Page 1
(Please read carefully before use)
Before installing and using this machine, you must read this user
guide carefully. Keep it in a safe
place, in case you need to refer to
it later.
D9090 701 - 01.2003 - ENG - (UPDATED EDITION NUMBER: 1)
User manual
IM4 machine
First contact
Page 2
Gravograph reserves the right to modify the information contained in this document without notice.
TYPE OF MACHINE : IM4
MANUFACTURER : GRAVOGRAPH INDUSTRIE INTERNATIONAL
BP 15 - Z.I. - 10600 LA CHAPELLE SAINT LUC - FRANCE
Importer's address
IM4 machine . 2
First contact
Page 3
Summary
Information about regulations ............................................................ 4
Conformity standards ...................................................................................................................... 4
Electrical security ........................................................................................................................... 4
Presentation ....................................................................................... 5
Contra-indications .......................................................................................................................... 5
Stages of unpacking ....................................................................................................................... 7
Unpacking - Contents of package ...................................................................................................... 7
Description ......................................................................................... 9
Front view of the machine ............................................................................................................... 9
Rear view of the machine .............................................................................................................. 10
Installing .......................................................................................... 11
Physical installation advice ............................................................................................................. 11
Electric installation advice .............................................................................................................. 13
Electrical connections of the machine .............................................................................................. 13
Setting up transmission between the IM4 and a PC type computer ...................................................... 14
Switching the machine on .............................................................................................................. 16
Problems ..................................................................................................................................... 16
Switching the machine off ............................................................................................................. 16
Mechanical block .......................................................................................................................... 16
Switching on again ....................................................................................................................... 16
Installing the engraving software in Windows ................................................................................... 17
From the transfer to the engraving ................................................... 18
Positioning the plate onto the vice .................................................................................................. 18
Adjusting the spindle with automatic ZRef. ......................................................................................21
Starting to engrave ...................................................................................................................... 23
General maintenance ........................................................................ 24
Changing the fuses ....................................................................................................................... 24
Technical characteristics ................................................................... 25
Physical characteristics .................................................................................................................. 25
Electrical characteristics ................................................................................................................ 26
Software characteristics ................................................................................................................ 26
First contact
IM4 machine . 3
Page 4
Information about regulations
Conformity standards
This hardware was designed and built in conformity with the relevant EC marking and EEC directives :
• "Machine security" Directive 98/37/EEC (22/06/98).
• "Electromagnetic compatibility" Directive 89/336/EEC (03/05/89) (modified).
• "Low voltage" Directive 73/23/EEC (modified).
The modification or transformation of this equipment, the adaptation and installation
of accessories not recommended by GRAVOGRAPH, the installation of this equipment
in a manufacturing process, the piloting by a robot, the connection to an external
automaton, modify the characteristics of this material and can make it not compliant
with the European Directives it is subjected.
These modifications voids the responsibility of the manufacturer.
In this case, the person who fits the machine and the equipment is responsible for the
EC compliance of the final work station.
Electrical security
This hardware is in conformity with the norms EN 60204-1 and EN 60950.
The different fuses of the machine comply with the IEC 127-2 norm (International Electric Committee).
The different security levels the input/output answer are indicated for each connector in the chapter "Rear view of the
machine". Two security levels are possible :
- Dangerous voltage (power supply, accessories, plugs ...).
- Very low security voltage.
Machine security
This hardware is in conformity with the norm EN 292-1 and EN 292-2.
Electromagnetic compatibility
This hardware is in conformity with electromagnetic compatibility norms:
• EN 50081-1 (emission in residential, commercial, and light industrial environment)
• EN 61000-6-2 (immunity in industrial environment)
All the cables used with this hardware must be in conformity with the electronic compatibility standards, norm
EN 55022 - class B.
Electrical security
This material is «class 1». The mains plug MUST always be connected to a neutral
socket and comply with the regulations in force in the country of installation. If you
do not have a plug of this type, have one installed by an approved electrician. Under
no circumstances should you depart from this instruction.
The manufacturer bears no responsibility towards any user where alterations have been carried out contrary to the
manufacturer's specifications, notably with respect to electrical/electronic elements.
Any operation, other than those mentioned here, must only be carried out by an
approved Gravograph technician.
Do not take the machine apart to repair or clean it : this will void your guarantee.
IM4 machine . 4
First contact
Page 5
Presentation
The machine must never be handled without an adult present. Keep the machine,
wires and cables out of children's reach.
Contra-indications
This machine is only designed for light engraving purposes and must never be used for
other applications.
To use this machine, you are advised to wear protectives glasses against the chip
ejections.
Never use this machine for sawing or drilling.
Do not use this machine for working with wood.
Do not use this machine in explosive environment.
This machine is only designed for one user. Do not let several people use the machine
simultaneously.
• If the machine is not to be used for a long period, unplug the electricity supply and cover the machine (packaging, cover,
lid...)
• Do not move the engraving head by hand (pict. 1) unless mechanical block of the machine as described in the paragraph
"Mechanical block" of this manual's "Installing" chapter.
• Do not spill any liquids onto the machine (drinks, cleaning fluids…) unless when recommended by GRAVOGRAPH
(example: lubrication).
• The machine should never be used with anything other than Gravograph accessories and tools.
• Only use engraving tools (cutters, noses...) as directed in the "CUTTERS CATALOGUE".
• Never hold the material to be engraved in your hands. Only use the GRAVOGRAPH clamping systems designed for your
machine.
• Make sure that the material is well clamped before starting to engrave.
• During engraving, do not use this machine without a nose (depth regulating nose or vacuum nose) in order to avoid
projections of swarf.
• Do not take the engraving material out of the machine during engraving.
• If the engraving must be stopped, use the function key provided for this purpose on the control panel of the machine.
To avoid any risks of being crushed by the machine during engraving, do not stand near
the tools (the travel area of the tool is 4"
3/4
x 3"
5/32
inches (120 x 80 mm)).
Do not lean over the spindle holder.
This sign shown on the tool-holder of the machine shows the danger
caused by the rotating spindle during engraving (risks of getting burnt
or cut).
First contact
IM4 machine . 5
Page 6
IM4 machine . 6
First contact
Page 7
Stages of unpacking
Before opening the cardboard box, check that it is the right way up.
After opening the box (pict. 1):
1. Take out the manual.
2. Take out the toolbox and the cable.
Never lift or move this machine by its arm (pict. 2).
3. Take out the machine.
Shows where you should put your hands (pict. 2).
Make sure that no components are missing from the packaging. If any part has been
forgotten please get in touch with your GRAVOGRAPH dealer.
Keep all the packaging materials so that you can move your machine in total safety.
This packaging is in conformity with European recycling standards.
Unpacking - Contents of package
Check the condition of the packaging when you receive it. If there are any signs of
damage, inform the carrier and your GRAVOGRAPH dealer immediately by recorded
delivery, specifying the exact nature of the problem.
Contents of package
(pict. 3)
A. An IM4 machine (a depth-regulating nose and a pair of jigs mounted on the machine)
C. A manual to be placed into a folder, with a label to stick along the spine of the folder
D. A tool box
E. A power cable
F. A serial connection cable (RS232)
Contents of tool box
(pict. 4)
D1. a short allen key
D2. a brush
D3. two fuses T 2 A H - 250V *
T 2 A H - 250V * = These fuses are temporized, with a high breaking capacity and
comply with the IEC 127-2 norm.
First contact
IM4 machine . 7
Page 8
IM4 machine . 8
First contact
Page 9
Description
The IM4 machine is an engraving machine.
It has a control panel connecting the software which is in the machine.
Files to be engraved are transferred from the computer to the machine by the intermediary of a cable which is plugged into the serial port
of the IM4 machine.
The actual engraving process is controlled by the spindle.
The object to be engraved is held by a vice (as standard) or by any other system recommended by GRAVOGRAPH (consult your
GRAVOGRAPH dealer for more information on systems available).
The IM4 machine has a maximum engraving surface area of
(
120 x 80 mm).
Front view of the machine
(pict. 1)
H. Base
J. Ensemble tool holder
K. Vice with pair of jaws
L. Main stop button
B. Control panel (9-key control keyboard)
Tool holder
(pict. 2)
J1. Cutter
J2. Cutter button
J3. Pressure knurl on spindle
J6. Scaled knob
J7. Nose nut
J8. Index finger
Vice
The vice allows to hold odd shaped and small objects to be engraved (small volume).
4"
3/4
x 3"
5/32
inches
To mount a pair of jigs onto the vice (pict. 3):
1. Open the jaws by turning the tightening knob anti-clockwise.
Open them far enough so as to mount the jaws easily.
2. Push the jigs firmly onto the pins of the jaws .
First contact
IM4 machine . 9
Page 10
Rear view of the machine
Each connection responds to one of the following security levels :
- Dangerous voltage.
- Very low security level.
N. Connection socket - engraving table (diagram 1)
N1 - Links the engraving table with the electronics box - Very low security level
N2 - Mains supply plug with 2 fuses drawer T 2 A H - 250V * - Dangerous voltage
T 2 A H - 250V * = These fuses are temporized, with a high breaking capacity and
comply with the IEC 127-2 norm.
N3 - Serial port - Very low security level
N4 - Do not use
The machine must always be switched off before connecting or disconnecting a cable
as indicated on label displayed on the back of the machine :
To avoid any risk of electrical shock, always disconnect the power cord before
removing this cover (label ).
IM4 machine . 10
2 A T
First contact
Page 11
Installing
Before carrying out the following operations, make sure the machine is switched off
and unplugged, switch (L) to position 0 (pict. 2).
Physical installation advice
5/8
• Put the Gravograph machine onto a stable flat, clean surface with mini. sizes of 25"
Make sure the back of the machine is well-ventilated, do not put it too close to anything (wall, other machines etc) (pict. 2).
• Clear the work surface so that you can
- easily and quickly access all external parts of the machine,
- quickly access, in case of necessity, the main stop button (L) on the machine (pict. 2),
- make sure that all moving parts of the machine have enough room to move freely,
- avoid any accidental unplugging of the cables.
The machine's power supply cable being used as a sectionning device, it must be easily
accessible and the wall plug must be installed near the machine and must also be easily
accessible.
The connectors screws must be very tight to avoid accidental disconnection of the
cables while the machine is turned on as this could permanently damage the electronic
cards (label ).
• Protect Gravograph equipment against:
- Moisture (rain, snow, condensation…),
- Heat (direct sunlight, heating…),
- Brusque temperature changes,
- Dust (exhaust pipe),
- Liquid splashes, spillages on the electronic rack, cables and connections, and any other part of the machine; unless recommended
by GRAVOGRAPH (ex. : lubrication),
- Vibrations,
- Electric or electronic radiation.
7/8
x 11"
inches (650 x 300 mm).
First contact
IM4 machine . 11
Page 12
2 A T
IM4 machine . 12
First contact
Page 13
Electric installation advice
This material is «class 1». The mains plug MUST always be connected to a neutral
socket and comply with the regulations in force in the country of installation. If you
do not have a plug of this type, have one installed by an approved electrician. Under
no circumstances should you depart from this instruction.
In order to avoid outside interference, the user is advised to carry out the following points.
• Plug the Gravograph machine into a mains line, avoiding having several machines on the same line (several plugs on the same line or
using a multi-plug).
Exception : If other things are connected to the machine (such as a computer and the IM4
• Avoid using the same line to supply inductive or capacitive machines as well as the Gravograph machine (motors, electrosluices,
chargers...).
• Avoid using a manual or automatic commutator on the same mains line as the Gravograph machine (relay, temporiser, programmer,
automatic circuit interrupter, automatic interrupter...).
• Check that machines surrounding your Gravograph machine are in conformity to the norms of radioelectric perturbation emissions (consult
the technical leaflet of each machine). If they are not in conformity, place them as far away as possible from the Gravograph machine.
• Only use Gravograph accessories (Gravograph relay box, etc ...).
Electrical connections of the machine
Stand behind the machine (diagram 1).
machine), the machines should be connected to the same mains line.
The machine must always be switched off before connecting or disconnecting a cable
(label ).
1. Plug in the electric cable , first to the engraving table, then to the mains supply.
To cut off the mains supply to your machine in the case of severe problems, unplug the
mains cable or swith off the machine with the main stop button at the side of
the engraving table (pict. 2). Make sure that you can reach them easily.
First contact
IM4 machine . 13
Page 14
2 A T
1
9
1
25
1
25
1
9
25
1
1
9
IM4 machine . 14
2 A T
First contact
Page 15
Setting up transmission between the IM4 and a PC type computer
The computer and the IM4 machine must be switched OFF.
PC computers and the WINDOWS® graphic environment being very widespread
throughout the world, we have based ourselves on these products to define the
installation and use procedures of the IM4.
If you don't have equipment which is compatible and you encounter some problems of installation or use, contact your
Gravograph agent.
Connection cables
• Use Gravograph connection cables (consult your Gravograph distributor for the products available).
These cables are adapted for the machines to which they will be connected.
They must be in conformity with the electromagnetic compatibility standards, norm EN 55022 - class B and protect from
external electric "attacks" (conform to the norms of immunity and CEM susceptibility).
• Do not use cables which are too long. Keep the machines as close as possible and use a short a cable as possible.
• Separate the mains cable and the transmission cable (avoid connecting the transmission and mains cables to the same
socket, etc ...).
Follow the connection procedure depending on the transmission cable supplied with the
IM4.
The machine is delivered with the following cables :
• RS232 serial cable (bi-directional)
Optional:
• 25-9 point adaptor for serial cable
PC/IM4 connection using the serial port
1. Plug the serial cable into the serial port of machine (pict. 1).
This is a 9-pin connector.
2. Plug the serial cable into the serial port of the PC.
Refer to the installation manual of the computer for the serial port.
PC computer can have two types of serial port :
• 9-point serial port (diagram 2, transmission example diagram 6)
• 25-point serial port (diagram 3)
If you use a 25-point serial port, connect the 25-9 point adaptor (diagram 4) onto the serial cable
before plugging it into the computer (diagram 5).
The connectors screws must be very tight to avoid accidental disconnection of the
cables while the machine is turned on as this could permanently damage the electronic
cards.
First contact
IM4 machine . 15
Page 16
Switching the machine on
Switch on the machine (main stop button (L) to position I).
When switched on the red light of the main stop button (L) will come on.
The machine will then emit a "beep".
Leave the machine plugged in even if it is not in constant use.
Problems
If one of the operationan signs is absent, check the following points :
• Are the twoo ends of the mains cable correctly connected ?
• Is the mains plug connected ? Is it live ?
If the machine does not come on, before calling a technician, please check power
connections to the mains socket and also the fuses (see "Changing the fuses").
Switching the machine off
Switch the main stop button (L) to position 0.
Switch off the machine for the following reasons :
- if you are leaving the workstation (end of the day, for example),
- physical damage (fall, fire, liquids coming into machine…),
- mechanical/electrical/electronic faults, leading to a possible breakdown,
- in case of major problem or mechanical block of the machine,
- to reboot,
- for external cleaning.
Mechanical block
In the following cases :
- danger for the operator,
- block on the support to be engraved,
- block on an object placed in the work area,
1. Cut the power supply by switching the main stop button (L) to position 0.
2. Free the tool, without switching the machine on, by manually and slowly moving the tool holder
as required.
3. Only switch the machine back on after ensuring that the tool's moving area is totally clear.
Switching on again
If the machine or the programme which runs it crashes you may have to reboot the machine.
If this happens, switch the machine off. Wait 30 seconds and switch it on again.
You must wait for 30 seconds. This time allows any electric shock to the machine,
possibly damaging the power supply, to be avoided.
IM4 machine . 16
First contact
Page 17
Installing the engraving software in Windows
1. Check that your computer has the minimum required configuration:
PC computer Configuration
Microprocessor Pentium III
Frequency 800 Mhz
Random Access Memory (RAM) 128 MB
1 internal hard disk 10GB with 100 MB free
1 internal CD-ROM drive x24
1 internal 3"
1/2
disk floppy drive
1 mouse Windows compatible
1 keyboard extended (105 keys)
LPT parallel port 1
COM serial port 1
1 graphic board 32000 colors, 16 bits
1 color SVGA monitor 15", 800x600 DPI resolution
Software environment Windows XP
Internet Explorer 5 (or more)
Acrobat Reader 5 (or more)
Microsoft Word 2000 (or more)
Windows Media Player
Arial, Microsoft Sans Serif, Verdana fonts
2. Insert the CD-ROM in the drive and close the drive.
3. Wait until the Installation panel is displayed.
Double-click the driver if the panel is not opening.
4. The installation automatically runs: the Progression bar and panel indicate the course of
operations.
5. Click to quit the Installation panel.
6. Run GravoStyleQuick: click its icon on the Desktop.
7. To engrave a first plate, run the Tutorial.
First contact
IM4 machine . 17
Page 18
7654
1
10
2
3
2
4
3
7
6
5
7654
IM4 machine . 18
1
10
2
3
2
3
6
5
4
7
100 mm
7654
2
3
10
1
2
4
3
7
6
5
Alex BOREL
First contact
Page 19
From the transfer to the engraving
Transfer procedure
You have just created a composition with your engraving software.
1. Switch on the IM4 machine and wait a few seconds.
2. Check that the automatic ZRef. function is selected in your engraving software.
3. Transfer the composition from the engraving software to the machine (refer to the "Transferring
the composition for engraving" topic in the contexthelp of your engraving software).
Positioning the plate onto the vice
4. Choose the jigs recommended on the Engraving screen of the engraving software (consult your
GRAVOGRAPH dealer for more information on the various jigs available).
The length of the plate should not exceed the length of the jigs (diagram 1).
5. Choose adequate side of the jigs according to the thickness of the plate.
The plate should be slightly higher than the jigs (diagram 2) to avoid that the regulating nose touches the jigs.
6. Mark the middle of the plate.
7. Centre the plate so that the centre mark is lined up with the 0 on the jig (diagram 3).
8. Using the tightening knob, tighten the plate so that it cannot move during engraving.
If the plate is correctly tightened, noise and vibrations are reduced to a minimum when the machine is engraving.
Check that the object is tightened correctly to ensure that it is not ejected during
engraving.
First contact
IM4 machine . 19
Page 20
5
5
2 mm
2 mm
0
IM4 machine . 20
First contact
Page 21
Adjusting the spindle with automatic ZRef.
Setting up the spindle
9. Press the key .
The tool holder moves above the plate and stops where is the engraving origin.
10. Set the spindle pressure with the pressure adjustment system (pict. 1 and 2).
This setting depends on the hardness of the material, on the cutter width and on the surface state of the plate; if the nose
is likely to scratch the object, reduce the pressure sliding the pressure adjustment system towards the rear of the
machine .
11. Set the regulating nose in place (pict. 3) on the spindle and tighten the nose nut .
12. Unscrew the index finger then unscrew the scaled knob (diagram 4).
Line up the 0 of the scaled knob with the index finger . The scaled knob should be unscrewed
in such a way that the index finger blocks it.
13. Validate by pressing
The spindle lowers until the depth regulating nose touches the plate.
First contact
IM4 machine . 21
Page 22
05
IM4 machine . 22
First contact
Page 23
Setting of the cutter on the tool-holder (ZRef.)
The tool is very sharp and to avoid any risks of getting cut, you are advised to use some
kind of protection (gloves) to handle it.
14. Insert the cutter into the spindle until it is touching slightly (carbide cutters are not very
shock resistant) the engraving material (pict. 1).
Remember to program 0.02 to 0.04 inch (0.5 to 1 mm) depth to compensate possible flatness faults of the plate.
15. Tighten the screw to lock it into place (pict. 1).
16. Save the position of the spindle by pressing
The spindle moves up.
Adjusting the tool depth
17. Turn the index finger a number of notches (indicated on the Engraving screen of the engraving
software) to the right to obtain the desired engraving depth (one notch =0.001 inch=0.025 mm)
(diagram 2).
18. Tighten the index finger in order to maintain the scaled knob in this position.
Starting to engrave
This sign shown on the spindle of the machine shows the danger caused by the rotating
spindle during engraving (risks of getting burnt or cut).
For your own personal safety and to avoid any risks of being crushed by the machine
during engraving:
- do not stand near the tools
- do not lean over the spindle holder (the travel area of the tool is 4"
(120 x 80 mm)).
- always wear protective glasses againts chip ejection.
Before starting the engraving, ensure that :
- the engraving material is well clamped.
- the spindle travel area is completely clear.
- no one is in the travelling area of the moving parts of the machine.
- no object will obstruct the travelling of the moving parts.
19. Press START (Engraving Start)
The tool holder moves over to the first point on the engraving and starts to engrave.
To stop engraving (if there is a problem), press PAUSE
The machine will pause.
To continue engraving, press START (Engraving Start)
3/4
x 3 "
5/32
inches
First contact
IM4 machine . 23
Page 24
General maintenance
Before carrying out any maintenance, unplug the mains supply cable (label ).
No internal part of the Gravograph machine requires user intervention : general maintenance is limited to external cleaning.
If necessary, the user can change the fuses.
If you wish to have the inside of your machine cleaned, contact a Gravograph technician.
The mains cable should always be replaced if it is damaged in any way : flattened,
nicked, cracked etc..., or if there are bare wires.
Changing the fuses
You will find spare fuses in the machine tool box.
The IM4 machine is supplied with 2 fuses T 2 A H - 250V *.
T 2 A H - 250V * = These fuses must be temporized, with a high breaking capacity and
must comply with the IEC 127-2 norm.
Unplug your machine cable from the mains (label ).
1. Disconnect the mains cable from the socket at the back of the engraving table to give easier
access.
2. Pull out the drawer containing the fuses (pict. 1).
3. Replace the fuse(s) and close the drawer again.
If the new fuse blows, contact an approved GRAVOGRAPH technician.
2 A T
IM4 machine . 24
First contact
Page 25
Technical characteristics IM4
Physical characteristics
Size mm in
W x H x D 505 x 260 x 310 20" x 10"
1/4
x 12"
3/16
Net weight kg lb
machine 9.5 21
Packaging sizes mm in
Overall size 590 x 350 x 430 23"
1/4
x 13"
3/4
x 17"
Total weight kg lb
packaging + machine 14 31
Engraving table mm in
3/4
Max. engraving area 120 x 80 4"
Vice type Manual self centering
Jigs type Plastic
Max. dimension X,Y unlimited, 80 unlimited, 3"
Spindle/jig clearance (Z) 45 1"
Spindle travel (Z) 30 1"
Levelness < 0.12 < 0.005
x 3"
5/32
5/32
3/4
3/16
Spindle
Type Rotating, top-loading
Type of spindle motor Brushless
mm in
Tool diameter 3.17 1/8
rpm
Max. spindle speed 19000
W
Spindle motor power rating 20
Engraving characteristics mm in
X,Y engraving precision 0.05 0.002
Engraving repeatability < 0.05 < 0.002
mm/s in/s
Max. X,Y,Z off-load speed 20 0.8
Max. X,Y,Z working speed 20 0.8
Sound signal according to standard ISO 11201
off-load LAeq db(A) < 60
nominal engraving LAeq db(A) < 68
nominal engraving peak Lp Cpeak db(C) < 90
First contact
IM4 machine . 25
Page 26
Environment *according to norm EN60721
Operational temperature (3K3 category*) - Min. °C+5 ° F +41
- Max. ° C +40 ° F +104
Storage temperature (1K3 category*) - Mini. ° C-5 ° F +23
- Maxi ° C +45 ° F +113
Degree of relative moisture when in use % 20 to 80
Electrical characteristics
Machine
Power supply V AC 100 - 240
Max. absorbed current A 1.7 - 0.75
Frequency Hz 50 - 60
Absorbed power W 180
Insulation Classe 1
Type of service S1
Electromagnetic compatibility Emission : norm EN 50081-1 (residential environment)
Immunity : norm EN 61000-6-2 (industrial environment)
Type of protection 2 fuses 5 x 20 mm T 2 A H - 250V *
T 2 A H - 250V * = temporized fuse, with high breaking capacity and in conformity with the norm CEI 127-2
Control panel
Number of keys 9
Type Membrane with raised tactile points
Connections - Links
Serial (bi-directional) Sub -D male 9 - pin RS232
Firmware and driver characteristics
Languages FRE, ENG, DEU, ITA, SPA, NLD, JAP
File formats Binary
Operating system (for the engraving software) Windows 2000, Windows XP
IM4 machine . 26
First contact
Loading...