PostProcessing.pdf

Click To See: How to Use Online Documents SURFCAM Online Documents685)&$06XSSRUW8WLO L WL HV0DQXDO

After a gto Sectiobeginnin

In the finthe NC processAfter NCtransmitbetweenThis proSURFC

Post proand maNC codconsistiand filesNC macSURFCpost proto as MPconfigurlibrary o

ThmiSUSU

2

2.1

2.2

2.2SURFCAM Support Utilities Manual, Chapter 2 Post Processing Introduction and MPostCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

eneral introduction to Post Processing, this chapter will be devoted mainly to MPost. Refer n 2.2.2: The MPOST Post Processor Package on page 36 and then to the main MPost topics g with Section 2.6: Post Processor Configuration on page 47.

al phase of an NC project, the NC operation toolpaths are processed to convert them to code needed by the machine that will cut the part. This conversion process, called post ing, is accomplished with programs called post processors. code has been created for the specific machine that will do the cutting, it must be ted to that machine. One common method of doing this is to make an RS-232 connection a computer and the NC machine and then download the NC code directly to the machine. cess is referred to as Direct Numerical Control or DNC communications.AM is shipped with two post processor systems and one DNC system.

cessors are programs that take toolpath information from a file created by a CAM program chine information from a machine configuration file (often called a post) to create the final e understood by the NC machines controller. Post processors usually come in a package ng of a processor for each general type of NC machine (that is lathe, mill, and wire EDM) and/or programs that help you create machine configuration files or posts for individual hines.AM is shipped with two such post processor packages. One consists of three separate cessors called MPOST, LPOST and EPOST. For convenience, this package is referred OST. The other, called SPOST, has more powerful post processors and a machine

ation utility for developing posts or machine configuration files. Both packages contain a f existing posts for a number of NC machines.

e SPost post processor system contains two post processors: SPOSTM.EXE used with lls and wire EDM and SPOSTL.EXE used with lathes. These programs are stored in the RFCAM\Surf2000\SPost directory. The posts for the SPOST system are saved in the RFCAM\PostLib\SPost directory as files with names in the form of either UNCX01.Pnn for

INTRODUCTION

POST PROCESSOR BASICS

.1 The SPost Post Processor

32 SURFCAM Support Utilities Manual, Chapter 2 Post Processing Introduction and MPost

mill/wire EDM posts or UNCL01.Pnn for lathe posts. The nn in these file names is the machine number that is assigned by the person who creates the post.

Posts are created in the SPost system using a program called SPOSTCFG.EXE. This post configuration program is stored in the SURFCAM\Surf2000\SPost directory.

2.2.1.1 Creating SPOST Posts and FIL FilesCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

For a detailed explanation of SPost, refer to the online SPost Reference Manual and to the online SPost FIL Manual.Often a post has an accompanying FIL (Factory Interface Language) file whose function is to handle special circumstances regarding the machine that cannot be addressed by a post file alone. Refer to the online SPost FIL Manual, Chapter 1: Fil Introduction starting on page 1 if you need to create your own FIL file for a particular machine. FIL files are saved in the SURFCAM\PostLib\SPost directory with names in a form that is similar to the names of posts: UNCX01.Fnn for mill and wire EDM machines and UNCL01.Fnn for lathe machines. The nn in a FIL file name is the same as the nn in its corresponding post file name.

Several features of the NC Operations Manager dialog box are used in post processing.

First, the NC Operations Tree is used to select the operations for post processing. You can process a single operation, all the operations in a single Setup Section,

2.2.1.2 Running an SPOST Post Processor

You run an SPost post processor from the NC Operations Manager dialog box. To access the NC Operations Manager dialog box, either click the button on the SURFCAM toolbar or press Ctrl + N.

Figure 1: NC Operations Manager dialog box

2.2.1.2.1 Operations Tree

SURFCAM Support Utilities Manual, Chapter 2 Post Processing Introduction and MPost 33

or all the operations in the NC Project by clicking the corresponding icon. If you post process the entire project, however, you get a separate output file (an NCC file) for each Setup Section rather than a single NCC file.

Next, the post to be used in the post processing is 2.2.1.2.2 Post List BoxCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

selected from the NC Post List box. The SPost posts that are listed in the NC Post List box are the ones that are available for the currently active NC mode. If you choose a different mode, a corresponding list will be displayed. When you click an entry in the NC Post List box, a comment related to that item will be displayed on the NC Status Line.The contents of the NC Post List box and NC Status Line are determined by the contents of the SURFCAM.PST file. This file also contains commands required to invoke the correct SPost post processor and to complete the post processing cycle. When you need to add a new post to those already available, you will have to make changes to the SURFCAM.PST file.

To start the SPost post processing cycle, double-click the desired post name in the NC Post List box (or click the post name once and click the Post button). SURFCAM will create an NCD sub-directory if one has not already been created. Refer to the SURFCAM Getting Started Manual, Chapter 2: NC Project Basics, Section 2.2.4: NCD Sub-directories on page 53. All the files created during post processing will be saved in the NCD sub-directory. The NC Operations Manager then executes a series of commands, stored in the SURFCAM.PST file, that lead to the creation of the final NCC code.

From the ICD file, the NC Operations Manager extracts INC files of the operations you selected from the NC Operations Tree. These INC files are temporary and are deleted when you exit SURFCAM.If you selected a single operation, its INC file is extracted and saved with the Operation File Name shown on the Operation Information dialog box. Refer to the SURFCAM Getting Started Manual, Chapter 5: NC Operations Manager, Section 5.3.1: NC Operation Information Dialog Box on page 127.If you selected a Setup Section, the INC files of each of its operations are extracted, merged into one INC file and saved with the Section File Name on the NC Section Information dialog box. Refer to the SURFCAM Getting Started Manual, Chapter 5: NC Operations Manager, Section 5.3.2: NC Section Information Dialog Box on page 129.

2.2.1.2.3 Starting Post Processing

2.2.1.2.4 Post Processing Details


Next, the INC file is translated by the INC2APT translator into APT format, an industry standard, and saved as a file with the APT extension and the same name as the INC file. This APT file is temporary and is deleted as the last step of post processing.Next, the applicable SPost post processor (SPOSTM.EXE or SPOSTL.EXE) will take input from the APT file and from the designated post file to create a file Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

containing the final NC code. This file is saved with either the Section File Name or Operation File Name, mentioned previously, and the NCC extension. At the same time, a process list file is created having the same name as the NCC file and the LST extension. The LST file is a diagnostic tool used when you are creating a new SPost post.If the file names of any of the files created in the previous steps already appear in the NCD sub-directory, an NCPOST dialog box similar to the following one will be displayed.

If you click No, post processing will stop. You can choose not to have these warning boxes displayed by checking the Dont warn if files already exist while posting box on the NC Settings dialog box. Refer to the online SURFCAM Reference Manual, Chapter 1: Menus and Dialog Boxes, Section 1.8.5: Options > NC Settings on page 161.

Next, a dialog box will be displayed and you will be prompted to enter a program number.

Figure 2: File Already Exists dialog box

SURFCAM Support Utilities Manual, Chapter 2 Post Processing Introduction and MPost 35Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Type in a program number and press Enter to continue. After you do so, the SPOST post processor will create the final NC code and save it as a file with an NCC file extension.Then the SURFCAM Editor will be launched with the newly created NCC file opened and displayed on the screen. You can view the NCC file and make any necessary changes. Use the Save command to save your changes using the SURFCAM-assigned file name or use the Save As command to save it with a name of your choosing.Refer to the online SURFCAM SEdit Editor Manual.

The following is a step by step summary of post processing using SPOST.1. Before you start post processing, make sure you are in the correct NC mode.

Remember, the NC mode menu determines the posts that are displayed on the Operations Manager dialog box. Refer to the SURFCAM Getting Started Manual, Chapter 2: NC Project Basics, Section 2.3.2: Select the NC Menu on page 55.

2. Click the Operations Manager button on the SURFCAM toolbar to display the NC Operations dialog box.

3. Click the icon in the NC Operations Tree that represents the operations for which you want to produce NC code: the NC Project icon, one Setup Section icon or one operations icon.

4. In the NC Post List box double-click the desired post name (or click it once and click the Post button).

5. Respond to any dialog boxes that may be displayed.6. When the NCC file is displayed in the SURFCAM Editor, make any modifications

that are needed and use the Save or Save As command to save it. You can also

Figure 3: Posting dialog box

2.2.1.3 Summary SPost Post Processing


send your NCC file directly to your NC machine by clicking the SDNC icon on the SURFCAM Editor toolbar to run SDNC.

The other post processor package shipped with SURFCAM contains three post processors: MPEDpropodirmaMiToEPPOthageproByfroThcafilePOan

2.2.2 The MPOST Post Processor PackageCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

OSTWIN used with mills, LPOSTWIN used with lathes, and EPOSTWIN used with wire M. Each is an EXE file. (For simplicity we often refer to all three as the MPost post cessor.) These programs are stored in the SURFCAM\SURF2000\MPost directory. The

st files for this post processor package are located in the SURFCAM\Postlib\Mpost ectory. The name of each post indicates the manufacturer, the model name and NC chine type. For example, CIN850.M3 is the post for a 3 axis mill made by Cincinnati

lacron. The model number is 850M. get machine configuration data, the post processors MPOSTWIN, LPOSTWIN and OSTWIN read the corresponding POSTFORM library files POSTFORM.M, STFORM.L AND POSTFORM.E. These are text files that contain copies of several posts t you want to have readily available. The post processors read the POSTFORM files to

t the post names and display them in a menu. You select the post you want and the post cessor goes to that part of the POSTFORM file to get the machine data it needs.

using a text editorsuch as the SURFCAM Editoryou can add posts to, or delete posts m, your POSTFORM library files to make them better fit your needs.e first line in a post file contains the word name followed by the name of the post. The file n be several pages long. The POSTFORM files consists of the contents of several post s appended together. To add a post, append the contents of the post file to the STFORM file. To delete a post from a POSTFORM file, delete the name line for that post

d all the following lines up to the next name line.

IF the SURFCAM post library does not contain one of these earlier posts for your machine, you can create one. SURFCAM is shipped with two post template files: Generic.M and Generic.L. These files contain a set of quasi-standard characteristics for mills and lathes. By taking the machine characteristics provided by the manufacturer, you should be able to modify one of these generic post template files with a text editor to produce a post for your machine.

2.2.2.1 Creating an MPost Post File


These post processors are run from the NC Operations Manager dialog box.

2.2.2.2 Running an MPOST Post ProcessorCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

From the NC Operations Tree, select the NC operation or set of operations you want to post process. Then double-click List All in the NC Post List box. This will display a menu of the available posts.

Specify the machine tool by clicking on its name and number. Then click OK.Depending on the post you select and the parameter values you enter in the Tool Information dialog box, a series of additional dialog boxes may be displayed prompting you to enter additional data. The following examples prompt you to enter values for work offset number and program number.

Figure 4: NC Operations Manager dialog box

Figure 5: Choose a Machine dialog box


The SUperformpost proTo workis locatethe file tname to

We will containe

2.3Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

After you have responded to any prompts for additional information, the post processor will create the final NC codeusing the data from the toolpath file(s) and the postand save it as an NCC file with a file name that is automatically assigned by the NC Operations Manager. This newly created NCC file will then automatically be loaded into the SURFCAM Editor and displayed on the screen.

You can now modify the NCC file, if needed, and re-save it. If the assigned file name is not acceptable, now is the best time to use the Save As command to assign a more useful name.

RFCAM.PST file contains commands that are used by the NC Operations Manager when ing functions related to post processing. It also contains other commands, not related to cessing, that can be executed from the NC Operations Manager dialog box. with the SURFCAM.PST file you must become familiar with its structure and contents. It d in the C:\SURFCAM\surf2000 directory. It would be helpful to obtain a printed copy of o study. You can do this by opening the file in any text editoror double-click on the file open it in the SURFCAM Editorand printing it from there.first look at the structure of the PST file and then consider the meaning of the commands d in it.

Figure 6: Examples of dialog boxes requesting additional information

Figure 7: An NCC file displayed in the SURFCAM Editor

THE SURFCAM.PST FILE


# signThe # sign placed at the beginning of some lines designates a comment line that will be ignored when the file is read by the NC Operations Manager. The comment lines at the beginning of the file form a heading while those at the end provide a file description. Those used throughout the rest of the file act as separators.

Begin PostRe

Post IteRe

CommaExbodoan

ReSpe

Thmosediathethe

Ea is the name of the NC mode and is a number designating which post in the Post t box will be highlighted when the NC Operations Manager dialog box is first opened. A 4

.1 PST BeginPost Sections


indicates the fourth post in the Post List box will be highlighted. The highlighted post is referred to as the default post.Because NC mode sections begin with the Begin command they will also be referred to as BeginPost sections.

BeSoSP

Suis tMaOt

ThbyThwhco


ginPost sections are divided into sub-sections which begin with the command PostItem. me PostItem sub-sections contain commands to run one of the SPOST post processorsOSTM or SPOSTLusing one of the SPOST posts.

ch a PostItem sub-section begins with a line that reads PostItem where he name of the SPost post as it appears in the Post List box of the NC Operations nager dialog box.

her PostItem sub-sections contain commands to run MPost.

e first PostItem sub-section contains commands to run an MPost post processor (which, convention, means an MPOSTWIN, LPOSTWIN or EPOSTWIN post processor). e APT-CL PostItem sub-section contains the commands to run the INC2APT program ich will convert the selected operations into the standard APT format used by many other mmercial post processors.

.2 PST PostItem Sub-Sections

Figure 9: Post Item for SPost

Figure 10: Post Item for MPost

Figure 11: Post Item APT-CL


The PostItem APT-CL sub-section will usually be the last in a BeginPost section.The last command in each PostItem sub-section is a Task command. This causes the NCC or APT output file to be loaded into the SURFCAM Editor and displayed on the screen.Each PostItem line is followed by several lines of commands that accomplish post processing using that post.

ThSta

Co

Ch

De

Re

Co

Ta

Th

Th

Thin


e function of the commands following a PostItem line are as follows:tus

Designates one line of help to be printed on the Status line of the NC Operations Manager dialog box.

mmandExecutes programs and Windows applications within SURFCAM using a command expressed in the command line format.

DirThe change directory command.

leteDeletes a temporary file.

nameRenames a file.

pyFileCopies a file.

skExecutes Windows applications for multi-tasking within SURFCAM.

e description of the variables appearing with the post commands is as follows:

e description of the switches appearing with the post commands is as follows:

e order in which posts appear in each NC mode section is the order in which they appear the Post List box.

.3 PST File Commands, Variables and Switches

%p 256 character directory path (for example, c:\SURFCAM\INC\).%q 8 character directory path.%n 256 character file name with extension.%s 8 character file name with extension.%N 256 file name without extension (for example, 2DRIBS).%S 8 character file name without extension.

-I Input path ( for example %p%n ).-O Output path ( for example c:\SURF2000\APT )


The most significant line in a post sub-sectionfor the task of adding a postis the second Command line, such as in the following example:Command C:\SURFCAM\SURF2000\SPOST\SPOSTM C:\SURFCAM\APT\%N.apt 06The first part of this command line (C:\SURFCAM\SURF2000\SPOST\SPOSTM) tells which SPost post processor will be usedin this case, SPOSTM.exe for mills. The number at the ento ca

ThOp

ThanArc

Usmo> SThFo

It iMadiadeTotheed

2.3

2.4

2.4


d of this line tells which post will be used in the post processing. This number corresponds the machine number designated by the last two digits in the file name for the postin this se, UNCX01.P06, which is the post for the Haas VF-1 machine.

e following command is listed near the end of the PST file. It is executed from the NC erations Manager toolbar. It creates a Setup Sheet.

e next commands are executed from the Filter List box by clicking the appropriate entry d clicking Filter Only or Post. Refer to Section 2.5.1: Arc Filter on page 43 to Section 2.5.2: FltrMx Filter on page 45 and to Section 2.5.3: NURB Filter on page 45.

e the PST Wizard to add or remove a Post or to dify one. To open the wizard click Start > Programs URFCAM 2000 > SURFCAM Tools > PST Wizard.

e Post Menu Wizard dialog box will be displayed. llow the prompts to make additions or modifications.

s convenient to have your most frequently used posts pre-selected in the Operations nager Post List box. The post highlighted when you first open the NC Operations Manager log box is the default post. Refer to Section 2.3.1: PST BeginPost Sections on page 39 for a scription of how the default post is determined. make your favorite post the pre-selected or highlighted one, first determine the number of position that your post holds in the Post List box. Then open SURFCAM.PST, using a text

itor such as the SURFCAM Editor. Change the number following Default: in the

.4 Special PST File Commands

SetupSheet C:\SURFCAM\SURF2000\sview -m SSHEET.TXT

IncFilter C:\SURFCAM\SURF2000\filters\ArcFltr.dll#IncFilter C:\SURFCAM\SURF2000\FILTERS\ArcFltrMx.dllIncFilter C:\SURFCAM\SURF2000\FILTERS\NurbFltr.dll

MODIFY THE PST FILE

.1 PST WIZARD

.2 Change the Default Post


BeginPost line to that number. Remember to Save the SURFCAM.PST file after you make the change.

Thlinecoco

2.5 FILTERS

2.5

X.X.X.X.X.X.X.

Thth1 thwsi

RuMaLisArcan

ArcproproImthewilcoCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

is section describes the use of SURFCAMs arc filter program that converts a sequence of ar moves, that approximate an arc, to a single arc move. The table below shows

rresponding lines of NCC file code from the same project. The sample on the left shows de before filtering. The one on the right shows the corresponding code after filtering.

.1 Arc Filter

SECTION OF UNFILTERED CODE SHOWING ALL LINE SEGMENTS

SAME SECTION WITH FILTERED CODE SHOWING ONE ARC

3588 Y3.39164565 Y3.465575 Y3.5224662 Y3.57937697 Y3.63098807 Y3.67769948 Y3.7194

X.3588 Y3.3916G02 X.7697 Y3.6309 I.8892 J-3.1263G01 X.8807 Y3.6776X.9948 Y3.7194

EXPLANATION EXPLANATION

e above seven lines of code describe e creation of six line segments. Lines through 5 describe four line segments at approximate a small arc. Arc Filter ill convert these four segments to a ngle arc.

Arc Filter has converted the old lines 2 through 5 to the single line 2, above. Line 2 is the G02 code that describes an arc with center at (.8892, -3.1263), starting at the point (.3588, 3.3916) and ending at the point (.7697, 3.6309). Line 3 is the G01 code required to switch back to linear mode.

n the SURFCAM arc filter program from the Operations nager dialog box. The Filter List boxbelow the Post t boxcontains the SURFCAM filter options: , Fltr, ArcFltrMix (Section 2.5.2: ArcFltrMx Filter on page 45),

d NurbFltr (Section 2.5.3: NURB Filter on page 45).Fltr can be run in conjunction with performing a post cessing operation. To do so, click ArcFltr before you ceed with post processing.

mediately after you double-click the desired post (or click POST button) to start the post processing, SURFCAM l display the ArcFit dialog box to set parameters that will ntrol how the filtering will be performed. Figure 12: Filter List Box


To

Mi

Ma

Ar

UC

Fit

Fit

AftOpmoCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

leranceThis is the arc fitting tolerance. It is the maximum chordal deviation allowedthe maximum distance between the line segments being optimized and the calculated arc.HINT: You may want this to be generally the same (or same order of magnitude) as the surface tolerance used to cut the tool path.

nimum RadiusThis is the smallest allowed arc radius. Any arcs found smaller than this value are output as the original input line segments.

ximum RadiusThis is the largest allowed arc radius. Any arcs found larger than this value are output as the original input line segments.

c In PlaneArcs may be restricted to lie in a specified plane. The default is to arc in any best fit plane. You can restrict arcs to XY, YZ, or ZX plane for machines that may not support arc movement in any arbitrary plane.

S Planes OnlyUse UCS Planes Only for best fit.

Arcs TangentArcs must be tangent to the current tool path position.

Area Least SquaresUse Area Least Squares (ALS) Arc fitting function instead of the default Total Least Squares (TLS) fit. ALS fit is much faster if you have a very large tool path, but may not be quite as accurate a fit to the arcs. ALS method may also not produce quite as much optimization as the TLS method.

er you make the desired parameter settings click OK. SURFCAM, will display the ArcFit timizing Toolpath dialog box as it analyzes the tool path to convert linear moves to arc ves.

Figure 13: Arc Fit dialog box


When finished with the arc filter, SURFCAM will then perform the rest of the post processing.

The ArcFltrMx filter analyzes linear 5 axis moves in the NC output and translates them into separate XY and UV arc moves if they lie within a specified tolerance. This utility is spintToSU#InThDeOp

Thmo

ThFil43.

NUclicImpo

2.5.2 ArcFltrMx Filter


ecifically useful for 4 axis wire EDM machines and 5 axis controls that support arc erpolation. It is available on SURFCAM 4 Axis and above. use this, double-click the SURFCAM.PST file in the Explorer. The file will open in the RFCAM Editor. Locate the INC Filters section, then the line:cFilter C:\SURFCAM\SURF2000\FILTERS\ArcFltrMx.dlle # symbol at the beginning of the line indicates that this line is a comment only.lete the # symbol and save the file. Then open SURFCAM. When you open the NC erations Manager, you will see the ArcFltrMx listed.

is section describes SURFCAMs NURB filter program that analyzes sequences of linear ves in an NC file and converts them to NURB spline moves.e SURFCAM NURB filter program is run from the Operations Manager dialog box. The ter List box contains the SURFCAM filter options. Refer to Figure 12: Filter List Box on page When the default option is selected, no filtering will occur.RB Filter can be run in conjunction with performing a post processing operation. To do so, k NurbFltr in the Filter List box before you proceed with post processing.

mediately after you double-click the desired post (or click the POST button) to start the st processing, SURFCAM will display the NURB Filter Options dialog box.

.3 NURB Filter


Do

Ch

Ch

Su

Ch

DoCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

not check linear moves for toleranceAll lines will be fit to splines without checking the Surface/Curve Tolerance parameter. This is the fastest method. It is best used when the tool path is known to follow only NURB curves.

eck tolerance for each NURB splineLines are fit to splines and the Surface/Curve Tolerance parameter is checked only when the spline is completed. The spline is completed when records other than lines are encountered, such as an Arc or an end of row. This is the fastest method to use when the toolpath is known to follow some NURB curves.

eck tolerance for every linear moveCheck the Surface/Curve Tolerance parameter as each line is added to fit a spline. This is the slowest method.

rface / Curve ToleranceThe maximum deviation of the spline from the original line segments will be kept to less than this value.

eck Points Per SpanSpecify the number of points along each span of the NURB curve to check the distance against the tolerance value.Note The following parameters relate to optimizing splines. Refer to the online

SURFCAM Reference Manual, Chapter 1: Menus and Dialog Boxes, Optimize on page 61.

Not OptimizeNURB spline moves are created by interpolations that use the original data points describing linear moves. No data points are discarded. This results in the fastest time through the NURB filter but the most data sent on to the post processor.

Figure 14: NURB Filter Options dialog box


Use SURFCAM Spline OptimizationUse the optimization method used by the Create > Spline > Optimize and the Edit > Splines > Optimize commands. Optimization is achieved by discarding some of the original linear data points resulting in fewer nodes and control points (that describe spline moves) being sent to the post processor.

Use Total Least Squares Optimization

Op

AftOpmo

Wh

With thipackage

These pconvers

The EIAfollowedoperatioColumn

The follo

2.6

O1

M6 T1 (G0 G90

H1 M9 Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

This usually results in the greatest number of data points being discarded, thus providing maximum optimization. Due to the number of calculations required, this method results in the slowest time through the NURB filter.

timize DeviationThis is the maximum deviation to be allowed between the original linear moves and the resulting NURB spline moves.

er you make the desired parameter settings, click OK. SURFCAM will display the NURBS timizing Toolpath dialog box as it analyzes the tool path to convert linear moves to arc ves.

en finished with the filter, SURFCAM will then perform the rest of the post processing.

s section, we begin the main purpose of this chapter: a discussion of the post processing referred to as MPOST. This package consists of the following three post processors:

ost processors convert generic INC files into a variety of standard EIA / ISO, ational, and columnar style NC code formats. standard requires that every address or word of the NC program language is a letter by a number. This format usually uses G, X, Y, Z, and/or M codes for various machine ns and functions. The output format can be Standard G code, Conversational, or ar.

wing example program sections indicate the different code formats:

POST PROCESSOR CONFIGURATION

MPOSTWIN.EXE Mill machinesLPOSTWIN.EXE Lathe machinesEPOSTWIN.EXE Wire EDM machines

STANDARD EIA / ISO CONVERSATIONAL

BEGIN PGM 1 INCH

Tool Radius: 0.25 Tool Diam: 0.5 Tool Corner: 0 0 TOOL DEF 8 L+0 R0.25 S760 M3 E1 X0.9417 Y-2.212 A0 1 TOOL CALL 8 Z S760.0

Z1. 2 L X+0.9417 Y-2.212 R F6000 M6

Figure 15: Standard G code / Conversational


G0 Z0.5 3 L Z+1. R F6000 M13

G1 Z0 F4. 4 L Z+0.5 R F6000 M

X1.5638 F9. 5 L Z+0 R F40 M

Y-2.087

G2 X1.1

X0.920

Y-0.689

X1.118

G1 X0.9

G2 X0.9

G1 X0.3

Y-2.212

X0.941

G0 Z1.

M5 M9

G0 G49

E0 X0 Y

M2

STANDARD EIA / ISO CONVERSATIONALCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

5 6 L X+1.5638 Z+0 R F90 M

215 Y-1.7203 I0 J0.45 7 L Y-2.0875 Z+0 R F M

9 Y-1.373 I0.7923 J0.689 8 CC Y-1.6375

6 I0.2929 J0.3417 9 C X+1.1215 Y-1.7203 DR- R F M

3 Y-0.346 I0.9929 J-0.3417 10 CC X+1.9138 Y-1.0313

509 Y0.1139 11 C X+0.9209 Y-1.373 DR- R F M

002 Y0.1494 I0.2322 J0.3855 12 CC X+1.2138 Y-1.0313

196 13 C X+0.9209 Y-0.6896 DR- R F M

14 CC X+1.9138 Y-1.0313

7 15 C X+1.1183 Y-0.346 DR- R F M

16 L X+0.9509 Y+0.1139 Z+0 R F M

17 CC X+1.183 Y+0.4994

G90 Z0 18 C X+0.9002 Y+0.1494 DR- R F M

0 19 L X+0.3196 Z+0 R F M

20 L Y-2.212 Z+0 R F M

21 L X+0.9417 Z+0 R F M

22 L Z+1. R F6000 M

23 L Z+0 R F6000 M91

24 L X+0 Y+0 M2

25 END PGM 1 INCH

Figure 15: Standard G code / Conversational (Continued)


Many diThese fThe posare comlisted be

AdditionRefer to

Bebe

5 1

10 0 90 760 15 9417 -22120 13 20 78 8 25 0 30 7935 7940 7945 2

50 2 55 2

60 2 65 2 70 7975 2

80 7985 7990 7995 81


fferent formats can be created and revised for each type of machine/control combination. ormats are described in the user configurable POSTFORM file.t processor receives data from the POSTFORM library to create the NC code. These files pletely user configurable for the machine format desired. The POSTFORM libraries are low for the appropriate machine tool types.

al posts are available that can be added to the POSTFORM library files if you need them. Section 2.23: POST Sample Libraries on page 159.

fore the final NC code can be created, toolpaths for cutting operations on a part must first created. For the purposes of this chapter you can assume that each separate toolpath is

9417 -22120 9417 -22120 0 0 40 15638 -22120 -7071 7071 90 15638 -20875 -7071 -7071 90

11215 -17203 15638 -16375 -9003 -4353 90 9209 -13730 19138 -10313 -8271 -5620 90 7638 -10313 12138 -10313 -10000 0 90 9209 -6896 12138 -10313 -8271 5620 90 11183 -3460 19138 -10313 -9837 1800 90

9509 1139 -7719 -6357 90 9002 1494 11830 4994 -3333 -9428 90

3196 1494 7071 -7071 90 3196 -22120 7071 7071 90 9417 -22120 0 -10000 90 26

Figure 16: Columnar

POSTFORM.M MPOSTWIN.EXE Milling machinesPOSTFORM.L LPOSTWIN.EXE Lathe machinesPOSTFORM.E EPOSTWIN.EXE Wire EDM machines

.1 Inc Files


stored as an INC file within a larger file called an ICD file. The letters INC refer to Intermediate Numerical Code. This is SURFCAMs version of the traditional CL or cutter location file. Refer to the SURFCAM Getting Started Manual, Chapter 2: NC Project Basics starting on page 51.These INC files store instructions on how the tool is changed, how it is positioned, how it cuts, and various other machining information such as spindle speeds and feed rates. These files are machine tool independent so they must be converted into actual CNC instructions (G co

Thto doWimawituspacu

No

You canis directtypes, oTo creaeditor. TWhen ththe propusing a The follomachine

ThwaFo

12

2.7


des) later.e merged INC files from an ICD file provide data to the post processor on how the part is be cut. The data in the POSTFORM libraries provide it information about the machine ing the cutting. With data from these two files the post processor creates the final NC code.th SURFCAM you can generate NC programs in a local coordinate system. Thus you can chine different sections of the work with independent machining orientationsa necessity h most parts. SURFCAM can be used to change the machining orientation of the part by ing construction views. This is accomplished by setting the CView (construction view) rameter to the number of the view that matches the machining orientation of the piece rrently being cut.te: SURFCAM defaults to machining in CView:1 (Top View). Machining in another

view requires setting the CView parameter to the desired view number and indicating VIEW for the coord parameter in the status area before cutting.

configure the post processor for the desired NC code output format. This output format ed by the POSTFORM file used. These formats can be configured for machine control utput style, or variations of usage.te or modify machine code formats, edit the contents of the POSTFORM file with a text his can be accomplished using the SURFCAM Editor.e POSTFORM file is edited for each machine format, the post processor should generate er NC code. In addition to EIA / ISO formats, the post processor can also create programs columnar or conversational format.wing sections cover the general Post Processor structure for Mill, Lathe, and Wire EDM s. The machine type sections cover the specific structure for the individual machine types.

e post expects to find the NC code formats in the POSTFORM file written in a particular y. File modifications must be made according to the rules outlined in this document. llowing is the structure the post expects to find in the POSTFORM file:. A command word, such as Name, followed by a semicolon (;).. A single space separating the word from the instructions.

POSTFORM STRUCTURE

.1 NC Code Format


3. A strictly formatted series of characters and/or lines instructing the post how to process the command.

The POSTFORM file requires that each numerical designation be enclosed with the Greater Than and Less Than signs, for example G0. You must bracket numerical values because the post accepts not only numerical values, but also variables. You can direct the post to a particular and significant numerical value assigned to a particular address, but it is a value thaan

If tto

1

2No

Munatexindtheexthe

ThenbyCochNo

2.7

2.7


t changes. The brackets delimit the numbers or variables that are in the POSTFORM file d are not output in the resultant NC code.

here are two or more adjacent spaces on a line, the post will consider anything following be a comment. Put comments in the file in either of two ways:. Move the cursor three or more spaces past the end of a command line, then type the

comment.

. Type any comment on its own line. Be sure that the line has two or more leading spaces.te: Be careful not to accidentally "comment out" part of the actual formatting

information by entering two spaces instead of one.

ltiple machine formats can be stored in the POSTFORM file. The Name line indicates the me of the next machine or controller that will appear in the menu when the post is run. The t following the word Name will appear on the screen as a menu choice. The name line icates the beginning of the format section for that particular machine. The lines following Name line describe the configuration of the post until the next Name line appears. The

amples below indicate a variety of names that can be used. These names are listed when Post is executed.

name Fanucname Fanuc Incrementalname Fanuc Metricname Heidenhein Conversational

e case sensitivity of the entries made in the POSTFORM file is dependent upon the data tered. The only entries that must be in upper case characters are those that are required the machine tool to be upper case. These are typically the Word Address characters. mmands, sequences, and variables can be entered as either upper or lower case aracters.te: When lower case character output is desired, the entire POST file should be in

lower case characters. When a single letter code is required to be in lower case characters, all entries for that letter code should be in lower case characters.

.2 Comments

.3 Name

.4 Case Sensitivity


This manual uses upper case characters for the first letter of each word of the commands and sequences. All variable entries are in lower case characters.

The POSTFORM file consists of four separate entry types. These include the following:

EadeindMP

The posnecessa

IF,or

Th2-cThFo

2.7.5 Entry Types

2.8


Word Address FormatsCommandsSequencesVariables

ch of these types can be placed in different sections of the POSTFORM file. This section scribes each type in alphabetical order for ease of reference. The right margin of the entry icates the valid Post processor type for that entry. This is indicated by the letter M for OSTWIN.EXE, L for LPOSTWIN.EXE, and E for EPOSTWIN.EXE post processors.

t offers limited structured logic capabilities. This functionality allows logical decisions when ry. The following describes the format and required syntax.

ELSE and ENDIF statements can now be added to your machine format to either allow disallow any lines in the sequence.e IF line must have 3 parameters: 2 VARIABLES (or a variable and a constant) with a 1 or haracter logical operator between themall items separated by a single space.e ELSE line (which is optional) and ENDIF line cannot have any "parameters."llowing are some sample "IF" lines:

IF [Val1] = 2IF [Tool] > 24IF [Speed]


6. You are limited to fifty IF structures within each machine format area.

Legal operators are >, 500G G G G X Y MELSEG G G G X Y MENDIFG Z H M SM

re the pre-indexing of the last Tool is suppressed:IF [NextTool] [Tool1]TENDIFEND

you can see, either one or both of the 2 values must be a [variable]. It may be a variable t is set from an ASK statementletting you give the operator a set of processing "options."

e SET command allows a variable to be set to any other variable or constant. Place this hin an IF structure, and you can set a variable to a number.llowing is an example of how to support spindle ranges:

.3 The Set Command

tToolchange0 G90 G80 G40 G17Tool] M6

t [Val2] to 65 This line sets the "default" spindle range.

[Speed] > 1000 This is the "IF" line.


This is anumberappear in the orand theThese ecorresp

Set [Val2] to 66 Replace the line of code with a "SET"...endif

If [Speed] > 2000 ...and we do it againone If/Set structure for Set [Val2] to 67 each range you want.en

If Seen

If Seen

G

GGMEn


series of lines that each start with a specific character, usually a letter, followed by some s and signs. It is a list of all the characters that the NC machine needs, in the order they on any line of NC code. You can add, change, and delete lines so that they are arranged der appearing in a line of NC code. The examples below indicate the Word Address format output order.xamples show a portion of the Word Address and Tool Change code with the

onding NC code that is output.% 00O>4X ->3.>4Y ->3.>4Z ->3.>4F >2G >2S >4M >2ToolChange

dif

[Speed] > 3000t [Val2] to 68dif

[Speed] > 4000t [Val2] to 69dif

[Val2] M[Direct] S[Speed] This line will output the code you want.

0 G[Work] X[H] Y[V]43 Z[D] H[Lcomp][Cool]d

WORD ADDRESS FORMATS: MILL, LATHE, EDM


M6 T[tool]G0 G90 S[speed] M3 X[h] Y[v]Z[h] G1 F[plunge]End

The NC code for this POSTFORM.M excerpts is shown below. The letter output is determined by the order of the Word Address Formats.

The nexchangedPOSTF

The NCthe orde

The WoThese e/ 00

Thblo

N >4ThouCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

M6 T2X1. Y2.5 G0 G90 S2000 M3Z.1 F3.5 G1

t example uses the same Tool Change sequence with the Word Address Format order . The example indicates the NC code output change as it is effected by the

ORM.M change.% 00O>4G >2S >4M >2X ->3.>4Y ->3.>4Z ->3.>4F >2ToolChangeM6 T[tool]G0 G90 S[speed] M3 X[h] Y[v]Z[h] G1 F[plunge]End

code for this POSTFORM.M excerpt is shown below. The letter output is determined by r of the Word Address Formats.

M6 T2G0 G90 S2000 M3 X1. Y2.5G1 Z.1 F3.5

rd Address characters are formatted according to the following information.ntries are valid for all SURFCAM post processors.

e 00 indicates that the character is output without numbers. This is normally used for the ck skip character as shown.

is outputs the letter N with up to 4 numerals. There is no minus sign or decimal point tput.


X ->3.>4This format outputs the X address character with up to 3 numerals to the left and 4 numerals to the right of the decimal point. The decimal point is output. The minus sign is output when applicable.

F >32The F character is output with up to 3 numerals to the left and 2 numerals to the right of the detra

G 2Thnu

R +->24Thto noof

COLUMNT C27 S

Th(up

K C14 STh6 s

When reMPOSTDETAILSThe ma? Caa Swhere "is an opCaa

ThNo

SbThNoCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

cimal point. The decimal point and the minus sign are not output. This format will output iling zeros, for example, the code F200 is output for an F-2.0 value.

e G character is always output with 2 numerals. Leading zeros are output for single digit mbers. The code G02 is output for a value of 2.

e R address is output with a plus sign unless it is a minus value. The output has 2 numerals the left and no less than 4 numerals to the right of the decimal point. The decimal point is t output. Trailing zeros are output to fill the 4 numerals to the right of the decimal. The code R+15000 is output for an R1.5 value.AR STYLE FORMATS:5 >4 Te T address will appear with the T in column 27; the complete word will occupy 5 spaces to 4 of which will hold the actual numerical information).6 >32

e K address starts at column 14 (but NO K is output); it has no minus sign, and occupies paces (up to 3 of which are before the invisible decimal).quired by the machine tool, commas can be used instead of decimal points. The WIN accepts characters with the ASCII values between 33 (!) and 122 (z). AND EXAMPLES OF LETTER FORMATS:ximum possible format is something like this:b +->c.>d x Limit -40 40 Mult 25.4 Add 2.5 Inc

?" is the character (usually a letter) to be formatted, each "n" can be any numeral, and "x" tional character.

e number following the C denotes the column number at which this word starts.te: There is a space after the number to separate this information from the next part.

(Columnar only)

e numeral after the S determines how many spaces this word will take in the NC block.te: The column number and spaces number are used only for columnar programs.

(Columnar only)


+ (plus sign)This causes the post to output a plus sign on the number if it is not negative. It must be the first formatting character in this line of the POSTFORM file, if used.X +>3.>4

WhX >

- (minuThmuadX -

WhX +

INC FILE VALUE NC CODE OUTPUTCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

en no sign is entered, the value is output without a sign.3.>4

s sign)is causes the post to output a minus sign on the number if it is indeed a negative value. It st be the next formatting character if a minus sign is ever to be used for this character

dress.>3.>4

en both the + and - signs are entered the appropriate sign is output with the value.->3.>4

2.5 X+2.5

-1.3000 X-1.3

0.2135 X+.2135

INC FILE VALUE NC CODE OUTPUT

2.5 X2.5

-1.3000 X1.3

0.2135 X.2135


2.5 X2.5

-1.3000 X-1.3

0.2135 X.2135


2.5 X+2.5

-1.3000 X-1.3

0.2135 X+.2135


> (greater than)This symbol indicates the number of numerals to output for the letter code. When the decimal is placed before this symbol it indicates the number of numerals after the decimal. When it is placed before the decimal it indicates the number of numerals before the decimal. This symbol causes no leading zeros to be output in the address. When this symbol is not used, the post will add leading zeros so that the number of digits will always be the number that folX >

ThX 3

ThX 3

c (a numThtheIf tbeIf tbeCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

lows the greater than sign.3.>4

is Word address without the first > symbol forces the output of leading zeros..>4

is Word address without both > symbols forces the output of leading and trailing zeros..4

eral)is is always a single digit that indicates the number of digits available. In this example, it is number of digits before the decimal point.

he above > symbol is used, then this is the maximum number of digits that can appear fore the decimal point.he above > symbol is not used, then this is the number of digits that will always appear fore the decimal point.


2.5 X2.5

-1.3000 X1.3

0.2135 X.2135


2.5 X002.5

-1.3000 X001.3

0.2135 X000.2135


2.5 X002.5000

-1.3000 X001.3000

0.2135 X000.2135


G >2

G

. (decimThpoX >

WhcotheNCX >


01 G1

00 G0Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

2

al point)e presence of the decimal point in the line indicates that the address outputs a decimal int. If this character is not used, it will not be output in the NC code.3.>4

en the decimal point is not placed in the Word address format, it is not output in the NC de. The following example shows that this may not be suitable code for the machine. When decimal is not in the Word address the > symbols should be removed to ensure proper code as displayed in the next example.3>4

3 G3


01 G01

00 G00

3 G03


2.5 X2.5

-1.3000 X1.3

0.2135 X.2135


2.5 X25

-1.3000 X13

0.2135 X2135


X 34

d (anotThtheIf tbeIf tbeG>

G

x - OUTThprodifposhA >BeG8


2.5 X0025000

-1.3000 X0013000Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

her numeral)is is always a single digit that indicates the number of digits available. In this example it is number of digits before the decimal point.

he above > symbol is used, then this is the maximum number of digits that can appear fore the decimal point.he above > symbol is not used, then this is the number of digits that will always appear fore the decimal point.2

2

PUT characteris is used to replace a character described in the format with another character in the NC gram. This is useful when the same letter must be formatted differently when used in

ferent places. In some controls, any negative Z value with a minus is usually below the Z0 int, but in the case of drilling cycles, no minus sign is required for the Z. The example below ows that the letter Z is output when the letter A is used in the POSTFORM file.3.>4 Z

low is a sample line of a POSTFORM sequence using this output character.1 X[h] Y[v] A[d] F[frate]

0.2135 X0002135


01 G1

00 G0

3 G3


01 G01

00 G00

3 G03


This line shows the NC code output using the line in the POSTFORM file.G81 X2.5 Y1.25 Z.5 F20.In other words, the post formats for A, but outputs a Z word address.Note: When the open parenthesis "(" is used as the output character, as in the case of

the Dynapath conversational control, the closed parenthesis ")" is automatically

G 0

ThFois sN >ThG0

Wh

No

ColumnTha cCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

coded at the end of the character output. The following code shows this use for G codes in the Dynapath post.

2 (

e output letter can be suppressed by placing empty quotes at the end of the letter format. r example this can be used to suppress the letter N for line numbers. Below, the letter N uppressed while the line number is output.4 ""

e examples use the following sequence line. G90 S[speed]

en the "" symbols are not placed in the Word address the output is as shown below.

te: The Output character can be used to get around many common formatting problems.

ar stylee output character for columnar style programs works slightly differently when formatting olumnar style program. The Spaces line designates a format as columnar. If no output


01 (01)00 (00)3 (03)


1 1 G0 G91 S1000

23 23 G0 G90 S1000

3237 3237 G0 G90 S1000


1 N1 G0 G91 S1000

23 N23 G0 G90 S1000

3237 N3237 G0 G90 S1000


character is specified, a space will be output in place of the letter, instead of the letter itself. In the examples with Columnar style formats, the T is repeated at the end of the T format line. When the letter is not repeated at the end of the line, the letter is not output in the NC code.Note: The output letter must be placed on the line before any modifiers.

LimitTherrindvaWhforS 4

WhthaS 4

NoNo

MultThwovaouCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

is format limits the acceptable value for the word address. When this limit is reached an or message is output to the screen for you to make a correction. The first numeral icates the minimum value for the output and the second numeral indicates the maximum

lue. The example below indicates that the value of the S word can be between 0 and 5000. en the file is post processed, the Word address is error checked for the limit set in the

mat. Limit 0 5000

en the lower limit is above zero, the output uses this value when the INC file value is less n the limit. Limit 250 5000

te: Limit checking is not performed on Replace statements.te: Limit values are absolute. When the output is incremental, the absolute value of

the letter is checked for the limit.

e value after this command is used as a multiplier for all the values that will output for this rd. The value entered can be either a number value or a Word Address Letter. The current lue of the Word Address letter is used for the Mult function. The following example will tput metric values.


1 S1

6000 ERROR Message

3237 S3237


1 ERROR Message

6000 ERROR Message

3237 S3237


X ->3.>4 Mult 25.4

No

AddThcaAdlocX -

Abs/IncAllit isbeva

Y -

IncSignUsca

Thtab


11 X279.4

2.5 X63.5Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

te: Division is accomplished by multiplying by the inverse. Mult .03937 converts metric to inches.

e value after this command will be added to all the output for this word. The value entered n be either a number value or a Word Address Letter. The current value of the Word dress letter is used for the Add function. The example below can be used to shift the output ation of any character. Add a negative number to subtract.>3.>4 Add 10

output for this word will be incremental. The default is absolute. It can be coded although not necessary. The example below outputs the Y values incrementally. The examples

low indicate the Y incremental move values based on the starting point of Y0. The INC file lues are absolute locations output by SURFCAM from Y0.>3.>4 Inc

ed as a qualifier for rotary axis positioning. When added to the Word address format, it uses the sign of the output to designate the direction of rotation.ese example A axis motions are within the 118 degree to 350 degree marks of the rotary le and begin at 260 degrees.

.2135 X5.4229


11 X21.

-2.5 X7.5

.2135 X10.2135


11 Y11.

-2.5 Y-13.5

.2135 Y2.7135


A ->3.>3 Limit -359.999 0 Incsign

A -

IncFromThtypincabU -

ModalThva

F >Th


270 A+270.

118 A-118.Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

>3.>3 Limit -359.999 0

is is used to define the Word address as incremental from the letter entered. This is ically used for 4 axis Wire EDM programming. The example below outputs the U value rementally from the last absolute value of X. The INC file values are the successive solute X axis values.>3.>4 IncFrom X

e Modal modifier prevents the post from repeating the same values on later lines when the lue has not changed. The INC file values are successive lines.2 Modal

e following sequence line is used for this example.

350 A+360.


270. A+270.

118. A+118.

350. A+360.


X VALUE U VALUE

1. 2. U1.

2.5 -3.2 U-5.7

.2135 .125 U.0995


X[h] Y[v] F[frate]

NoForce

Thon

F >ThX[h

ThX[h


X Y F

0 0 1. X0 Y0 F1.Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

te: Modal Word address letters can also be specified with the ModalLetters command.

is modifier requires the post to output the letter on each line. When the letter is required each line without the value, use the Modal modifier with the Force modifier.2 Force

e following sequence line is used for this example.] Y[v] F[frate]F >2 Modal Force

e following sequence line is used for this example.] Y[v] F[frate]

1.5 2.5 1. X1.5 Y2.5

2. 3. 1. X2. Y3.

1.3 2. 2. X1.3 Y2. F2.


X Y F

0 0 1. X0 Y0 F1.

1.5 2.5 1. X1.5 Y2.5 F1.

2. 3. 1. X2. Y3. F1.

1.3 2. 2. X1.3 Y2. F2.


X Y F

0 0 1. X0 Y0 F1.

1.5 2.5 1. X1.5 Y2.5 F

2. 3. 1. X2. Y3. F

1.3 2. 2. X1.3 Y2. F2.


The order in which these modifiers are placed on the line is not important. The order in which they are performed is not dependent upon the order in the line. The performance order is as follows:

1. The original value is multiplied with Mult.2. Addition is accomplished after Mult.3. The result of these two is checked for defined limits.4. Th

Commaprogramthe sequprospec

2.10

1. 2nd2. Arc3. Arc4. Arc5. As6. By7. By8. CC9. CD

10. Cir11. Co12. Co13. Ctr14. Ctr15. Ctr16. Ctr17. CW18. DC19. DC20. DC21. Dri22. DuCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

e result is then converted to incremental when Inc or IncFrom is used.

nds are used by the post processor to identify information necessary to format the correctly. These commands can be placed in any order. They should be placed before ence section of the machine file. These commands are generally grouped by their tive function.

COMMANDS

CircleCode (p. 67) 23. Each (p. 74) 42. Rapid (p. 79)Plane (p. 67) 24. EOB (p. 75) 43. RenumSubs? (p. 80)WithSame? (p. 67) 25. Feed (p. 75) 44. Replace (p. 80)WithLine? (p. 67) 26. FeedCode (p. 75) 45. RevSigns (p. 81)

k (p. 68) 27. FeedType (p. 75) 46. RevTurret2? (p. 81)Diameter? (p. 69) 28. First#? (p. 76) 47. ReturnPlane (p. 80)Quadrants? (p. 70) 29. HCode (p. 76) 48. Sequence#s (p. 81)W (p. 70) 30. HCode2 (p. 76) 49. Spaces (p. 83)C (p. 70) 31. Helical? (p. 76) 50. Spaces? (p. 84)cDir (p. 70) 32. Inc/Abs (p. 77) 51. SpeedCode (p. 84)mment (p. 71) 33. Inch/MM (p. 77) 52. SpeedType (p. 84)olant (p. 71) 34. Incremental? (p. 77) 53. Spindle (p. 84)Code (p. 71) 35. Last#? (p. 77) 54. Subs1st? (p. 84)Code>180 (p. 72) 36. LComp (p. 77) 55. Tolerance (p. 85)Code360 (p. 72) 37. Leading0s? (p. 78) 56. Tools (p. 85)Incremental? (p. 72) 38. MaxRad (p. 78) 57. UpperCaseComments? (p. 85) (p. 73) 39. MinRad (p. 78) 58. VCode (p. 85)ode (p. 73) 40. Mod (p. 78) 59. VCode2 (p. 86)ode2 (p. 74) 41. Modality 60. VRapid (p. 86)omp (p. 74) ModalGs (p. 78) 61. Work (p. 86)ve (p. 74) ModalLetters (p. 79) 62. WorkDefault (p. 86)mmy (p. 74) Force (p. 79) 63. ZRestart? (p. 86)

Figure 17: Postprocessor Commands


Commands that are used in the POSTFORM files followed by a question mark (such as Spaces?) are called switches. These switches refer to various conditions required by the NC machine that can be turned on or off with a YES or NO indication. This is accomplished by placing a Y or N after that word.1. 2ndCircleCode Mill, Lathe, EDMSome Nthese mfirst lineinformais some

Related2. ArcThis combe placeTo use ExamplRefer to3. ArcThis commoves. value ofThis comthe comon the ovalues eWith the

With thi

Related4. ArcThis commoves. value ofCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

C machines cannot process a circular move in just one block of program information. For achines a second line is used to indicate whatever information could not be given on the . 2ndCircleCode is used to describe the NC word that initiates this second line of tion. Some machines require a code to identify the second line of the arc information. This times an M99 code.

2ndCircleCode M99 Commands: CtrCode, ByDiameter?, ByQuadrants?, CtrIncremental?Plane Mill Only

mand sets the plane for Circular interpolation in XY, YZ, XZ planes. This command must d before the CtrCode Command. Example: ArcPlane G 17 18 19 # Arc Plane Selection

this feature of MPOST, the CtrCode needs to have the K letter added after I J. e: CtrCode I J K CtrCode Mill, Lathe, EDM on page 71.WithLine? EDM

mand is used for 4 axis EDM only. It is used to break G2 and G3 arc moves into G1 linear It is used in conjunction with the MaxRad command that defines the chordal breakdown the G1 linear moves.mand defines whether the machine tool can accept arcs and lines for 4 axis cuts. When

mand is entered with the Y, the EDM machine can accept an arc on one path with a line ther. When the N is entered the arcs are broken into line segments based on the MaxRad ntered. example below the output is with arcs and lines.

ArcWithLine? Ys example the arcs are broken into line segments based on the MaxRad command.

MaxRad 99 .001ArcWithLine? N

Commands: ArcWithSame, MaxRadWithSame? EDM

mand is used for 4 axis EDM only. It is used to break G2 and G3 arc moves into G1 linear It is used in conjunction with the MaxRad command that defines the chordal breakdown the G1 linear moves.


This command defines whether the machine tool can accept arcs on both cut paths for 4 axis cuts. When the command is entered with the Y the EDM machine can accept an arc on both cut paths. When the N is entered the arcs are broken into line segments based on the MaxRad values entered.With the example below the output is with arcs.

With thi

Related5. AskYou canuser to executedefine aenteredin the PWhen thmotion fThe exacutoff cyvalue.

The proaccesseCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

ArcWithSame? Ys example the arcs are broken into line segments based on the MaxRad command.

MaxRad 99 .001ArcWithSame? N

Commands: ArcWithLine, MaxRad Mill, Lathe, EDM set the value of a variable by responding to a prompt. The prompt is configured by the

be displayed prior to the post generating the code or the number of times a sequence is d. You can enter a default value that can be accepted by pressing the Enter key. You can ny question for the prompt desired. The response to the question, either the default or value, assigns a numeric value to the any variable name. These variables can be placed OSTFORM file for any letter.e Ask statement is placed outside a sequence, it is only displayed one time for each tool ile. The value of the variable defined is used for the entire file.mple below indicates the format for the Ask statement. This example is used for a lathe cle. The first quoted string is the prompt question, and the second is the optional default

Ask [z] "What is the Z value for cutoff?" "-3"Ask [val2] "What is the X value (Radius) position for cutoff>" "2"Ask [speed] "What is the cutoff spindle speed?" "200"

mpts above are used to enter the values for the cutoff sequence. These values can be d in the EndCode sequence as follows:

EndCodeG0 Z.2G28 U0 W0 M9 T[lasttool]/0 M0G50 X0 Z0T1200 M[cool]G96 S[val3] M[direct] # Cutoff spindle speedG0 Z[val1] X[val2] T1212 # Cutoff Z, X valuesG0 X[val2] # Clear to diameterG28 U0 W0 T1200M30End


The NC code below uses the default values for the Ask statements.

When th

You canaccept tvalue anThe Asktime thework off

The out

6. ByDThis swmachine

Related

G0 Z.2G28 U0 W0 M9 T1100/ M0G50 X0 Z0Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

e Post Processor is activated, the Ask prompts are displayed as follows:ENTER a single SPACE to abort, orWhat is the Z value for cutoff? (-3)

abort the post operation by pressing the space bar, then pressing the Enter key. To he default value in parentheses, press the Enter key. To enter a value, key in the new d press the Enter key. statement can also be placed within a sequence. You can prompt for information each sequence is used by the post processor. In the example below you are prompted for a set at each tool change.

put code using the default value for the Ask statement:

iameter? Latheitch specifies that all X values are multiplied by 2 for global diameter output. Some s require a diameter output for turning. Enter a Y to output diameters.

ByDiameter? Y Commands: 2ndCircleCode, CtrCode, ByQuadrants?, CtrIncremental?

T1200 M8G96 S200 M3G0 Z-3. X2. T1212G0 X2.G28 U0 W0 T1200M30

ToolChangeAsk [val1] "What is the work offset number? " "54"M6 T[tool]G0 G[val1] X[h] Y[v]S[speed] M[direct]G43 Z[d] H[lcomp]End

M6 T1G0 G54 X0 Y0S2000 M3G43 Z.1 H1


7. ByQuadrants? Mill, Lathe, EDMMany NC machines do not allow program arcs of more than 90 degrees in a single block of code. The program must code the circular moves by quadrants. This is accomplished by breaking arcs at the quadrant boundaries. To create a full circular move, you must program one block for each quarter of the arc, and even break it into 5 arcs if the starting point of the arc is not on a quadrant boundary. If the machine has this limitation, enter a Y after the ByQuadrants? command. When the macThe folloclockwisoption.

Related8. CCWThis is t

Related9. CDCThis comlines for

Related10. CirMachineThis comsecond

This plamoves.

RelatedCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

hine allows full circle programming in one block, enter N.wing example uses a circle of radius 2.5, and a center at X0 Y0 being cut counter e from X2.5 Y0. The following lines will be produced depending on the ByQuadrants

Commands: 2ndCircleCode, CtrCode, ByDiameter?, CtrIncremental? Mill, Lathe, EDM

he letter and number for counterclockwise arcs.CCW G3

Commands: CW, CircDir Millmand is used to identify the two letters (usually P and Q) to be included on all movement

the Cincinnati style DComp vectors.CDC P Q

Commands: DComp, LCompcDir Mill, Lathe, EDMs that have one event code for an arc move must also specify the direction of rotation. mand must be followed by a letter and two numbers, the first for clockwise and the

for counterclockwise moves.CircDir D01 # There are no spaces between the numbers.

ces D0 on circular moves in the clockwise direction and D1 on the counterclockwise

Commands: CCW, CW

ByQuadrants? N # Outputs G3 Y0 I-2.5 J0ByQuadrants? Y # Outputs the following:

G3 X0 Y2.5 I-2.5 J0X-2.5 Y0 I0 J-2.5X0 Y-2.5 I2.5 J0X2.5 Y0 I0 J2.5


11. Comment Mill, Lathe, EDMComment indicates the CNC style comment start and end characters that the machine uses to allow comments in the NC code. On some machines, comments must be enclosed in parentheses.The post processor will automatically output several lines of end user comments after the StartColist the Ncontrol tThere smachinecharacte

MachineNote:

Related12. CoSimilar codes fo

Note:

13. CtrThis compoint deletter is configurthe radi* If ArcP

UpperCUpperCCommeComme

CommeCommeComme

Notes:EndNoCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

de sequence, providing additional shop floor documentation. These automatic comments CC file, INC file, date, time, company name, and address. There are several methods to

he output of comments in the POSTFORM file including:hould be a single space before the beginning and ending comment characters. Some s do not need an end comment character; in this case, just indicate the comment start r:

s that use only a comment start character will ignore after the comment character.When the machine tool does not support comments, do not enter the Comment command in the POSTFORM file.

Commands: UpperCaseComment?olant Mill, Lathe, EDMto the Spindle command, Coolant can be followed by up to 8 numerical values for the M r flood coolant On, Off, and Mist and 5 additional user defined codes.Coolant 8 9 7 61 62 63 64 # On, Off, Mist, flood lo, flood hi, thru lo, thru hi

The same value for flood On and Mist can be used.Coolant 8 9 8 61 62 63 64 # On, Off, Mist, ...........

Code Mill, Lathe, EDMmand should be followed by one or two letters*, depending on which method of arc center

signation you want in the NC code. The two letters are usually I and J for milling; the first the horizontal center designation and the second is the vertical. The one letter center ation is used for radius designation. When only one letter is entered after CtrCode, then us value is coded.lane is used, you will need the letter K after I J. Refer to ArcPlane Mill Only on page 67.

aseComments? Y # Comments are output in upper caseaseComments? N # Comments are output in upper and lower casent ( # Comments are preceded by an open parenthesisnt !( # Comments are preceded by an open parenthesis and no N

numbersnt ( ) # Comments are surrounded by parenthesesnt !( ) # Comments are surrounded by parentheses and no N numbersnt ( )$ # Comments are surrounded by parentheses for Dynapath controls

# Beginning of Post notes Lines between Notes: and EndNotes are treated as comments and are not posted to the NCC file.tes # End of Post notes


For the following examples, a 90 deg. arc of radius 2.5, center at X1. Y1., starting at X3.5 Y1. and ending at X1. Y3.5 is cut in the counterclockwise direction.

Note:

Note:

Arc cenplane arenter an

Related14. CtrWith thidegreesand com

This out

Related15. CtrWhen thcommanthe samRelated16. CtrThe infocenter pmachinenumericwhen an

MILL, LATHECtrCode I J # Outputs G3 X1. Y3.5 I-2.5 J0CtrCode R # Outputs G3 X1. Y3.5 R2.5Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The formats for the letters K, and L must be set in the letter format section of the POSTFORM.E file.The programming mode must be absolute for 4 Axis: "INCREMENTAL? Y" line is not allowed in the POSTFORM.E file.

ter codes for UV, typically K and L, are assumed to be incremental from the start of the UV c. When the K and L values must be incremental from the I and J values of the XY plane other Y after the CtrIncremental? parameter. Commands: 2ndCircleCode, ByDiameter?, ByQuadrant?, CtrIncremental?Code>180 Mill, Lathe, EDM

s command you can use the R letter designation to code arc moves greater than 180 and less than a full circle. This can be accomplished by coding the following letter address mand sequence. The letter format used is the same as the CtrCode command.

r ->3.>4 R Mult -1puts a -R for the arc center to break arcs greater than 180 degrees.

CtrCode>180 R# Outputs G3 X1. Y3.5 R-3.5 Commands: CtrCode, CtrCode360Code360 Mill, Lathe, EDMe CtrCode>180 command is used, this command is used to code full circle arcs. This d also requires the Word Address format as described above. The letter format used is e as the CtrCode command. Commands: CrtCode, CtrCode>180Incremental? Mill, Lathe, EDMrmation after this command is only used if the two letter CtrCode is used to indicate the oint of the arc. Enter a Y or N after the CtrIncremental? command to define whether the measures the center of the arcs incrementally from the start point of the arc. The al values of the two Center addresses will be taken as absolute from the program origin N is entered.

EDMCtrCode I J K L # Outputs K and L for 4 Axis Wire Aux. plane

# Circle center codes.


This example uses a 90 deg. arc of radius 2.5, center at X1. Y1. starting at X3.5 Y1. and cutting to X1.0 Y3.5 in a counterclockwise direction.

Note:

Note:

Note:

Related17. CWThis com

Related18. DCThese acorresp

Related

MILL, LATHECtrIncremental? Y # Outputs G3 X1. Y3.5 I-2.5 J0CtrIncremental? N # Outputs G3 X1. Y3.5 I1. J1.Copyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The formats for the letters K and L must be set in the letter format section of the POSTFORM.E file.The programming mode must be absolute; the "INCREMENTAL? Y" line is not allowed in the POSTFORM.E file. When incremental output is desired, use the individual Word address method instead. Refer to Section 2.18: Incremental Output on page 138.UV plane axis positioning values for Wire EDM are absolute values unless otherwise indicated in the letter format section of the POSTFORM.E file. When the U and V values for Wire EDM are to be incremental from the X and Y values on the same line, format the U and V letters as follows:U ->3.>4 IncFrom XV ->3.>4 IncFrom YArc center codes for UV, typically K and L, are assumed to be incremental from the start of the UV plane arc. When the K and L values must be incremental from the I and J values of the XY plane, enter another Y after the CtrIncremental? parameter.

CtrIncremental? Y Y Commands: 2ndCircleCode, CtrCode, ByDiameter?, ByQuadrants? Mill, Lathe, EDMmand identifies the letter and number for clockwise arcs.

CW G2 Commands: CCW, CircDirode Mill, Lathere followed by the character that corresponds to their function. The DCode command

onds to the depth moves of the INC file. This is typically the Z word.DCode Z

Commands: DCode2, HCode, HCode2, VCode, VCode2, FeedCode

EDMCtrIncremental? Y N # Y Y causes K & L to be incremental from I & J.

# Y N causes K & L to be incremental from the# arc start.


19. DCode2 LatheThis word format specifies the letter address to use to move the second turret depth.

DCode2 WRelated Commands: DCode, HCode, HCode2, VCode, VCode2, FeedCode20. DCThe threoffset di

Related21. DrYou canprogramdirector

There mIt is recocan havmachineIn additiline at ththe macused.22. DuThe chacolumnaformat iNote:Related23. EaSome mmachineCR/LF eTherefoCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

omp Mill, Lathee values following the DComp command correspond to the machines three diameter rections: Left, Right, and Cancel, respectively.

DComp 41 42 40 # Left, Right, Cancel Commands: CDC, LCompive Mill, Lathe, EDM assign a path name (drive and directory name) that will determine where the finished NC will be created. Simply add a line like the one below to route the code to the desired

y:Drive \mill\

ust be a trailing back slash (\).mmended that the Drive line be added after the Name line. Each different machine format e a different Drive line, which enables you to automatically route NC programs for each into its own directory.

on to (or instead of) having a separate Drive line for each machine, you can place a Drive e very top of the POSTFORM file. All NC programs can be routed to this directory unless hine chosen has its own Drive line, in which case the machines drive designation will be

mmy for Columnar Style Millracter input after Dummy is a character that will appear at the end of each line of a r style program to indicate the end of the line. The Dummy line is not used when the

s not columnar.The items Spaces and Dummy are used only in columnar style programs.

Commands: EOB, Each, Spacesch Mill, Lathe, EDMachines require a particular word, a letter followed by a number, on each line. The may require a dollar sign ($) character at the end of each line, in addition to the standard nd of block characters.re, enter this line in the POSTFORM file for that machine:

Each $0


In this example, to output just the dollar sign without the 0 following it, format the dollar sign to output no digits by giving it the format:

$ 00Note: This needs to be entered in the Word Address Formats section and the POSTFORM it

gets output from is determined by the Word Address Format section.Related24. EOEOB stafeed / cathe EndcharacteASCII v

This wilcombinaYou canoutput f

This outRelated25. FeThe follo

Here a GRelated26. FeThis fun

Note:Related27. FeThis com

This entRelatedCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Commands: Dummy, EOBB Mill, Lathe, EDMnds for "End Of Block". Some NC machines require a character other than a standard line rriage return combination between each line of code. The EOB line can be used to change Of Block code to any ASCII character. For instance, if a machine requires a number sign r (#), then place the number 35 after EOB in the POSTFORM file. The number 35 is the

alue of the number sign character:EOB 35# ASCII Value

l cause the post to use the number sign instead of the standard carriage return / line feed tion at the end of each line of NC code. enter as many as twenty numbers for EOB characters. These twenty characters are

or each line.EOB 13 10

puts a carriage return and line feed at the end of each block. Commands: Dummy, Eached Mill, Lathe, EDMwing lines indicate the linear Feed Rate movement codes:

Feed G11 indicates that a move at the specified feed rate is going to be programmed in this block.

Commands: FeedCode, FeedType, Rapid, SpeedType, VRapidedCode Mill, Lathe, EDMction specifies the character to use for Feedrate output.

FeedCode FSURFCAM requires tool motion to be present before outputting a FeedCode.

Commands: Feed, FeedType, DCode, DCode2, HCode, HCode2, VCode, VCode2edType Mill, Lathe, EDM

mand specifies the appropriate G codes for IPR and IPM output.FeedType 95 94

ry will output a G95 for IPR and G94 for IPM codes. Commands: Feed, FeedCode, SpeedType, VRapid


28. First#? Mill, Lathe, EDMThis switch determines whether the Block number is output on the first line of the program or omitted. Enter Y or N for the desired output. The example below will omit a number on the first line of the NC program.

First#? NRelated29. HCThese cD in thecharacte

The lettNote:

Note:

Related30. HCThis wo

Related31. HeThis swacceptsthe desiCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Commands: Last#?, Sequence#sode Mill, Lathe, EDMommands are followed by the character that corresponds to their function (the H, V, and first 3 stand for Horizontal, Vertical, and Depth, respectively). For standard milling, these rs are almost always X, Y, Z.

er U indicates the auxiliary horizontal plane movement for Wire EDM.The formats for the letter U must be set in the Letter Format section of the POSTFORM.E file.UV plane axis positioning values for Wire EDM are absolute values unless otherwise indicated in the letter format section of the POSTFORM.E file. When the U and V values are to be incremental from the X and Y values on the same line, format the U and V letters as follows:U ->3.>4 IncFrom XV ->3.>4 IncFrom Y

Commands: DCode, DCode2, HCode2, VCode, VCode2, FeedCodeode2 Latherd format specifies the letter address to use to move the second turret horizontally.

HCode2 U Commands: DCode, DCode2, HCode, VCode, VCode2, FeedCodelical? Millitch defines whether or not the machine tool allows helical move. When the machine tool helical moves this command should be entered as Y. The output code would then utilize gnated axis for the helical moves.

Helical? Y# Outputs Z axis helical moves.Helical? N# Outputs point to point linear moves.

MILL, LATHEHCode X

EDMHCode X U


Linear moves are at a tolerance set by the MaxRad command.Related Commands: CW, CCW, CtrCode, CtrIncremental?, MaxRad32. Inc/Abs Mill, Lathe, EDMThe Inc/Abs line indicates the numerical values of the G code that set the incremental or absolute programming mode on the NC machine. The post processor issues a warning message when a mode ch

Note:Related33. IncThe IncprogramcommanG70 / Gfile for a

34. IncThis sw

This willthat a GNote:

Note:Related35. LaThis swomitted.the last

Related36. LCSimilar words th

RelatedCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

ange command is processed. For most machines it is G91 and G90:Inc/Abs G 91 90

Refer to Section 2.18.4: Incremental? Mill, Lathe, EDM on page 139. Commands: Incremental?h/MM Mill, Lathe, EDM

h/MM line indicates the numerical values of the G code that set inch or millimeter ming mode on the NC machine. For most machines it is G70 and G71. When this d is not used, the G70 or G71 code is the default. This command is not required when the

71 codes are used by the machine tool. The example below is entered in the POSTFORM machine tool that uses G20 and G21 for inch and millimeter mode.

Inch/MM 20 21 # Inch Metricremental? Mill, Lathe, EDM

itch is used to set the machine output to the Incremental, or Absolute, mode.Incremental? Y

cause the code to be output in Incremental. The machine may also require a G91. Ensure 91 code is placed in your StartCode or 1stToolChange sequence.

The Y can easily be changed to an N to result in absolute programs. Remember to remove the G91 in your StartCode or 1stToolChange sequence. When absolute and incremental programs are both used regularly, create two appropriate posts within the POSTFORM file.Refer to Section 2.18.5: Inc/Abs Mill, Lathe, EDM on page 140.

Commands: Inc/Absst#? Mill, Lathe, EDMitch determines whether a Block number is output on the last lines of the program or Enter a Y or N for the desired output. The example below will output a block number on line of the program.

Last#? Y Commands: First#?, Sequence#somp Mill, EDMto DComp, the two values following the LComp command indicate the values used for the at activate and deactivate the machines tool length compensation function, respectively.

LComp 43 49# On, Off Commands: CDC, DComp


37. Leading0s? Mill, Lathe, EDMBy default, the post puts a "leading zero" on any number whose absolute value is less than one. For instance: "X0.1" instead of "X.1" and "Z-0.5" instead of "Z-.5." If your machine does not require the leading zeros, then use this switch with a "Y" to eliminate them (thereby producing somewhat more compact code).38. MaxRad Mill, Lathe, EDMThis comthe limitchordal

This comlarger ththe origRelated39. MiThis comthan this

Related40. MOThis comby anoth360 (or The forma value

41. Mo

Thwilprelineco

ReCopyright 2000 by Surfware, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

mand sets the limit size of the arcs the machine can perform. When an arc is larger than size, the post breaks the arc into linear moves. The second parameter is the amount of deviation from the original arc.

MaxRad 99 .001# Limit Tolerancemand directs the post to process all arcs with a radius of 99 inches or less. Those arcs

an the 99 inch radius are broken into linear moves with a chordal deviation of .001 from inal arc. Commands: ArcWithLine, ArcWithSame, MinRadnRad Mill, Lathe, EDM

mand sets the minimum size of the arcs the machine can perform. When an arc is smaller value it is output as lines. The default value is .001.

MinRad .001 # Tolerance Commands: MaxRadDmand is a MODULO function in that it returns the remainder when one number is divided er. It is useful in working with rotary tables to insure that the code is never greater than

-360).at of the command is number1 MOD number2. Such an expression will always return

x in the range of -number2 < x < number2. Some examples are:

dalityModalGs Mill, Lathe, EDMis is simply a list of all the G values that are modal. This means that any G code in the list l remain in effect, and not be repeated, until another G code from the list is called. This vents, for instance, a G1 from being output on every line when there are consecutive ar moves. G values that should appear on this line are G codes for any movement

PostProcessing.pdf

Documents

Transcript of PostProcessing.pdf