Probing r0112-403
Probing r0112-403
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Tool Setup—Probing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Tool Setup Probing Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Tool Setup Probing Softkeys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IX - 1
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Part Setup Probing Cycles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Table 2. Part Skew Probing Cycles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Sample Screens
Sample screens in this manual were taken from an Ultimax Console or on a stand-alone
Ultimax system. All screens are subject to change. The screens on your system may vary
slightly. The sample screen here illustrates softkeys and includes the software version.
Softkeys
Data Entry
F1 to F8
Area
Prompts
Error/Status Area
Status Bar
Softkeys
Softkeys are located on the side of the screen. You can set the softkeys to appear on
either the right or left side of the screen. Refer to the Getting Started with Your Ultimax
manual for information about making this selection. Softkeys may change upon field
entries or other softkey selection. References to softkeys in the documentation appear in
all caps followed by the softkey’s corresponding F-key. For example, the Part Setup
softkey from the Input screen above is referenced as the “PART SETUP F1” softkey.
Data Entry
The data entry area is located on the opposite side of the screen from the softkeys.
Softkeys on the right side of the touch screen. Available softkeys may change even when
the text and data entry area does not.
Status Bar
The status bar contains
Refer to the Getting Started with Ultimax manual for information about console buttons
and keys, in addition to other information about using softkeys and the pop-up text entry
window.
Icons
This manual may contain the following icons:
Caution/Warning
The operator may be injured and the machining center severely damaged if
the described procedure is not followed.
Important
Troubleshooting
Table of Contents
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the icon to access the Table of Contents.
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bookmarks located on the left side of the PDF page.
If Probing, Tool Probing and Part Probing are all listed on the CNC Configuration screen,
the machine is equipped with the software for both part and tool probing.
You need to purchase tool and part probing hardware to use the probing options.
1 Probe
1 Transmitter
2 Receiver
3 Laser Beam
4 Tool
• Rapid Z Position—the tool probe (in the Z axis) rapids down to this position
and then continues downward at the speed specified in the Fast Feed field.
Use the remote jog unit or type in a value for the Rapid Z Position field.
With the cursor in this field, the Position Tool Over Probe (F7) softkey can be
used to position the tool over the probe before jogging Z to the desired
position.
• Spindle RPM—specifies spindle speed when the Spindle Usage field is set to
either CW or CCW. When the operator sets the diameter setting for the tool
probe, the Spindle RPM field will be set to a suggested value – this value may
be overwritten by the operator. The suggested value for RPM is only done
when the tool is first entered.
• Fast Feed—specifies the feed rate used when making the initial touch of the
probe (prior to measurement touches). When the operator sets the diameter
setting for the tool only the first time the tool is entered, the Fast Feed field
will be updated with a suggested value—you may overwrite this value.
• TOOL PROBE SETUP PARAMETERS (F1)—select the tool probe type and
access tool probe parameters. Tool probe types are: Touch Probe, Laser Probe
and No Probe.
• CALIBRATE THE TOOL PROBE (F2)—determine the Z location of the tool
probe. This value is retained on power down.
• PROBE A SINGLE TOOL (F3)—determine the length and/or diameter of a
single tool.
• PROBE MULTIPLE TOOLS (F4)—determine the length and/or diameter of
multiple tools.
• POSITION TOOL OVER THE PROBE (F5)—move the tool into position over
the probe.
• SELECT TOOL PROBE CYCLE (F6)—choose the probing cycle to use: None,
Length, Diameter, or Length and Diameter.
• PROBE CURRENT TOOL NOW (F7)—determine the length and/or diameter
of the current tool.
• TOOL PROBE DEFLECTION OFFSET (F7)—determine the switch points of
the probe, this should be done at installation and whenever the probe is
moved or stylus changed.
Tool probe setup parameters can be backed up and restored using the procedures
described in the “System Basics” chapter of the Getting Started with Ultimax manual.
From the Tool Setup Probing screen defined in the previous section, select the TOOL
PROBE SETUP PARAMETERS (F1) softkey. The softkeys change to Touch Probe (F2) and
Laser Probe (F3). From here, you can access the Tool Setup Parameter fields for the type
of probe you select.
• Type—indicates the type of tool probe. If a tool probe is not present, the
remaining tool probe parameters are not used.
• Contact Point X and Contact Point Y (touch tool probe only)—indicates the
X and Y location (in machine coordinates) of the tool probe. When the
machine is at this location, a tool will touch the center of the tool probe stylus.
To enter these values easily, insert a tool in the spindle and jog down to the
tip of the probe. When the tool tip is centered over the stylus, press the Sto
Pos/Store Position key on the jog controls.
• Type—indicates the type of tool probe. If a tool probe is not present, the
remaining tool probe parameters are not used.
• Center Beam X and Center Beam Y (laser tool probe only)—indicates the
center location of the beam in X or Y, depending on the orientation of the laser
probe. Do not change this value after the Laser Tool Calibration cycle has been
run, unless you re-run the cycle. The user enters an approximate value then
the laser calibration cycle determines the precise location.
• Setup Fast Feed —indicates the feed rate to use for setup moves near the
probe. For example, when dropping down next to the probe to measure
diameter, the drop down move uses this feed rate. This value is also used for
calibrating the probe and the initial touch when determining deflection offsets.
• Retract Feed — indicates the feed rate to use when retracting away from the
probe immediately after a deflection. This value is also used for the slow
moves when determining deflection offsets.
• Repetitions—specifies the number of Slow Feedrate touches when touching
tools to the probe. You can program up to 99 repetitions (default value is 3 for
touch probe and 4 for laser probe) to get the average length and diameter of
the tool.
• Probing Axis—specifies the axis of deflection in the X/Y plane. Orientation of
the probe will determine if it deflects along the X axis or the Y axis. It is
assumed the probe will always deflect along the Z axis.
• Max Spread—The deviation (difference) between the minimum and
maximum probe readings. If the deviation is greater than the Max Spread
value, an error message appears.
When the cursor is on any of the Cal Tool fields, the DETERMINE LASER BEAM OFFSET
(F1) softkey appears. Refer to Laser Beam Calibration, on page 17 for information about
the Laser Tool calibration cycle and the DETERMINE LASER BEAM OFFSET softkey.
• Beam Offset (laser tool probe only)—displays the width of the beam based
on + and - trigger points. This field is updated after running the Determine
Laser Beam Offset cycle. It may be adjusted by the user to optimize
performance.
• Cal Tool D (laser tool probe only)—contains the diameter (D) of the Laser
Calibration Tool. This value can be obtained by measuring the diameter of a
precision dowel or a laser calibration tool.
• Cal Tool H (laser tool probe only)—contains the height (H) of the Laser
Calibration Tool. This value can be obtained by measuring the height of a
precision dowel or a laser calibration tool.
• Cal Tool L (laser tool probe only)—contains the length (L) of the Laser
Calibration Tool. This value can be obtained by measuring the length of a
precision dowel or a laser calibration tool.
• INIT Retract—scales the initial retract move after a deflection.
• INCR Retract—scales the incremental moves that may be required if the
probe is still deflected after the initial move.
• Monitor Motion—enables or disables additional motion error checking for
the probe. When enabled, the probe is constantly checked to make sure the
amount of deflection stays below the value in the Max Deflection field.
• Max Beam Entry—the value representing the maximum amount of probe
deflection allowed.
If the Max Beam Entry value is exceeded, then a probe motion fault
occurs and motion is stopped.
It is not necessary to calibrate the tool probe each time the machine
is powered up.
• When there is no part probe, a reference tool is used to touch the tool probe.
• When both probes are present, the calibration cycle touches the two probes
together.
• distance between Z zero and the top of the part (D1) with a reference tool or
(part probe if present) found during a Probe Edge cycle for the Z axis and is
stored in the Probe Z field in Part Setup.
• distance between the top of the part (D1) and the top of the tool probe (D2).
This value is equal to D3 minus D1 and is stored internally.
• distance between Z zero and the top of the probe (D3). This value is found
during the Calibrate Tool Probe cycle and is stored internally.
1 Probe
2 Part
3 Table
Tools may be calibrated with the probe at any time. The Zero
Calibration value may appear invalid until Probe Z (D1) and Probe
Calibration (D3) have been determined.
D1 is the distance from Z zero to the top of the part with the reference tool or part probe,
if present. As stated on the previous page, a reference tool is used to touch the tool probe
when there is no part probe. The software uses the value entered in the Part Setup
screen’s Probe Z field as D1.
Between probe cycles, the tool or part probe moves to the Retract
Clearance parameter set in the General Parameters if Probe Z has
been set.
• For tool probe systems with no part probe, D1 is determined by touching off
the part with the same reference tool used for tool probe calibration (D3).
• For tool and part probe systems, D1 is found by touching off the part with the
part probe (Probe Z). This process is explained in Part Probing Equipment, on
page 38.
• The Z value that is recorded when a tool touches the probe is adjusted by the
D2 value to get the tool calibration.
• The tool calibration value is automatically entered into the Zero Calibration
field of the Tool Setup screen.
D3 is the distance between Z zero to the top of the tool probe found during tool probe
calibration.
Whenever the Probe Z value is changed, either manually entered or with a part probe,
each tool is automatically adjusted to match the position of the top of the part.
You can edit your program and add a Change Part Setup data block to adjust the Probe Z
value at a certain location within the program. The new Probe Z value will stay in effect
until the program reaches another Change Part Setup data block, or until it reaches the
end of the program.
1. Display the data block for which the parameter change will first be used.
2. Select the INSERT BLOCK BEFORE softkey to access the New Block screen.
3. Select the MISCELLANEOUS softkey to access another group of softkeys.
4. Select the CHANGE PART SETUP (F2) softkey.
5. Select the PROBING (F5) softkey and edit the Probe Z field as appropriate.
Refer to the Conversational Programming manual for more information about Change Part
Setup data blocks.
The following sequence occurs after accessing Tool Probe Calibration from the CALIBRATE
TOOL PROBE (F2) softkey:
3. The Z axis moves downward at the feed rate specified in the Setup Fast Feed
field of the probe parameters screen.
If for some reason the reference tool does not touch the probe, a fault will
indicate that the probe deflection did not occur. You should then check the
Tool Setup Probe Parameters screen and setup of the reference tool to correct
the problem.
• Set the Tool Setup Probe Parameters Type field to Touch Tool.
• Set the Part Setup Probe Parameters Present field to Yes.
In a tool and part probe system the part probe is placed in the spindle, activated, and
touched to the tool probe. For the part probe to be activated, define the probe as a tool so
the control knows when the probe is in the spindle.
You must use a part probe instead of a reference tool for this
configuration.
Refer to Part Probe Calibration and Cycles, on page 42 for information about the part
probe configuration used alone.
1. If the part probe is not already in the spindle, a “Part Setup Probe Tool
Number” prompt appears as shown in the screen below. Enter the number that
was previously selected for the part probe in Tool Setup.
2. Press the flashing Start Cycle button to perform the tool change, which will
place the part probe in the spindle.
Or...
If the part probe is already in the spindle, press the flashing Start Cycle
button and proceed to the next step.
3. The control activates the part probe. The table moves to the X,Y location
specified by the Contact X and Contact Y fields in the Tool Setup Probe
Parameters screen. If these fields have been entered correctly, the part probe
should be directly in line with the tool probe stylus.
4. The Z axis starts moving downward at the feed rate specified in the Tool Setup
Probe Parameters Approach Feed field.
5. If the appropriate fields are set correctly, then the two probes will touch. The
part probe will then retract slightly and touch again at the feed rate specified in
the Measurement Feed field. The deflection position is recorded and saved for
later use.
If for some reason the probes do not touch, the Z axis will stop when tool
probe Z Min is reached. A fault will indicate that the probe deflection did not
You must calibrate the laser system before using the light beam for measuring tools. The
laser calibration tool or precision dowel used for performing calibration is inserted into the
spindle just like any tool.
The calibration tool’s dimensions are determined by using a precision dowel or a laser
calibration tool, as shown in the figure below. Use this formula to determine the location
on the tool’s diameter to interrupt the beam:
The software uses the Cal Tool D(iameter), H(eight), and L(ength) fields (shown below as
D, H, and L) and the trigger points established in this cycle to determine the Center Beam
X or Y values, depending on the Probing Axis.
1 Donut
2 Tip
1. Access the Tool Setup Probe Parameters screen using this softkey sequence:
a. TOOL SETUP (F2) softkey.
b. PROBING (F2) softkey.
c. TOOL PROBE PARAMETERS (F1) softkey.
i. The Beam Offset field is updated based on the trigger points established in
this cycle.
1 Z Minus
2 X/Y Plus
3 X/Y Minus
These offsets need to be adjusted during an initial probe installation, a new stylus
installation, or for centering or re-centering a stylus. They do not need to be performed
each time the control is reset.
The Reference Tool Diameter field holds the diameter of the tool being probed.
The probe orientation determines the offsets used in the Probe Stylus Position fields. The
-Z offset is always used along with +/-X or +/-Y, depending from which direction the
probe can deflect.
The following sections describe the two methods for determining Tool Probe Deflection
Offsets: Absolute Location, on page 21 or Reference Tool Touch, on page 21.
Use an edge finder to determine the absolute location of each edge of the probe stylus.
Use a feeler gauge to determine the position where the reference tool touches the top and
each side of the probe stylus. Follow the prompts on the screen to know which side of the
stylus to use. Follow these steps:
You can manually adjust the deflection offsets to optimize performance. By running a
Tool probing determines the Zero Calibration and/or Diameter values for a particular tool,
and stores these values in the Tool Setup screen. The tool’s length will be stored in the
Zero Calibration field. The tool’s diameter can also be probed and stored in the Diameter
field.
Before using the tool probe, review the changes that appear on the Tool Setup screen.
Any tool that has been calibrated with the probe will have a “P” designator next to the
Diameter and Zero Calibration values. There are also several fields specific to probing.
These fields are defined in this section. The softkeys change as information is entered in
the fields.
Here is a completed Tool Setup screen for a tool that will be probed for length and
diameter:
8. Enter the Spindle RPM value (if spindle usage is CW or CCW). The Spindle
Usage default is CCW, and the default Spindle RPM value is 800.
If no Diameter is entered, then the values default to Manual and 0
respectively for Touch Probe or Laser Probe.
You can set the Spindle Usage to Oriented or create a default setting
in Tool Probe Parameters.
16. Select either the PROBE A SINGLE TOOL (F3) or the PROBE MULTIPLE TOOLS
(F4) softkey. Refer to either Probe a Single Tool , on page 26 or Probe Multiple
Tools, on page 28.
1. After selecting the PROBING (F2) softkey on the Tool Setup screen, select the
PROBE A SINGLE TOOL (F3) softkey. This screen appears:
2. Enter the Tool Number to probe calibrate. The following Zero Calibration
sequence occurs:
a. The Start Cycle button flashes and a prompt requests you to press Start to
begin the probe cycle.
b. Press the Start Cycle button to continue.
c. The Z axis moves downward at rapid feed until it reaches Rapid Z Position.
Axis Feedrate Override is active during this move.
• The Z axis continues moving at Fast Feed (in tool setup) until a probe
deflection occurs.
• If the probe reaches Minimum Z prior to deflection, an error message
appears. The Minimum Z value may need to be adjusted to correct the
problem
3. The Single Tool Probe cycle is now complete, unless you want to probe the
tool’s diameter.
5. The Single Tool Probe cycle is now complete and the system automatically exits
to the Tool Setup screen.
6. The Diameter field, in addition to the Zero Calibration field, on the Tool Setup
screen is updated and the “P” designator appears.
1. After selecting the PROBE (F2) softkey on the Tool Setup screen, select the
PROBE MULTIPLE TOOLS (F4) softkey. This screen appears:
It is worth noting that once this process begins the operator is no longer
required. The entire process is automatic (as long as the tools are in the
ATC).
Tool Monitoring
Probe Tool Monitoring is available to automatically monitor calibrated tools and detect
breakage or wear. The software compares the current tool dimensions to the calibrated
dimensions stored in Tool Setup for the programmed tool. If the current dimensions
deviate from the defined tolerance programmed in the tool monitoring menus, the tool is
defective.
• Use a data block in a Conversational Part Program to define which tool should
be monitored through a specific monitoring cycle. These cycles are described
in this section.
• Enable the General Program Parameter’s Tool Monitoring Enable field. This
setup automatically invokes tool monitoring immediately after tool changes
for every probed tool.
Figure 19. New Block Screen with Tool Monitoring (Probing) Softkey
From the Probe Tool Monitoring screen, select the type of measuring cycle by pressing the
appropriate softkey. The measuring cycles are described in the following sections.
As with any data block, use the Insert Block Before and Delete Block
softkeys available for each measuring data block to add and delete
measuring cycles from the program.
The fields on the Tool Breakage Detection screen are defined as follows:
• Probe Cycle Type—contains the type of cycle selected from the Probe Tool
Monitoring menu.
• Tool—the number of the tool to be monitored.
• Breakage Tolerance—the amount of deviation from the tool length
programmed in the Zero Calibration field in Tool Setup.
• Speed (RPM)—contains the spindle speed value defined in Tool Setup for
this tool. This value can be adjusted in Tool Monitoring.
• Direction—contains the direction, CW or CCW, the spindle will turn.
• (Type)—contains the Tool Type defined in Tool Setup for this tool. This field is
read-only.
• (Zero Calibration)—contains the Zero Calibration value defined in Tool
Setup for this tool. This field is read-only.
• (Tool Diameter)—contains the Tool Diameter value defined in Tool Setup for
this tool. This field is read-only.
• (Spare Tool)—contains the Spare Tool number defined in Tool Setup for this
tool. This field is read-only.
1. From the Probe Tool Monitoring screen, select the TOOL BREAKAGE
DETECTION (F1) softkey.
2. Enter the tool number to be monitored. The tool must be programmed in Tool
Setup, and it must be probed.
3. If desired, adjust the Speed (RPM) value.
When the data block is executed in the part program, the current tool length is measured
and compared with the Zero Calibration programmed in Tool Setup. The figure below
illustrates the tolerance for tool breakage:
1 Length Tolerance
The software monitors the tool and determines if the tool is within the Breakage
Tolerance. If the tool is shorter than the programmed tolerance, the tool is broken. If the
tool is broken, the software checks for a spare tool.
• Ιf a Spare Tool has been entered in Tool Setup for this tool, axis motion stops
and a tool change automatically occurs.
• If there is no Spare Tool programmed for this tool, or if there is no ATC, axis
motion will stop and a message appears telling you to change tools.
• LENGTH WEAR DETECTION (F2) - monitors the tool length for wear.
• DIAMETER WEAR DETECTION (F3) - monitors the tool diameter for wear.
• LENGTH AND DIAMETER (F4) - monitors both the tool length and diameter
for wear.
To monitor the tool length wear, from the Probe Tool Monitoring screen, select the
LENGTH WEAR DETECTION (F2) softkey and this screen appears:
To monitor the tool diameter wear, from the Probe Tool Monitoring screen, select the
DIAMETER WEAR DETECTION (F3) softkey and this screen appears:
To monitor both the tool length and diameter wear, from the Probe Tool Monitoring screen,
select the LENGTH AND DIAMETER (F3) softkey and this screen appears:
The fields on the Tool Wear Detection screens are defined as follows:
• Probe Cycle Type—contains the type of cycle selected from the Probe Tool
Monitoring menu.
• Tool—the number of the tool to be monitored.
• Zero Calibration Tolerance—the amount of deviation from the tool length
programmed in the Zero Calibration field in Tool Setup. This field is not
available in the Diameter Wear Detection screen.
• Diameter Tolerance—the amount of deviation from the tool diameter
programmed in the Diameter field in Tool Setup screen. This field is not
available in the Length Wear Detection screen.
• Speed (RPM)—contains the spindle speed value defined in Tool Setup for
this tool. This value can be adjusted in Tool Monitoring.
• Direction—contains the direction, CW or CCW, the spindle will turn.
• (Type)—contains the Tool Type defined in Tool Setup for this tool. This field is
read-only.
• (Zero Calibration)—contains the Zero Calibration value defined in Tool
Setup for this tool. This field is read-only.
• (Tool Diameter)—contains the Tool Diameter value defined in Tool Setup for
this tool. This field is read-only.
• (Spare Tool)—contains the Spare Tool number defined in Tool Setup for this
tool. This field is read-only.
1. From the Probe Tool Monitoring screen, select the LENGTH WEAR DETECTION
(F2), DIAMETER WEAR DETECTION (F3), or LENGTH AND DIAMETER (F4)
softkey.
2. Enter the tool number to be monitored. The tool must be programmed in Tool
Setup, and it must be calibrated.
3. Enter the Zero Calibration Tolerance or the Diameter Tolerance, or both if
monitoring both length and diameter.
4. If desired, adjust the Speed (RPM) value.
When the data block is executed in the part program, the current tool length is measured
and compared with the tool length or diameter tolerance, or both if monitoring both
length and diameter. The figure below illustrates the tool wear tolerances:
1 Length Tolerance
2 Diameter Tolerance
The software monitors the tool and determines if the tool is within the Zero Calibration
Tolerance or the Diameter Tolerance, or both if monitoring both length and diameter.
• If the tool is shorter than the Zero Calibration value minus the programmed
tolerance, the tool is worn.
• If the tool’s diameter is less than the Diameter minus the programmed
tolerance, the tool is worn.
• If the tool is worn, the software checks for a spare tool.
• If a Spare Tool has been entered in Tool Setup for this tool, axis motion stops
and a tool change automatically occurs.
• If there is no Spare Tool programmed for this tool, or if there is no ATC, axis
motion will stop and a message appears telling you to change tools.
It is the operator’s responsibility to set safe travel limits for the part
probe as described in this chapter.
The part probe has two parts: a probe and a receiver. The part probe is placed in the tool
carousel or inserted manually - just like other tools. The part probe sends an infrared
signal to a receiver. The receiver is permanently mounted on the machine in a location
where it can receive the signal without physical obstruction. It is usually located on the
rear wall of the chip enclosure.
If the probe was deflected, the probe battery is low, or an error occurs, a diagnostic
message will be displayed on the Ultimax screen. The figure below shows a typical part
probe and an enlarged view of the receiver:
1 Typical Receiver
2 Tool Holder
3 Battery Compartment
5 Stylus
Part probing parameters can be backed up and restored using the procedures described in
the “System Basics” chapter of the Getting Started with Ultimax manual.
When the cursor is in any of these fields, the RESET PROBE WORK
REGION TO MAXIMUM (F4) and STORE MACHINE POSITION (F7)
softkeys become active.
The control activates the probe hardware when the number in the
Tool In Spindle field matches the probe’s Tool number.
• INIT Retract—scales the initial retract move after a deflection. Increase the
value if experiencing repeatablitiy problems.
• INCR Retract—scales the incremental moves that may be required if the
probe is still deflected after the initial move.
• Monitor Motion—enables or disables additional motion error checking for the
probe. When enabled, the probe is constantly checked to make sure the
amount of deflection stays below the value in the Max Deflection field.
• Max Deflection—the value representing the maximum amount of probe
deflection allowed.
Probe calibration is only required on systems that also have a tool probe installed.
Calibration methods vary between systems with tool probing only, versus systems with
both tool and part probing. See Tool Probe Calibration, on page 11 for details.
These offsets need to be adjusted during an initial probe installation, a new stylus
installation, or for centering or re-centering a stylus. They do not need to be performed
each time the control is reset.
Access the Part Probe Deflection Offset screen from the Part Setup screen. Select the
PROBING (F5) softkey followed by the PART PROBE DEFLECTION OFFSETS (F7) softkey.
This screen appears with softkeys for selecting the method to use for determining offsets.
The sections that follow describe the procedures to follow for each method: Ring Gauge,
on page 43 and Reference Block, on page 44.
This offset will be used anytime the control uses a probe location.
The sign of the offset should be + for plus axis deflections and - for minus axis
deflections.
Reference Block
The Reference Block method probes in the + or - X or Y direction. Select the PART PROBE
DEFLECTION OFFSETS (F7) softkey followed by the REFERENCE BLOCK METHOD (F2)
softkey, and this screen appears:
Follow these steps to determine the Reference Block Deflection Offsets for the X or Y
axes:
Offset values may be entered manually by the operator. If you know the readings are off
by a certain amount, you can make adjustments without using the probe.
The sign of the offset should be + for plus axis deflections and - for minus axis deflections.
The Ring Gauge method is more accurate than the Reference Block
method.
• The probe measures the part at 36 points in 10° increments on the ring
gauge.
• The 4 points measured on the reference block correspond to the 0°, 90°, 180°,
and 270° values on the ring gauge. The remaining 32 values are estimated
using the 4 actual measurements to fill in the 10° incremental offsets.
The software uses information programmed in the Part Setup screen to perform the
Probing Cycles in Manual or Automatic mode.
There are two types of cycles available for probing different types of part features: Part
Setup Probing Cycles and Part Skew Probing Cycles.
• Select the PART ZERO PROBE CYCLES (F2) softkey for the Part Setup
Probing Cycles. Refer to Part Setup Probing Cycles, on page 49 for details
about programming these Manual Mode cycles. Refer to Automatic Mode ,
on page 86 for information about programming these Auto Mode cycles.
• Select the PART SKEW PROBE CYCLES (F3) softkey to access the Part
Skew Probing Cycles. Refer to Part Skew Probing Cycles, on page 74 for
details about programming these Manual Mode cycles.Refer to Automatic
Mode , on page 86 for information about programming these Auto Mode
cycles.
Select the probing cycle type from the Part Setup screen with the PROBING (F5)
softkey.The cycles provide a method for allowing the software to automatically enter the
Part Zero X, Part Zero Y, Probe Z, and X/Y Skew (deg) fields in the Part Setup screen as
shown below:
• Part Zero X; Y—store the part zero values established during the Part Setup
Probing Cycles. Refer to Part Zero Storage, on page 72 for details about the
Part Zero X and Y fields.
• Probe Z—represents the distance from Z zero to the top of the part (i.e., the
height, or Z Plane), with the reference tool or part probe in the spindle.
Refer to Tool Calibration Calculations, on page 11 for more details about these
calculations.
• X/Y Skew (deg.)—represents, in degrees, how far the part is from perfect
alignment with the table. Refer to the “Part Skew Probing Cycles” section of
this chapter for more information about X/Y skew.
Part probing may be run either from Manual Mode or from Auto Mode inside the part
program. The sections that follow describe the different types of Manual Mode Probing
Cycles. Auto Mode probing is described at the end of this chapter.
The working envelope represents the area on the machine table in which the probe can
search for geometric features. The travel limits mentioned in each of the Manual Mode
Part Setup Probing Cycles and the Manual Mode Part Skew Probing Cycles are set in the
working envelope. This area is determined by these fields in the Part Probing Parameters
screen: X Min, X Max, Y Min, Y Max, and Z Min. Z Min is a location above the table. The X
and Y parameters are illustrated in the figure below:
1 Y Max
2 Y Min
3 X Min
4 X Max
If the probe reaches any part probe travel limit before reaching the
part feature, a fault occurs, motion stops, and an error message
appears on the screen.
Each cycle’s feed rate is determined by the value set in the Part Probing Parameters
Approach Feed and Measurement Feed fields.
Rectangular Probing Length (X) Cycle Start Center (X) Center is Part
Solid Probing Length (Y) Approach the 4 Center (Y) Zero X and
Rectangle walls Part Zero Y.
Z Depth Length (X)
from outside.
Preset X Length (Y)
Position Probe
Preset Y
above rectangle
Center.
Each cycle is described in detail in the following sections. When the cycle is finished, the
software displays values representing the desired features. The fields for each cycle vary
and are defined with each cycle description.
You can accept these values by pressing the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO softkey
when it appears. If you have entered Preset X or Preset Y offsets, these offsets are
subtracted from the probed Part Zero values, and the new Part Zero values appear after
pressing the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO softkey.
1. From the Part Setup screen, select the PROBING (F5) softkey. These softkeys
appear for selecting Probing functions:
Depending on the Probing Cycle selected, different probing fields appear on the Part Setup
screen.
An Edge Cycle is used for determining the location of a specified edge of the part. During
an Edge Cycle, the part probe moves to the X, Y, or Z edge of the part and records the
deflection position.
The figure below shows part probe movement during X, Y, and Z Edge Cycles:
The figure below shows a side view of an Edge cycle probing in the X direction:
The offset(s) will be subtracted from the center point of the circle and applied
to Part Zero X and Y if you select the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1)
softkey, which appears after the cycle has been run. This field appears when
the Probing Axis is X or Y. It is not available for Probing Axis Z.
1. From the Part Zero Probe Cycles softkey menu, select Edge.
2. In the Probing Axis field, select the axis to move toward the edge of the part: X
Axis, Y Axis, or Z Axis.
3. In the Probing Direction field, select the direction to probe: Positive or
Negative. This field appears when the Probing Axis is X or Y. It is not available
for Z Probing Axis.
4. If you want to program an offset from Part Zero X or Part Zero Y, enter the
offset value in the Preset X or Preset Y field. This field appears when the
Probing Axis is X or Y. It is not available for Z Probing Axis.
When the Part Setup fields have been entered, start the Edge Probing Cycle:
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe to the Start Position, near
the edge to be probed.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button flashes.
3. Press the flashing Start Cycle button.
a. The probing axis moves in the specified direction until the probe is
deflected.
The screen below shows the fields in the Part Setup screen for an Edge Probing
Cycle that has been run:
4. The ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) and DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkeys
appear. Press the appropriate softkey.
• The ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey accepts the edge
position and subtracts the Preset X or Y value to determine Part Zero.
• The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the edge position value and the
Preset X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with Part Zero entries established during
the cycle.
The Hole or Circle Pocket Cycle is used for determining the center location and the
diameter of a hole or pocket. During a Hole or Circle Pocket Cycle, the part probe moves
from the inside of the circle out to three points on the edge, touches at each point, and
returns to the Start Position within the circle after each touch. The software records each
deflection position and calculates the center location. The probe positions in the center of
the pocket.
The figure below shows part probe movement during a Hole or Circle Pocket Cycle:
1 Start Position
2 Start Angle 1
3 Start Angle 2
4 Start Angle 3
5 Start Position
6 Start Angle 1
The offset(s) will be subtracted from the center point of the circle and applied
to Part Zero X and Y if you select the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1)
softkey, which appears after the cycle has been run.
1. From the Part Zero Probe Cycles softkey menu, select Hole or Circle Pocket.
2. In the Start Angle fields, enter the desired approach angles.
3. If you want to program an offset from Part Zero X or Part Zero Y, enter the
offset value in the Preset X or Preset Y field.
When the Part Setup fields have been entered, start the Hole or Circle Pocket Probing
Cycle:
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe to the Start Position, into
the pocket and below the surface.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button
flashes.
3. Press the Start Cycle button.
a. The probe moves along Start Angle 1 until it is deflected at the edge of the
hole or circle pocket.
• If no deflection occurs before the probe reaches its travel limit, the
cycle is stopped and an error message appears.
• To clear the error message and return to the Part Setup screen, press
any key.
• Check the Part Probe Parameters and the part fixturing. Make
adjustments as necessary and re-start the cycle.
The screen below shows the fields in the Part Setup screen for a Hole or Circle Pocket
Cycle that has been run:
4. The ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) and DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkeys
appear. Press the appropriate softkey.
• The ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey accepts the center
position and subtracts the presets to determine Part Zero.
• The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the center value and the Preset
X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with Part Zero entries established during
the cycle.
The Cylinder Cycle is used for determining the center location and the diameter of a
cylinder. During a Cylinder Cycle, the part probe moves from the Start Position above the
cylinder, out and down to three points around the diameter. The probe touches at each
point and returns up and over to the Start Position above the cylinder after each touch.
The software determines the diameter and the center location.
The figure below shows part probe movement during a Cylinder Cycle:
1 Start Position
2 Start Angle 1
3 Start Angle 2
4 Start Angle 3
5 Start Position
6 Start Angle 1
• Preset X and Preset Y—define an offset for Part Zero X and/or Part Zero Y.
Entering offsets in either of these fields is optional.
The offset(s) will be subtracted from the center point of the circle and applied
to Part Zero X and Y if you select the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1)
softkey, which appears after the cycle has been run.
1. From the Part Zero Probe Cycles softkey menu, select Cylinder.
2. In the Probing Radius field, enter the probe search radius.
3. In the Start Angle fields, enter the desired approach angles.
4. In the Z Depth field, enter the distance the Z axis moves down before changing
direction and searching horizontally for each contact point.
5. If you want to program an offset from Part Zero X and Part Zero Y, enter the
offset value in the Preset X and Preset Y field.
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe to the Start Position,
above the cylinder.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button
flashes.
3. Press the flashing Start Cycle button.
a. The probe moves along Start Angle 1 until it reaches the Probing Radius.
• If deflection occurs during the Z move, axis motion stops and an error
message appears.
• To clear the error message and return to the Part Setup screen, press
any key.
• Check the Part Probe Parameters and the part fixturing. Make
adjustments as necessary and re-start the cycle.
c. The probe moves backwards in the X/Y plane toward the Start Position in
order to find a contact point.
d. After deflection, the probe moves up and over to the Start Position above
the cylinder.
e. The probe moves along Start Angle 2 until it reaches the Probing Radius.
The same motion occurs as with Start Angle 1.
f. After the deflection, the probe moves up and over to the Start Position
above the cylinder.
g. The probe moves along Start Angle 3 until it reaches the Probing Radius.
The same motion occurs as with Start Angles 1 and 2.
h. After the third deflection, the control uses the three contact points and
calculates the diameter and center (X and Y) of the cylinder.
i. The probe moves up and over to the center above the Z Plane of the
cylinder. The results appear in the Center X, Center Y, and Diameter fields.
4. The ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) and DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkeys
appear. Press the appropriate softkey.
• The ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey accepts the center and
subtracts the presets to determine part zero.
• The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the center values and the Preset
X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with Part Zero entries established during
the cycle.
The Rectangular Pocket Inside (or Rectangular Pocket) Cycle is used for determining the
center location of the pocket and the X and Y length of the rectangle. During a
Rectangular Pocket Cycle, the part probe moves from inside the pocket out to a point on
each edge of the rectangle, touches at each point, and returns to the Start Position after
each touch. The software records each deflection position and calculates the center
location and lengths.
The figure below shows part probe movement during a Rectangular Pocket Cycle.
1 Start Position
2 Point 1
3 Point 2
4 Point 3
5 Point 4
6 Start Position
7 Point 1
The offset(s) will be subtracted from the center point of the pocket and applied to Part
Zero X and Y if you select the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey, which
appears after the cycle has been run.
1. From the Part Zero Probe Cycles softkey menu, select Rectangular Pocket
Inside.
2. If you want to program an offset for Part Zero X or Part Zero Y, enter the offset
value in the Preset X or Preset Y field.
When the Part Setup fields have been entered, start the Rectangular Pocket Cycle:
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe to the Start Position, into
the pocket and below the surface.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button flashes.
3. Press the Start Cycle button.
a. The probe moves in the positive X direction until it is deflected at the edge
of the pocket.
b. After the first deflection, the probe returns to the Start Position.
c. The probe moves in the negative X direction, reaches a second contact
point, and returns to the Start Position.
The screen below shows the fields in the Part Setup screen for a Rectangular Pocket Probe
Cycle that has been run:
4. The ACCEPT POSITOIN AS PART ZERO (F1) and DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkeys
appear. Press the appropriate softkey.
• The ACCEPT POSITOIN AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey accepts the center and
subtracts the presets to determine part zero.
• The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the center and length values
and the Preset X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with Part Zero entries established during
the cycle.
A Rectangular Solid Outside (or Rectangular Solid) Cycle is used for determining the
center location of the pocket and the X and Y length of the rectangle. During a
Rectangular Solid Cycle, the part probe moves from above the rectangle out and down to
a point on each of the four walls, touches at each point, and returns to the Start Position
after each touch. The software records each deflection position and calculates the center
position and lengths.
The figure below shows part probe movement during a Rectangular Solid Cycle:
1 Start Position
2 Point 1
3 Point 2
4 Point 3
5 Point 4
6 Start Position
7 Point 1
• Preset X and Preset Y—define an offset for Part Zero X and/or Part Zero Y.
Entering offsets in either of these fields is optional.
The offset(s) will be subtracted from the center point of the rectangle and
applied to Part Zero X and Y if you select the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART
ZERO (F1) softkey, which appears after the cycle has been run.
1. From the Part Setup Probe Cycles softkey menu, select Rectangular Solid
Outside.
2. In the Probing Length X field, enter an estimate for the X length.
3. In the Probing Length Y field, enter an estimate for the Y length.
4. In the Z Depth field, enter the distance the Z axis should move down.
5. If you want to program an offset for Part Zero X and Part Zero Y, enter the
offset value in the Preset X and Preset Y field.
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe to the Start Position,
above the middle of the rectangle.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button flashes.
3. Press the Start Cycle button.
a. The probe moves in the positive X direction, until it reaches its horizontal
travel limit determined by the Probing Length X field.
• If deflection occurs during the Z move, axis motion stops and an error
message appears.
• To clear the error message and return to the Part Setup screen, press
any key.
• Check the Part Probe Parameters and the part fixturing. Make
adjustments as necessary and re-start the cycle.
c. The probe moves backwards in the X/Y plane toward the Start Position and
deflects.
d. The probe returns up and over to the Start Position.
e. The probe moves in the negative X direction until it reaches its horizontal
travel limit determined by the Probing Length X field.
f. The probe moves down until it reaches Z Depth.
g. The probe moves backwards in the X/Y plane toward the Start Position and
deflects.
h. The probe moves up and over to the Start Position.
i. The probe moves in the positive Y direction until it reaches its horizontal
travel limit determined by the Probing Length Y field.
j. The probe moves down until it reaches Z Depth.
k. The probe moves backwards in the X/Y plane toward the Start Position and
deflects.
l. The probe moves up and over to the Start Position.
m. The probe moves in the negative Y direction until it reaches its horizontal
travel limit determined by the Probing Length Y field.
n. The probe moves down until it reaches Z Depth.
o. The probe moves backwards in the X/Y plane toward the Start Position and
deflects.
p. The probe moves up and over to the Start Position.
The screen below shows the fields in the Part Setup screen for a Rectangular Solid Cycle:
Figure 46. Part Setup Screen for Rectangular Solid Probe Cycle
4. The ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) and DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkeys
appear. Press the appropriate softkey.
• The ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey accepts the center and
subtracts the presets to determine part zero.
• The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the center and length values
and the Preset X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with Part Zero entries established during
the cycle.
A Plane Intersection Cycle is used for determining an X and Y intersection for a non-
rectangular corner. During a Plane Intersection Cycle, the part probe moves from an offset
position to two points in the X direction and two points in the Y direction to determine an
X and Y intersection point.
The Plane Intersection cycle can be used with solid or pocket geometry. The figure below
shows part probe movement with the two types of geometry:
• Corner X—defines the X position of the intersection. This field appears when
the cycle is finished.
• Corner Y—defines the Y position of the intersection. This field appears when
the cycle is finished.
• Probing Direction X—select the X direction to probe: Positive or Negative.
• Offset 1—defines the first Y offset position.
• Offset 2—defines the second Y offset position.
• Probing Direction Y—select the Y direction to probe: Positive or Negative.
• Offset 1—defines the first X offset position.
• Offset 2—defines the second X offset position.
• Preset X and Preset Y—define an offset for Part Zero X and/or Part Zero Y.
Entering offsets in either of these fields is optional.
The offset(s) will be subtracted from the corner point and applied to Part Zero
X and Y if you select the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey,
which appears after the cycle has been run.
1. From the Part Zero Probe Cycles softkey menu, select Plane Intersection.
2. In the Probing Direction X field, select Positive or Negative.
3. In the Offset 1 field, enter the position for the first Y Offset, relative to the
Start Position.
4. In the Offset 2 field, enter the position for the second Y Offset, relative to the
Start Position.
5. In the Probing Direction Y field, select Positive or Negative.
6. In the Offset 1 field, enter the position for the first X Offset, relative to the
Start Position.
7. In the Offset 2 field, enter the position for the second X Offset, relative to the
Start Position.
8. If you want to program an offset from Part Zero X or Part Zero Y, enter the
offset value in the Preset X or Preset Y field.
When the Part Setup fields have been entered, start the Plane Intersection Cycle:
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe into the Start Position,
near the non-rectangular corner.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button
flashes.
b. The probe reaches the first contact point with the first edge in the X
direction, deflects, and moves to the position specified in Offset 2.
c. The probe reaches the second contact point in the X direction and deflects.
d. The probe returns to the starting point.
e. The probe moves the direction specified in Probing Direction Y the distance
specified in Offset 1.
f. The probe reaches the first contact point with the first edge in the Y
direction, deflects, and moves to the position specified in Offset 2.
g. The probe reaches the second contact point in the Y direction and deflects.
h. The probe returns to the Start Position.
i. Using the four contact points, the control calculates the X and Y intersection
points. The results appear in the Corner X and Corner Y fields.
The screen below shows the fields in the Part Setup screen for a Plane Intersection Cycle
that has been run:
Figure 48. Part Setup Screen for Plane Intersection Probing Cycle
• The ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey accepts the corner
position and subtracts the Preset X or Y value to determine Part Zero.
• The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the corner values and the
Preset X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with Part Zero entries established during
the cycle.
At the end of each Probing Cycle, the results of the cycle are displayed on the screen.
These results are displayed in machine coordinates and do not include the Preset values.
Cycle Results
Selecting the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey accepts the probed values
and subtracts the presets to determine part zero. The new Part Zero values appear in the
Part Zero X and Part Zero Y fields.
With an Edge probing cycle the probe moves only one axis. Therefore, only one of Part
Zero X, Part Zero Y, or Probe Z is set. With all other cycles, both Part Zero X and Part Zero
Y are determined at the same time.
If the Preset values have not been entered at the beginning of the
cycle, it is still possible to enter them or to change them before
pressing the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey.
After pressing the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey, the initial Part Setup
Screen appears with new Part Zero entries. Notice the Part Zero X and Y fields now
contain values carried over from the Corner X and Corner Y fields in the Plane Intersection
Probe Cycle.
Figure 50. Initial Part Setup screen with Accepted Probe Cycle Part Zero Values
Although this angle, if known, may be manually typed in using the keypad, it is easier and
more accurate to let the probe find the skew angle and automatically enter it.
For best results, it is recommended that you use the probe for
determining Part Zero X, Part Zero Y, and X/Y Skew. Entering values
for any of these fields with the keypad reduces the amount of
information available for skew calculations. Also, the software must
make assumptions that may reduce accuracy.
After probing the Part Zero position as a reference, the skew cycles allow you to probe a
second feature on the part and adjust all machining operations by the skew angle to
exactly match the part.
When the cycle is finished, the software displays values representing the desired features.
The fields for each cycle vary and are defined with each cycle description.
You can accept these values by pressing the Accept X/Y Skew Angle softkey when it
appears. Preset X or Preset Y offsets are used in the skew calculation. The presets are
subtracted from the probed Part Zero values, and the new Part Zero values appear after
pressing the ACCEPT POSITION AS PART ZERO (F1) softkey.
3 Preset Y
Enter offsets for Preset X and Preset Y for a precise Skew Angle. If
only one Preset value is entered, the skew angle will be approximate
and should not exceed 3 degrees.
1. Perform the Part Zero Probe Cycle. Refer to the appropriate Part Probe Cycle in
this chapter (i.e., Edge, Cylinder, etc.) or more information.
2. From the Part Setup screen, select the PROBING (F5) softkey followed by the
PART SKEW PROBE CYCLES (F3) softkey to access the Part Skew Probe Cycles:
Figure 52. Part Setup Screen with Part Skew Probe Cycles
3. The following screen will appear for selecting the Skew Probe Cycle type. Press
the appropriate softkey to select the desired cycle.
Edge Skew
1. From the Part Setup Skew Probe Cycle softkey menu, select Edge.
2. In the Probing Axis field, select the axis to move toward the edge of the part: X
Axis, Y Axis, or Z Axis.
3. In the Probing Direction field, select the direction to probe: Positive or
Negative. Z Axis always probes in the Negative direction.
4. Program an offset in the Preset X or Preset Y field, if desired.
When the Part Setup fields have been entered, start the Edge Skew Probing Cycle:
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe to the Start Position, near
the edge to be probed.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button
flashes.
3. Press the Start Cycle button.
The tool motion for an Edge Skew Cycle is the same as the motion described
for an Edge Cycle. The results appear in the Edge (X,Y, or Z) and Skew Angle
(Deg) fields. The probe returns to the Start Position.
Below is a sample screen for an Edge Skew Probing Cycle that has been run:
• The ACCEPT X/Y SKEW ANGLE (F1) softkey accepts the skew position and
subtracts the Preset X or Y value to determine Part Zero.
• •The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the edge position value and the
Preset X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with the skew value established during
the cycle stored in the X/Y Skew (deg) field, if accepted.
Follow these steps to program a Hole or Circle Pocket Skew Probing Cycle:
1. From the Part Setup Skew Probe Cycle softkey menu, select the HOLE OR
CIRCLE POCKET (F2) softkey.
2. In the Start Angle 1, Start Angle 2, and Start Angle 3 fields, enter the desired
approach angles.
3. Program an offset in the Preset X and/or Preset Y field(s), if desired.
When the Part Setup fields have been entered, start the Hole or Circle Skew Probing
Cycle:
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe to the Start Position,
inside the pocket near the center.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button
flashes.
3. Press the Start Cycle button.
The tool motion for a Hole or Circle Pocket Skew Probing Cycle is the same as
the motion described for a Hole or Circle Pocket Cycle. The results appear in
the Center X, Center Y, Diameter, and Skew Angle (deg) fields. The probe
stops in the center of the pocket.
Below is a sample screen for a Hole Skew Probing Cycle that has been run:
• The ACCEPT X/Y SKEW ANGLE (F1) softkey accepts the skew position and
subtracts the Preset X or Y value to determine Part Zero.
• The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the edge position value and the
Preset X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with the skew value established during
the cycle stored in the X/Y Skew (deg) field, if accepted.
1. From the Part Setup Skew Probe Cycle softkey menu, select Cylinder.
2. In the Probing Radius field, enter the probe search radius.
3. In the Start Angle fields, enter the desired approach angles.
4. In the Z Depth field, enter the distance the Z axis moves down before
changing direction and searching horizontally for each contact point.
5. Program an offset in the Preset X and/or Preset Y field(s), if desired.
When the Part Setup fields have been entered, start the Cylinder Skew Probing Cycle:
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe to the Start Position,
above the cylinder near the center.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button
flashes.
3. Press the Start Cycle button.
The tool motion for a Cylinder Skew Probing Cycle is the same as the motion
described for a Cylinder Cycle. The results appear in the Center X, Center Y,
Diameter, and Skew Angle (deg) fields. The probe stops in the center above
the cylinder.
Below is a sample screen for a Cylinder Skew Probing Cycle that has been
run:
• The ACCEPT X/Y SKEW ANGLE (F1) softkey accepts the skew position and
subtracts the Preset X or Y value to determine Part Zero.
• The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the edge position value and the
Preset X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with the skew value established during
the cycle stored in the X/Y Skew (deg) field, if accepted.
1. From the Part Setup Skew Probe Cycle softkey menu, select Rectangular
Pocket Inside.
2. Program an offset for the Preset X and/or Preset Y field, if desired.
When the Part Setup fields have been entered, start the Rectangular Pocket Skew Probing
Cycle:
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe to the Start Position,
inside the rectangular pocket.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button
flashes.
3. Press the Start Cycle button.
The tool motion for a Rectangular Pocket Skew Probing Cycle is the same as
the motion described for a Rectangular Pocket Cycle. The results are
displayed on the screen in the Center X, Center Y, Length (X), Length (Y) and
Skew Angle (deg) fields. The probe stops in the center of the pocket.
Below is a sample screen for a Rectangular Pocket Skew Probing Cycle that
has been run:
4. The ACCEPT X/Y SKEW ANGLE (F1) and DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkeys appear.
• The ACCEPT X/Y SKEW ANGLE (F1) softkey accepts the skew position and
subtracts the Preset X or Y value to determine Part Zero.
• The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the edge position value and the
Preset X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with the skew value established during
the cycle stored in the X/Y Skew (deg) field, if accepted.
1. From the Part Setup Skew Probe Cycle softkey menu, select Rectangular Solid
Outside.
2. In the Probing Length X field, enter the pocket’s estimated X Length.
3. In the Probing Length Y field, enter the pocket’s estimated Y Length.
4. In the Z Depth field, enter the distance the Z axis moves downward before
changing direction and moving to the edges for deflection.
5. Program an offset for the Preset X and/or Preset Y field, if desired.
When the Part Setup fields have been entered, start the Rectangular Solid Skew Probing
Cycle:
1. Place the part probe in the spindle and jog the probe to the Start Position,
above the rectangle near the center.
2. Press the START PROBING CYCLE (F1) softkey. The Start Cycle button flashes.
3. Press the Start Cycle button.
The tool motion for a Rectangular Solid Skew Probing Cycle is the same as the
motion described for a Rectangular Solid Cycle. The results appear in the
Center X, Center Y, Length (X), Length (Y), and Skew Angle (deg) fields. The
probe moves to the center above the rectangle.
Below is a sample screen for a Rectangular Solid Skew Probing Cycle that has
been run:
• The ACCEPT X/Y SKEW ANGLE (F1) softkey accepts the skew position and
subtracts the Preset X or Y value to determine Part Zero.
• The DO NOT ACCEPT (F2) softkey ignores the edge position value and the
Preset X or Y value. Part Zero remains unchanged.
5. The initial Part Setup screen appears with the skew value established during
the cycle stored in the X/Y Skew (deg) field, if accepted.
Automatic Mode
To locate part zero and to determine skew in the X-Y plane as part of the program instead
of manually during Part Setup, the Probe Part Setup conversational data block can be
used to automatically perform this function.
Access the Probe Part Setup data block from the Part Programming screen as a
Miscellaneous Data Block. Select the Miscellaneous (F5) softkey from the New Block
screen and the following screen appears:
Figure 59. New Block Screen with Probe Part Setup Softkey
From the New Block screen, press the PROBE PART SETUP (F6) softkey. The Probe Part
Setup data block screen appears with fields for programming cycles to determine part
zero alone or in addition to determining the skew in the XY plane.
The fields on the left-hand side of the screen and the XYZ Start fields apply to the Part
Zero Cycle; the fields on the right-hand side of the screen and the Skew Start fields apply
to the Skew Cycle:
The Probe Part Setup screen contains fields for the Part Zero Cycle and the Skew Cycle.
The fields change depending on the selected cycle.
The fields listed below apply to Part Zero Cycles indicated and are defined as follows:
• For Cylinder this defines a clearance range to move the probe outside the
Cylinder.
• For Hole or Circle this defines maximum travel.
Skew Cycles
These fields apply to the Skew Cycle indicated and are defined as follows:
• For Cylinder this defines a clearance range to move the probe outside the
Cylinder.
• For Hole or Circle this defines maximum travel.
When the program executes this data block, it will automatically probe the part and
update Part Zero X, Part Zero Y, Probe Z and X/Y Skew. The data block may be placed
anywhere in the part program except within a Pattern.
Part Inspection
A Part Inspection data block is available to monitor real-time data for selected probing
cycles. When the data block is executed, the software creates two files: progname.txt and
progname.dat, where “progname” is the name of the part program.
The files are stored on the hard drive in the same sub-directory as the part program file
and contain time-stamped information about the selected geometry.
The information in the files can be used for reports and part quality verification. Both files
contain the same information and are available for you to view.
The fields on the Part Inspection screen change depending on the selected cycle and are
defined as follows:
• For Cylinder this defines a clearance range to move the probe outside the
Cylinder.
• For Hole or Circle this defines maximum travel.
• To view the files on your PC, first copy them to a disk in the floppy drive.
Follow the steps for saving files to disk in the “System Basics” chapter of the
Getting Started with Ultimax manual.
******************************************
* PART INSPECTION DATA *
******************************************
Cylinder inspection (block # 3) executed 15:46:58 8/10/2000
Part Count = 4
Center Diameter
***********************************************************
X 16.7168 inches ( 424.607 mm)1.8878 inches ( 47.951 mm)
Y 10.0995 inches ( 256.527 mm)
Changes
Updated Tool (Touch and Laser) Probing Setup and Part Probing Setup with Init Retrct,
Incr Retract, Monitor Motion, and Max Deflection fields for v2.35e/2.041.
Changes
W
working envelope 40, 48