ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 User Manual

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ACU-RITE

MILLPWR

User’s Manual

Controls of the MILLPWR

Keys on console

Motion control keys

Numerical keys

Key Function

ZERO key.

Key Function

GO key (e.g. run a program).

STOP key (duel function: press once to

pause, press twice to stop a program).

Data Entry keys

Key Function

CANCEL key cancels operation, i.e. form.

Controls of the MILLPWR

Function keys

Key Function

CLEAR key clears selections, i.e. values in a field, a program step.

USE key completes operation, i.e. data entered in a form.

ENTER key completes selection, i.e. values entered in a field.

ABS/INCR key toggles between Absolute or Incremental positioning.

ONE key.

TWO key.

THREE key.

FOUR key.

FIVE key.

SIX key.

SEVEN key.

EIGHT key.

NINE key.

DECIMAL key.

DRO/PGM key toggles between the DRO

display or Program mode display.

VIEW key opens menu for setting part graphic display parameters, i.e. type, orientation.

INFO key opens on-screen manual.

MM key toggles between INCH or MM

mode.

SETUP key opens configuration menu.

Axis Keys

Key Function

Soft Keys

Key Function

PLUS / MINUS key.

AXIS keys open the datum, or preset

form.

SOFT KEYS performs the function directly above it.

Move Table and Navigation keys

Key Function

LEFT ARROW key will move the table or display cursor depending on the function selected.

RIGHT ARROW key will move the table or display cursor depending on the function selected.

UP ARROW key will move the table or display cursor depending on the function selected.

DOWN ARROW key will move the table or display cursor depending on the function selected.

Calculator Function keys

Key Function

CALC key opens the calculator.

PLUS key.

MINUS key.

Milling Function keys

Key Function

TOOL key opens the SET TOOL Dialogue.

RECT key opens the Rectangle milling popup menu.

CIRCLE key opens the Circle milling popup menu.

HOLES key opens the Hole pattern popup menu.

POS key opens the POSITION / DRILL data input dialogue.

LINE key opens the MILL LINE data input dialogue.

ARC key opens the MILL ARC data input dialogue.

BLEND key opens the BLEND \ CHAMFER data input dialogue.

BLANK key opens the user defined milling function data input form.

Controls of the MILLPWR

MULTIPLIER key

DIVIDE key.

Peripherals Supported:

 USB memory devices; e.g. a memory stick.  Networking, USB pointing devices; e.g. a mouse, USB

keyboard.

Potentiometer for feed rate override

Feed rate override

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 iii

Controls of the MILLPWR

Manual Information

Message symbols

Attention!

This symbol indicates that there is one or more of the following risks when using the described function

 Danger to work piece  Danger to fixtures  Danger to tool  Danger to machine  Danger to operators

Damage!

This symbol indicates that there is risk of MILLPWRG2 damage, or electrical shock if instructions are not adhered to.

Different from machine to machine!

This symbol indicates that instructions may apply differently from one type of machine to another type of machine.

Manual Information

Refer to another Manual!

This symbol indicates that information required is located elsewhere (i.e. Machines Owner Manual).

Advice!

This symbol indicates that an Advice tip is being provided. Important, and/or additional information about the function described.

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 v

Fonts Used in this manual

Reference to the: Console HARD KEYS. Reference to the: Display Screen Soft Keys. Reference to the: Display Screen DIALOGUES. Reference to the: Display Screen FIELDS.

Changes (errors)

HEIDENHAIN CORPORATION is continuously striving to improve. Please help HEIDENHAIN CORPORATION by sending your request to the following e-mail address: sales@heidenhain.com

Visit www.ACU-RITE.com for latest version of this manual.

Manual Information

Model, Software and Features

This manual describes functions and features provided by MILLPWR

Console model NC software number

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 Software 751005-01

The machine tool builder may not allow some of the functions described in this manual, therefore they may not be among the features provided by the MILLPWR

The machine tool builder representative can assist with becoming familiar with the features of the machine.

Many machine manufacturers, as well as HEIDENHAIN Corp., offer programming courses for the MILLPWRG2. We recommend these courses as an effective way of improving your programming skill and sharing information and ideas with other MILLPWRG2 users.

Intended place of operation

The MILLPWR areas. Refer to the respective installation manual for additional information.

as of the following NC software number.

on your machine tool.

is intended for use primarily in industrially-zoned

New Functions of Software

751005-01-01

 Zero Incremental was added to Section 2.2.

Manual Information

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 vii

Changed Functions of Software

751005-01-01

 Blend/Chamfer information input in Section 8.1 has been redefined.  Preset Moves information input in Section 2.2 has been redefined.  Display:Peck\Pass in Section 9.1 has a note added that the limit of

pecks or passes is 9999.

751005-01-02

 The off-line software described in Section 11.1now requires the

purchase of a USB Protection Module for operation.

 Custom Pocket: The tool path for custom pockets and islands,

Manual Information

described in Section 8.2, has changed to use the programmed cutting convention.

751005-01-03

 A message box warning that the table limits are not established prior

to homing was added to Section 1.1.

751005-01-04

 Part Graphics: The show tool path and show step number options

were removed from the graphics view in Section 5.1.

 Probing examples were added to Section 6.1.

viii

MILLPWRG2 Access Code

Access Code

Attention!

The parameter access code is 8891

Access to Machine Parameter Operations

The access code must be entered before the installation setup parameters can be accessed or changed.

 Press the SETUP key to enter the Job Setup dialogue.

 Press the Config Data soft key, and enter the access

code in the yellow message bar.

Attention!

To prevent setup parameters from being changed, remove this page from the manual after initial system setup. Retain this information in a safe place for future use.

Access Code

MILLPWR

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 ix

Access Code

MILLPWR

Table of Contents

Controls of the MILLPWR

Keys on console........................................................................................................ii

Motion control keys .............................................................................................ii

Data Entry keys....................................................................................................ii

Function keys.......................................................................................................ii

Numerical keys ....................................................................................................ii

Axis Keys .............................................................................................................ii

Soft Keys..............................................................................................................ii

Move Table and Navigation keys .............................................................................iii

Calculator Function keys.......................................................................................... iii

Potentiometer for feed rate override ....................................................................... iii

Milling Function keys ............................................................................................... iii

Peripherals Supported: ............................................................................................ iii

Manual Information

Message symbols.....................................................................................................v

Fonts Used in this manual ..................................................................................vi

Model, Software and Features ................................................................................vi

Intended place of operation ................................................................................vi

MILLPWRG2 Access Code

Access Code............................................................................................................ix

Access to Machine Parameter Operations ..............................................................ix

1.1 MILLPWR

ACU-RITE conversational, and G-code format ......................................................... 2

Powering Up ............................................................................................................ 3

E-STOP and Shutdown ............................................................................................ 4

Find Home ............................................................................................................... 6

Disengage Z Axis feature......................................................................................... 7

Disengaging the Z axis drive:.............................................................................. 7

Re-engaging the Z axis drive............................................................................... 7

Writing Programs..................................................................................................... 8

Overview............................................................................................................. 8

1.2 Operating in 2 Axes and 3 Axes Modes

Overview ................................................................................................................. 9

Program Steps in 2 Axis Mode ................................................................................ 9

Selecting 2 Axis Mode on 3 Axis Systems ............................................................ 10

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 xi

1.3 Console

Operating Console ................................................................................................. 11

Rear Panel.............................................................................................................. 11

Screen Navigation.................................................................................................. 12

DRO Mode display............................................................................................ 12

PGM Mode display ........................................................................................... 12

Dialogues, and Drop Down Menus........................................................................ 13

Operator Prompts ............................................................................................. 13

Cursor ............................................................................................................... 13

General Operating Guidelines ................................................................................ 14

Operating Modes.............................................................................................. 15

Popup Menus ................................................................................................... 16

Keyboard........................................................................................................... 17

Special Characters ............................................................................................ 17

Navigational Soft keys ...................................................................................... 17

Editing Keys ...................................................................................................... 18

Calculator ............................................................................................................... 18

Numeric Keypad ............................................................................................... 18

Context Sensitive Help .......................................................................................... 19

Using Context Sensitive Help ........................................................................... 19

Console Keypad ..................................................................................................... 20

1.4 Operating Mode Screens

Display navigation .................................................................................................. 21

DRO display screen ............................................................................................... 21

Program Display Screen ........................................................................................ 22

1.5 Accessories

Electronic Edge Finder........................................................................................... 22

2.1 Conventions

Axis Conventions ................................................................................................... 24

Count Direction................................................................................................. 24

X axis ................................................................................................................ 24

Y axis ................................................................................................................ 24

Z axis................................................................................................................. 24

Cartesian Coordinates............................................................................................ 24

Polar Coordinates................................................................................................... 24

Absolute and incremental work piece positions .................................................... 25

Absolute work piece positions.......................................................................... 25

Incremental work piece positions..................................................................... 25

Setting the datum .................................................................................................. 26

Overview .......................................................................................................... 26

xii

2.2 Manual Machine Positioning

Move Table ............................................................................................................ 27

Changing the Mode .......................................................................................... 27

Incremental Moves ........................................................................................... 27

Continuous Moves............................................................................................ 27

Adjusting the Feedrate...................................................................................... 28

Preset Moves.................................................................................................... 28

Zero Incremental............................................................................................... 28

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

Overview ............................................................................................................... 30

DRO Screen........................................................................................................... 31

Status Bar Display.................................................................................................. 32

Move Table ............................................................................................................ 33

Milling Function ..................................................................................................... 33

Zeroing an Axis ...................................................................................................... 34

Teach Position ....................................................................................................... 34

Electronic Edge Finder........................................................................................... 35

Skewing ................................................................................................................. 36

Milling Function Keys............................................................................................. 37

DRO Operations .................................................................................................... 38

Rectangle milling............................................................................................... 38

Rectangle milling example................................................................................ 38

Circle milling...................................................................................................... 39

Circle milling example....................................................................................... 39

DRO Mill Cycles..................................................................................................... 40

3.2 Calculator

Accessing the calculator ........................................................................................ 41

Using the calculator to insert data .................................................................... 42

Trig Functions ................................................................................................... 42

4.1 Tool Table

Overview ............................................................................................................... 44

Tool Compensation Required Data ........................................................................ 44

Tool numbers / Tool names ................................................................................... 45

Locating the Tool Table.......................................................................................... 45

Tool Table .............................................................................................................. 46

Editing the tool table ......................................................................................... 46

Editing an existing tool...................................................................................... 47

Tool Table Structure .............................................................................................. 47

Tool table: Standard tool data ........................................................................... 47

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 xiii

4.2 Tool Data

Tool-Length Offsets............................................................................................... 48

Teaching Tool Length Offsets in the Tool Table ............................................... 48

Diameter Offset in Tool Table................................................................................ 49

Tool Radius Offset ................................................................................................. 50

Moving without radius offset............................................................................ 50

Machining with radius offset ............................................................................ 51

Radius offset: Machining corners ..................................................................... 52

5.1 Programming Introduction

Program Display mode .......................................................................................... 54

Display area ...................................................................................................... 54

Program Function Screen ...................................................................................... 55

Folder View....................................................................................................... 55

Program Drawing View.......................................................................................... 56

Program Screen Display ........................................................................................ 57

Program Mode Soft Keys ...................................................................................... 58

Program Functions................................................................................................. 59

Program Functions soft keys ............................................................................ 59

View hard key ........................................................................................................ 62

Step Functions soft keys ....................................................................................... 63

Program Steps soft keys ....................................................................................... 64

Clear Program soft key .......................................................................................... 65

Save/Discard soft key ............................................................................................ 65

Run Options soft keys ........................................................................................... 66

Program Saving...................................................................................................... 67

Saving a Program.............................................................................................. 67

5.2 Program Mode Functions

Program Type Filter ............................................................................................... 68

USB Access ........................................................................................................... 68

5.3 Creating programs overview

New Part Program ................................................................................................. 69

xiv

6.1 Conversational Programming

Programming Considerations ................................................................................ 72

“From” and “To” points ................................................................................... 72

Depth of Cut ..................................................................................................... 72

Pass .................................................................................................................. 72

Tool Offset........................................................................................................ 73

Datum Selection ............................................................................................... 73

Absolute vs. Incremental Dimensions .............................................................. 74

Continuous Milling ............................................................................................ 74

Fundamentals for Creating a Program ................................................................... 75

Entering milling steps ....................................................................................... 75

Adding/Inserting milling steps........................................................................... 76

Editing or Deleting a milling step ...................................................................... 76

Program Errors.................................................................................................. 77

Program Edited ................................................................................................. 77

Running a Program ................................................................................................ 78

Skewing a Part.................................................................................................. 78

Establishing a Datum ............................................................................................. 80

Overview........................................................................................................... 80

Steps to Establish the datum............................................................................ 81

X Axis Datum: ................................................................................................... 82

Y Axis Datum .................................................................................................... 82

Z Axis Datum .................................................................................................... 82

Retract Z ........................................................................................................... 83

Using an electronic edge finder ........................................................................ 83

Setting the datum on an edge .......................................................................... 84

Setting the datum at the centerline .................................................................. 85

Setting the datum at the center of a circle ....................................................... 85

Test the Datum Setting..................................................................................... 86

Testing a MILLPWR

Single Step........................................................................................................ 88

Dry Run............................................................................................................. 88

Graphics Only.................................................................................................... 88

Machining Your Part .............................................................................................. 89

Potentiometer for Feedrate Override .................................................................... 90

Manually Positioning the Quill .............................................................................. 91

Program ....................................................................... 87

6.2 Folders

Folder Functions .................................................................................................... 92

Folders .............................................................................................................. 92

Creating a Folder............................................................................................... 92

Naming a new folder......................................................................................... 93

Deleting a Folder............................................................................................... 93

Saving a Program.............................................................................................. 93

Naming a Program ............................................................................................ 94

Deleting a Program ........................................................................................... 94

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 xv

Loading a MILLPWRG2 (MPT) Program ............................................................ 95

Importing a DXF drawing .................................................................................. 96

G-code Programs ................................................................................................... 97

Loading a G-code Program ............................................................................... 97

Running a G-Code Program .............................................................................. 98

Starting or Stopping a G-code Program ........................................................... 98

G-code and M-Code Definitions............................................................................. 99

G-code .............................................................................................................. 99

M-Code Definition........................................................................................... 103

Additional G-code Conventions for MILLPWR

............................................ 106

Backing Up a Program ......................................................................................... 107

Copy and Paste programs............................................................................... 107

Program Errors................................................................................................ 108

7.1 Demonstration Program

Overview ............................................................................................................. 110

Selecting Datum ............................................................................................. 110

Begin Programming ............................................................................................. 111

Selecting A Tool.............................................................................................. 111

Programming a line......................................................................................... 112

Programming an Arc ....................................................................................... 113

Programming the connecting Line.................................................................. 114

Programming the lower vertical Line .............................................................. 115

Programming the lower angle Line................................................................. 116

Programming the upper angle Line ................................................................ 117

Programming a Blend ..................................................................................... 118

Closing the contour......................................................................................... 119

Tool Change for the Bolt hole Pattern ............................................................ 120

Programming the Bolt circle ........................................................................... 121

Tool Change for the Rectangular Pocket ........................................................ 122

Programming the Rectangular Pocket ............................................................ 123

Testing the Program ............................................................................................ 124

Graphics only .................................................................................................. 124

Dry Run with table movement........................................................................ 124

Running the Program........................................................................................... 125

Tool Changes ....................................................................................................... 126

Clearing the Program ........................................................................................... 126

xvi

8.1 Milling and Drilling

Overview ............................................................................................................. 128

Selecting A Tool.............................................................................................. 129

Repeatable Tool Length Offsets.......................................................................... 131

Programming a Tool........................................................................................ 131

Changing to a Tool of unknown length in DRO mode .................................... 131

Changing to a Tool of unknown length in a program ...................................... 133

Position / Drill....................................................................................................... 134

Line ...................................................................................................................... 135

Arc ....................................................................................................................... 136

Blend/Chamfer..................................................................................................... 137

Rectangular Milling Functions.............................................................................. 140

Rectangle Pocket............................................................................................ 140

Tool Path Description:..................................................................................... 141

Rectangle Frame............................................................................................. 142

Rectangle Face ............................................................................................... 144

Rectangle Slot................................................................................................. 146

Circular Milling Functions..................................................................................... 148

Circle Pocket................................................................................................... 148

Circle Frame.................................................................................................... 150

Circle Ring....................................................................................................... 152

Circle Helix...................................................................................................... 154

Hole Patterns ....................................................................................................... 155

Row of Holes .................................................................................................. 155

Hole Frame and Array ..................................................................................... 157

Bolt Circle Patterns ......................................................................................... 159

8.2 Additional Milling Functions

Step Functions soft key ....................................................................................... 160

Explode ........................................................................................................... 160

Reverse Step .................................................................................................. 161

Reverse Path................................................................................................... 161

Change Steps.................................................................................................. 162

Shift Steps ...................................................................................................... 162

Delete Steps ................................................................................................... 163

Copy/Move Steps ........................................................................................... 163

Custom Pockets .................................................................................................. 164

Custom Pocket ............................................................................................... 164

Island............................................................................................................... 165

Tool Path Description for Custom Pocket, and Islands................................... 165

Contour ........................................................................................................... 166

Repeat, Rotate, ................................................................................................... 168

Repeat............................................................................................................. 168

Rotate ............................................................................................................. 168

Mirror .............................................................................................................. 169

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 xvii

Other Steps ......................................................................................................... 169

Engrave Line ................................................................................................... 170

Engrave Arc .................................................................................................... 171

Comment Step ............................................................................................... 172

Dwell............................................................................................................... 173

Reference Point .............................................................................................. 173

9.1 Setup

Overview ............................................................................................................. 176

Setup .............................................................................................................. 176

Tool Table ....................................................................................................... 176

Error Log ......................................................................................................... 176

Job Setup............................................................................................................. 177

Job Setup........................................................................................................ 177

Scale Factor .................................................................................................... 178

Feed Rate ...................................................................................................... 178

Display: Peck\Pass.......................................................................................... 178

Job Clock - Parts Counter ............................................................................... 179

Probing............................................................................................................ 179

Display Grid..................................................................................................... 180

Travel Limits ................................................................................................... 180

Tool Table ............................................................................................................ 183

Error Log .............................................................................................................. 183

Service Files.................................................................................................... 184

10.1 Updating System Software

Software Update.................................................................................................. 186

Procedure for updating the software................................................................... 186

11.1 MILLPWR Off-Line Software

Off-Line Simulator................................................................................................ 188

System Requirements ......................................................................................... 188

Installation............................................................................................................ 189

Operation ............................................................................................................. 189

On Screen Keypad ............................................................................................... 190

Keyboard Shortcuts ............................................................................................. 190

Updating .............................................................................................................. 192

xviii

Introduction

1.1 MILLPWR

The ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 control is a workshop-oriented contouring control that enables you to program conventional machining operations right at the machine in an easy-to-use conversational programming language. It is designed for milling and drilling machine tools, with up to 3 axes.

MILLPWR and die makers and other machinists where manual and automated

1.1 MILLPWR

operation are both useful and needed. MILLPWR maximize your throughput by significantly reducing set-up time, scrap, and other non-productive operations, thereby increasing your efficiency, productivity and profitability.

The MILLPWR productivity. The screen layout is clearly arranged in such a way that the functions are easy to access, fast and user friendly.

MILLPWRG2 is a closed-looped system with positioning feedback provided by ACU-RITE precision glass scales (1µm/0.00005" resolution). MILLPWR unique feature that enables you to easily, quickly and accurately re-establish work piece zero after shutting down, or power loss.

was developed to satisfy the wants and needs of tool

has many powerful features that will improve your

will enable you to

also includes Position-Trac™, an advanced,

ACU-RITE conversational, and G-code format

The ACU-RITE conversational programming format is a method of writing programs; g-code (ISO) programming can be used, and run, but can not be edited. Preview graphics in the editor illustrate the individual machining steps for programming the contour as well as the corresponding tool path generated. A production drawing does not need to be dimensioned for NC programming, the MILLPWR programmed using the dimensions directly from the production drawing. The programming format is the same as used in previous MILLPWR products. Always verify old programs before machining with MILLPWRG2.

can be

2 1 Introduction

Powering Up

The MILLPWRG2 console does not disconnect the power supply to the spindle motor. It can only be disconnected by turning off the main power supply.

 Turn the power switch On [1], (to the I position) on the MILLPWR

console which is located on the back of the unit.

 Follow the builder’s instructions to turn off the machine.

 The start up screen with 3 soft keys will be displayed; Shut Down,

Find Home, and Cancel. After pressing either the Find Home, or Cancel soft key, the default DRO screen will be displayed.

It is strongly recommended that the MILLPWRG2 performs the Find Home feature at start up, prior to any other action taken.

 If a program was loaded when the MILLPWR

same program will be reloaded when the unit is powered up again.

If the MILLPWRG2 did not perform the Find Home feature at start up, press the Datum soft key from the default DRO screen to display the Home soft key. Press the Home soft key then the Find Home soft key will be displayed.

was shut down, that

1.1 MILLPWR

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 3

E-STOP and Shutdown

The E-STOP is used for emergency program shut down by turning off the servo motors. It does not shut down the spindle motor. The spindle motor must always be manually stopped using the spindle switch to stop the motor, and the cutting tool.

 When the E-STOP button is pressed, the servo motors

are stopped, and the quill can be raised.

1.1 MILLPWR

 When the STOP key is pressed once, the servo motors

pause, but are still active. All axes are locked, and can not be moved.

 The program can now either continue by pressing the

GO key, or stopped by pressing the STOP key a second time.

 If the STOP key is pressed a second time canceling the

program, the spindle motor must be stopped, and the tool raised before moving any of the remaining axes.

Shutting down the MILLPWR soft key.

 Press the Shutdown soft key to shut down the

MILLPWR DRO and PGM mode.

 Confirm the shut down by pressing the Yes soft key.

system is done by using the Shutdown

system. This soft key is available in both

 Press the No soft key to cancel and exit the shut down

procedure.

Always shutdown the MILLPWRG2 before turning power off to the machine. Refer to the builder's instructions for for additional information on turning power off.

4 1 Introduction

Emergency Stop (E-STOP)

 Press E-STOP to take all axes servos offline. This ends

all machine movement, and allows the quill to be raised to move the tool out of the way.

 To reset the E-STOP, turn the rotary switch clockwise in the direction

of the arrows. The switch pops outward, and is reset.

 Resetting E-STOP does not reactivate the servos.

Activating/Resetting the Servos

For safety reasons, the mill powers up with the servomotors disengaged. While the servos are disengaged the mill axes cannot move under servo power. The axes can be manually positioned if necessary.

Reset the servos as follows:

 If a limit switch disengaged the servos, manually reposition the

machine inside its normal range of travel.

 If a miscount occurs, press the Find Home soft key to reset the

servos and return all axes to their home position.

1.1 MILLPWR

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 5

Find Home

You should find home before a program is run, or immediately after startup.

 During start up, the Find Home soft key is provided on the start up

screen soft key area.

 If the find home step is not performed at initial start up, it can be

initiated at any time during operation. Press the Datum soft key, then press the Home soft key, and then press the Find Home soft key.

 A 3 axes system will move the table and quill. They will

1.1 MILLPWR

automatically move a few inches along the Z, Y, and then X to find home. If a W axis exists (i.e. coupling knee to quill) then the control will prompt you to move the W manually to home it.

 A 2 axes system will move the table. The table will automatically

move a few inches along the Y, and then X to find home. Then the control will prompt you to move the Z quill manually to home it. If a W axis exists (i.e. coupling knee to quill) then the control will prompt you to move the W manually also to home it.

Before finding home with a 2 axes system, the quill must be fully raised first.

When finding home, the MILLPWR with ACU-RITE glass scales), the Position-Trac™ distance-encrypted reference mark line pattern. This line pattern allows MILLPWRG2 to accurately find home and re-establish workpiece zero from any position.

Finding home applies to the X, Y, Z, and W axes.

Position-Trac will accurately re-establish workpiece zero after power loss, or shut down. After home has been found, the tool’s position (relative to the most recent datum set) will be displayed.

Not finding home before moving the table will risk exceeding the table's travel limits, and possible damage to the machine, and the MILLPWRG2 system.

Programs will not be allowed to run if the homing process does not complete successfully.

The Find Home soft key is not available if there is an error, and the front panel LED indicator is flashing. The error must be corrected, and then cleared from the error log. Then homing is allowed. Refer to Chapter 9 "Error Log" on page 183 for information on opening the error log and deleting errors.

will use (on machines equipped

6 1 Introduction

Disengage Z Axis feature

MILLPWRG2 provides the flexibility to switch between 2 axes and 3 axes operation.

Disengaging the Z axis drive:

 Leave the Z BEGIN field blank when programming a step, or a one

time milling operation.

 Raise the quill, then loosen the quick release knob [1] on the front of

the the Z axis drive system.

 When a program step, or milling operation is then performed, the

operator is prompted to manually position the quill.

Re-engaging the Z axis drive

 Raise the quill handle to seat the ball screw into the nut block (e.g.

this would be similar to hitting a dead stop).

 Tighten the quick release knob [1].

1.1 MILLPWR

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 7

Writing Programs

Overview

The MILLPWR write a program. For operations that repeat, or complex machining it is best to write a program. Before writing a program, determine the work-holding device and the location of Part Zero (the point to which all movement is referenced). Since absolute positions are defined from Part Zero, try to select a location that directly corresponds to dimensions provided on the part print, such as the lower left corner of the work. Then you can develop a program. The following is a general

1.1 MILLPWR

approach to programming:

 First, select the unit of measurement (Inch/MM) using the MM key.

This will place the DRO in the required unit of measure, and all dialogues will use the selection. If the selection is changed after data has been entered, the MILLPWR new unit of measure.

 The first step in a program selects the tool that is to be used. It’s size

can be entered in either Inch or MM regardless of the unit of measure selected in the DRO. The Tool dialogue provides fields for data input for the tool position. This is a tool change position, a location away from the work area where the axes can return for safe tool changing. TOOL POSITION will use the unit of measure that has been selected for the DRO.

 The remaining steps in the program describe the required moves,

single cycles, and Tool changes to complete the machining.

 The next to the last step in the program returns the axes to the Tool

change position and ends the program.

 After writing a program, verify it. Run it to troubleshoot for errors.

Verify that all programmed moves are safe, and accurate to the part print dimensions.

 Setup the work piece into the intended holding device.  First run the program in Single-Step Mode to verify that both the

program and the setting of Tool Offsets are correct. Single-Step Mode allows you to run the program step-by-step. Make any necessary corrections. Once verified, the program can be run in Auto Mode.

 When the finished program is ready for production, back it up on a

USB memory device.

allows many features to be used without having to

will convert the data to the

If there is an interruption to the power supply, the program is not lost. The program is periodically saved. Verify that the most recent steps (prior to the power failure) are in the program. The fixture zero location is also remembered.

8 1 Introduction

1.2 Operating in 2 Axes and 3 Axes Modes

Overview

The MILLPWRG2 is capable of running a 2 axes machine (manual Z) or a 3 axes machine with the Z being switched to manual as needed. This User's Manual covers 2 axes and 3 axes operation. This section provides some general guidelines. In 2 axes mode, all Z moves must be made manually.

When running a program, the system will pause and provide a prompt whenever a Z move is required.

 The incremental DRO display will show the distance to the Z axis

target position.

 Press the ABS/INCR key to toggle between absolute and incremental

display modes.

 In incremental mode, a bar graph is displayed below each axis

position. A small blue indicator moves toward the center of the bar as the incremental position approaches 0. When at 0, the blue indicator will be centered.

 After moving the Z axis to the programmed position, press the GO

key to continue running the program.

Program Steps in 2 Axis Mode

When running a program step in 2 axis mode, not all information in the program step is used. Values may be programmed for Z Pass, Z Peck, and Tool Retract, but they will not be used when running in 2 axis mode.

 When prompted to set Z, the incremental display will show the

distance to the Z end depth.

 After drilling to depth, raise the quill and press the GO key to continue

running the program.

 For pocket steps, raise the quill and press GO when prompted.

If an additional pass is needed for a step, press STOP to end the program and run the step again.

It may also be necessary to repeat a set of steps for each pass in a program.

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 9

1.2 Operating in 2 Axes and 3 Axes Modes

Selecting 2 Axis Mode on 3 Axis Systems

 To run a program in 2 axis mode, disengage the quill assembly

before pressing the GO key.

 A prompt will appear indicating that the quill is disengaged.

 If this is intentional, press GO and the program will run in 2 axis

mode.

To program a specific step to run in 2 axis mode:

 Select POSITION for the Z operation type (drill steps).  For pockets, clear the Z begin depth field.

 When the step is run, the Z axis servo motor will be turned off to

allow manual movement.

Follow all manual Z motion prompts. See "Tool Table" on page 44 for a complete description about using the Tool Table.

1.2 Operating in 2 Axes and 3 Axes Modes

10 1 Introduction

1.3 Console

Operating Console

The ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 Console has a 12.1-inch Flat-Panel Color Screen Display. The following list of items are located on the front panel.

See "DRO display screen" on page 21 for mapping information of the start up screen.

See "Console Keypad" on page 20 for a full description of the console keypad layout. The individual keys are fully described on page ii of the inside front cover.

The following features are located on the front panel of the console:

1 Color flat panel screen display. 2 Emergency “E” Stop 3 Soft keys 4 Power On indicator light / Error indicator light 5 Potentiometer for feed rate override 6 Go, Pause/Stop, Navigation keys, and Move Table keys 7 Axis keys 8 Console keypad 9 USB Port

See "Calculator" on page 18 for a full description of the calculator keypad.

1.3 Console

Rear Panel

The ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 DRO rear panel has the following list of items located on the panel.

1 Power switch 2 Power connector 3 Servo Power connector 4 Earth (ground) terminal 5 Ethernet port 6 USB port 7 KT 130 Edge Finder 8 Pendant (Remote switch) 9 RS-232-C connector 10 Auxiliary Machine Interface (AMI); for future expansion. 11 Servo connector (X, Y, and Z) 12 Grounding Edger Finder 13 Encoder Inputs (W and Z axis)

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 11

Screen Navigation

 The MILLPWRG2 display layout changes between DRO Mode and

PGM (Program) Mode by pressing the DRO/PGM key. The following

illustrates the differences between the two screen modes.

DRO Mode display

In general, the display changes as different functions are activated.

1.3 Console

Soft keys in the lower display area change per the function selected. Soft keys perform their associated function by pressing the key directly below it. Basic procedures and features remain the same regardless of which mode is selected. For a complete description of the display areas see "DRO Screen" on page 31.

1 Status Bar display for Servo Motor Status, Feed rate, Tool,

Datum, Scale, Skew, (Inch/MM), Estimated Time, Part Clock, Parts (run), Job Clock, and Time of Day. See "Status Bar Display" on page 32.

2 Axes Display (current position). 3 Operator Intervention Message line (OIM). 4 Soft keys display area. 5 Dialogue box display area for milling functions.

PGM Mode display

When PGM mode is selected, the display changes from DRO mode to display program functions and graphics. Soft keys change to programming functions. All soft keys are run by pressing the corresponding hard key located directly below it. See "Status Bar Display" on page 32 for complete descriptions.

1 Status Bar display for Servo Motor Status, Estimated Time, Tool,

Datum, Scale, Skew, (Inch/MM). See "Status Bar Display" on page 32.

2 Display window of graph simulation. 3 Operator Intervention Message (OIM). 4 Soft keys display area. 5 Program name. 6 Program steps.

12 1 Introduction

Dialogues, and Drop Down Menus

This manual provides complete information where specific examples of actions are being explained.

As a general overview of the dialogues provided by the MILLPWR several fields are likely to be provided for input. To navigate a dialogue, use the ARROW keys to select the desired field. After entering the data into a field, press either the ENTER key, or the UP or DOWN ARROW keys to move to the next field. Exiting a field with one of these key methods will retain the entered data in that field.

When the required data has been entered, press the USE key to accept the data entered for use in that specific function.

Most dialogues contain Drop Down menus. Specific milling functions may require additional information. The choices available are provided in a drop down menu. In most cases, they are also provided as soft keys. The choices can be selected from either location.

Operator Prompts

For actions that require immediate input to continue the operation an operator prompt will be displayed by the MILLPWR bar. The required data can be entered with the numerical keypad, and in some instances using the alphanumeric on screen keyboard.

Cursor

The MILLPWRG2 uses a highlighted cursor to mark a field for selection or editing. In some instances, the cursor will default to a field without highlighting the field. Use the ARROWS keys to move the cursor. The UP, and DOWN ARROWS move the cursor through the fields available. The RIGHT ARROW will open a field that contains more choices, or subfolders in the folder tree. The LEFT ARROW will close the menu, or subfolders.

The cursor will also change from a highlighted bar to a text cursor when a field selected is having data entered.

in the message

1.3 Console

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 13

General Operating Guidelines

General operating guidelines for the MILLPWRG2.

 Additional operation soft keys are located in the soft key area along

with task selection, and dialogue. The soft keys change in relation to the task being performed.

 Selection of a particular soft key that requires additional information

1.3 Console

may open a popup menu [1].

 A soft key may open a dialogue menu that requires input necessary

to continue with the operation selected.

 The status bar in the top of the display is constant, and reflects only

what has been selected for the current program.

 Use the Context Sensitive Help (INFO key) feature when assistance

is desired. This is an intuitive feature that aids the user by going directly to the section in the manual in relation to the feature, or key that has been selected to obtain assistance with.

14 1 Introduction

Operating Modes

The MILLPWR (Program). These are accessed from the front panel hard key. This is a toggle key.

 A USB pointing device e.g. mouse, trackball, etc. may also be used.

If a pointing device is being used, the action of clicking on a soft key button is the same as pressing the corresponding soft key. A USB keyboard can also be used for data entry and cursor control.

has two main operating modes: DRO, and PGM

 DRO mode shows the current position of each axis

relative to current datum. In DRO mode, manual machining, and Single Cycles can be performed. Tool selection, units, along with most setup features can be accessed.

 Program mode PGM, displays the list of program steps

and part-view graphics. New programs can be created as well as editing existing programs. Programs, new or existing, can be saved, deleted, or copied using program functions.

1.3 Console

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 15

Popup Menus

Within the soft keys, additional features may be available in program mode. A soft key that has a down arrow in the lower right hand corner indicates that additional soft keys are available for that feature.

As an example, pressing the Program Steps soft key (in PGM mode) opens another set of soft keys available for this function. Then you will notice an up arrow on most of the soft keys. This indicates a popup menu will open when that key is pressed.

1.3 Console

 Soft keys for PGM provide access to edit existing programs, or

create a new program. Sub menus provide dialogue for machining operations such as milling a line, an arc, engraving, drilling and creating pockets.

Pressing the required operation step soft key will open a popup menu to further define the machining operation required.

A selection for a popup can occur in one of two ways:

 Use the shortcut number to the left of the feature; for example,

pressing 9 on the numeric keypad will select the Circle Ring dialogue.

 Or use the Up and Down arrow keys to highlight the feature to be

used, then press ENTER.

When the type of machining operation has been selected, the corresponding dialogue opens so that the required data can be entered.

A dialogue in DRO mode will retain the previous data entered making it possible to re-run the previous operation without having to re-enter all the data.

 At anytime when entering data into a dialogue the calculator can be

accessed by pressing the CALC key.

 Soft keys for CALC provide access to additional math functions such

as trig functions.

When a dialogue is activated, it is not possible to change to another dialogue. The current dialogue must be exited by pressing USE to save the data in the dialogue or pressing CANCEL to discard the data.

16 1 Introduction

Keyboard

An on screen QWERTY keyboard will automatically popup when you enter a field that requires text information input.

 The keyboard becomes visible (popup) when text, and numerical

information is required for an action (e.g. saving a program, or entering text for engraving).

 Use the ARROW keys for navigation of the cursor to go to the desired

character and press ENTER to select the character.

 When the information has been entered using the keyboard, press

the Save soft key. The keyboard will disappear from the screen. The keyboard will also be removed from the screen when the CANCEL key is pressed.

 When using a USB keyboard, the on screen keyboard can be

disabled by pressing the Keyboard soft key. The on screen keyboard will remain disabled untill it is enabled by pressing the Keyboard soft key again. When the console goes through a power cycle, the key board will retain its setting prior to the power cycle.

Special Characters

The keyboard also provides a “Special Characters” display which is accessed by the “(#*\!...” key.

 Arrow over to the “(#*\!...” key to highlight the key, and press the

the ENTER key.

1.3 Console

Navigational Soft keys

The following navigational soft keys are always available on the keyboard.

 The “Up Arrow” key switches the keyboard from

upper to lower case letter mode, or from lower to upper case letter mode depending on the current keyboard mode.

 The “Abc” key switches the keyboard from the

special character key mode to the alpha numeric key mode.

 The “(#*\!...” key switches the keyboard from the

alpha numeric key mode to the special character key mode.

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 17

Editing Keys

The following keys are available for editing text on the keyboard.

 The Copy key will copy the highlighted text in the text

field.

 The Paste key will paste to the text field text that was

previously highlighted, and copied.

1.3 Console

 The Clear key will remove all text in the text field.

 The back space key will delete text in the text field one

character at a time.

Calculator

Numeric Keypad

The numeric keypad on the front of the console resembles a standard calculator with keys for numbers 0 through 9, four math function symbols (+, -, x, and ÷), a decimal point, and a positive/negative sign (+/-).

 The calculator is accessible from nearly any screen or

field. Press the CALC key to access the “stand-alone” calculator. The math function soft keys are displayed in the soft key area. Calculations can be entered directly into a highlighted field.

Using the calculator in an entry field in a dialogue requires the operator to press the ENTER key to run the calculation. To move to the next field using the ENTER key requires the operator to press ENTER a second time.

Anytime data is entered into an entry field in a dialogue and the value is changed using the +/- key, the operator is required to press the ENTER key to use the value change. Moving to the next field using the ENTER key requires the operator to press ENTER a second time.

18 1 Introduction

Context Sensitive Help

The MILLPWRG2 uses an intuitive method to aid the user when assistance is required. When assistance is needed with a feature, the User Manual can be displayed directly at the point which describes the feature.

To use this help, in this example, the console is in PGM mode, and a Linear Engraving cycle is being programed. It is desired to see descriptions of the cycle parameters, and the cycle itself. The following steps describe the actions needed to take.

Using Context Sensitive Help

 Press the INFO key to open the on screen User

Manual.

 This will display a new window containing the section in the User

Manual, opened directly to the description of the desired feature. This is the active window when Context Sensitive Help is activated.

 To activate the Contents View on the left side of the display, press

the Contents View soft key. This allows the user to see all available topics from the User Manual. The Forward and Back soft keys will navigate the users previous history. The Previous Topic and Next Topic soft keys will select the previous and next topic in the manual contents (shown in the Contents View on the left hand side). These soft keys allow the user to select other sections of the User Manual while in Context Sensitive Help. Using these keys will navigate the User Manual even if the Contents View is hidden.

The following describes the action, and use of the soft keys:

 The Back soft key navigates one page back per key

press to a previous page that was viewed from the history. History is not cleared when the Help Screen is exited.

 The Forward soft key navigates one page forward per

key press from the viewed pages in history.

 The Previous Topic soft key navigates one Topic up

in the contents window per key press.

 The Next Topic soft key navigates one Topic Down in

the contents window per key press.

 The Contents View soft key is a toggle key to show/

hide the contents view on the left hand side of the display.

 To close, press the Exit soft key.

1.3 Console

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 19

Console Keypad

The following keys are located on the console keypad. There is also a quick reference guide located at the beginning of this manual on page ii of the inside front cover.

1 Axis keys, use to select the required axis. 2 Numeric keys, use to enter numeric data.

1.3 Console

3 CANCEL key, use to cancel current action. 4 CLEAR key, use to clear selections such as values entered in a

field.

5 ARROW keys, use to navigate around the screen, and highlight

dialogue fields. Also used to move the table axes.

6 STOP key, use to pause, or stop a program that is running, or a

machine operation.

7 GO key, use to start, or resume a program. 8 USE key, use to complete an operation, i.e. data values entered in

a dialogue.

9 ENTER key, use to activate selections, and entries. 10 +/- key, use to toggle key for “Plus/Minus” data entry. 11 CALC key, opens the fully functional calculator. 12 Function keys, select appropriate key for quick access to the

function and data entry.

13 Milling function keys. Selection of appropriate key provides direct

access to the milling function dialogue.

20 1 Introduction

1.4 Operating Mode Screens

Display navigation

The DRO mode is the default start up mode, and PGM mode can be selected from the front panel key after start up. A condensed description of these has been provided here on how to navigate, and become familiar with the information that is being provided.

Complete descriptions, and details of these are provided later in this manual, see "DRO Screen" on page 31.

DRO display screen

The MILLPWRG2 display screen provides the information required to monitor the machine, it’s movement, programming, and more.

The default screen, or home screen, displays two main windows, and soft keys in the soft key display area. When the console is first turned on, the unit defaults to this screen. See "Screen Navigation" on page

12. The DRO screen displays information per the current operation. DRO

mode allows the use of the milling function keys, or can be used as a DRO in manual machining operations.

The system Shutdown soft key is located here as well as in PGM mode.

1.4 Operating Mode Screens

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 21

Program Display Screen

 From the DRO mode, press the DRO/PGM key, and the

display changes to program mode showing the currently selected or loaded program.

When Programing a job, the display activates a graphic view of the program. While the program is running, the operation that is being performed is graphically shown as well. The VIEW key provides features to configure the graphic area.

For more information, see "Program Function Screen" on page 55.

1.5 Accessories

Electronic Edge Finder

The Electronic Edge Finder KT 3D enables the ability to teach positions, find the center point of a circle, or locate datum (work piece zero) by touching off on the part. Advantage of an electronic edge finder is that it instantly senses when contact is made with the point (even if the axis over traveled).

22 1 Introduction

Machining Fundamentals

2.1 Conventions

Axis Conventions

Count Direction

When programming a part using MILLPWR tool movement are determined by the use of positive or negative numbers. MILLPWR positive and negative count directions for the X, Y and Z-axes:

2.1 Conventions

X axis

 The table will move to the left and the tool will move to the right for

a positive count direction.

Y axis

 The table will move toward you while the tool moves away from you

for a positive count direction.

Z axis

 The quill will move up (away from the table surface) for a positive

count direction.

has been factory set with the following

, table movement and

Cartesian Coordinates

 A cartesian coordinate is a position that can be measured from the

X- and Y-axes.

Polar Coordinates

 A polar coordinate is a position that is defined by an angle and a

radius.

24 2 Machining Fundamentals

Absolute and incremental work piece positions

Absolute work piece positions

Absolute coordinates are position coordinates that are referenced to the datum of the coordinate system (origin). Each position on the work piece is uniquely defined by its absolute coordinates.

Example 1: Holes dimensioned in absolute coordinates Hole 1 Hole 2 Hole 3

X = 10 mm X = 30 mm X = 50 mm Y = 10 mm Y = 20 mm Y = 30 mm

Incremental work piece positions

Incremental coordinates are referenced to a previous step within the program, which serves as the relative (imaginary) datum. When you write a part program in incremental coordinates, you thus program the tool to move by the distance between the previous and the subsequent nominal positions. Incremental coordinates are therefore also referred to as chain dimensions.

Example 2: Holes dimensioned in incremental coordinates Absolute coordinates of hole 4 X = 10 mm

Y = 10 mm Hole 5, with respect to 4 Hole 6, with respect to 5

X = 20 mm X = 20 mm Y = 10 mm Y = 10 mm

2.1 Conventions

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 25

Setting the datum

Overview

Datum is the workpiece zero or absolute zero, and is a point of reference that the MILLPWR from.

A datum must be established for every job. Datum's location may be indicated on the print; or the operator may establish a datum that allows most of the part's dimensions be entered directly using the least amount of calculations.

2.1 Conventions

When establishing datum, it may be easiest to locate a known point on each axis, such as the corner of the part, or a location on a vise or fixture.

Datum can be set at a point on the top surface, a position beneath the surface, or at a point where there's no material present (such as in the center of a circular part). Touching off the edge of a work piece using a tool, or an edge finder can be used when establishing a datum. See "Steps to Establish the datum" on page 81.

bases all of the part's coordinates

26 2 Machining Fundamentals

2.2 Manual Machine Positioning

Move Table

Non Cutting Mode

You can make or change jog moves when in DRO mode with the servos on.

Jog Mode Description

Rapid Default rapid speed for continuous jogs. Actual

speed determined at machine setup, and can be over ridden using the potentiometer.

Jog: 0.1 Conventional Jog increment set at 0.100”.

Jog: 0.01 Conventional Jog increment set at 0.010”.

Jog: 0.001 Conventional Jog increment set at 0.001”.

In mm units the jog increment is 20 microns, 200 microns and 2000 microns respectively.

Changing the Mode

Jog move modes are performed at the currently active feedrate. The active Jog is selected by pressing the appropriate soft key, then pressing the appropriate ARROW key to move the table in the direction required. The up and down arrows move the table in the Y axis. The left and right arrows move the table in the X axis. Use the soft keys Move Z Up or Move Z Down to move the Z axis in the desired direction.

Changing the Jogging Speed

The active jogging speed defaults to the max feed as determined by the machine builder. The jogging speed may be changed by pressing Clear. Enter the new speed in the dialogue and press ENTER. The new value will remain active until set again or on the next power up.

2.2 Manual Machine Positioning

Incremental Moves

 In DRO Mode, Press the Move Table soft key.  Then select the soft key Jog increment required. Then press the

arrow keys (for X and Y) or the soft keys for Z. One jog increment is moved per arrow key press.

Continuous Moves

 To manually position the machine using continuous movement,

press the Move Table soft key. Make sure none of the incremental Jog keys are highlighted.

 Press the appropriate ARROW key (or soft key) to move the table in the

direction required for the axis move. The table will move at the currently active jogging speed. The table will move until the arrow key is released.

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 27

Adjusting the Feedrate

The Feedrate Override potentionmeter can be used to override the currently active feedrate or rapid rate for machine moves. The switch provides a range of 0% to 150%. Setting the switch to 100% will allow the actual feedrate or rapid rate currently active to be used.

The machine builder determines the default rapid rate and maximum feedrate at setup. If the MILLPWR down, the configuration file reloads these default rates at the next power up.

Preset Moves

The Preset feature allows the machine to be used manually like a readout. The preset dialogue is used to set a target location. After entering a target location, the INCR display will show the distance between the current position to, and the target position.

 Press the DRO/PGM key on the front panel to place the

MILLPWR

 Press the ABS/INCR key on the front panel to place the

MILLPWR

2.2 Manual Machine Positioning

 Enter the target coordinates for X, Y, and Z.

 Press the Preset soft key to open the Preset dialogue.

 Press the USE key to set the target and exit the Preset

in DRO mode.

to INCR.

dialogue.

 Press the CANCEL key at any time to cancel and exit the

Preset dialogue.

Manually move the table and/or quill until the INCR axis positions are zero. When the INCR positions are zero, the machine is at the target position.

is shut

Zero Incremental

The INCR display may be set to zero at the machines current location.

 Press the DRO/PGM key on the front panel to place the

MILLPWR

 Press the ABS/INCR key on the front panel to place the

MILLPWR

 Press the X=0 soft key to zero the X axis.

 Press the Y=0 soft key to zero the Y axis.

 Press the Z=0 soft key to zero the Z axis.

in DRO mode.

to INCR.

The INCR display will show zero. As the table or quill are moved, the INCR display will show the distance from the current position to the zero location.

28 2 Machining Fundamentals

DRO Mode and Calculator

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

Overview

The MILLPWRG2 is in either DRO mode or PGM mode. DRO mode allows data input for short one step machining operations. Manual operation, single step operation, and single commands can be entered. DRO mode also allows the running of programs; See "DRO Operations" on page

38. The following describes the concepts, and formats used with the

MILLPWR

 DRO Screen  Status Bar Display  Move Table  Milling Functions  Zeroing an Axis

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

 Teach Position  Electronic Edge Finder  Skewing  Milling Function Keys  DRO Operations  DRO Mill Cycles  Calculator

which are being introduced in this chapter.

30 3 DRO Mode and Calculator

DRO Screen

The DRO screen displays information per the current operation. The DRO mode allows the use of the milling function hard keys, or can be used as a DRO in manual machining operations.

In addition to the information provided in Chapter 1 "DRO Mode display" on page 12, the following table describes what is being viewed on the display in DRO mode.

When the console is first turned on, the soft keys Shut Down, Find Home, and Cancel are displayed.

 Press the Find Home soft key.

After pressing either the Find Home, or Cancel soft key, the default DRO screen will be displayed.

1 Status Bar displays the servo motor status Stop/Run/Pause,

feedrate override, current Tool (blank if none is selected), Datum, Scale, Skew, unit of measure selected (Inch/MM), Estimated Time, Part Clock, Parts (run), Job Clock, and Time of Day. See "Status Bar Display" on page 32

2 Display current position of each axis, and relative to the current

datum.

3 Operator Intervention Message line (OIM) that provides prompts,

and messages to the operator.

4 Soft keys display. The soft keys change per the function that has

been selected. Each are activated by the associated hard key that is directly below it. When a soft key appears as being pressed, it is activated. If the key is not pressed in, it is not currently active. Active soft key text changes to yellow text.

5 This window displays program steps if a program is loaded. If no

program is loaded, then this window is blank. When a function has been selected (e.g. Pocket), its dialogue box is displayed in this window.

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 31

Status Bar Display

Program State

Feed This field indicates the current feedrate of the table

Tool In DRO mode, this field indicates the current tool

Datum This field indicates the active Datum number.

Scale This field indicates the active Scale factor.

Description

This field indicates the program state: Stop when program is not running, Run when program is running, or Pause when program is paused for operator.

or quill.

selection. In PGM mode, this field indicates the programmed tool for the highlighted step.

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

Skew This field indicates the active Skew angle.

Units This field indicates the active display units. All

Estimated Time

dimensions are displayed in these units (inch or mm). The current feedrate is displayed in these units (inch or mm per minute).

This field indicates the estimated machining time for the active program. This time assumes the program runs at 100% of the programmed feeds. It does not include the time necessary to perform manual operations such as changing a tool.

Part Clock This field shows the cumulative running time of the

current program. The timer is reset when a program is loaded.

Parts This field shows the number of times the current

program was run to create a part.

Job Clock This field shows the total elapsed time for the

current job. This timer is started and stopped by the operator.

Time of Day

32 3 DRO Mode and Calculator

This field shows the current time.

Move Table

The Move Table soft key when pressed will turn on the servo motors. Pressing it again will turn the servo motors off.

The desired feed rate can be set, or it can be left at 100% for rapid feed rate. See "Adjusting the Feedrate" on page 28.

To move the table in increments, first select the soft key increment wanted (e.g. 0.001, or 0.01, or 0.1).

A 3 axes system allows the Z axis to be moved by selecting the soft keys Move Z Up, or Move Z Down.

A 2 axes system requires the Z axis to be moved manually. A 3 axes system allows the X, Y, (and Z) axis can be moved

simultaneously by pressing the desired direction ARROW hard keys at the same time.

A 2 axes system allows the X, and Y axis to be moved simultaneously by pressing the desired direction ARROW hard keys at the same time.

Always fold in the table crank handles before moving the table using the servos.

The axis move one increment per key press when using step increment. The axis moves continuously until released when using continuous jog.

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

Milling Function

One Step Milling function may also be referred to as Single Cycle milling functions. Most milling functions can be used as one time machining operations as well as for programming. The BLEND key does not support single operation. Each milling function will either open its own dialogue or allow selection of choices from a soft key popup. These milling function keys are described in more detail later in this chapter.

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 33

Zeroing an Axis

Pressing the Zero X, Zero Y, or Zero Z soft keys will zero the incremental position for those axes.

A datum must be set to establish the point from which all absolute dimensions are based.

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

Teach Position

Whenever X, Y or Z coordinates are being entered, the Teach Position soft key will appear, enabling MILLPWR use the current coordinate(s). MILLPWR

to be in teach mode and to

will base each coordinate on the current absolute position, and enter that position into the field that is highlighted.

While programming, the MILLPWRG2 can switch between the DRO and PGM screens without losing the program that is either being created, or being edited.

To teach the MILLPWR

a coordinate (while programming a milling

function e.g. Rectangle Pocket):

 Use the arrow keys to highlight the X, Y, or Z axis fields.  Move your tool, indicator, or electronic edge finder to the position

you want to teach.

 Press the Teach Position soft key to enter that location then press

the ENTER key.

 The numeric keypad, and calculator functions can be used to adjust

the number.

 Repeat the steps for each axis and each location that will be used to

teach the MILLPWR

 Press USE to accept the dialogue or press CANCEL to cancel the

dialogue.

34 3 DRO Mode and Calculator

Electronic Edge Finder

A HEIDENHAIN Electronic Edge Finder enables you to teach positions, find the center point of a circle, skew a part or locate datum (also referred to as workpiece zero) by simply touching off on the part. The advantage of an electronic edge finder is that it instantly senses when you’ve made contact with the point even when you over-travel.

MILLPWR electronic edge finder. Once this information has been entered, MILLPWR the electronic edge finder when performing any of the operations mentioned above.

To teach a coordinate with the edge finder, highlight the appropriate field then slowly move the table (1in/min) until the electronic edge finder touches the workpiece. When the electronic edge finder touches the part’s surface, the coordinate will appear in the field. The electronic edge finder is active whenever an entry field is highlighted.

lets you define the diameter and unit of measure for an

will automatically compensate for the radius of the tip of

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 35

Skewing

The skew function automatically compensates for the offset angle of the part when it is not perfectly parallel with either the X or Y axis.

 Press the DRO/PGM key to place the MILLPWR

DRO mode.

 Press the ABS/INCR key to place the MILLPWR

ABS mode.

 Press the Datum soft key to open the SET DATUM

dialogue.

 Enter the Datum Number in the DATUM NUMBER field.  Enter the Skew Angle in the SKEW ANGLE field.

 Press the CANCEL key at any time to cancel and exit the

SET DATUM dialogue.

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

Each datum has its own skew angle. When a new datum is selected, that datum’s skew angle will be used.

To compensate for the skewed part, touch off on two or more points along one axis, either X or Y. Use an electronic edge finder or a mechanical indicator. At each point selected, press the Teach Position soft key to enter the data.

Always choose a line that you want to make parallel with the table’s X or Y axis, do not enter coordinates along a curve, along two different lines or along a line that’s positioned at a true 45 degree angle. MILLPWR

will calculate the skew angle based upon a straight line

between the points you’ve entered. If you’re working with a part that has a rough edge, it’s best to enter

multiple points along the straightest edge so that MILLPWRG2 can more accurately calculate the skew angle.

The skew feature does not work with G-code programs. Remove any skew angle prior to running a G-code program.

36 3 DRO Mode and Calculator

Milling Function Keys

The following describes in general, the milling function keys. Most milling functions can be used as one time machining operations.

The BLEND key does not support single operation.

Hard Key Function

TOOL opens the SET TOOL dialogue where information regarding the tool can be entered.

RECT opens the popup menu above the Rectangle soft key. Choose the type of rectangle milling that is to be done by selecting it from the popup menu. The required dialogue will open for that choice.

CIRCLE opens the Circle popup menu above the Circle soft key. Choose the type of circle milling

that is to be done by selecting it from the popup menu. The required dialogue will open for that choice.

HOLES opens the popup menu above the Hole Pattern soft key. Choose the type of hole drilling

that is to be done by selecting it from the popup menu. The dialogue where information can be entered to drill a row, frame array, or a bolt circle pattern will open.

POS opens the POSITION / DRILL dialogue where information can be entered to move the table to a position in the X & Y direction.

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

LINE opens the MILL LINE dialogue where information can be entered to mill a line.

ARC opens the MILL ARC dialogue where information can be entered to mill an arc.

BLEND opens the BLEND dialogue while in PGM mode where information can be entered to mill an arc, blending two surfaces together. Also used for chamfer.

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 37

DRO Operations

The following explains a few of the machining operations that are available. This example is providing an overview to the operator of the MILLPWRG2 capabilities.

The RECT, or CIRCLE keys as an example access popup menus to further refine the type of milling to be completed. Selecting the type of milling operation required will open the dialogue for that type of milling operation.

An operation is run by pressing the USE key. The CANCEL key can be pressed at anytime to cancel an operation.

Rectangle milling

 Press the RECT key on the front panel. The soft key is

displayed, and a popup menu appears on the display listing the type of rectangles available for milling.

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

Rectangle milling example

(e.g. pocket, frame, face, or slot)

 Select Pocket from the popup menu.

The popup menu disappears, and the RETANGLE POCKET dialogue is displayed.

 Enter the data to mill the pocket.

An operation is run by pressing the GO key. While running a graphic representation can be seen by pressing the VIEW key. The STOP key can be pressed at anytime to pause, or stop an operation.

38 3 DRO Mode and Calculator

Circle milling

 Press the CIRCLE key on the front panel. The soft key

CIRCLE is displayed, and a popup menu appears on

the display listing the type of circles available for milling.

Circle milling example

(e.g. pocket, frame, ring, or helix)

 Select Pocket from the popup menu.

The popup menu disappears, and the CIRCLE POCKET dialogue is displayed.

 Enter the data to mill the pocket.  Press GO to run the circle pocket.

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 39

DRO Mill Cycles

The one step milling function are grouped in Four categories as shown in these groups.

 Drill Cycles

 Position  Row of Holes  Rectangular Frame  Rectangular Array  Bolt Circle

 Rectangular Pocket Cycles

 Pocket  Frame  Slot  Face

 Circular Pocket Cycles

3.1 DRO Manual Data Input

 Pocket  Frame  Ring  Helix

 Other one step milling features

 Mill Line  Mill Arc

When a Milling Function key is selected for a single step operation, either a popup menu is displayed, or the available soft keys for that function are provided and its dialogue is opened. When a popup menu appears, further selection is required, then the dialogue is displayed.

The DRO screen is also displayed, showing the current axes location. The RECT, CIRCLE, and HOLES keys, when selected, display a popup menu. These three keys provide additional selections to further specify the type of machining required.

 Press the milling function hard key that is to be performed in DRO

mode.

40 3 DRO Mode and Calculator

3.2 Calculator

Accessing the calculator

The built in calculator can be used for simple arithmetic, or other math functions. The calculator can be accessed at any time, during most operations.

 To access the calculator press the CALC key, and select

the calculator function to be used.

The following calculator soft keys are available:

Soft key Description

Sin Trigonometric Sine function

Cos

Trigonometric Cosine function

Tan

Trigonometric Tangent function

Open Parenthesis ( Used as one of a pair to enclose a sum, or other expression.

Close Parenthesis ) Used as one of a pair to enclose a sum, or other expression.

3.2 Calculator

Square

Number multiplied by itself

Square Root

Square root of a number

More Cmds

(see next soft key display area)

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 41

More Commands, second menu.

Soft key Description

ArcSin

Inverse function of Sine

ArcCos

Inverse function of Cosine

3.2 Calculator

ArcTan

Inverse function of Tangent

 To exit the calculator press the CALC key a second time

or press CANCEL.

 Press the CLEAR key to clear the entry field.

Using the calculator to insert data

The calculator can be used in the numeric field of dialogues. Example, Milling a circle pocket: The radius of a circle is required in the data input field, and the part

drawing provides a diameter dimension.

 The diameter dimension can be entered into the dialogue field.

 Make sure CALC has been pressed to activate the calculator.

 Then press the Divide by key. The ( ÷ ) divide by

symbol will appear in the field showing the calculation step.

 Then press the 2 key. This will also appear in the field

as part of the calculation steps.

 Then press the ENTER key, and the result will be

entered into the dialogue field.

Trig Functions

When calculating the Sine, Cosine, or Tangent of an angle, enter the angle first (in decimal degrees), then press the function soft key.

42 3 DRO Mode and Calculator

Tool Table

4.1 Tool Table

Overview

When the MILLPWRG2 runs a program step that activates a tool, it only activates the diameter, and length values on that row of the Tool Table. The tool number, or tool type are not activated in dialogues that have these fields. The tool type must be entered in the dialogue.

4.1 Tool Table

Tool Table values are automatically converted to their inch or millimeter equivalents when the MILLPWR typed values must match the current unit mode of the MILLPWR

Define and store up to 99 tools on the tool table. Type of data stored on the Tool Table is information specific to each tool. Diameter, and length offset are the only values used from the Tool Table.

 The Tool Table can only be used with G-code programs.

Tool Compensation Required Data

mode is changed. All

You usually program the coordinates of path contours as they are dimensioned on the work piece drawing. To allow the MILLPWR calculate the tool center path, e.g. the tool compensation, you must also enter the diameter of each tool you are using.

Tool data can be entered either directly in the part program or separately in the Tool Table. In the Tool Table, you can also enter additional data for the specific tool. The MILLPWRG2 will consider all the data entered for the tool when running the part program.

44 4 Tool Table

Tool numbers / Tool names

Each tool is identified by a number between 0 and 99. The tool name is its tool number.

The tool number 0 is automatically defined as the zero tool (empty spindle) with the length L=0 and the diameter D=0.

Sign for the length difference ΔL

If the tool is longer than the T1 tool: ΔL>0(+). If the tool is shorter than the T1 tool: ΔL<0(–). The tool length offset can be entered as a known value, or use the

Teach soft key. The MILLPWR automatically.

The tool length offset may be entered as a known value, or the MILLPWRG2 may determine the offset automatically. To have the MILLPWR of each tool to the part’s Z0 surface, and pressing the Teach soft key. This provides information to the MILLPWRG2 to determine the tool length offset for each tool.

Tool Diameter “D”. Enter the tool diameter ”D” directly.

determine a tool’s length offset involves touching the tip

The Tool Table should not have any tool length for a tool that is not repeatable.

can determine the offset

4.1 Tool Table

Locating the Tool Table

The Tool Table is accessed from the DRO setup screen.

 To activate the tool table, press the SETUP key.

 Then press the Tool Table soft key.

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 45

Tool Table

Editing the tool table

When the tool table is open, a new tool can be added, or an existing tool can be edited by changing the existing information for that tool.

It is necessary to first select the unit of measurement before entering values into the tool table.

4.1 Tool Table

To enter a new tool, a blank numbered row will need to be selected.

 Using the ARROW keys, highlight the next available blank row number.  Highlight the Diameter field, and using the numeric keypad, enter

the tool diameter.

 Press the ENTER key.  Arrow over to the next field and enter the tool Length if it is to be

used.

 Press the ENTER key.  Arrow over to the Type field and press the ENTER key. The Type is

only for informational purpose.

 From the drop down menu, arrow down to select the description of

the tool that is being added (e.g. flat end mill).

 Press the ENTER key.  Continue to add additional tools as necessary.  When all tools have been added, press the Exit soft key, or USE key

to save changes to the tool table.

 Press the Teach soft key. The MILLPWR

the tool length offset for the selected tool putting the data to the length column.

calculates

Additional data can be input such as Diameter Wear, Length Wear and Plunge Angle. These fields are not required to use the tool selected. See the Tool Table Structure on the following page.

46 4 Tool Table

Editing an existing tool

To edit an existing tool is similar to adding a new tool using the same dialogues.

 Highlight the desired field of the tool to be changed.  Type in the new value, then press the ENTER key.  When all changes have been made, press the Exit soft key, or USE

key to save changes to the tool table.

Only add the tool diameter and length if it is repeatable each time it is selected.

When running G-code programming, the tool length for each tool in the program is provided from the tool table. As an example, T1 M6 prompts the operator to load tool 1 into the spindle. The tool length and diameter offset are retrieved for tool #1 in the tool table, and used to adjust the tool path and Z axis position. This is repeated for each tool used.

Tool Table Structure

Tool table: Standard tool data

Abbr. Inputs Tool Number by which the tool is called in the

program (e.g. tool 2 = T2).

4.1 Tool Table

Diameter Compensation value for the tool diameter D.

Length Compensation value for tool length L.

Type Tool type: A popup menu appears where you

can select the type of tool being used.

D. Wear Tool diameter wear value.

(Only used in G code programs)

L. Wear Tool length wear value.

(Only used in G code programs)

Plunge Angle Angle of plunge cut.

(Only used in G code programs)

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 47

4.2 Tool Data

Tool-Length Offsets

Tool-length offset is the distance from Z0 Machine Home to the tip of the tool at the part Z0 (the surface of the work).

Tool-length offsets allow each tool used in the part program to be

4.2 Tool Data

referenced to the part surface. In an idle state, the MILLPWR not have a tool-length offset active. Therefore, Tool #0 (T0) is active. When T0 is active, all Z dimensions are in reference to the Z Home position. When you program T1, all Z dimensions become referenced to the surface on which the tool-length offset of Tool #1 was activated.

For machines that do not have a Z axis automatic homing feature, you must set the Z0 position of the Z axis. Usually, it is the fully retracted (Up) position of the quill or machine head. Tool-Length Offsets are referenced to this position.

Because tools differ in length, Z0 axis (Part Zero) is not set the same way as X0 or Y0. The tool-length offset is the distance from the tip of the tool to the top of the part. Enter a length offset for each tool in the Tool Table.

With tool-length offsets active, the Z axis position display reads 0.00 when the active tool moves to Part Zero. Tool-length offsets simplify programming.

Teaching Tool Length Offsets in the Tool Table

The Tool Length Offset data is placed in the “Length” column in the Tool Table.

 Activate the Tool Table by pressing the SETUP key from

DRO mode.

 Then press the Tool Table soft key.

does

 Select the tool number that is to be edited.  Use the arrow keys to highlight the “Length” column field.  With the tool in the spindle, move the tool down until it touches the

top surface of the work piece. This is referred to as “Part Zero”.

 Press the Teach soft key. The MILLPWR

the tool length offset for the selected tool putting the data in the length column.

48 4 Tool Table

calculates

Diameter Offset in Tool Table

When you activate a tool, you automatically activate the length offset and diameter values recorded on the Tool Table (DRO mode only activates a tool when GO is pressed). When a tool is activated, the length offset is applied immediately to provide an accurate Z axis position display.

The active diameter value is important when you program compensated moves and use cycles with built-in tool compensation. If tool diameter is correct, compensated moves and cycles are performed accurately.

Enter tool-length offsets and tool diameter values on the numbered lines of the Tool Table. The numbered lines on the Tool Table identify the tool number (T-Code) that activates those values.

On machines equipped with collet-type tool holders, it is impractical to use the Tool Table to store tool-length offsets. You can set tool-length offset at tool change. Tool Table diameters are still required for compensated moves and when using cycles that have built-in compensation.

4.2 Tool Data

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 49

Tool Radius Offset

Tool radius offset is available with the MILLPWRG2. The tool center moves in the working plane along the programmed path or to the programmed coordinates. When programming a part profile, the path of the tool is a half of a diameter away from the depth of the cut.

Offset the tool to the right-hand or left-hand of the cutting edge. “Right” or “Left” refers to the side of the cutting edge to which the tool offsets. Program tool offset as Right or Left according to the

4.2 Tool Data

desired cutting edge.

Moving without radius offset

The tool center moves in the working plane along the programmed path or to the programmed coordinates. Program tool offset as Center when no radius offset is needed.

Applications: Drilling and boring, pre-positioning.

50 4 Tool Table

Machining with radius offset

The tool center moves along the contour at a distance equal to the radius. “Right” or “left” are to be understood as based on the direction of tool movement along the work piece contour as viewed from behind a moving tool.

4.2 Tool Data

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 51

Radius offset: Machining corners

 Outside corners:

A programmed path around the outside corners on a transitional arc should have the feed rate at the outside corners reduced to relieve machining stress. Typical for any great changes of direction.

 Inside corners:

The operator must program the MILLPWR the tool center paths at inside corners. From this point it then starts

4.2 Tool Data

the next contour element. This prevents damage to the work piece. The permissible tool radius, therefore, is limited by the geometry of the programmed contour.

Danger of collision!

To prevent the tool from damaging the contour, be careful not to program the starting or end position for machining inside corners at a corner of the contour.

for the intersection of

52 4 Tool Table

Program Overview

5.1 Programming Introduction

Program Display mode

If the console has the Calculator active while in DRO mode, exit from Calc by pressing the Calc key, returning the MILLPWR

Program Functions can not be accessed when the Calculator is active in DRO mode.

 From DRO mode, press the DRO/PGM key, and the

display changes to PGM mode. If a program is loaded, it will be displayed, otherwise the display screen will be blank.

The program display provides soft keys for program selection, creating, editing, and running functions. The Clear Program soft key will exit out of a current loaded program. The system Shutdown soft key is provided on the PGM mode display the same as it is on the DRO mode display. The Program Functions soft key provides access to

5.1 Programming Introduction

program management features.

Display area

Programming functions, graphics, and soft keys are provided in the display area. Each soft key is activated by pressing the corresponding hard key located directly below it.

1 Status Bar displays the servo motor status Stop/Run/Pause,

Time, loaded Tool (blank if none is selected), Datum, Scale, Skew, and unit of measure selected (inch/mm).

2 Graphic display window of the current loaded program. If a

program is loaded, a graphical simulation is shown.

3 Operator Intervention Message (OIM) provides prompts, and

messages to the operator.

4 Soft keys display area. The soft keys change per the function that

is selected. They are activated by the associated hard key that is directly below it. When a soft key appears as being pressed in, it is activated and its text is yellow. When a soft key is grayed out, it is not available for the current program function.

5 The name of the current loaded program is displayed above the

program steps display.

6 The program display window displays the program steps of the

current loaded program.

to DRO mode.

54 5 Program Overview

Program Function Screen

The Program Function screen displays several windows, and soft keys which are defined in the contents of this chapter. The display area window is briefly described in the following table. The Program Functions soft key provides access to Network or USB memory devices by pressing the Folder View soft key. The features of this soft key are explained on the following page.

 Press the Program Functions soft key to access

programs stored in the Console, on a Network, USB memory devices, or to create a new program.

The Program Functions screen displays all programs that are stored in a selected folder. The default storage folder for the console is v:\user\. General Information and the programming steps of the highlighted program are displayed in the lower left window [3], for a quick access review. If a program has ran in its entirety (without errors), graphic preview [2] is also displayed.

1 Available soft keys. 2 Program graphic preview. 3 Program steps preview. 4 Current folder selected. 5 Constant status bar. 6 List of all the programs stored in the current location (or folder).

Folder View

5.1 Programming Introduction

The Folder View soft key includes additional access to the user. The Folders Tree [9]is displayed which allows the user to access different folders, and narrow a search to selected program types.

Access to Network or USB memory devices is available in the Folders Tree.

 The Folder View soft key stays active until it is pressed again.

7 Displays the current program loaded. 8 Shows the type of programs being displayed (e.g. MILLPWR

or G-Code programs to be displayed; or DXF files.

9 The Folders Tree can be used when connected to a network, USB

memory devices, or folder management.

The MILLPWR drive (e. g. a PC) as well as to the MILLPWR

To return to the Program Display Mode:

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 55

can save programs to a USB device, or to network

The internal memory of the MILLPWRG2 is organized into a folder structure. The default folder is the User folder. Programs can be stored in the User folder. Additional folders can be created to better organize programs. Features in Program Functions allow for navigation of all folders, USB memory devices and network folders.

User folder.

 From Folder View, press the Folder View soft key to

exit back to the Program Functions display.

 Press the Exit soft key to exit back to Program Mode.

Program Drawing View

While a program is running (or being created), individual steps being performed are graphically shown as they are being ran or created.

Pressing the VIEW hard key displays different soft keys for viewing choices of the program. The VIEW key acts as a toggle switch, pressing it again will remove the view soft keys and return to the previous display. Pressing CANCEL or USE will also exit the view soft keys.

 To activate the bottom menu soft keys for viewing

choices, press the VIEW key. The view soft keys are explained on page 62.

Soft keys that have a small arrow in the upper left hand

5.1 Programming Introduction

corner indicates that a popup menu is available when the key is selected for additional choices.

 To return to the previous display, press the VIEW key

again, or the USE key.

 If the CANCEL key is pressed, it will exit out of the view

mode, and return to the previous display, but will not cancel out any view changes made.

56 5 Program Overview

Program Screen Display

When programming a machining step, the display changes according to the machining step selected. Once a machining step has been selected using the Program Steps soft key, the display will appear as shown here. The program steps display windows are described in the following table.

1 Current program steps. 2 Dialogue for a new milling step (e.g. CIRCLE POCKET) 3 Dialogue field graphic assistant. Graphic changes per input field

illustrating information required.

4 Soft keys. 5 Program name. If an asterisk appears at the end of the name, it is

indicating that the program has not been saved since its last edit.

Soft keys that have a small arrow in the lower right hand corner indicates that additional soft keys are available when the key is selected. Soft keys that have up arrow in the top left hand corner indicates that a popup menu is available when selected.

5.1 Programming Introduction

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 57

Program Mode Soft Keys

When the DRO/PGM key is selected from DRO mode, the MILLPWRG2 screen changes to PGM mode, and the program default screen is displayed.

Keys Function

5.1 Programming Introduction

When the MILLPWR milling functions specific to the hard key selected become available as soft keys.

Program Functions opens additional soft keys to Load, Save, Clear, or Copy a program along with several other functions listed on the following page.

Step Functions opens additional soft keys for modifying the program steps (e.g. reverse path, delete steps, ect.).

Program Steps opens additional soft keys for programming, or modifying an existing program by adding addition milling functions (e.g. add a pocket, mill a circle, etc.).

Clear Program will unload the current program when the Yes soft key is selected. The program is not saved. If any changes were made, they are lost.

Shutdown will shut down the MILLPWR Only then can power be turned off.

Save/Discard opens a popup menu which provides the choice to either save the changes made to the program, or discard the changes by returning the program to its original state.

is set to program mode, types of

system.

Run Options opens additional soft keys for running a program (e.g. dry run, graphics only, etc.).

Once Clear Program is used the program cannot be recovered.

58 5 Program Overview

Program Functions

Program Functions soft keys

The Program Functions soft key provides access to the following soft keys for saving, clearing, or loading an existing program to either edit or run.

Soft key Function

The Load soft key will load the selected program. If a program is currently loaded, a prompt will be displayed asking for confirmation to clear the loaded program. If a program is currently loaded, it must be saved prior to pressing this key.

The Save soft key will save the currently loaded program, or the program can be saved under a new program name.

The Program Type soft key opens a popup Menu providing the choices which type of programs to display in the folder listing; MILLPWR G-code programs, DXF drawings, All programs or All files.

The Function soft key opens a popup Menu providing the choices to Cut, Copy, Paste, Merge, Rename, or Delete any program that is listed in the folder. It does not need to be the currently loaded program.

programs,

5.1 Programming Introduction

The Select soft key allows the operator to select one or more programs from the current folder, or select all the programs. Select the Clear option to un-select the current selected program(s). This allows features within the Function soft key to be done on the selected group of programs.

The Change Window soft key toggles the cursor between the folder list, folder tree (if displayed) and program list.

The Folder View soft key opens the folder tree to access all folders, and sub folders. Use the Change Window soft key to navigate to the available windows.

Press the Exit soft key to return to the Program Function screen.

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 59

 Pressing the Select soft key feature opens a popup

menu that provides these three choices:

 The Select feature will select one or more programs. Highlight each

program to be selected, and choose Select for each program highlighted.

 The Select All feature will select all programs in the folder.  The Clear feature will un-select one or more programs that have

been highlighted. Clear does not delete a program, it will only un-select it.

Having a program, or programs selected, use the Function soft key to continue on taking the appropriate action required.

 The Function soft key provides several choices that

5.1 Programming Introduction

 The selected program(s) can be Cut from the current folder, then

moved to another folder using the Paste feature.

 In the same fashion, using the Copy feature, the selected

program(s) can be copied to the same folder, or to a different folder using the Paste feature.

 Use the Merge feature to paste the contents from the selected

program to the currently loaded program at the current cursor location. This feature is only available for MILLPWR programs. Once this function is executed, it will exit the program functions, and return to program view.

 Use the Rename feature to rename the selected program. Only one

program at a time can be selected to use this feature.

can be executed for the action taken after using the Select soft key feature:

(.MPT)

60 5 Program Overview

 Choosing the Delete feature will delete one or more programs

selected. The message bar will be displayed showing the first selected program asking for confirmation to delete it. Four soft keys are displayed for deleting options.

 Yes will delete the current program displayed in the message bar.  Cancel will cancel out of the current operation. Cancel will not

restore any prior deletions that had been made.

 All will delete all the selected programs by automatically

answering yes to confirm deletion of each program.

 No will cancel the deletion of the current program in the message

bar.

Any program that is deleted can not be recovered.

 Located in the upper right folder display area are two soft keys

Forward (+), Backward (-). These keys can be accessed directly when using a mouse. Direct console access is accomplished by using the Plus, and Minus keys on the console keypad. The keys are used to facilitate navigation among folders in the console, network and USB memory devices.

 Pressing the Minus key always takes you back to the previous folder

location. Pressing the Plus key takes you to the next folder in the history. Plus is only available if Minus has been used.

5.1 Programming Introduction

The MILLPWR history step will replace the 1st history step.

Edits to a program that have not been saved are lost.

will save 20 history steps. The 21st

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 61

View hard key

Once a program is opened, the first step is to select how the part should be displayed in the graphics window. Pressing the VIEW key displays different soft keys for graphic viewing options of the program. Pressing the View key again, or pressing the CANCEL key will turn the view key display off. See "Program Drawing View" on page 56.

The VIEW key provides access to the following soft keys for selecting how the part should be viewed.

Keys Function

The Block Form (3D solid) opens a dialogue so that the operator can specify the block size shown in the graphic display area. MILLPWRG2 normally calculates this but the user can adjust the values if necessary.

The arrow keys are used to adjust the view. The Adjust View opens a popup menu to select either Zoom, Pan, or Rotate to have adjusted with the

5.1 Programming Introduction

arrow keys.

Change View opens a popup menu where either 2D Line, 3D Line, or 3D solid view of the graphic display can be selected. The default is 2D line view.

Show Grid toggles on, or off the grid display. This is only active in 2D Line view. The grid size can be adjusted in Job Setup; see page 177.

Show Contour is available with 2D Line and shows the program geometry with a white line. When the Show Step Numbers is also selected, labels are added to the path showing which step was used to create that portion of the path.

Reset Graphics restores the default zoom, pan, and rotate settings.

62 5 Program Overview

Step Functions soft keys

The Step Functions soft key provides access to the following soft keys for assistance with programing steps, and modifying or arranging the programs steps.

Soft key Function

The Explode soft key will explode a program step e.g. such as a bolt circle converting it from a radius and number of holes equally spaced to individual coordinates for each hole. See "Explode" on page 160 for additional information.

The Reverse Step soft key will reverse the tool path of the selected step so that it will be followed in the reverse order.

The Reverse Path soft key will reverse the tool path selected of all the steps so that it will be followed in the reverse order.

The purpose of the Shift Steps feature is to transpose a range of steps from one location to another on the actual work piece within a program.

The Change Steps soft key opens a dialogue that will allow the operator to select a range of steps that can be modified for the Z axis, Offset, and Feed Rate.

The Delete Steps soft key opens a dialogue that will allow the operator to select a range of steps, or a step to be deleted.

The Copy / Move Steps soft key opens a dialogue that will allow the operator to select a range of steps to either be copied, or moved else where in the program.

5.1 Programming Introduction

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 63

Program Steps soft keys

The Program Steps soft key accesses the soft keys listed in the table below. Each soft key (except for the Tool key) provides additional selections on a popup menu. This allows to further define the milling action to be programmed.

Soft key Function

The Tool soft key opens a tool dialogue to enter the size and type of tool to be used for the following step(s).

The Position/Milling soft key opens a popup menu to further define the milling operation e.g. Position/ Drill, Line, Arc, Blend (Round), and Blend (Chamfer).

The Custom Pocket soft key opens a popup menu to further define the milling operation e.g. Custom Pocket, Island, and Contour.

The Hole Pattern soft key opens a popup menu to

5.1 Programming Introduction

further define the milling operation e.g. Row of Holes, Rectangle Frame, Rectangle Array, and Bolt Circle.

The Rectangle soft key opens a popup menu to further define the type of milling operation e.g. Pocket, Frame, Face, and Slot.

The Circle soft key opens a popup menu to further define a milling operation e.g. Pocket, Frame, Ring, and Helix.

The Repeat, Rotate ... soft key opens a popup menu to further define a milling operation e.g. Repeat, Rotate, or Mirror

The Other Steps soft key opens a popup menu to further define the type of milling operation e.g. Engrave Line, Engrave Arc, Comment, Auxiliary Function, Dwell, or Reference Point.

64 5 Program Overview

Clear Program soft key

This soft key provides a quick method to clear the current loaded program. It does not provide an option to save before exiting. Its function is meant to quickly clear a program (e.g. once it has been run and is no longer needed), so that a new program can be loaded, or a blank program is available, or return to DRO mode without having a program loaded. If the program has been edited the operator is asked to confirm the Clear operation. Save program changes before using Clear. All changes are lost and cannot be recovered.

 Press the Clear Program soft key to close the

program.

Save/Discard soft key

Save/Discard soft key opens a popup menu which provides the choice to either save the changes made to a program, or discard the changes by returning the program to its original state.

 Press the Save/Discard soft key and select from the

popup menu to either save the program, or discard the changes made to the program.

5.1 Programming Introduction

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 65

Run Options soft keys

The Run Options soft key allows the program to be run and tested with various options for a program. These options allow the operator to test a program without actually cutting material. The Run Options must be set before you start to run the program.

Soft key Function

The Single Step soft key will move the machine one step at a time.

The Dry Run soft key will run the program’s tool path at the speed defined in Job Setup. No material should be placed within the tool path for this function. Dry Run is intended to provide a quick verification of the machine movements in the program.

The Graphics Only soft key will run through the program drawing the tool movement on the display only. Graphics Only is intended to provide a quick

5.1 Programming Introduction

verification of the tool path in the display; no machine movement will occur.

The Optional Stop soft key will allow the program to be stopped at different locations to allow for verification of particular program steps selected has the operator. If a program has an optional stop (i.e.: M01 in a G-code program), the system will only stop at this block when Optional Stop is enabled. If it is disabled, it will be skipped. The Optional Stop is an M01 in a G-code program.

The Exit soft key will exit the Run Options function and return to the previous display.

66 5 Program Overview

Program Saving

When you create programs with the MILLPWRG2, they can be saved within MILLPWR

's User folder, on a USB device, or a network

location.

MILLPWR

will retain a program in memory so it is not lost in the

case of a power failure. Programs can be organized in MILLPWR

, on a USB device, or a network location; or in personalized folders that the operator can create.

Saving a Program

 A new blank program can be saved prior to having any program

steps added, a newly created set of program steps can be saved as a new program, or an existing program can either be saved as a new program by replacing the current name, or save the existing program.

 To save the current active program, select the Save

soft key. The keyboard will popup with the Save key highlighted. Press the ENTER key. A prompt will ask to overwrite the existing program. Press the Yes softkey.

The keyboard will automatically be displayed with the current program name highlighted in the keyboard display window (see "Keyboard" on page 17).

The Save/Discard key is also available to quickly save a program, or discard any changes made since the last time it was saved.

 Press the Save/Create soft key to save the program

with its current name, or enter a new name for the current program to create a new program.

5.1 Programming Introduction

A name can not be longer than 60 alphanumeric characters. The MILLPWR

displays program names as they were entered. No two programs can have the same name.

The program’s graphic preview is updated whenever the program is saved. In order for the new graphic preview to be created correctly, the program must not have any errors. The operator must allow the program graphics to finish drawing the program before pressing any keys.

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 67

5.2 Program Mode Functions

Program Type Filter

In PGM mode, press the Program Functions soft key to display the Folder View, and Program Type soft keys. Program type aids with

locating programs by type, and reduces the number of programs that are displayed.

 To select what type of programs to show, press the Program Type

soft key, and select which program type(s) to display using the ARROW keys.

5.2 Program Mode Functions

USB Access

 As soon as the USB memory device is inserted, its contents will be

displayed in the Folder Contents window. From here the operator can modify, copy, delete, etc. any of the programs, or folders on the USB device.

In PGM mode, the operator can access a USB memory device by inserting the USB device into a USB port of the MILLPWR

 From DRO mode, press the DRO/PGM to enter PGM mode.

 Press the Program Functions soft key.

 Press the Folder View soft key.

The display will now show the USB device in the Folder Contents window, and when selected, will show its content in the upper right window.

It is recommended to copy programs from the USB device to the user folder and use the program from the MILLPWRG2.

Prior to removing the USB memory device, check that the activity indicator light on the USB drive is not active or blinking. This will ensure that all commanded disk operations have completed, and that it is now safe to remove the drive.

68 5 Program Overview

5.3 Creating programs overview

New Part Program

The following briefly describes how a new program is created. See "Fundamentals for Creating a Program" on page 75 for more complete information.

 Press the DRO/PGM key from DRO mode to enter PGM

mode.

 A new program can be created from an existing program, or create

a completely new program.

To create a new program from an existing program:

 Press the Program Functions soft key.

 Select an existing program that will be used to create

the new program, and press the Load soft key.

 Press the Program Functions soft key.

 Press the Save soft key. Press the Keyboard soft key

to display the keyboard if the keyboard is not automatically displayed. Type in the name of the new program and select Save.

 The new program is now loaded, and can be modified as required.

To create a new (blank) program:

 When a program is currently loaded, press the Clear

Program soft key in the PGM mode display to clear the

loaded program from memory, and to create a new program.

 Press the Save soft key. Press the Keyboard soft key

to display the keyboard if the keyboard is not automatically displayed. Type in the name of the new program and select Save.

5.3 Creating programs overview

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 69

5.3 Creating programs overview

70 5 Program Overview

Programming

6.1 Conversational Programming

Programming Considerations

“From” and “To” points

 Lines and arcs are defined by their FROM point (the point where

they begin) and TO point (the point where they end).

Depth of Cut

When programming the depth of cut, MILLPWR BEGIN and END locations for the Z axis.

The location that is entered into the Z BEGIN field tells MILLPWR

6.1 Conversational Programming

where the quill is to begin cutting at the programmed feed rate. The END location defines the depth of the cut.

Always be sure that the BEGIN location is above the surface of the workpiece.

Pass

PASS refers to the number of cuts or the distance (depth) of each cut that are used to machine an area to its END depth. The operator selects which is to be required in this field from Job Setup. In the JOB SETUP dialogue, DISTANCE or NUMBER of CYCLES must be selected. Which selection is chosen will appear on all dialogues where it is required. The number of passes can be controlled by entering a value in the PASS field (where ever it is available).

PASS is ignored on 2 axes systems. The operator must set the depth of cut for each pass, and repeat the operation until the full depth has been reached (see "Machining Your Part" on page 89).

Leaving the field blank programs the MILLPWRG2 to make the cut in the number of passes it decides is necessary. No pass will exceed the diameter of the active tool

will prompt for the

72 6 Programming

Tool Offset

MILLPWR right offsets. Program the dimensions of the part as identified by the part drawing.

Program a line, arc, frame, etc. using the “Tool Offset” field to tell MILLPWR Radius Offset" on page 50.

To determine which offset to use: If the tool needs to be on the left side of the line, use a LEFT offset. If the tool needs to be on the right side of the line, use a RIGHT offset.

When using a CENTER offset, the programmed dimensions are for the center of the tool. For some milling functions, like frame and arc, INSIDE and OUTSIDE offsets are available to make it easier to define the tool offset.

Datum Selection

The datum is where workpiece (absolute) zero is located. See "Steps to Establish the datum" on page 81.

If the datum isn't defined on your print, then determine the datum based upon where most of the dimensions originate.

 Pick a point which will let you enter most of the dimensions directly,

with fewest calculations.

 Establishing a datum requires that the Z retract position be provided

(the position the quill returns to between program steps).

 By setting a retract position, you can ensure that the tool you are

using does not make contact with your workpiece when the quill moves from one position to the next.

 Establish a retract position for the Z axis each time the console is

powered, otherwise the MILLPWR retract position.

will calculate the actual tool path when using left and

which side of the line the tool is to be on. See "Tool

will use the quill’s previous

6.1 Conversational Programming

A two axes system also requires the Z depth, and Z retract position. The operator will be prompted to manually move to a depth, or retract position.

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 73

Absolute vs. Incremental Dimensions

MILLPWR entered. A dimension measured from the point you defined as datum is an absolute dimension. A dimension measured from any other point is an incremental dimension. See "Absolute and incremental work piece positions" on page 25.

 The dimension moves of 8, then 8 again are incremental moves.  The dimension moves of 8, then 16 are absolute moves.

Continuous Milling

When you program a continuous contour of lines and/or arcs the contour will cut without stopping if there is no programmed stop. MILLPWRG2 will automatically recognize continuous contours as you're programming. There are no special key presses or other functions to learn.

For lines and arcs to be continuous, they must:

 Be consecutive steps in a program.  Have the same depth.

6.1 Conversational Programming

 Be cut with the same tool.  Be cut using the same tool offset.  Share a common “From” or “To” point (one step must end at the

point where the next one begins).

If one step follows another, then MILLPWRG2 assumes that they are to be connected (see steps 003 through 006). The single line bracket indicates the steps that will be machined with continuous milling.

MILLPWR OFFSET from the previous step. The TO point must be filled in, and then press the USE key.

allows both absolute and incremental dimensions to be

automatically fills in the FROM point, DEPTH, and TOOL

Different feed rates within each step of a continuous contour are allowed, and can be used.

74 6 Programming

Fundamentals for Creating a Program

 In DRO mode press the DRO/PGM key to enter program mode.

Programs are created by developing a list of milling steps to be performed. As steps are added to the list, each will immediately be drawn on the screen so that it can be displayed graphically, showing the part machining in progress.

MillPwr G2 allows a maximum of 9999 program steps.

Entering milling steps

 Before any programming steps are entered, a tool must first be

selected and entered. See "Editing the tool table" on page 46.

The milling function keys are among the eight yellow keys located in the upper right corner of the console. The function you select will appear in the program listing and will enable you to enter the data and add the step into the program.

Additional milling functions are available in PGM mode, and are accessed by pressing the Program Steps soft key. Program Steps soft keys are also displayed when RECT, CIRCLE, or the HOLES keys are pressed in PGM mode.

 To enter a milling step, press the appropriate milling function (e.g.

LINE). Some keys will open a popup menu with the soft key to further define the type of milling step that is to be performed.

 After entering the data for the program step, press the

USE key to add the step to the program.

 Press the CANCEL key at anytime to exit the milling step dialogue and

not add it to the program.

6.1 Conversational Programming

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 75

Adding/Inserting milling steps

 A new program step number automatically appears following the

last step entered, and the new step is highlighted.

 If the cursor was moved for any reason, use the arrow keys to

highlight the new step, then select the milling function to be added.

 To insert a step between two existing steps, position the cursor to

the step below where the new step is to be placed.

 Press the desired milling function key, and it will be inserted above

the highlighted program step.

Additional milling functions are available by pressing the Program Steps soft key. The soft keys change, displaying several Milling function soft keys. Each soft key when selected will have a popup menu for further selection to refine the type of milling operation to be entered. For example, the Circle soft key will display choices for the type of circle to be milled; a Pocket, Frame, Ring, or a Helix.

Editing or Deleting a milling step

To edit a program step, use the arrow keys to highlight the step to be changed and press the USE or ENTER key, or just enter a step number using the numeric keypad.

A Goto program line number popup dialogue is immediately displayed. The total number of lines in the program are shown in the

6.1 Conversational Programming

Line Count: field.

 Enter the desired line number and press ENTER.  Press ENTER or USE again to to edit the program step.

 After making the appropriate changes, press the USE key to accept

the changes and place the step back into the program. Or press CANCEL to discard any changes to the step.

 To delete a step, highlight the step to be deleted, then press the

CLEAR key.

VIEW key

 If you need to see the machined part in more or less

graphic detail, press the VIEW key. This enables you to access the viewing soft keys that are available. See "View hard key" on page 62 for a complete description of these soft keys.

76 6 Programming

Program Errors

When an error is detected in a program, the step with the error is highlighted in the program listing with a red "x" symbol. Edit the program step to correct the error.

Additional information about the error is added to the error log. See "Error Log" on page 183.

After correcting the errors, remember to delete them from the error log. A quick method for deleting all errors in the log is to press the “0” on the numeric keypad.

If there is more than one error in the program, only the first step with an error will be highlighted. After correcting the first error, the next error will be highlighted.

Program Edited

 When a saved program is loaded, only the name and extention is

displayed.

 If the saved program is then edited, the program name will show an

asterisk at the end of the name.

 This tells the operator that the program has changed, but has not

been saved.

 Saving the program will remove the asterisk, or exit the program

without saving the changes.

 When a program that has been edited, but not saved, then it will

revert back to the last saved version when closed. The program will not display an asterisk the next time it is loaded.

6.1 Conversational Programming

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 77

Running a Program

Skewing a Part

For some machining operations it is more convenient to use the Skew feature rather than indicating in the work piece.

With MILLPWR part. The Skew feature automatically compensates for the offset angle of the part by touching off one straight edge with an electronic edge finder or a mechanical indicator.

To skew a part touch off on two or more points along one axis, either X or Y. Touch off and use the teach position feature.

A work piece that has a rough edge should have multiple points entered along the straightest edge to more accurately calculate the

6.1 Conversational Programming

skew angle.

, it may save time setting up a job by skewing the

Do not enter coordinates along a curve, two different lines, or along a line that’s positioned at a 45 degree angle. MILLPWR straight line between the points that have been entered.

will calculate the skew angle based upon a

78 6 Programming

Setting the skew angle with an electronic edge finder:

Press the Datum softkey to open the DATUM dialogue. Highlight the Angle field.

 Press the Probe soft key.

Touch off on two or more points along any single straight edge of your part. You’ll notice that the Angle and Points fields change as you enter points.

 Press the Finish soft key.

 Press the USE soft key to accept all of the points and

return to the DRO screen. Press CANCEL to return to the DRO screen without accepting any points or affecting your previous skew angle.

The Clear Angle soft key will reset the Angle, and the Points fields to zero.

Using Teach:

Move the table so that a mechanical indicator rests against any straight edge on the part. Press the Teach soft key to enter your coordinate.You’ll notice that the Points change.

Now move the table so that the mechanical indicator touches another point on the same straight edge. Press the Teach soft key. You’ll notice that the Angle and Points fields change.

Repeat this process for any additional points.

 Press the USE soft key to accept all of the points and

return to the DRO screen. Press CANCEL to return to the DRO screen without accepting any points or affecting your previous skew angle.

6.1 Conversational Programming

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 79

Establishing a Datum

Overview

Datum is the workpiece zero or absolute zero, and is a point of reference that the MILLPWRG2 bases all of the part's coordinates from.

When establishing datum, it may be easiest to locate a known point on each axis, such as the corner of the part, or a location on a vise or fixture.

Datum can be set at a point on the top surface, a position beneath the surface, or at a point where there's no material present (such as in the center of a circular part). The following example will illustrate touching off the edge of a work piece using a tool, but an edge finder can also be used in place of the tool. Either item will accomplish the same result.

6.1 Conversational Programming

80 6 Programming

Steps to Establish the datum

Where and how you establish the datum will vary from job to job. The following step, by step process is a common method of establishing a datum. Being familiar with the basics, the same principles will apply for other parts, making adjustments to the procedure as needed when setting the datum.

 From the DRO mode, press the Datum soft key.  In the datum number field, enter a number for the datum to be

defined. Since this will be the first datum being defined, use the number 1.

 Insert a tool into the spindle (e.g. such as the tool for the first cut).

When Tool information is listed in the Status Bar at the top of the screen, it is ignored by the MILLPWR

when establishing a datum. The information for the tool that is actually being used to establish the datum must be used.

This example will establish the datum on the corner where the left, front and top surfaces of the part intersect. This will be accomplished by “touching” each face with the tool that will make the first cut to the part.

Using the calculator in an entry field in a dialogue requires the operator to press the ENTER key to perform the calculation. To move to the next field using the ENTER key requires the operator to press ENTER a second time.

 In the SET DATUM dialogue the X, Y and Z fields are always active,

displaying the machine position relative to the selected datum.

 Open the SET DATUM dialogue to view the machines position

relative to any defined datum number by entering the number in the DATUM NUMBER field. Then press ENTER, or ARROW DOWN. This provides the operator with a constant quick reference for the datum selected.

 Viewing other datum numbers does not change the selected datum

displayed in the Status Bar. To change to another defined datum, press the USE key.

 When a new datum number is defined, or another number is

selected, and the USE key is not pressed, all information entered is discarded, and the current active datum number is retained.

6.1 Conversational Programming

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 81

X Axis Datum:

 Lower the tip of the tool so that it falls below the top surface of the

part.

 Move the table along the X axis, slowly spinning the tool by hand as

you go. When the tool contacts the part, stop the table.

 Using the numerical keypad, enter the radius of the tool (the

distance from the center of the tool to the edge of your part) into the X: field. Be sure to specify if it’s a negative value.

In this example, the value will be specified as a negative value, because the tool's center is on the negative side of our datum (refer to Axis Conventions).

 Press the +/- key.  Enter the radius value.  Press the ENTER key to enter the data and move to the next field.

Y Axis Datum

 Lower the tip of the tool so that it falls below the top surface of the

part as done with the X axis.

 Move the table along the Y axis, slowly spinning the tool by hand as

6.1 Conversational Programming

you go. When the tool contacts the part, stop the table.

 Using the numerical keypad, enter the radius of the tool (the

distance from the center of the tool to the edge of your part) into the Y: field.

 Press the +/- key to change the data to a negative value.  Enter the radius value.  Press the ENTER key to enter the data and move to the next field.

Z Axis Datum

 Position the tool so that its tip touches the top surface of the part.  Press the Z = 0 soft key.  Press the ENTER key. With the data entered, the cursor will highlight

the next field.

82 6 Programming

ACU-RITE MILLPWRG2 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Keys on console

Motion control keys

Numerical keys

Data Entry keys

Function keys

Axis Keys

Soft Keys

Move Table and Navigation keys

Calculator Function keys

Milling Function keys

Peripherals Supported:

Potentiometer for feed rate override

Manual Information

Message symbols

Fonts Used in this manual

Model, Software and Features

Intended place of operation

New Functions of Software

751005-01-01

Changed Functions of Software

751005-01-01

751005-01-02

751005-01-03

751005-01-04

MILLPWRG2 Access Code

Access Code

Access to Machine Parameter Operations

Introduction

ACU-RITE conversational, and G-code format

Powering Up

E-STOP and Shutdown

Find Home

Disengage Z Axis feature

Disengaging the Z axis drive:

Re-engaging the Z axis drive

Writing Programs

Overview

1.2 Operating in 2 Axes and 3 Axes Modes

Overview

Program Steps in 2 Axis Mode

Selecting 2 Axis Mode on 3 Axis Systems

1.3 Console

Operating Console

Rear Panel

Screen Navigation

DRO Mode display

PGM Mode display

Dialogues, and Drop Down Menus

Operator Prompts

Cursor

General Operating Guidelines

Operating Modes

Popup Menus

Keyboard

Special Characters

Navigational Soft keys

Editing Keys

Calculator

Numeric Keypad

Context Sensitive Help

Using Context Sensitive Help

Console Keypad

1.4 Operating Mode Screens

Display navigation

DRO display screen

Program Display Screen

1.5 Accessories

Electronic Edge Finder

Machining Fundamentals

2.1 Conventions

Axis Conventions

Count Direction

X axis

Y axis

Z axis

Cartesian Coordinates