDI Mode WindowsThe Manual Device Interface (MDI) window is displayed when you click on the MDI mode control button. This window offers optional displays: Galvo: RTC Card, Galvo: AcuPower and Delta TAU PMAC.

RTC Control WindowThe RTC Control window is used to manually control the laser and scan head.

Position: Displays the current position of the configured axes: X, Y and Z.

Home Button: Click on the Home button to move all axes to the predetermined machine zero location.

Pen Field: Enter the desired pen number and press Change.



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Units: Click on the desired unit of measure: Millimeters or Bits.

Laser Trigger: Enter the amount of time the laser will fire then, use the Laser OFF/ON button to fire the laser.

Laser OFF/ON Button: Click and hold the Laser OFF trigger button to fire the laser. When the Laser OFF button is held, the button will turn green, read Laser ON and the laser will fire for the length of time specified in the Time Interval field.

AcuPower Control WindowThe AcuPower Control window is used to directly communicate with the AcuPower control board.

Delta Tau PMAC Control WindowThe Delta Tau PMAC window is used to directly communicate with the Delta Tau PMAC control board.



Operator Interface

Jog Mode WindowThe Jog window is displayed when you click on the Jog control button. This window is used to control table movement. The axis motion is controlled by clicking the left mouse button on the appropriate axis directional button on the screen or by using the numeric keypad arrow keys (press the Num Lock key on the keyboard to unlock the numeric keypad).

Jog Type Select: The options offered on the screen change depending on jog type method. The axes can be jogged using three different methods:

Continuous: The axes move continuously while the mouse pointer button or the arrow key on the numeric keypad is held down.

Incremental: The axes move at the pre-determined distance (increment) each time the mouse or the arrow key is clicked on. The increment at which the axes move is determined by the setting of the Speed/Step Select.

Handwheel: The axes move when the handwheel is turned. The Increment Select dial on the handwheel sets the speed at which the axes move. Jogging the axes with the handwheel is default in Teach mode.



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Step/Speed Select: The speed at which the axes move is determined by the following settings:

Low

Medium low

Medium

Medium high

High

NOTEThe actual speed set for the above buttons can be modified for specific system requirements.

Axis Directional Buttons: Click on the appropriate axis directional button to jog the table in that direction (+Y, +X, -Y, -X axes).

Machine Position: Displays the current table position in inches or millimeters as selected on the Display menu.



Operator Interface

Calibrate Mode WindowThe Calibration window is displayed when you click on the Calibrate mode control button. See the OPERATING PROCEDURES section of this guide for calibrating procedures.

The Calibration window contains three tabs: Galvo, Vision and Laser. These tabs are described in the following sections.

Scan Head Information

Displays the configuration file version number on each tab.

Correction File: Click on the down arrow and select a correction file or, click on the ellipse button and select a correction file.

Galvo Tab

The Galvo tab is used to select the Focus Line, Grid Calibration, Offset and Rotation procedures.



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Focus Line

The Focus Line feature is used to cut a test line to determine if the focus setting is as required.

Scan Head Information Displays the configuration file version number on each tab.


Start Point: Enter values (in inches) for the X/Y location at which the test line will begin.

End Point: Enter values (in inches) for the X/Y location at which the test line will end.

Perforated Line: Select this button if you would like a perforated focus line.

Cut Speed: Enter a value (in inches per second) for the focus line cut speed.

Cut Power: Enter a value (in percentage of full power) for the focus line laser power.

Translator New Position: (Optional) Enter a focus value (in relation to it’s home position) to which the translator servo should move the focus lens. If your machine has a manual focus adjustment, this field will not be functional.

Translator Actual Position: Translator New Position: (Optional) Displays a focus value (in relation to it’s home position) at which the translator focus sense is currently positioned. If your machine has a manual focus adjustment, this field will not be functional.



Operator Interface

Grid Calibration

The Grid Calibration feature is used to correct errors in the Galvo cutting field.



Field Setup

Field Size: Displays the size (X and Y in inches) of the square field to be scanned. If you enter a different value, a new Working Distance will automatically be calculated and displayed.

Working Distance: Displays the distance (in inches) from the scan head to the work surface. Using a square ruler or tape measure, measure the perpendicular distance from the bottom of the scan head protective window to the top of the work surface and enter the value. The Field Size will automatically be calculated and displayed.

Calibration Margin: Displays the area around the active field (in inches).

NOTEChanging the field size or working distance invalidates any previous calibration on this file.



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Offset

Offset is used to adjust the position of the galvanometer cut field in reference to the work surface. See the GALVO OFFSET CALIBRATION procedure in the OPERATING PROCEDURES section of this guide for a description of how to use this tab.



Galvo Offset

Cut Pattern Size Displays the cut pattern size (in inches). You can enter a different value. The size will apply to all galvos if you have more than one.

Cut Speed Enter a value (in inches per second) for the focus line cut speed.

Cut Power Enter a value (in percentage of full power) for the focus line laser power.

Calibration Offset Enter X and Y offset values (in inches) as needed.

See the Galvanometer Offset Calibration Model below.

Y-Axis Offset

X-Axis Offset

Y

X

Galvo 1

Galvo 1

Galvo 2

Galvo 2



Operator Interface

Rotation

Rotation is used to adjust the angular position of the cut field in reference to the work surface. See the GALVO ROTATION CALIBRATION procedure in the OPERATING PROCEDURES section of this guide for a description of how to perform galvanometer calibration rotation.



Galvo Rotation

Cut Pattern Size: Displays the size of the cut pattern in relation to the field of view (FOV). The value should be five (5) percent (%) less than the galvanometer field of view (FOV) size.

Cut Speed Enter a value (in inches per second) for the focus line cut speed.

Cut Power Enter a value (in percentage of full power) for the focus line laser power.

Cut Pattern Count X Y: Displays the number of cut patterns to cut in the X and Y directions.



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Calibration Rotation: Displays the degree of rotation required to calibrate the galvanometer to the work surface.

Before

After



Operator Interface

Vision Tab

The Vision tab is used to calibrate the camer(s). Select the desired camera to be calibrated from the tree list if multiple cameras are being used.

Coordinate Calibration Camera Coordinate Calibration

Large Circle Diameter Enter the desired large circle diameter (in inches). (The small circle diameter is 50% of the large circle diameter).

Circle Cut Offset Enter the X and Y offset values (in inches).

Calibrated Camera Position

Camera Offset Displays the current X and Y camera offset (in inches).

Camera Rotation Displays the current rotational camera position (in degrees).

Last Calibration Time Displays the date and time of the last camera calibration.

Calibrate button: Press to calibrate the camera.



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Laser Tab

The Laser tab is used to modify the laser power if needed as indicated by the power probe checks procedures, see the POWER PROBE CHECKS procedure in the OPERATING PROCEDURES section of this guide. The measurements and entries allow the system to compensate for laser power loss at the work surface due to dusty mirrors, etc.

Power Calibration

Rated Power Enter the rated power for the laser (in watts).

Measure Power Using a power probe, measure the laser power and enter the measured value.

Power Meter Scale Enter the value printed on the power probe meter (in Watts/volt).

Laser Trigger

Laser Power Enter the desired laser power as a percentage of the rated power.

Actual Laser Power Displays the actual laser power being produced (in watts).

Trigger Timer Enter the amount of time (in seconds) that the laser will fire when the Laser Trigger button is pressed.

Laser Trigger button: Press this button to fire the laser to test the power using a power probe.



Operator Interface

Job Executer I/O Control Buttons RegionThe I/O Control buttons are used to activate various (optional) peripheral devices. Click on the I/O buttons once to activate and again to de-activate. They are also activated using the Ctrl + corresponding function key (F key) from the keyboard.

NOTEThe I/O Control buttons may vary according to your system configuration. Refer to the OPERATIONS INTERFACE section of the system operations manual that accompanies this guide for system specific information.

NOTEOnly the available I/O Control buttons for your system configuration are visibly labeled.



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Setup Mode InterfaceThis section describes the operating interface of the AcuBeam Setup Mode. For information regarding the AcuBeam Job Executer Mode, see to JOB EXECUTER MODE INTERFACE earlier in this section.

Setup Mode Main ScreenThe following figure displays the main screen for AcuBeam Setup Mode. See the SETUP MODE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS later in this section for a description of the main screen regions.

Figure 4: AcuBeam Setup Mode Main Screen



Operator Interface

Setup Mode Main Screen RegionsThe Setup Mode main screen regions are described in the following sections.

Setup Mode Menu Tool Bar RegionThe Setup Mode Menu Tool Bar topics are displayed in a drop-down menu when you select an option. Move your mouse pointer to select (highlight) an option. The menu topics are discussed in the following sections.

Setup Mode File MenuThe File menu lists options for opening, saving and printing files. This menu also displays a list of the most recently opened documents.



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Setup Mode File Menu Options

The File menu options are described in the following table.

Option Description

New If a drawing is displayed on the screen that has not been saved, the New option displays the Save dialog screen to save the current drawing.

If a drawing is displayed on the screen that has been saved, the New option clears the screen of the current drawing.

The blank drawing uses the defaults stored in the startup.drg file. These defaults include palette size, scale, units and background color.



Operator Interface

Open Displays the Open dialog screen.

If a drawing is displayed on the screen that has not been saved, the Open option displays the Save dialog screen to save the current drawing.

The Open option lets you open the following file types:

AutoCAD *.dwg and *.dxf files.

AcuBeam *.drg and *.glv files.

NOTEIf there is no *.dat file associated with the drawing files, it will be generated at this time. AutoCAD Versions 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 are supported. The version number must be set in the Settings Menu under DWG/DXF Conversion Settings.

As the drawing loads, a loading status bar at the bottom of the screen will show the progress of the load.

When a *.glv file is opened, the *.drg file that shares the same prefix and the *.pen, *.aut, and *.fld files that are in the header of this file are loaded with it. If these files are not found, a message appears informing the operator of this issue and the current settings are kept. When AcuBeam is initially launched, the default files in the Settings section are loaded.

All of the objects are displayed in the Layer/Group/Path Box Window of an AcuBeam *.drg drawing. If an AutoCAD *.dwg or *.dxf file is loaded, all of the entities are exploded and assigned names.

Since AcuBeam uses a standard Windows® font system and AutoCAD does not, the AutoCAD fonts must be converted to AcuBeam equivalents. This conversion is also done in the DXF/DWG Conversion Settings dialog box. The conversion settings must be set before you use the Open drawing option to load the AutoCAD *.dwg or *.dxf file because the fonts are converted during these functions.

Load/ Append Appends a file into a currently open file. For example, a *.dxf or a *.dwg drawing file.

Option Description



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Save Saves changes to your drawing file.

If the current drawing has not yet been saved, Save operates in exactly the same way as the Save As option.

If the current drawing has been previously saved, selecting the Save option saves your drawing under the current filename.

Save, saves the file in a *.drg extension.

NOTEIf the drawing is saved as an AutoCAD (*.dwg or *.dxf) file, no drawing title information is stored.

Save as Saves the changes to a drawing file with a different file name.

When you select Save As, the standard Windows® Save dialog box appears.

NOTEIf the drawing is saved as an AutoCAD (*.dwg or *.dxf) file, no information is stored regarding the titling of the drawing.

If you are saving an AutoCAD (*.dwg or *.dxf) file, note the following:Pen Colors

AcuBeam pens are identical to AutoCAD pens. If the colors are different, click on the Pen button on the Control Bar and set the AutoCAD Colors option.

FontsSince AcuBeam uses a standard Windows® font system and AutoCAD does not, the AutoCAD fonts must be converted to AcuBeam equivalents. This conversion is also done in the DXF/DWG Conversion Settings dialog box.

NOTEIf no drawing has been previously loaded, this menu item is not displayed.

Create Cut File Creates a *.glv file for execution. The cut file contains all of the information that is used for automation control, laser power control, and cut path geometry. It uses the same file name as the currently loaded *.drg file.

NOTEIf no drawing has been previously loaded, this menu item is not displayed.

Option Description



Operator Interface

Print Setup Displays the Print Setup dialog box.

Option Description



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Print

Displays the Print dialog box, prints or plots a drawing.

If the Print button is selected, the Printer Defaults dialog box appears.

Option Description



Operator Interface

In this dialog box, the following parameters can be set:

X Offset and Y Offset

The X and Y offset boxes let the operator offset the drawing on the paper. The offset is measured in millimeters (mm).

X Offset box displaces the drawing to the right if a positive value is input, and to the left if a negative value is input.

Y Offset box displaces the drawing downwards if a positive value is input and, upwards if a negative value is input.

Minimum Pen and Maximum Pen

NOTEThe words Minimum Pen and Maximum Pen are not shown if you are using a printer with the minimum and maximum pen boxes disabled.

The Minimum Pen and Maximum Pen boxes let you specify the range of pens with which to plot when you are outputting to a plotter. The minimum pen is 1 and the maximum pen is 15.

When using a plotter with less than 15 pens, specify minimum pens 1 and maximum pens 15. For example if your plotter has six pens, but you have used more than the first six colo211rs in the Color Toolbar (red, olive, yellow, lime, green and teal counting downwards from the top), you should specify minimum pens 1 and maximum pens 15. If you do not, the parts of your drawing drawn with other colors will not be plotted.

NOTEIf no drawing has been previously loaded, this menu item does not show up.

Zoom Print

Lets you print a selected part of your drawing at a selected scale or, to print your drawing to fit a particular paper size.

NOTEIf no drawing has been previously loaded, this menu item does not show up.

Option Description



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Pen Mappings

If the Pen Mappings button is selected, the Pen Width Mappings dialog box is displayed.

Change or check the options. Click on the OK button to accept changes, or click on the Cancel button to close the window without changes.

Exit

Click on Yes to exit the system, click on No to cancel the request to exit the AcuBeam system.

If AcuBeam is exited, all motion is stopped, the laser is shut off and the shutter is closed (if the laser is not in manual mode).

List of Recent Files List of the last four (4) files opened.

Option Description



Operator Interface

Setup Mode Edit MenuThe Edit menu displays copy, paste, select and delete options.

Setup Mode Edit Menu Options

The Edit menu options are described in the following table.

Option Description

Copy Copies selected item(s) to the clipboard. An item placed on the clipboard remains there until you replace it with a new item. These items can then be pasted back into AcuBeam or into another Windows application by using the Paste command in that application.

Paste Places the clipboard contents at the current cursor position.

In AcuBeam, the Paste command requires the usage of the gsGetListHandle, gsGetNextPrim and gsGetObject functions to get and cycle through cut paths and groups in the Primitive Hold Area. Once in the Primitive Hold Area, new group names and new cut path names must be assigned for the new items being pasted. The object name and parent name for each item selected can be obtained using the parentname and objname parameters in CadControl32. In addition, after a Paste command is performed, the Layer/Group/Path Box must be updated to be current with the new paths and groups.

Delete Deletes the selection set. Unlike the Cut option, the item is not placed on the clipboard. After a Delete command the Layer/Group/Path Box must be updated reflect the paths and groups deleted.

Select All Selects all items in the drawing (cut path, groups, etc.). However, it does not select the galvo field outlines that are on a locked layer, the hidden text on a fixed layer, or anything on items on a layer that was locked by the operator.



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Setup Mode View MenuThe View menu lets you manipulate the visual display of the current application.

Setup Mode View Menu Options

The VIEW menu options are described in the following table.

Option Description

Work Area Outline Check this option to display the entire work area.

Cell Layout Check this option to display the cell layout template.

Sub-Cell Layout Check this option to display the Sub-Cell layout template.

Directional Arrows

Check this option to display directional arrows depicting the direction of the cut on the drawing palette.

NOTEArrows are only visible on selected primitives.

Zoom Window Defines the area you want to zoom into by drawing a box around it.

Zoom In Magnifies the drawing at the cursor position at a preset magnification factor.

Zoom Out Demagnifies the drawing at the cursor position at a preset demagnification factor.

Zoom All Displays your whole drawing at the maximum possible size to fit on the screen.

Zoom Sheet Displays the entire sheet of paper and its contents.

Zoom PreviousSteps backward through the last ten zooms performed. After you have used Zoom Previous, you can step forward through your zooms using Zoom Next.



Operator Interface

Setup Mode Units MenuThe Units menu lists two options for measurement. Select the desired measurement to select either inches (Inch) or millimeters (Metric).

Setup Mode Units Menu Options

The Units menu options are described in the following table.

Zoom Next Steps forward through zooms after you used Zoom Previous to step backward through them.

Redraw Refreshes the screen that currently has focus after editing or deleting.

Toolbars Opens another screen that lets you select the available toolbars are shown on the screen.

Show Partial/Full Screen Check Show Partial/Full Screen to display the entire screen (no tabs along the left of the screen).

Option Description

Inch Select inches as the displayed unit of measure.

Metric Selects metric as the displayed unit of measure.

Option Description



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Setup Mode Draw MenuThe Draw menu lists options for drawing. The Draw menu options coincide with the drawing toolbar on the left side of the drawing palette display region.

Setup Mode Draw Menu Options

The Draw menu drawing tools are described in the following table.

Option Description

Line (Pt to Pt) Draws separate lines. Line type: Each line is a new path.

Lines (Chained)Draws chained lines. The end of one line automatically marks the start of the next. Line type: Series of chained lines makes a path.



Operator Interface
Point Draws a point. Line type: Each point is a new path.
Rectangle

Draws a rectangle by two diagonally opposite corners. The four lines making up the rectangle are automatically grouped in TrueCAD so that you can select the whole rectangle by clicking on it once. Line type: The 4 line primitives of the rectangle form a path.

Arc 3 Point Draws an arc by three points. Arc type: Each arc is a new path.

Arc Radius Draws an arc by end points and entering a radius.

Line Arc Line

Draws a line arc line sequence. This option inserts an arc with a specified radius at corners while you are drawing to create a smooth sequence of lines and arcs. Arc type: Each arc is a new path.

CircleDraws a circle by center point and point on circumference. Arc type: Each circle is a new path.

Ellipse

Draws ellipses by positioning the center point and entering in the length of the major axis, the aspect ratio and the angle. This option lets you draw full ellipses. Arc type: Each ellipses is a new path.

Polygon

Draws polygons entering the number of sides and by positioning the cursor at the center point and then the circumference. When you create a polygon, the lines in it are automatically grouped so that you can select the whole polygon by clicking on it once. Line type: The x line primitives of the polygon form a path.

Polyline Draws a polyline (lines only).

Explode Explodes a polyline into individual lines.

Option Description



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Setup Mode System MenuThe System menu lists galvanometer configuration options: Configuration and Table Parameters or Web Indexer Parameters.

Setup Mode System Menu Options

The System menu options are described in the following table.

Option Description

Configuration Displays the System Configuration windows.

Table Parameters Displays the Table Parameters window.

Web Indexer Parameters Displays the Web Indexer Parameters window.



Operator Interface

Setup Mode System Configuration Windows

In system configuration, it is important to understand the components of the cutting field layout: Block, Cell and Sub-Cell.

Block: The block size (block index) is usually set to a multiple of the galvo field of view (FOV) size. Block size is only important on systems with multiple galvos.

Example: For example, if the scan heads on a system have a physical separation of 20 inches, the galvo FOV is 5 inches and the cell size is 5 inches with no overlap, Block Index Y = (number of scan heads Y) x 20 inches The same setting for Block Index X.

Cell: The cell size is usually set to the galvo FOV size or smaller.

This example contains 20 Subcells per Cell, and six (6) Cells per Block.

Part

Block

Cell

Sub-Cell



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Sub-Cell: The Sub-Cell size is a further division of the cell that allows for vision registration of individual parts within a cell.

Screen 1 – System Configuration – General Property Tab

Cell

Sub-Cell



Operator Interface

Galvo Configuration: This field is a drop-down menu, click on the down arrow and select the configuration associated with your system.

NOTEPLS recommends that you do not modify this field value once setup in the initial configuration of your system.

Center to Center Dist. (in): Displays the physical distance between the galvo centers.

Table (in): X-Direction: Displays the table work surface size in the X-axis direction as was set in the acubeam.ini file.

Table (in): Y-Direction: Displays the table work surface size in the Y-axis direction as was set in the acubeam.ini file.



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Screen 1 – System Configuration – Templates DisplayThis region displays the selected galvo configuration template. One of the following templates can be used to dictate the layout of the work area.

Single Galvo Dual Galvo – Horizontal

Dual Galvo – Vertical Tri Galvo – Horizontal



Operator Interface

Tri Galvo – Vertical Quad Galvo – Horizontal

Quad Galvo – Vertical Quad Galvo – Rectangle



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Screen 2 – System Configuration – Blocks Property Tab

Block Information:

These block fields are used to define groups of galvo fields.

Number of Blocks:

Displays the number of blocks for the X direction and the Y direction.



Operator Interface

Location of Lower Left Corner of 1st Block:

Displays the offset from the work area home position to the lower left corner of the first block.

Center-to-Center Dist:

The distance from the center of one block to the center of the next block.

Block Information (Calculated):

These block information fields display the calculated values based on the data entered on the Blocks, Cells and Sub-Cells property tables.

Size (in):

The block size (in inches) is calculated as follows:

Block Size = CO + CN x CS – (CN-1) x COV

Block Size Overlap = BS – BCC

Legend:

Cell Offset (CO), Number of Cells (CN), Cell Size (CS), Cell Overlap (COV), Cell Center to Center (CCC), Block Size (BS), Block Center-to-Center Distance (BCC)

NOTEA negative number (value) in this field indicates separation between the blocks.

Replicate 1st Block:

Check this box to replicate the first block.



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Screen 3 – System Configuration – Cells Property Tab

Cell Information: These cell fields are used to enter and modify how the part is cut at each stop position.

Number of Cells Per Galvo:

Displays the number of cells per galvo.



Operator Interface

Cell Offset Relative to Block Origin:

The distance to the first cell from the block origin.

Center to Center Dist:

The distance from the center of one cell to the center of the next cell.

Load Defaults button: Click to load defaults.

Cell Information (Calculated):

These cell information fields display the calculated values based on the data entered in the Cell Input fields.

Total Cells Per Block:

Displays the number of cells per block.

Size:

The cell size is calculated as follows:

Cell Size = SO + SN x SS - (SN – 1) x SO

Cell Overlap:

Displays the cell overlap or separation. The cell overlap is calculated as follows:

Cell Overlap = CS – CCC

Legend:

Cell Size (CS), Cell Offset (CO), Number of Cells (CN), Cell Overlap (COV), Cell Center to Center Distance (CCC), Sub-Cell Size (SS), Sub-Cell Offset (SO), Number of Sub-Cells (SN), Sub-Cell Overlap (SOV)



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NOTEA negative number in this field indicates that there is separation between cells.

Replicate 1st Block:

When checked, this check box indicates that all information in the first block will also be cut in the other blocks.

Screen 4 – System Configuration – Sub-Cells Property Tab

The Sub-Cells property tab is used to enter and modify sub-cells information for the current job.



Operator Interface

Sub-Cell Information:

These Sub-Cell fields are used to enter and modify how the part is cut at each table stop position within each cell.

Number of Sub-Cells Per Cell:

Displays the number of sub-cells per cell.

Size (in):

Displays the size of the subcell in inches.

Sub-Cell Offset Relative to Cell Origin:

The offset distance to cell origin.

Center to Center Distance:

The distance from the center of one sub-cell to the center of the next sub-cell.

Load Defaults Button:

Click to load defaults.

Sub-Cell Information (Calculated):

These galvo information fields display the calculated values based on the data entered in the Sub-Cell Input fields.



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NOTEUse the center-to-center distance to add sub-cell overlap if necessary.

Sub-Cell Overlap:

Displays the sub-cell overlap or separation. The sub-cell overlap is calculated as follows:

Sub-Cell Overlap = SS – SCC

Legend:

Sub-Cell Size (SS), Sub-Cell Offset (SO), Number of Sub-Cells (SN), Sub-Cell Overlap (SOV), Sub-Cell Center to Center Distance (SCC)

Replicate 1st Subcell:

When checked this check box indicates that all information in the first sub-cell will also be cut in the other sub-cells.

Screen 4 – System Configuration – Process On The Fly Tab

The Process On The Fly property tab is used to enter and modify galvo information for the current job.



Operator Interface

Galvo 1, 2,3 or 4 Tabs:

These fields are used to enter and modify how and when up to four galvos process files on-the-fly in web applications.

Trigger Mode

This drop down list provides the following options:

• Disabled - disables the selected galvo.• Distance - the selected galvo processes when the web has moved the distance defined

in the Distance mode repeat field (only visible when Distance is selected).• Eye Spot - the selected galvo processes when an eye spot mark is sensed but at a

delayed point as defined in the Eye Spot Offset field (only visible when Eye Spot is selected.)

• Fixed Beam - the selected galvo processes continually as a fixed beam.

Retract speed

Enter the speed at which the selected galvo returns to the beginning point of the cut pattern (in inches or millimeters per second). If the value is too high, the galvo mirrors may not be settled after the retract—too low and the maximum throughput will be slowed.

Distance mode repeat

Enter the distance the web must travel between processing when Distance has been selected in the Trigger Mode field (in inches or millimeters).

Eye Spot Offset

Visible only if Eye Spot is selected in the Trigger Mode drop-down menu. Enter the distance processing will begin after an eye spot has been detected (in inches or millimeters).



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Speed Compensation Time

Because there is a very slight delay between the command to begin the cut pattern and when the cut actually begins, a compensation time (in milliseconds) can be entered in this field.

Web Controlled Process on the Fly

Eye Spot Spacing

Enter the distance between the eye spot marks on the product (in inches). If an eye spot mark is not detected and the Queue Eye Spots box is not checked, the system will process at this distance anyway. It will skip processing at the missing eye spot if the Queue Eye Spots box is checked.

Synchronize Galvos

Galvo cut process timing can be controlled by a selected galvo(s). When the signal to process is received by this galvo, the other galvos begin processing. The drop-down list contains a configuration number (1-6) followed by a dash and the galvo numbers. The first number is the controlling galvo:

Disabled (disables the synchronize galvos feature)

1-12 (galvo 1 controls galvo 2)

2-123 (galvo 1 controls galvos 2 and 3)



5-1234 (galvo 1 controls galvos 2, 4 and 4)

6-12,34 (galvo 1 controls galvo 2 and 3 controls galvo 4)

NOTEYour system may have fewer than 4 galvos.

Queue Eye Spots box

The Trigger Mode drop down menu must be set to Eye Spot to enable this function.

• If this box is not checked the trigger point distance is constantly adjusted to coincide with the eye spot mark. If an eye spot is missed, the cut process will trigger anyway based on the distance setting.



Operator Interface

• If this box is checked the eye spot location is placed in a buffer. If the location gets too far from the distance value, the location is removed from the buffer and the cut process is skipped. This allows for randomly located eye spots.

Setup Mode System Table Parameters Window

This option displays the Table Parameters window. This window is used to display or modify table movement parameters.



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System 1

Rapid

Maximum Acceleration Rate (mm/sec^2): Fastest rate of acceleration configured for the table for this system.

Acceleration Time (msec): Amount of time required to reach the desired speed.

S-Curve (%): Rate of changes in acceleration. The s-curve percent smooths out acceleration changes resulting in less jerk and less vibration.

Feedrate (mm/sec): Maximum table speed.

WARNING

Modify the above parameters with caution as the XY table may become unstable.

Homing

X Offset (mm): X-axis distance from table position 0,0.

Y Offset (mm): Y-axis distance from table position 0,0.

Tolerances

In Position Band (mm): Table destination tolerance.

In Position Servo Cycles: Number of servo cycles during which the table needs to be within the In Position Band.



Operator Interface

Table Load/Unload Positions: X/Y table load/unload positions.

Part Load: Used in conjunction with the Automation Tab, Part Header Automation. If Part Loading is checked, the position must be entered in this field.

X (mm): X-axis table load position.

Y (mm): Y-axis table load position.

Part Unload: Used in conjunction with the Automation Tab, Part Footer Automation. If Part Unloading is checked, the position must be entered in this field.

X (mm): X-axis table unload position.

Y (mm): Y-axis table unload position.

Manual Load/Unload: Used in conjunction with the Load/Unload button on the Job Executer screen Cycle buttons. Click on the Load/Unload button to move the table to the load/unload position entered in this field.

X (mm): X-axis table load/unload position.

Y (mm): Y-axis table load/unload position.



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Setup Mode System Web Indexer Parameters Window

This option displays the Web Indexer Parameters window. This window is used to display or modify web indexer movement parameters.



Operator Interface

Coordinate System 1

Pulses Per Unit

Web Indexer: Defines how many encoder pulses per unit of measure for the web indexer.

Rapid

Maximum Acceleration Rate (in/sec^2): Sets a limit to the commanded acceleration magnitude for jog and programmed web index moves. If the acceleration time parameter is set too low and requests a higher rate of acceleration, this rate is used.

Acceleration Time (msec): Establishes the time spent in acceleration in a jog or programmed web indexer move. If this parameter requires acceleration higher than the maximum acceleration rate, this parameter is ignored.

S-Curve (%): Establishes the percentage of the acceleration time spent doing S-Curve acceleration modification. The S-Curve smooths out the acceleration by changing the acceleration profiles resulting in less jerk and less vibration. If acceleration time requires an acceleration higher than the maximum acceleration rate, this parameter is ignored.

Feedrate (mm/sec): Maximum programmed web indexer move speed.

Tolerances: Displays tolerances.

In Position Band (inches): Web indexer destination tolerance.

In Position Servo Cycles: Number of servo cycles during which the table needs to be within the In Position Band.



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Unwind Direction: Controls the un-winder reel direction of rotation, and the speed of rotation based on the core diameter.

Rewind Direction: Controls the re-winder reel direction of rotation, and the sped of rotation based on the core diameter.



Operator Interface

Setup Mode Settings MenuThe Settings menu options are End Point Tolerances and Snap Mode.

End Point Tolerances OptionThe End Point Tolerance option displays the End Point Tolerances window. The End Point Tolerance option dictates whether the laser shuts off between objects. If the end points of the two (2) objects have a greater separation than the displayed value, the laser shuts off between the two (2) objects.

Snap Mode Option

The Snap Mode option displays the Snap Mode window. Snaps are used to position the cursor exactly on a specific point. There are ten (10) submenus associated with this mode, which are described in the table following the figure.

You can also use Ctl/right click to activate a Snap Mode selection dialogue box.



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Setup Mode Tools MenuThe Tools menu is used to access the calculator or to open a Windows® text file.

Setup Mode Tools Menu Options

The Tools menu options are described below:

Options Description

Snap to All

Moves the cursor to the closest point, intersection or grid point enclosed within the cursor box. This function searches within the cursor box in the following order:

1.If a point (such as, a point, end of a line, end of an arc, an arc or circle center) is found in the box, the cursor jumps to the nearest one.

2.If a geometry intersection is found in the box, the cursor jumps to the nearest one.

3.If any other intersection is found in the box, the cursor jumps to the nearest one.

4.If a grid point is found in the box, the cursor jumps to the nearest one.

Snap to Line Intersect

Moves the cursor to the nearest intersection of the primitives.

Circle Center

Moves the cursor to the nearest arc or circle center. Move your cursor close the circle center you want to jump to press the Enter button or click the mouse pointer. The cursor jumps exactly onto the circle center.

Snap to Nearest Line

Moves the cursor to the nearest point on the nearest line or arc.

Freehand Snap is disabled.

Snap to End Point Move to the end of the nearest line.



Operator Interface

Calculator

Displays the calculator tool.

Notepad

Opens a text document in Notepad.

Setup Mode Help MenuThe Help menu displays the available online help topics.



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Setup Mode Help Menu Options

The Help menu options are described in the following table.

Setup Mode Status Bar RegionThe Setup mode status bar region displays directives from the software when an action is required.

Option Description

Manuals... Opens the AcuBeam Laser Control Software User’s Guide.

About

Displays a screen that lists information about the AcuBeam application such as the version number, how to contact PLS (telephone numbers, address and email addresses).



Operator Interface

Setup Mode Drawing Palette RegionThe Setup Mode drawing palette region can be used to display a graphic representation of the part geometry after a cut path file is loaded. You can also draw the geometry that represents the cut path for new parts. See SETUP MODE DRAW MENU earlier in this section for a description of the drawing tools along the left-side of the drawing palette.

CAD control Command line: Used to enter a CAD control command.

Displays the current X/Y drawing position. The first number is the X-axis position, and the second number is the Y-axis position.

Drawing Tool Buttons



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Setup Mode Properties RegionThe Setup mode properties region contains the Automation, Vision, Galvo-Pen Settings and Group/Path Settings tabs.

Automation Tab

The Automation tab is used for setting up automation that occurs at specific levels during the cutting of a part. Use the automation header files display to select the level of automation. The fields shown below the display coincide with the selected header level.

The fields shown in this area coincide with the automation header level selected in the Automation Header Files Display

Automation Header Files Display

The fields shown in this

Header Files Display

area coincide with the automation header level

selected in the Automation



Operator Interface

Automation file selection field: Click on the down arrow and select an automation file, or click on the ellipsis button and select an automation file from another directory.

Automation file display area: Used to configure automation before and after each Part, Block, Cell, Sub-Cell and Part Layer. Header and footer names appear in bold if they contain digital IO or configuration delays.

Part Header Automation

Auto Cal Enable: Click on this check box to Enable automatic calibration. When enabled, the scan head automatically seeks several predefined reference points within a scan area. The resulting offset and gain compensation factors are then calculated and made available for use in all future positioning tasks. The entire automatic calibration procedure is complete in five (5) seconds, no other commands are transferred to the scan head until calibration is complete – the laser must be switched OFF during the calibration procedure.

Part Load Index: Click on this check box to Enable part load indexing.

The field information display is digital:

X: Not Applicable

1: ON

0: OFF

Click on the ellipsis button, to the right of the field, to display the Pre-index Digital I/O Automation Settings window or the Post-index Digital I/O Automation Settings window.



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Cut Enable: Click on the check box to enable cutting on the selected layer. The selected layer is only cut when this box is checked.

Vision Implemented: Click on this check box to apply vision to the selected layer.

The field information display is digital:

X: Not Applicable

1: ON

0: OFF

Click on the ellipsis button, to the right of the field, to display the Digital I/O Automation Settings window, sample at left.

The delay entered will be applied after the specified inputs are satisfied.

Cut Repeat Count: Displays the number of times to cut the layer. Enter the correct number of times for the cut to be repeated.



Operator Interface

Vision TabThe Vision tab is used to associate fiducials to Sub-Cells.

Vision file Selection Field: Displays the requested vision file. Click on the down arrow and select a vision file, or click on the ellipsis button and select a vision file from another directory. This file name should be the name of the file that was used for fiducial training in your vision software program.

Fiducials: Displays the known fiducials. Used to select a fiducial to assign to a Sub-Cell. All circles on Layer 10 will be displayed here. Layer 10 is the same as the fiducial layer.

Sub-Cells: Displays the sub-cells. Used to select one or more Sub-Cells that will use the selected fiducial. Hold the Shift key to select multiple Sub-Cells.

Capture Location Selection field: Select the type of capture location,

Capture Location Equals Cut Location: Vision capture occurs at a selected sub-cell.

Manual Capture Location: You must enter the capture location.

Select Button: Click on the Select button to allow the use of the mouse to select the capture location on the drawing palette. The Select button is only used with Manual Capture Location.

Automatic Capture: The capture locations are set automatically.

X: Location of the sub-cell center.

Y: Location of the sub-cell center.

Assign Button: Click on the Assign button to assign the vision system information to the selected fiducial.



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NOTEThe Assign button must be pressed whenever changes are made to the location files.

Selected Fiducial Info: Displays subcell names.

X: Displays the nominal X location of the fiducial in the part drawing.

Y: Displays the nominal Y location of the fiducial in the part drawing.

Remove Button: Click on the Remove button to nullify the fiducial assignment. Exclude a sub-cell from the list of sub-cells assigned to the selected fiducial.

Galvo – Pen Settings Tab

The Galvo-Pens Settings tab is used for setting up galvo pen settings at specific levels during the cutting of a part. The fields for this tab are described below; see APPENDIX B. GALVO AND LASER CONTROL of this guide for additional galvo – pen settings information.

System Pen Settings

(these controls affect all pens):

Variable Polygon Delay: Allows varying the length of the polygon delay depending on the angle between two (2) successive marking vectors.

Max Polygon Delay (microseconds): Enter the maximum allowed variable polygon delay. The delay should be set to a value that narrowly avoids a burn-in effect.

Variable Jump Delay: A variable delay time (for the lag between set position and real position) after each jump command.

Min Jump Delay (microseconds): Enter the minimum allowed jump delay.

Min Jump Length (%FOV): Minimum allowed jump length (this value is a percentage of the FOV). Jumps shorter than this value have variable delays assigned to them down to the minimum jump delay.

Pen file selection field: Click on the down arrow to select a pen file, or click on the ellipsis button, to the right of the field, to select a pen file from another directory.

Description: Displays a brief pen description.



Operator Interface

Throughput Control

Speed (mm/sec)

Mark: Sets the speed at which the scan head moves the beam during cutting.

Jump: Sets the speed at which the scan head moves the beam position when not cutting.

Degrees Per Segment: Sets the degrees of arc that span each created segment.

Delays (microseconds)

Mark: Sets the time delay that allows for the lag that occurs during a series of mark commands.

Jump: Sets the delay time (for the lag between set position and real position) after each jump command.

Polygon: Sets the delay between any two vectors regardless of the intersection angle.

Laser On: Sets the delay time between the start of a mark and the moment the laser is actually turned ON.

Laser Off: Sets the delay time to allow for the difference between the set position and the real position of each mirror.



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Power Control

Mode selection field: Click on the down arrow and select a mode.

AcuPower Mode: In this mode, the laser pulse rate is controlled by the AcuPower system. The AcuPower system controls the power and frequency coming from the laser.

Single Pulse Mode: In this mode, each time the laser is turned ON a single pulse is output. The laser pulses for a programmed amount of time.

CW Mode: In this mode, the laser is ON at a programmed or set (by operator) power or OFF. This mode does not use the axis inputs; therefore table motion or position does not affect the laser.

Power Min / Power Max (%): Power values are limits imposed on the modulated duty cycle going to the laser. The power minimum and maximum setpoints are entered in percentage of laser duty cycle. Duty cycle will never drop below power minimum. Duty cycle will never rise above power maximum.

NOTESome laser manufacturers may have maximum duty cycle limits pre-imposed on their laser controls.



Operator Interface

Cut Power (%): Cut power (in percentage), along with velocity maximum, defines the desired relationship between the mirror speed and the laser duty cycle. An entry of 50% would give half power at velocity maximum - provided power minimum is less than 50% and power maximum is greater than 50%.

Frequency (Hz): Frequency is the laser pulse rate controlled by the AcuPower system. Minimum and maximum laser frequency settings are determined by the laser control manufacturer; typical maximum frequency range from 20 kHz and higher.

Velocity Min / Velocity Max (mm/s): Velocity values define the range of Mark Speed velocities. These minimum and maximum velocities are used by the AcuPowerTM system to calculate the modulated power duty cycle output. Velocities greater than the maximum will have the power set point output; mirror velocities between the minimum and maximum will have the duty cycle output linearly translated between the zero (0) and power set point.

Generally, the velocity minimum is set relatively close to zero and the velocity maximum setting is near (but less than) the mark speed velocity setting. A velocity maximum value greater than the mark velocity speed setting would not allow the system to get to maximum duty cycle.

Velocity Max = Mark Speed: When this box is checked, the Velocity Maximum is always set to be equal to the Mark Speed. If not checked, the Velocity Maximum may be set independently from Mark Speed.

Analog Controls

Power Override (watts): This field is used to control how many watts of power the laser will produce with this pen (dependant on the system capability).



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Group/Path Settings Tab

The Group/Path Settings tab is used for viewing or setting the order in which objects (primitives) are cut.

Layer Selection

Layer selection field: Click on the down arrow and select the layer to be modified.

Group/Path/Primitives

Primitive

Swap Ends Button: Changes the direction the cut travels.

Group

Create Button: Creates a group of all selected primitives.

Ungroup Button: Breaks or un-groups a group of objects.

Move

Click on the directional arrows to move objects up or down in the list of primitives in the display area. This changes the cut order.

Modifiers

Transform Button: Opens a window that allows for linear translation, rotation and scaling. See Transform Window.

Array Button: Configures a Step and Repeat Pattern for the selected objects. New objects are generated for each item arrayed. They are replicated on the original layer. See Array Window.

Group Information

Shows the objects (primitives) that are members of the selected group.

Move: Click on the directional arrows to move a primitive up or down within the group.



Operator Interface

Transform WindowThe Transform window is used to modify selected objects by using Mirroring, Position, Rotation and Sizing functions.

Mirroring Mirrors the selected object(s).

Position Repositions the selected object(s).

Rotation Modifies the degree of rotation for the selected object(s).

Sizing Scales the selected object(s). Click the Maintain Aspect Ratio option for proportionate scaling.

Press OK to apply your changes and close this window.

Press Apply to save your changes.

Press Close to close the window.



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Array WindowThe Array window is used to replicate parts in a drawing.

Array Total: Displays the total (inclusive) number of objects created.

Columns: Enter the number of columns and the desired space between columns.

Rows: Enter the number of rows and the desired space between rows.

Center to Center: Select if spacing is to be measured from center-to-center.



Operator Interface


Operating Procedures95

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Operating ProceduresThis section describes the operating procedures and activities for the AcuBeam Laser Control Software System.

To Load the AcuBeam Software Program1. Power ON the system computer and monitor. 2. Wait until Windows® is fully loaded.3. Double-click on the AcuBeam icon to load the AcuBeam laser control software

program.

To Exit the AcuBeam Software Program

1. Click the (Close button) at the far right of the title bar, or 2. Click the File menu, and then select Exit, the following dialog window is displayed,3. Click on Yes to exit AcuBeam.



Operating Procedures

Galvanometer Calibration ProceduresThe calibration process is accessed from the Job Executer mode screen. Click on the Job Executer button and then click on the Calibrate button. The Calibration window contains three (3) tabs: Galvo, Vision and Laser. Click on the appropriate tab for the calibration procedure you wish to perform.

Beam FocusThe laser beam must be accurately focused to ensure efficiency. There are three ways to determine the optimal beam focus point. Use the combination of methods that is the most comfortable for you.

• Focus Using the Smallest Point Method–Burn a point on burn paper and adjust to the smallest point,

• Focus Using the Tent-shaped Target Method–Burn a line on a tent-shaped burn paper target and adjust until the narrowest part of the beam is at the work surface,

• Focus Using the Measured Cut Method–Burn repeated cuts and measure their width with an optical gauge. Adjust to produce the narrowest cut.

NOTEUsing the Focus Adjustment Counter, make very small adjustments until this focus point is achieved.

Focus Using the Smallest Point1. Place a target sheet on the work surface.2. Open exhaust. 3. Open the Laser Shutter. 4. Move the Locking Lever to unlock the LT

Focus Adjustment Counter. (See figure at left.)

5. Using the laser trigger, make a quick, pulse burn onto the burn paper and adjust focus by turning the Focus Adjustment Knob and Counter (focus micrometer) to calibrate until the burn mark is at its smallest point.

NOTENote the Adjustment Counter number and save the number for easy reference.

Counter

Focus AdjustmentKnob

LockingLever

0000



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Focus Using the Tent-shaped Target Method1. Place a new target sheet in the shape of a tent on the

work surface. (See the Figure at left.)2. Open the Laser Shutter.3. Click on the Job Executer mode button.4. Click on the Calibrate button to display the

calibration tabs window. 5. Click on the Galvo button to display the Galvo tab

window.6. Click System, Galvo, Focus Line.7. Select a Cut Speed and Power.8. Select the Start Point and End Point locations.

9. Click the Run button to perform the cut pattern(s) onto the target sheet. Adjust the focus until the narrowest part of the beam profile is located at the work surface. (See Figure at left.)


Tented Target

Worksurface

Worksurface

Tented Target

Beam Profile

Cut Line




Focus Using the Measured Cut Method1. Continue to check cuts for quality and number cuts with the Adjustment Counter (make

note of the counter number next to each line) until an acceptable cut is attained. 2. If an optical gauge is available, measure the cut widths until the narrowest cut is

attained.3. Close the Laser Shutter.4. Lock the LT Focus Adjustment Counter.


Grid Calibration1. Click on the Job Executer mode button to display the Job Executer screen.

2. Click on the Calibrate button to display the calibration tabs window.

3. Click on the Galvo tab to display the Galvo tab window.

4. Select the System and Galvo.



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5. Select a correction file by clicking on the down-arrow, or click on the ellipse button to create or open a new correction file.

6. Measure the distance from the scan head to work surface.

Place the product to be cut on the work surface. Using a square ruler or tape measure, measure the perpendicular distance from the bottom of the Scan Head to the top surface of the product on the work surface. (See figure below.)

7. If necessary, enter the correct Field Size value or Working Distance in the respective field.

NOTEYou need only enter the correct value into one of the two fields. Since these two values are interrelated, modifying the value of one field automatically updates the value of the other field. The Calibration Margin is automatically calculated.

Scan Head Protective Window Working

Distance

Scanhead




8. Select the 9 Points, 25 Points or 16 Line calibration option. Determine which of the following methods of measurement are best for your system. If you are using a Z axis measuring device, use a 9 or 25 point grid.

2-Axis Measurement:

Use the 9 Point or 25 Point grid correction table.

• Measure the part and enter the measured values into the Grid Correction table.

• Click on the Apply button after entering all correction values.

NOTEUse the 9 Point or 25 Point method of measurement if possible.



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Single Axis Measurement:

Use the 16 Line grid correction table when a two (2) dimensional measurement device is not available. Refer to the sample 16-Line grid below.

a. Measure the length of each line and enter the value into the appropriate Line Distance field

b. Click on the Apply button after entering all correction values.

c. Use the Load button if your measurement device can generate a text file with the X/Y measurement pairs each on a separate line with the file.

IMPORTANT

Ensure that the paper is lying perfectly flat on the work surface with no wrinkles.

9. Click on the Run button to cut a grid. 10. Measure the part and enter the measured values into the Grid Correction table (see

step 11d). 11. Click on the Apply button after entering all correction values.

12. Use the ellipsis button to perform a “Save As” to a new file so that the last corrections are saved.

13

212

11 10

6 5 9

4713

14 15

8 16

Measure each line point-to-point.




13. Click on the Run button to cut another grid.14. Inspect the new cut grid. Repeat steps 7 through 9 until the X and Y values in the grid

table are close to the measured (actual) X and Y values.

NOTEAcceptable deviations are dependent on the accuracy requirements of the parts being processed.



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Galvo Rotation CalibrationThis procedure is used to change the galvo cutting field rotation.

1. Click on the Job Executer mode button to display the Job Executer screen.

2. Click on the Galvo tab to display the Galvo tab window

3. Select the System, Rotation and Galvo.




4. Enter the value of the Cut Pattern Size.

NOTEThe Cut Pattern Size value should be five (5) percent (%) less than the galvanometer size. See Field Size in “Grid Calibration” on page 98.

5. Enter the number of cut patterns to be cut in the Cut Pattern Count X and Y fields.

6. Cut a pattern, a. Place a target sheet on the work surface.b. Open exhaust. c. Open the Laser shutter. d. Click the Run button to perform the cut pattern(s) onto the target sheet.

7. Adjust the calibration rotation, by entering the degree of rotation in the Calibration Rotation field. This is an iterative process whereby you cut a pattern, inspect the new pattern and determine a degree of rotation, and enter the values into the Calibration Rotation field.

For example,

a. Cut a pattern.b. Inspect the pattern.c. Determine the degree of rotation required.



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d. Enter the degree value in the Calibration Rotation field.

e. Cut a new pattern.f. Inspect the new pattern.

g. Repeat steps a) through f) until the pattern is at the correct position.8. Close the exhaust and close the Laser shutter.

If your system is a single galvanometer system, calibration is complete. Otherwise, go to the GALVO OFFSET CALIBRATION procedure in this section to complete galvanometer calibration.




Offset CalibrationThis procedure is used to calibrate a cut pattern offset in a multiple galvanometer system. Refer to “Offset” on page 37 in the OPERATING INTERFACES section of this manual for more information.


2. Click on the Galvo tab to display the Galvo tab window and Select the System, Galvo and Offset.

3. Enter the value of the Cut Pattern Size.

NOTEThe Cut Pattern Size value should be Less than the galvanometer field size and an even multiple of the distance between galvanometers.

4. Cut a pattern, a. Place a target sheet on the work surface.b. Open exhaust. c. Open the Laser shutter. d. Click the Run button to perform the cut pattern(s) onto the target.



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5. Inspect the cut pattern and determine if X-/Y-axis offset adjustment is required. This is an iterative process whereby you cut a pattern, inspect the new pattern and determine an offset value, and enter the values into the Calibration Offset fields.

For example,

a. Cut a pattern.b. Inspect the pattern.

c. Determine an offset value.d. Enter x-/y-axis offset values in the Calibration Offset X- and Y- fields.

e. Cut a new pattern.

Y-Axis Offset

X-Axis Offset

Y

X

Galvo 1

Galvo 1

Galvo 2

Galvo 2




f. Inspect the new pattern.

g. Repeat steps a) through f) until the pattern is at the correct position.6. Close the exhaust and close the Laser shutter.



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Vision Calibration ProceduresVision calibration is a two step process. Perform the Engineering Units (EU) calibration procedure first, and then perform the Coordinate Calibration procedure.

Engineering Units (EU) Calibration 1. Click on the Job Executer button to display the Job Executer screen.


3. Click on the Vision tab to display the Vision tab window.

4. Select the System, Galvo and Camera.




5. Select EU Calibration (EU), and click on the EU Calibration button to display the AcuVision II EU Calibration window.

Refer to the EU CALIBRATION PROCEDURE in the OPERATING INTERFACE section of the PLS ACUVISION II LASER CONTROL SOFTWARE USER GUIDE.

6. When you complete the AcuVision II EU Calibration procedures, return to the AcuBeam screen to continue vision calibration.

Coordinate Calibration (In-field Method)Use this method for systems that have cameras mounted within the field of view (FOV) and that have no XY motion control.





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4. Select the System, Galvo and Camera.

5. Select Coordinate Calibration.

6. Enter the size of the large circle diameter.




The diameter depends on the field of view (FOV) of your camera. The circle diameter value that is entered should be approximately one third the size of the camera FOV.

7. Find the X and Y offset of the camera FOV center relative to the galvo center.a. Make a pencil mark on the work surface at the approximate center of the camera

field of view.b. Measure the distances in X and Y from the center point of a 9-point grid to the pencil

mark. 8. Enter the X/Y location of the camera within the galvo FOV. This value needs to be

entered so that the large circle will be centered.

9. Click on the Run button to cut the circles.10. Click the Calibrate button (on the Vision tab).



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NOTEIt may be necessary to adjust the Threshold values to obtain a clear focus of the circles, see the ADJUSTING THE THRESHOLD VALUES procedure in the ACUVISION II LASER CONTROL SOFTWARE USER GUIDE.

11. In AcuVision II, a. Click the Test button, if the large circle is not in the center of the FOV, repeat steps

8, 9, 10 and 11a.b. Reposition and resize the boxes to surround each circle location.c. Adjust the threshold and filter values.d. Click the Test button, if the Count field on the screen does not read 2, repeat steps

11c and 11d.e. Click on the Save button.f. Click on the Close button.

12. In AcuBeam, click on the Calibrate button. If the Calibrate button turns red, repeat steps 11b through 12.

Coordinate Calibration (Outfield Method)Use this method for systems that have cameras mounted outside the field of view (FOV).







4. Select the System, Galvo and Camera then, select Coordinate Calibration.

5. Enter the size of the large circle diameter.

The diameter depends of the field of view (FOV) of your camera. The circle diameter value that is entered should be approximately one third the size of the camera FOV.

6. Enter zeros for the X and Y Circle Cut Offset.

7. Click on the Run button to cut the circles.8. Click on the Jog mode button.9. In AcuVision II,



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a. Click on the CS Cal button on the Tool Bar of the AcuVision II main screen to display the Coordinate System (CS) Calibration screen.

b. Click on the Enable Video button.10. In AcuBeam, jog the table until the large circle is approximately centered in the

camera FOV.11. In AcuVision II,

a. Click on the Disable Video button.b. Click on the Test button.c. Reposition and resize the boxes to surround each circle location.d. Adjust the threshold and filter values.e. Click on the Test button, if the Count field does not read 2, repeat steps 12c, 12d

and 12e.f. Click on the Save button.g. Click on the Close button.

12. In AcuBeam,a. Click on Calibrate mode.b. Click on the Calibrate button on the Vision tab.




Power Probe ChecksThe Power Probes are calorimeter-type power meters that measure laser power using a timed exposure. They display average power absorbed on a calibrated readout scale.

Power probe checks are done periodically to monitor the laser beam power level. When the power level check determines there is power degradation, the beam path optics need to be cleaned.

Each Power Probe is a self-contained unit consisting of an absorbing head, a temperature measuring mechanism, a zeroing knob and a readout gauge. In operation, the dial is zeroed. Then the absorbing head on the end of the Power Probe is exposed to the non-focused laser beam for a specified time interval. After the Power Probe has been removed from the laser beam, the average laser power can be read out on the dial.

The process takes about one minute. If you need to make several power measurements in succession, immerse the absorbing head in a beaker of water between measurements to rapidly cool the head.

1. Press the button on the External Trigger switch.2. Hold the Power Probe absorbing head in the laser beam approximately six (6) inches

above the focus point (six (6) inches above the work surface) for the amount of time inscribed on the probe, use a stop watch for timing.

Absorbing Head Time Inscription Readout Gauge



Oper

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3. Release the External Trigger switch button.4. Read the readout gauge.

CAUTION

Do Not try to measure at the Focus Point or damage would occur. Reading should be taken six (6) inches above Focus Point.

a. If the power check is low, check the power inside the scan head. Hold the Power Probe absorbing head between the Dynamic-Z and the Corner Block for the same amount of time.

b. Continue to check power back to the laser until the fault is found, refer to the following figure power check points (at each corner block from scan head back to laser).

c. If the power probe check determines there is power degradation, the beam path optics, from the fault to the work surface, need to be checked and cleaned if necessary. See OPTICS CLEANING in MAINTENANCE section of the system operations manual that accompanies this guide.

Six (6) inches aboveFocus Point

Focus Point(Worksurface)

Scanhead Dynamic-Z Collimator

Corner Block




Laser Calibration ProcedureThe Power Probe Checks procedure must be done before this procedure. See the POWER PROBE CHECKS PROCEDURE later earlier in this section.



3. Click on the Laser tab to display the Grid tab window.

4. Enter the laser power (watts) in the appropriate fields.

5. Click on the Apply button.


Programming Reference119

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Programming ReferenceOverview This section provides programming reference information for the AcuBeam Laser Control Software in a Windows® environment.

The AcuBeam Laser Control Software provides an operating interface to the system for programming laser operation modes, laser parameter settings, and system diagnostics. The AcuBeam Laser Control Software programming reference includes information on the following programming issues:

• File Types and File Interaction • Control Events

For more information about the operating interface, refer to the OPERATING INTERFACE section of this guide.

For more information about the AcuBeam Laser Control Software, refer to the SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION section of this guide.



Programm

ing Reference

File Type and File Interaction OverviewAcuBeam requires a number different types of files for operation. These files are described as follows:

File Type File Name Description

Initialization and Setup Files

acubeam.ini

Stores all of the default (or user set) options that AcuBeam uses at launching. The options include such items as the number of galvos, number of galvo fields, most recent file list, etc. This file also incorporates all of the settings in cad.ini file that TrueCad utilizes.

startup.drg

When AcuBeam is launched, a blank drawing is displayed that uses the defaults stored in the startup.drg. These defaults include palette size, scale, units and background color. The palette size is obtained from the default file set in the Galvo Field Setup Screen in the Settings menu Item.

Group and Cut-Path Files

Four file formats representing the cut path are supported, *.drg (native AcuBeam format)*.dwg (native AutoCad format)*.dxf (AutoCAD’s data exchange format)HPGL (HP Graphics Language format)These files represent the cut path for only loading into the setup module of AcuBeam and are not used for actual cut path execution. NOTE: The HPGL format is limited in that it does not support layer information where as the other programs may support it.

Galvo Laser data base file acubeampens.mdb

This file is a Microsoft® Access® Data Base that represents a data base of user selectable laser and galvo-delay parameters that are associated with the colors on the drawing. This file can have unlimited entries.

Pen Set file xxx.pen

Up to 64 pen colors can be downloaded to AcuPower. Multiple Pen Sets can be set up where the user selects the items from the data base. Upon launching AcuBeam, a default pen set is loaded and downloaded to AcuPower. The Pen Set file is referenced in the header of the executable file, xxx.glv.

Automation file xxxx.aut

Upon launching AcuBeam, a default automation file is loaded. Automation is associated to the layers in the drawing. The automation file is referenced in the header of the executable file, xxx.glv.

Default Field file xxxx.fldUpon launching AcuBeam, a default field file is loaded. The Field file is referenced in the header of the executable file, xxx.glv.



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AcuBeam Rule Sets and AssignmentsRule sets and assignments are as follows:

• Laser and galvanometer parameters are associated with pens (colors) of which 64 are available at a given time. Different pen files can be established and selected, each with a limit of 64 pens per file.

• Automation is associated with layers. Layers are assigned to galvanometer fields. Each layer set has its own set up for automation (that is, wait for index, vision, index X-Y table, and so on).

• The second-to-last layer in each field is reserved for X-Y motion within that field. The last layer in each field is a non-cutting reference layer, which is set up and locked by the operator.

Layer numbers are pre-associated to galvanometer fields as follows:

Executable file xxxx.glv

The executable module of AcuBeam uses this file. It contains all of the information that is used for automation control, laser power control, and cut path geometry.

This file contains all of the field information for multi-field applications. The xxx prefix component has the same prefix name as the part file name (e.g. same prefix name as the *.drg file).The header of this file contains the references to the xxx.aut, the xxx.fld, xxx.drg and the xxx.pen files. If this file is loaded by AcuBeam, AcuBeam refers to the header of this file and loads the *.drg, xxx.aut, xxx.pen and xxx.fld files associated to this file. If AcuBeam cannot find all of these files, an error message is displayed to the operator and no file is loaded.

Grid calibration file *.cor, *.ctb

The *.cor file contains all the required information about all parameters used for field correction. The *.ctb file is required to be downloaded to the Scanlab control cards.

Layers 0 through 4 (galvo) First pass through all subcells

Layer 5 (galvo) Second pass through all subcells

Layers 6 through 9 Fixed beam layers (future)

Layer 10 Fiducial Layer



Programm

ing Reference

Prepare and Execute A Cut Path in AcuBeamThis procedure describes how to prepare and execute a cut path in AcuBeam.

1. Generate a part file in a CAD package (such as, AutoCAD) or in AcuBeam itself.2. Select File/Open or File/Load to bring the drawing into AcuBeam.3. Position the part on the drawing palette in the desired location with respect to the

galvanometer field(s).4. Select System configuration to set up the work area cells and subcells.5. Assign a color to the different primitives and/or objects that make up the cut path. The

color associates the laser parameters (power, and so on) as well as the galvanometer delay parameters.

6. Array parts as desired if multiple parts are to be cut on a sheet. 7. Assign the desired automation parameters to the layers. Automation is associated to

each layer, generally for the purpose of sequence control, such as wait for index or obtain vision offset before continuing.

8. Select Job Executer, select Auto, then select Run.



Appe

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A: A

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II Pr

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Step

s Flo

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This appendix provides you with a flow chart that can be used as a quick reference guide of the procedural steps for AcuBeam/ AcuVision II processing. For detailed information, refer to the appropriate procedure in this guide, or in the AcuVision II Laser Control Software User Guide.

Please refer to the following shape key guide:

Sample Shapes Description

The oval shape is used to represent procedural steps to be performed by using AcuBeam Laser Control Software.

The rectangle shape is used to represent procedural steps to be performed by using AcuVision II Laser Control Software.

The diamond shape is used to represent a question in the procedural steps.

AcuBeam Steps

AcuVision IISteps

Would you like to save the

calibration?


Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Procedural Steps Flowcharts124

Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II

Procedural Steps Flowcharts

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Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Procedural Steps Flowcharts126

Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II

Procedural Steps Flowcharts


Appendix B: Galvo and Laser Delays127

Appe

ndix

B: G

alvo

and

Lase

r Dela

ys

Appendix B: Galvo and Laser DelaysThis appendix presents additional information about galvo (scan head) and laser control. Also, refer to the SCANLAB RTC3 PC INTERFACE BOARD INSTALLATION AND OPERATION manual.

Laser DelaysLaser delays affect when the laser is turned ON or OFF before or after a Mark command, or a series of Mark commands. Laser delays do not affect the total marking time unless they are negative (a negative value would be used for materials that need more time to react to laser radiation exposure). There are two different laser delays: LaserON delay and LaserOff delay.

LaserOn DelayThe LaserOn delay is automatically inserted between the start of a mark and the moment the laser is actually turned ON. See figure on next page.

LaserOff Delay After the execution of a mark command, the laser should not be turned OFF immediately because the scanners have not yet reached the final set position. The LaserOff command in inserted automatically before the laser is turned OFF to allow for the difference between the set position and the real position of each mirror. See figure on next page.



Appendix B: Galvo and Laser Delays

Figure 5: LaserOn and LaserOff Delay

LaserOnDelay

LaserOffDelay

MarkCommand

MarkDelay

Time

Set Position

Real Position

Pos

ition

Lase

r

Lag



Appe

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Lase

r Dela

ys

Scanner DelaysThere are three different types of scanner delays: JumpDelay, MarkDelay and PolygonDelay. One of these commands is inserted after each vector command and before the next command is started.

Jump Delay When executing a jump command, the mirrors first after the last have to be accelerated up to the defined jump speed. Because of the inertia of the mirrors, a lag occurs between the set position and the real position. At the end of the jump, a certain settling time is necessary for the mirrors to reach the set position within some accuracy.

To allow for the settling time and for the lag, a JumpDelay command is inserted after each Jump command, before the next command is executed.

Figure 7. JumpDelay

Set Position(Microvectors)

RealPosition

JumpDelay

JumpCommand

Time

Pos

ition

Lase

r

Lag




Mark DelayAlthough the marking speed is usually lower than the jump speed, a lag between the set position and the real position occurs not only during a jump but also during a mark command. To make sure that the scanners reach the final set position properly before the next command starts, a MarkDelay command is inserted after the last Mark command in a line or a polyline. See figure below.

NOTEIf a marking vector is followed by a zero jump vector or a zero marking vector, then the MarkDelay is NOT executed. If a jump vector is followed by a zero jump vector, then the first JumpDelay is not executed. In contrast, the JumpDelay is executed if the jump vector is followed by a zero marking vector.

Figure 6: Mark Delay

LaserOnDelay

LaserOffDelay

MarkCommand

MarkDelay

Time

Set Position

Real Position

Pos

ition

Lase

r

Lag



Appe

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Polygon DelayBetween two successive Mark commands there is no need for a complete stop of the scanners. The MarkDelay between two successive Mark commands is replaced by a PolygonDelay. The MarkDelay and the PolygonDelay can be set independently.

Figure 7: Polygon Delay

Set Position

Real Position

LaserOffDelay

LaserOnDelay

Lase

rP

ositi

on

TimeMark Command

Mark Command

Last Mark Command

in this Polyline

Mark Delay

Polygon Delay

Polygon Delay

JumpCommand

etc.

...




Variable Polygon DelayVarying the length of the PolygonDelay depends on the angle φ between the two (2) successive marking vectors. See figure below. For each corner of the polyline, the variable PolygonDelay is calculated as follows:

V_delay (φ) = scale (φ) É polygon_delay

(where scale (φ) is a scaling function (0 ≤ scale (φ) ≤ 2)

Figure 8: Variable Polygon Delay

Angle between the vectors of a polygon

scale ( )

Maximum PolygonDelay

Maximum

Average delay, definedby set_scanner_delays

2

1

0

1 − cos ( )

0 90 180

1

2



Appe

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Maximum Polygon DelayThe Maximum Polygon Delay is used to define an edge level. If the polygon delay between two (2) Mark commands is longer than or equal to this value, the laser is turned OFF after the first Mark command – after inserting a LaserOff delay – and starts a new polyline at the beginning of the next Mark command. See figure below.

Figure 9: Maximum Polygon Delay

LaserOnDelay

LaserOffDelay

LaserOffDelay

LaserOnDelay

Lase

r

MarkCommand

MarkCommand

Last MarkCommand

in this Polyline

Time1 2 3

1 Variable polygon delay, shorter than the specified level.2 Variable polygon delay, longer than the Maximum Polygon Delay (laser is turned OFF between the two Mark commands). 3. Mark Delay.

Legend:




Optimizing DelaysDelays are set with the set_scanner_delays and set_laser_delays commands. The delays have to be appropriate for the defined jump speed and the marking speed. If the delays are not optimized, the quality of the scanning results will be reduced and scanning time will be extended.

Generally, the lengths of the LaserOn delay and the LaserOff delay have no effect on the total scanning time.

The LaserOn and LaserOff delays should be optimized first followed by the scanning delays (jump delay, mark delay and polygon delays). It is useful to set the jump delay and the mark delay to long values.

The following figures show various effects of non-optimized delays:

LaserOn Delay too short

At the beginning of a mark vector, the laser is switched ON, although the mirrors have not yet reached the necessary angular velocity.

Burn-in effects at the start points of the respective vectors.

LaserOn Delay too long

The laser is turned on too late at the beginning of a mark vector.

The first part of the vector is not marked.



Appe

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Lase

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LaserOff Delay too short

The laser is turned OFF after the last Mark command of a line or polyline, although the mirrors have not yet reached the end position of the vectors.

The respective vectors are not completely marked.

LaserOff Delay too long

The laser turned off too late after the last Mark command of a line or polyline. The laser is still ON, although the mirrors have already stopped or move very slowly.

Burn-in effects at the end points of the respective vectors.

Jump Delay too short

After a jump, the first mark vector has already started although the scanners have not yet settled.

Running-in oscillation (overshoot).

No visible effects Jump Delay too long

No visible effects, however, the scanning time will be extended.




Mark Delay too short

The command for the succeeding jump vector is already executing although the mirrors have not yet reached the end position of the last vector of a line or polyline.

End of the vector is turned toward the direction of the jump vector.

No visible effects Mark Delay too long

No visible effects, however, the scanning time will be extended.

Polygon Delay too short

Subsequent Mark command in a polyline is already executing although the mirrors have not yet reached the end position of the preceding mark vector.

Corners of the polyline are rounded off.

Polygon Delay too long

Mirrors are moving too slowly or are even stopping between subsequent Mark commands.

Burn-in effects occur because laser is not turned OFF between vectors.


Glossary137

Glos

sary

GlossaryCorrections or additions to this list are welcome. Please send your terms and definitions to:

Preco, Inc. Documentation Department 500 Laser Drive Somerset, Wisconsin 54025 USA

Voice: 715-247-3285 Facsimile: 715-247-5650 Service: 1-800-799-2583 Email: [email protected] Website: www.precoinc.com

A Aperture - an opening through which radiation can pass.

Articulated arm - CO2 laser beam delivery device consisting of a series of hollow tubes and mirrors interconnected in such a manner as to maintain alignment of the laser beam along the path of the arm.

Axis - optical axis the optical centerline for a lens system; the line passing through the centers of curvature of the optical surfaces of a lens.

B Beam - a collection of rays that may be parallel, convergent, or divergent.

Beam bender - a hardware assembly containing an optical device, such as a mirror, capable of changing the direction of a laser beam; used to re-point the beam, and in "folded," compact laser systems.

Beam diameter - the distance between diametrically opposed points in the cross section of a circular beam where the intensity is reduced by a factor of 1/e (0.368) of the peak level (for safety standards). The value is normally chosen at 1/e2 (0.135) of the peak level for manufacturing specifications.

Beam divergence - angle of beam spread measured in radians or milliradians (1 milliradian = 3.4 minutes-of-arc or approximately 1 mil). For small angles where the cord is approximately equal to the arc, the beam divergence can be closely approximated by the ratio of the cord length (beam diameter) divided by the distance (range) from the laser aperture.

Beam expander - an optical device that increases beam diameter while decreasing beam divergence (spread). In its simplest form consists of two lenses, the first to diverge the beam and the second to re-collimate it. Also called an upcollimator.


Glossary138Glossary
Beam splitter - an optical device using controlled reflection to produce two beams from a single
incident beam.

C Carbon dioxide - molecule used as a laser medium. Emits far infrared energy at 10,600 nm (10.6 micrometers).

Cathode - a negatively charged electrical element providing electrons for an electrical discharge.

Closed installation - any location where lasers are used which will be closed to unprotected personnel during laser operation.

CO2 laser - a widely used laser in which the primary lasing medium is carbon dioxide gas. The output wavelength is 10.6 micrometers in the far infrared spectrum. It can be operated in either CW or pulsed.

Coaxial gas - a shield of inert gas flowing over the target material to prevent plasma oxidation and absorption, blow away debris, and control heat reaction. The gas jet has the same axis as the beam, so the two can be aimed together.

Continuous Wave (CW) - constant, steady-state delivery of laser power.

Controlled area - a locale where the activity of those within are subject to control and supervision for the purpose of laser radiation hazard protection.

Convergence - the bending of light rays toward each other, as by a positive (convex) lens.

Crystal - a solid with a regular array of atoms. Sapphire (ruby laser) and yag (nd:yag laser) are two crystalline materials used as laser sources.

CW - abbreviation for continuous wave; the continuous-emission mode of a laser as opposed to pulsed operation.

D Depth of field - the working range of the beam in or near the focal plane of a lens; a function of wavelength, diameter of the unfocused beam, and focal length of the lens.

Depth of focus - the distance over which the focused laser spot has a constant diameter and thus constant irradiance.

Diffuse - reflection takes place when different parts of a beam incident on a surface are reflected over a wide range of angles in accordance with Lombard’s law. The intensity will fall-off as the inverse of the square of the distance away from the surface and also obey a cosine law of reflection.

Divergence - the increase in the diameter of the laser beam with distance from the exit aperture. The value gives the full angle at the point where the laser radiant exposure or irradiance is 1/e or 1/e2 of the maximum value, depending upon which criteria is used.

E Enclosed laser device - any laser or laser system located within an enclosure which does not permit hazardous optical radiation emission from the enclosure. The laser inside is termed an "embedded laser."


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Energy - the product of power (watts) and duration (seconds). One watt second = one joule.

Energy (q) - the capacity for doing work. Energy is commonly used to express the output from pulsed lasers and it is generally measured in joules (j). The product of power (watts) and duration (seconds). One watt second = one joule.

Energy source - high voltage electricity, radio waves, flashes of light, or another laser used to excite the laser medium.

Extended source - an extended source of radiation can be resolved into a geometrical image in contrast with a point source of radiation, which cannot be resolved into a geometrical image. A light source whose diameter subtends a relatively large angle from an observer.

F Failsafe interlock - an interlock where the failure of a single mechanical or electrical component of the interlock will cause the system to go into, or remain in, a safe mode.

Fluorescence - the emission of light of a particular wavelength resulting from absorption of energy typically from light of shorter wavelengths.

Flux - the radiant, or luminutesous, power of a light beam; the time rate of the flow of radiant energy across a given surface.

Focal length - distance between the center of a lens and the point on the optical axis to which parallel rays of light are converged by the laser.

Focal point - that distance from the focusing lens where the laser beam has the smallest diameter.

Focus - as a noun, the point where rays of light meet which have been reflected by a mirror or refracted by a lens, giving rise to an image of the source. As a verb, to adjust focal length for the clearest image and smallest spot size.

Frequency - the number of light waves passing a fixed point in a given unit of time, or the number of complete vibrations in that period of time.

G Gain - another term for amplification.

Gas discharge laser - a laser containing a gaseous lasing medium in a glass tube in which a constant flow of gas replenishes the molecules depleted by the electricity or chemicals used for excitation.

Gas laser - a type of laser in which the laser action takes place in a gas medium.

H Heat sink - a substance or device used to dissipate or absorb unwanted heat energy.

Helium-neon laser (hene) - a laser in which the active medium is a mixture of helium and neon. Its wavelength is usually in the visible range. Used widely for alignment, recording, printing, and measuring.

Hertz (Hz) - unit of frequency in the international system of units (si), abbreviated Hz; replaces cps for cycles per second.


Glossary140Glossary
I
Image - the optical reproduction of an object, produced by a lens or mirror. A typical positive lens converges rays to form a "real" image which can be photographed. A negative lens spreads rays to form a "virtual" image which can’t be projected.

Incident light - a ray of light that falls on the surface of a lens or any other object. The "angle of incidence" is the angle made by the ray with a perpendicular (normal) to the surface.

Infrared radiation (ir) - invisible electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths which lie within the range of 0.70 to 1000 micrometers. This region is often broken up into ir-a, ir-b, and ir-c.

Irradiation - exposure to radiant energy, such as heat, x rays, or light.

J Joule (j) - a unit of energy (1 watt-second) used to describe the rate of energy delivery. It is equal to 1 watt-second or 0.239 calorie.

Joule/cm2 - a unit of radiant exposure used in measuring the amount of energy incident upon a unit area.

K Ktp (potassium titanyl phosphate) - a crystal used to change the wavelength of an nd:yag laser from 1060 nm (infrared) to 532 nm (green).

L Laser - an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. A laser is a cavity, with mirrors at the ends, filled with material such as crystal, glass, liquid, gas or dye. A device which produces an intense beam of light with the unique properties of coherence, collimation and monochromaticity.

Laser accessories - the hardware and options available for lasers, such as secondary gases, brewster windows, q-switches, and electronic shutters.

Laser controlled area (see controlled area)

Laser device - either a laser or a laser system.

Laser medium (active medium) - material used to emit the laser light and for which the laser is named.

Laser oscillation - the buildup of the coherent wave between laser cavity end mirrors producing standing waves.

Laser system - an assembly of electrical, mechanical, and optical components which includes a laser. Under the federal standard, a laser in combination with its power supply (energy source).

Lens - a curved piece of optically transparent material which depending on its shape is used to either converge or diverge light.

Light - the range of electromagnetic radiation frequencies detected by the eye, or the wavelength range from about 400 to 760 nanometers. The term is sometimes used loosely to include radiation beyond visible limits.


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Light regulation - a form of power regulation in which output power is monitored and maintained at a constant level by controlling discharge current.

Limiting aperture - the maximum circular area over which radiance and radiant exposure can be averaged when determinng safety hazards.

Limiting exposure - duration an exposure duration which is specifically limited by the design or intended use(s).

Longitudinal or axial mode - determines the wavelength bandwidth produced by a given laser system controlled by the distance between the two mirrors of the laser cavity. Individual longitudinal modes are produced by standing waves within a laser cavity.

M Maintenance - performance of those adjustments or procedures specified in user information provided by the manufacturer with the laser or laser system, which are to be performed by the user to ensure the intended performance of the product. It does not include operation or service as defined in this glossary.

Micrometer - a unit of length in the international system of units (si) equal to one millionth of a meter. Often referred to as a "micron".;

Micron - an abbreviated expression for micro meter which is the unit of length equal to 1 millionth of a meter. (see micrometer)

Microprocessor - a digital chip (computer) that operates, controls, and monitors some lasers.

Mode - a term used to describe how the power of a laser beam is geometrically distributed across the cross section of the beam. Also used to describe the operating mode of a laser such as continuous or pulsed.

Mode locked - a method of producing laser pulses in which short pulses (approximately 10-12 second) are produced and emitted in bursts or a continuous train.

Modulation - the ability to superimpose an external signal on the output beam of the laser as a control.

Monochromatic light - theoretically, light consisting of just one wavelength. No light is absolutely single frequency since it will have some bandwidth. Lasers provide the narrowest of bandwidths that can be achieved.

Multimode - laser emission at several closely spaced frequencies.

N Nanometer (nm) - a unit of length in the international system of units (si) equal to one billionth of a meter. Abbreviated nm - a measure of length. One nm equals 10-9 meter, and is the usual measure of light wavelengths. Visible light ranges from about 400 nm in the purple to about 760 nm in the deep red.

Nanosecond - one billionth (10-9) of a second. Longer than a picosecond or femtosecond, but shorter than a microsecond. Associated with q-switched lasers.


Glossary142Glossary
Nd:yag laser - neodymium:yttrium aluminutesum garnet. A synthetic crystal used as a laser medium
to produce 1064 nm light.

Near field imaging - a solid-state laser imaging technique offering control of spot size and hole geometry, adjustable working distance, uniform energy distribution, and a wide range of spot sizes.

Neodymium (nd) - the rare earth element that is the active element in nd:yag lasers and nd:glass lasers.

Noise - unwanted minutesor currents or voltages in an electrical system.

O Open installation - any location where lasers are used which will be open to operating personnel during laser operation and may or may not specifically restrict entry to observers.

Operation - the performance of the laser or laser system over the full range of its intended functions (normal operation). It does not include maintenance or services as defined in this glossary.

Optical cavity (resonator) - space between the laser mirrors where lasing action occurs.

P Photon - in quantum theory, the elemental unit of light, having both wave and particle behavior. It has motion, but no mass or charge. The photon energy (e) is proportional to the em wave frequency (v) by the relationship: e=hv; where h is planck’s constant (6.63 x10-34 joule-sec).

Photosensitizers - chemical substances or medications which increase the sensitivity of the skin or eye to irradiation by optical radiation, usually to uv.

Picosecond - a period of time equal to 10-12 seconds.

Plasma shield - the ability of plasma to stop transmission of laser light.

Power - the rate of energy delivery expressed in watts (joules per second). Thus: 1 watt = 1 joule/1 sec.

Power meter - an accessory used to measure laser beam power.

Protective housing - a protective housing is a device designed to prevent access to radiant power or energy.

Pulse - a discontinuous burst of laser, light or energy, as opposed to a continuous beam. A true pulse achieves higher peak powers than that attainable in a CW output.

Pulse duration - the "on" time of a pulsed laser. It may be measured in terms of millisecond, microsecond, or nanosecond as defined by half-peak-power points on the leading and trailing edges of the pulse.

Pulse mode - operation of a laser when the beam is intermittently on in fractions of a second.

Pulse repetition frequency (prf) - the number of pulses produced per second by a laser.

Pulsed laser - a laser which delivers energy in the form of a single or train of pulses.


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R Radian - a unit of angular measure equal to the angle subtended at the center of a circle by a chord whose length is equal to the radius of the circle.

Radiance - brightness the radiant power per unit solid angle and per unit area of a radiating surface.

Radiant energy (q) - energy in the form of electromagnetic waves usually expressed in units of joules (watt-seconds).

Radiant exposure (h) - the total energy per unit area incident upon a given surface. It is used to express exposure to pulsed laser radiation in units of j/cm2.

Radiant flux - radiant power the time rate of flow of radiant energy. Units-watts. (one [1] watt = 1 joule-per-second). The rate of emission of transmission of radiant energy.

Radiant intensity - the radiant power expressed per unit solid angle about the direction of the light.

Radiation - in the context of optics, electromagnetic energy is released; the process of releasing electromagnetic energy.

Radiometry - a branch of science which deals with the measurement of radiation.

Reflectance reflectivity - the ratio of the reflected radiant power to the incident radiant power.

Reflection - the return of radiant energy (incident light) by a surface, with no change in wavelength.

Refraction - the change of direction of propagation of any wave, such as an electromagnetic wave, when it passes from one medium to another in which the wave velocity is different. The bending of incident rays as they pass from one medium to another (e.g., air to glass).

Repetitively pulsed laser - a laser with multiple pulses of radiant energy occurring in sequence with a prf > 1 Hz.

Resonator - the mirrors (or reflectors) making up the laser cavity including the laser rod or tube. The mirrors reflect light back and forth to build up amplification.

Rotating lens - a beam delivery lens designed to move in a circle and thus rotate the laser beam around a circle.

Ruby - the first laser type; a crystal of sapphire (aluminutesum oxide) containing trace amounts of chromium oxide.

S Scanning laser - a laser having a time-varying direction, origin, or pattern of propagation with respect to a stationary frame of reference.

Scintillation - this term is used to describe the rapid changes in irradiance levels in a cross section of a laser beam produced by atmospheric turbulence.

Secured enclosure - an enclosure to which casual access is impeded by an appropriate means (e.g., door secured by lock, magnetically or electrically operated, latch, or by screws).

Semiconductor laser - a type of laser which produces its output from semiconductor materials such as gas.


Glossary144Glossary
Service - performance of adjustments, repair, or procedures on a non-routine basis, required to return
the equipment to its intended state.

Solid - angle the ratio of the area on the surface of a sphere to the square of the radius of that sphere. It is expressed in steradians (sr).

Source - the term "source" means either laser or laser-illuminutesated reflecting surface, i.e., source of light.

Spectral response - the response of a device or material to monochromatic light as a function of wavelength.

Specular reflection - a mirror-like reflection.

Spontaneous emission - decay of an excited atom to a ground or resting state by the random emission of one photon. The decay is determined by the lifetime of the excited state.

Spot size - the mathematical measurement of the radius of the laser beam.

Stability - the ability of a laser system to resist changes in its operating characteristics. Temperature, electrical, dimensional, and power stability are included.

Steradian (sr) - the unit of measure for a solid angle.

Stimulated emission - when an atom, ion, or molecule capable of lasing is excited to a higher energy level by an electric charge or other means, it will spontaneously emit a photon as it decays to the normal ground state. If that photon passes near another atom of the same energy, the second atom will be stimulated to emit a photon.

Superpulse - electronic pulsing of the laser driving circuit to produce a pulsed output (250-1000 times per second), with peak powers per pulse higher than the maximum attainable in the continuous wave mode. Average powers of superpulse are always lower than the maximum in continuous wave. Process often used on CO2 surgical lasers.

T TEM - abbreviation for transverse electromagnetic modes. Used to designate the cross-sectional shape of the beam. The radial distribution of intensity across a beam as it exits the optical cavity.

Temoo - the lowest order mode possible with a bell-shaped (gaussian) distribution of light across the laser beam.

Thermal relaxation time - the time to dissipate the heat absorbed during a laser pulse.

Threshold - the input level at which lasing begins during excitation of the laser medium.

Transmission - passage of electromagnetic radiation through a medium.

Transmittance - the ratio of transmitted radiant energy to incident radiant energy, or the fraction of light that passes through a medium.

Tunable laser - a laser system that can be "tuned" to emit laser light over a continuous range of wavelengths or frequencies.


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Tunable dye laser - a laser whose active medium is a liquid dye, pumped by another laser or flashlamps, to produce various colors of light. The color of light may be tuned by adjusting optical tuning elements and/or changing the dye used.

U Ultraviolet radiation (uv) - electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths between soft x rays and visible violet light, often broken down into uv-a (315-400 nm), uv-b (280-315 nm), and uv-c (100-280 nm).

V Vaporization - conversion of a solid or liquid into a vapor.

Vignetting - the loss of light through an optical element when the entire bundle of light rays does not pass through; an image or picture that shades off gradually into the background.

Visible radiation (light) - electromagnetic radiation which can be detected by the human eye. It is commonly used to describe wavelengths which lie in the range between 400 nm and 700-780 nm. The peak of the human spectral response is about 555 nm.

W Watt - a unit of power (equivalent to one joule per second) used to express laser power.

Wave - an undulation or vibration, a form of movement by which all radiant energy of the electromagnetic spectrum is thought to travel.

Wavelength - the fundamental property of light-the length of the light wave, which determines its color. Common units of measurement (which is usually from crest to crest) are the micron, the nanometer, and (earlier) the angstrom.

Window - a piece of glass with plane parallel sides which admits light into or through an optical system and excludes dirt and moisture.

X X-ray laser - a device that uses stimulated emission to produce coherent x rays.

Y YAG (yttrium aluminutesum garnet) - a widely used solid-state crystal which is composed of yttrium and aluminutesum oxides which is doped with a small amount if the rare-earth neodymium.

Z Z-cavity - a term referring to the shape of the optical layout of the tubes and resonator inside a laser.


Glossary146Glossary
Common Abbreviations
Abbrv. Description

% Percent

A Amperes

AC Alternating current

ANSI American National Standards Institute

AWG American Wire Gauge

BNC Type of connector

Btu British thermal unit - 1 btu= heat required to raise temperature of 1 pound of water 1ûF.

oC Degrees centigrade

Cal Calorie - 1 cal. = heat required to raise temperature of one gram of water 1ûC

cb Corner block

C. C. Cubic centimeter

CE European Community

CDRH Center for Devices and Radiological Health (part of the Food and Drug Administration)

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

cm centimeters

CO2 Carbon Dioxide

Cu. Ft. Cubic feet

Cu. In. Cubic inches

ESD Electrostatic Discharge

oF Degrees fahrenheit

Fps Feet per second

Ft Feet (foot)

Gal US Gallon

Gpm Gallons per minutes

He Helium

Hp Horsepower = work at rate of 33,000 ft. Lb/minutes


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Hz Hertz or cycles per second (frequency)

In Inch(es)

IR Infrared

oK Degrees Kelvin

kg Kilograms

kHz Kilohertz

kPa Kilopascals

kV Kilovolts

kW Kilowatts

lbs pounds

LCD Liquid Crystal Display

LED Light Emitting Diode

m Meter(s)

mA Milliamperes

mg Milligrams

Min Minimum

Max Maximum

MHz Megahertz

mm millimeters

mrad Milliradians

ms Milliseconds

mW Milliwatts

minutes minutes(s) of time

N2 Nitrogen

nm Nanometers

OEM Original equipment Manufacturer

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration (part of the Department of Labor)

PDF Portable Document Format

PLC Programmable Logic Controller

P/N Part Number

PPE Personal Protective Equipment


Glossary148Glossary
ppm Parts per million
psi Pounds per square inch

psig Pounds per square inch, gauge

Rev Revolutions (of a shaft or pump)

Sec Second(s) of time

Sp. Gr. Specific gravity - ratio of the weight of a body to the weight of an equal volume of water at 4ûC or other specified temperature.

Sp. Ht.Specific heat - ratio of heat required to raise a unit of weight of a substance 1ûF to the amount of heat required to raise an equal weight of water 1ûF at a certain temperature (hydraulic oil is approx. 0.45).

Sp. Wt. Specific weight or weight density = lb./cu. Ft.; lb./cu. In. Or grams/c.c.

Sq. In. Square inch(es)

V Volts

VAC Volts Alternating Current

VDC Volts Direct Current

W Watts


AcuBeam v2_XX Laser Galvo Control Software User's Guide

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Transcript of AcuBeam v2_XX Laser Galvo Control Software User's Guide