AcuBeam Manual Rev B 10-6-2011

User Guide
ACUBEAM LASER GALVO CONTROL SOFTWARE
SOFTWARE VERSION: 3.3.1.

User Guide Rev. B
Document Policy
COPYRIGHT
The contents of this manual are the property of Preco, Inc. (Preco) of Somerset, Wisconsin. Any reproduction of this information without the express written permission of Preco is prohibited.
NON-DISCLOSURE
The contents of this manual, and all referred or associated documents marked Preco Confidential, are provided to the original purchaser of the system for internal use only. Any disclosure of documents marked Preco Confidential to outside parties without the express written permission of Preco is strictly prohibited.
POLICY
This manual is based on the data available at the time of publication. While sincere effort has been made to make the manual accurate, the information contained herein does not claim to cover all the details or variations in hardware or software nor to provide for every possible contingency in connection with installation, operation, maintenance, repair, or replacement. The policy of Preco is one of continuous improvement. Therefore, the information in this manual is subject to change without notice and should not be construed as a commitment by Preco. Preco also assumes no obligation to notify manual holders of subsequent revisions. Preco makes no representation of warranty, expressed or implied, nor assumes any responsibility for accuracy, completeness, sufficiency, usefulness or any problems that may arise from the use of the information contained herein.
MADE IN THE USA

Preco products are designed and manufactured in the USA.
PATENTS
Preco products are made under one or more of the following U.S. and related patents issued in other countries: U.S. Pat. No. 5,442,436; U.S. Pat. No. 5,449,879; U.S. Pat. No. 5,422,758; U.S. Pat. No. 6,177,648; U.S. Pat. No. 6,423,932; U.S. Pat. No. 6,538,230; U.S. Pat. No. 6,540,952; U.S. Pat. No. 6,710,294; U.S. Pat. No. 6,794,604. Other patents pending.
TRADEMARK ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Preco is a registered trademark of Preco, Inc. AcuBeam is a trademark of Preco, Inc. All other product names mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only, and may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Copyright 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved. 500 Laser Drive Somerset, WI 54025 USA Voice: 715.247.3285 Facsimile: 715.247.5650 Sales: 1.800.77.LASER Service: 1.800.799.2583 email: somersetservice@precolaser.com website: www.precoinc.com
Issued: 10/26/2011
Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Contents i
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................. 1 OVERVIEW ....................................................................................... 1 ABOUT THIS GUIDE .......................................................................... 1 HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE................................................................. 2 ALERT MESSAGES ........................................................................... 2 HOW THIS GUIDE IS ORGANIZED ....................................................... 3 SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION ............................................................... 5 OVERVIEW ....................................................................................... 5 APPLICATION ................................................................................... 6 WEB: CUT-ON-THE-FLY .............................................................. 6 WEB: INDEXED ........................................................................... 6 INDIVIDUAL PARTS ..................................................................... 6 ACUBEAM FUNCTIONAL MODES ....................................................... 7 MULTI-STATION MODE ................................................................ 7 STAND-ALONE MODE ................................................................. 7 ACUBEAM APPLICATION TERMS ....................................................... 7 OPERATING SYSTEM .................................................................. 7 DISTRIBUTION ............................................................................ 7 HARDWARE ARCHITECTURE ............................................................. 8 OPERATOR INTERFACE ................................................................... 9 OVERVIEW ....................................................................................... 9 ACUBEAM MAIN SCREEN LAYOUT .................................................... 9 JOB EXECUTE MODE INTERFACE .................................................... 10 SINGLE SYSTEM....................................................................... 10 DUAL SYSTEM ......................................................................... 11 JOB EXECUTE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS ........................................... 12 JOB EXECUTE MENU TOOL BAR REGION................................... 12 JOB EXECUTE MODE FILE MENU .............................................. 12 JOB EXECUTE MODE FILE MENU OPTIONS .......................... 13 JOB EXECUTE MODE VIEW MENU ............................................. 13 JOB EXECUTE MODE VIEW MENU OPTIONS......................... 14 JOB EXECUTE MODE UNITS MENU ............................................ 14 JOB EXECUTE MODE UNITS MENU OPTIONS ............................. 14 JOB EXECUTE MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU ................................ 15 JOB EXECUTE MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU OPTIONS ............ 15 JOB EXECUTE MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU WINDOWS ...................... 15 SCANHEAD STATUS WINDOW ................................................... 15 RTC STATUS SYSTEM 1 ........................................................ 16
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide ii Contents
DIGITAL I/O WINDOW ............................................................... 17 PMAC AUXILIARY I/O WINDOW ................................................ 18 PMAC AXIS I/O WINDOW ......................................................... 18 PMAC STANDARD I/O WINDOW ............................................... 18 JOB EXECUTE MODE LANGUAGE MENU .......................................... 19 JOB EXECUTE MODE LANGUAGE MENU OPTIONS ...................... 19 JOB EXECUTE MODE HELP MENU ................................................... 19 JOB EXECUTE MODE HELP MENU OPTIONS .............................. 19 JOB EXECUTE STATUS BAR REGION ............................................... 20 SYSTEM MODE BUTTONS REGION .................................................. 20 ALARMS ................................................................................... 20 JOB EXECUTE .......................................................................... 21 SETUP MODE ........................................................................... 21 SYSTEM ALARMS WINDOW ....................................................... 21 JOB EXECUTE MODE DRAWING PALETTE REGION ........................... 22 JOB EXECUTE MODE PROPERTIES REGION ............................... 23 JOB TAB ........................................................................................ 23 MESSAGE TAB ............................................................................... 24 VISION TAB .................................................................................... 25 JOB EXECUTE MODE SYSTEM REGION ........................................... 26 CYCLE CONTROL BUTTONS ...................................................... 26 FEEDRATE CONTROLS ............................................................. 27 JOB EXECUTE MODE CONTROL BUTTONS REGION .......................... 27 JOB EXECUTE MODE CONTROL WINDOWS ................................ 28 MDI MODE WINDOWS .................................................................... 28 RTC CONTROL WINDOW ................................................................ 28 ACUPOWER CONTROL WINDOW ..................................................... 29 JOG MODE WINDOW ...................................................................... 30 CALIBRATE MODE WINDOW ............................................................ 31 GALVO TAB.............................................................................. 32 VISION TAB .............................................................................. 38 LASER TAB .............................................................................. 39 JOB EXECUTE I/O CONTROL BUTTONS REGION .............................. 40 SETUP MODE INTERFACE ............................................................... 40 SETUP MODE MAIN SCREEN..................................................... 41 SETUP MODE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS............................................ 42 SETUP MODE MENU TOOL BAR REGION ................................... 42 SETUP MODE FILE MENU ......................................................... 42 SETUP MODE FILE MENU OPTIONS ..................................... 43 SETUP MODE EDIT MENU ............................................................... 47 SETUP MODE EDIT MENU OPTIONS .................................... 47 SETUP MODE VIEW MENU ........................................................ 48 SETUP MODE VIEW MENU OPTIONS ................................... 49 SETUP MODE UNITS MENU....................................................... 50 SETUP MODE UNITS MENU OPTIONS .................................. 50 SETUP MODE DRAW MENU ...................................................... 50 SETUP MODE DRAW MENU OPTIONS .................................. 51 SETUP MODE SYSTEM MENU ................................................... 52
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Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Contents iii
SETUP MODE SYSTEM MENU OPTIONS ............................... 52 SETUP MODE SYSTEM CONFIGURATION WINDOWS ................... 53 SCREEN 1 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION GENERAL PROPERTY TAB ......................................................................................... 54 SCREEN 1 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION TEMPLATES DISPLAY .. 56 SCREEN 2 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION BLOCKS PROPERTY TAB58 SCREEN 3 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION CELLS PROPERTY TAB 60 SCREEN 4 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION SUB CELL PROPERTY TAB ......................................................................................... 62 SCREEN 5 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION PROCESS ON THE FLY TAB ......................................................................................... 64 WEB CONTROLLED PROCESS ON-THE-FLY .......................... 66 SETUP MODE SYSTEM TABLE PARAMETERS WINDOW ............... 67 SETUP MODE SYSTEM WEB INDEXER PARAMETERS WINDOW ... 70 SETUP MODE SETTINGS MENU ....................................................... 73 END POINT TOLERANCES OPTION............................................. 73 SNAP MODE OPTION .......................................................... 73 SETUP MODE TOOLS MENU...................................................... 75 SETUP MODE TOOLS MENU OPTIONS ................................. 75 SETUP MODE HELP MENU ........................................................ 76 SETUP MODE HELP MENU OPTIONS ................................... 76 SETUP MODE STATUS BAR REGION .......................................... 76 SETUP MODE DRAWING PALETTE REGION ................................ 77 SETUP MODE PROPERTIES REGION.......................................... 78 AUTOMATION TAB .............................................................. 78 VISION TAB .............................................................................. 81 GALVO PEN SETTINGS TAB.................................................... 83 PEN VARIABLES: GENERAL ................................................. 83 PEN VARIABLES: CUT ......................................................... 84 ANALOG CONTROLS ........................................................... 86 PEN VARIABLES: CUTTER COMPENSATION .......................... 87 ACUBEAM CUTTER COMPENSATION DETAILS ............................ 87 RULES FOR USING CUTTING COMPENSATION ............................ 88 GROUP/PATH SETTINGS TAB .............................................. 89 TRANSFORM WINDOW .............................................................. 90 ARRAY WINDOW ...................................................................... 91 OPERATION...................................................................................... 93 TO LOAD THE ACUBEAM SOFTWARE PROGRAM .............................. 93 TO EXIT THE ACUBEAM SOFTWARE PROGRAM ............................... 93 GALVANOMETER CALIBRATION ....................................................... 94 BEAM FOCUS ................................................................................. 94 FOCUS USING THE SMALLEST POINT ........................................ 94 FOCUS USING THE TENT-SHAPED TARGET METHOD .................. 95 FOCUS USING THE MEASURED CUT METHOD ............................ 96 GRID CALIBRATION ........................................................................ 96 GALVO ROTATION CALIBRATION ................................................... 100 OFFSET CALIBRATION .................................................................. 103
Issued: 10/26/2011 Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved. Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide iv Contents
VISION CALIBRATION .................................................................... 105 ENGINEERING UNITS (EU) CALIBRATION ................................. 105 COORDINATE CALIBRATION (IN-FIELD METHOD) ...................... 106 COORDINATE CALIBRATION (OUTFIELD METHOD) .................... 109 POWER PROBE CHECKS .............................................................. 111 LASER CALIBRATION .................................................................... 114 PROGRAMMING REFERENCE ...................................................... 115 OVERVIEW ................................................................................... 115 FILE TYPE AND FILE INTERACTION OVERVIEW ............................... 116 ACUBEAM RULE SETS AND ASSIGNMENTS .................................... 118 PREPARE AND EXECUTE A CUT PATH IN ACUBEAM ....................... 118 APPENDIX A: ACUBEAM/ACUVISION II FLOWCHARTS ............ 121 APPENDIX B: GALVO AND LASER DELAYS .............................. 125 LASER DELAYS ............................................................................ 125 LASERON DELAY ......................................................................... 125 LASEROFF DELAY ........................................................................ 125 SCANNER DELAYS ....................................................................... 126 JUMP DELAY ................................................................................ 127 MARK DELAY ............................................................................... 128 POLYGON DELAY ......................................................................... 129 VARIABLE POLYGON DELAY ......................................................... 130 MAXIMUM POLYGON DELAY.......................................................... 131 OPTIMIZING DELAYS .................................................................... 131 APPENDIX C: AUTO GRID CALIBRATION ................................... 135 OVERVIEW ................................................................................... 135 AUTO GRID CALIBRATION PROCEDURES ....................................... 135
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Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Introduction 1
INTRODUCTION
OVERVIEW
This guide was designed to provide operating and programming information for the laser control software designed by Preco, Inc. This user guide assumes the reader is familiar with the Microsoft Windows operating system.
ABOUT THIS GUIDE

The operator must completely read and clearly understand the information contained in this manual before any attempt is made to operate or maintain the laser system. If there are any doubts or questions related to safety or operation, call the Preco Service Department for clarification. Every Preco laser system is built to suit each customer's requirements. A wide variety of optional accessories/component assemblies, laser enclosure configurations, and power levels are available. This manual is not designed to assist with any type of service function. If any problem is experienced with your laser, please contact the Preco Service Department. Important: Operators should never make unassisted attempts to troubleshoot or repair internal problems with the laser. Troubleshooting and repairing procedures are not included in this publication because many of them are potentially hazardous and should only be performed by qualified, Preco Trained Service Technicians. This manual is designed to provide the operator with the information needed to run the laser system safely and effectively. All laser service operations must be performed by either a qualified in-house Preco Trained Service Technician or by a Preco Service Technician. The operators should read and familiarize themselves with Chapter 2 -Safety of this manual. Additional safety information is presented later in this section and throughout the manual.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 2 Introduction
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

This user guide contains detailed information about using the laser control software pre-loaded onto your systems computer. Read this guide in its entirety before using the system. Information given in a previous section may be needed to understand or complete a step in a subsequent section.
ALERT MESSAGES
DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, IMPORTANT or NOTE statements alert operating or service personnel of dangerous situations and need-toknow information. Information is given in the following manner:
DANGER:
Identifies immediate hazards that WILL result in severe personal injury or death.
WARNING:
Identifies hazards or unsafe practices that COULD result in severe personal injury or death.
CAUTION:
Identifies hazards or unsafe practices that COULD result in minor personal injury or damage to product or property.
IMPORTANT:
When you see this symbol, be alert. Always follow ALL instructions associated with this symbol throughout this manual and on the system.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Introduction 3
HOW THIS GUIDE IS ORGANIZED

This laser control software user guide is designed to provide information on how to use and program the Laser Control Software pre-loaded on your systems computer. This guide is organized as follows: Introduction provides a description of how this guide is designed. Software Description provides an overview of the software and its components. Operator Interface provides a description of the operator interface. It describes the main screen regions and operator functions. Operation provides procedures for operator activities. Programming Reference provides programming reference information for AcuBeam in a Windows environment. Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Flowcharts provides stepby-step flowcharts that outline the calibration procedures. Appendix B: Galvo and Laser Delays This section provides details concerning galvo (scan head) and laser on and off timing. Appendix C: Auto Grid Calibration This section provides the steps necessary to perform an Auto Grid Calibration.
NOTE: Your AcuBeam software was formatted for your machine. The images in this manual may not look identical to your version of AcuBeam.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 4 Introduction
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 5
SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION
OVERVIEW
This section provides an overview of the AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software designed and developed at Preco Inc. For more information regarding operator interface or programming, refer to the OPERATING INTERFACE and PROGRAMMING REFERENCE sections in this guide. NOTE: Your AcuBeam software was formatted for your machine. The images in this section may not look identical to your version of AcuBeam. AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software provides a method to control galvanometer-based laser cutting systems. The Software is comprised of two main components: A module for setting up a new job for production. This module will be referred to as the AcuBeam Setup Mode. A module for controlling the laser and motion system to process parts. This module will be referred to as the AcuBeam Execute Mode and typically interacts with the hardware.
The AcuBeam Laser Control system includes the following main features: Operator interface to set laser control parameters (also called Pen Parameters). CAD user interfaces for cut path viewing and manipulation. Implementation of multiple galvanometers and multiple galvanometer fields. A method for controlling cut paths depending on external inputs. I/O diagnostic capability. Machine control panel for Start/Stop and other functions.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 6 Operator Interface
APPLICATION
The AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software is intended to be used in the following converting type applications:
WEB: CUT-ON-THE-FLY
The Web: Cut-on-the-fly converting application is for web-based operations where the cutting patterns are cut on the moving web. AcuBeam does not control the web, but may be interfaced to a sensor that determines when to cut the pattern. If the galvanometer cutting system is one of many operations on the web, the customers inhouse web controller typically controls the web. Otherwise, a webhandling device, such as the type from Deacro or Stanford, controls the web with its own independent controller.
WEB: INDEXED
The Web: Indexed converting application is an application where the part is cut on the web, but the web is indexed and subsequently stopped for the cutting process. This is generally a multi-station process where AcuBeam is a single station in the production line. Other stations could include processes including a vision system that determines the part location based on fiducials. A PLC, or a separate application running on the PC, may control the web handling.
INDIVIDUAL PARTS
The Individual Parts converting application typically, but not always, cuts parts out of a sheet of material. The parts can be fed manually, from a sheeter or an index table. AcuBeam does not control the automation but may accept Start/Stop signals from the operator or another process. Typically, a PLC, or a separate application running on the PC, will control the automation.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
ACUBEAM FUNCTIONAL MODES

To fit into these applications AcuBeam has, essentially, two functional modes:
MULTI-STATION MODE
AcuBeam can be integrated as a station in a multi-station production line. In this mode, an OPC interface communicates control and exchange data between stations. Different processes, such as preprocess part location, vision inspection, etc. can be done on the same computer or different computers as needed at any location in the part process with all processes operating simultaneously.
STAND-ALONE MODE
AcuBeam can have multiple stations, but the stations operate sequentially; that is, only a single station is operating at a time. In this case, for example, a pre-process part location that was obtained by a vision system is done first, cutting is done next, and vision inspection is done last. All processes operate on a single computer. Part feeding is generally done manually in this mode, but could have some simple automation integrated to the system.
ACUBEAM APPLICATION TERMS

Primitives A Primitive is the base geometric element or entity. Two types of primitives are allowed in AcuBeam: arcs and lines. A Group is a method of handling a set of primitives as one entity.
Group
OPERATING SYSTEM
The AcuBeam PC application software component is designed to be used on the Windows XP operating systems.
DISTRIBUTION
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software is distributed on a DVD using an install program. A custom DVD that contains configuration files is also provided.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
HARDWARE ARCHITECTURE
The typical hardware layout for the AcuBeam Laser Control System is shown in the following figure:
Opto 22 Ethernet I/O I/O Laser I/O Power Sensor I/O System Control and States
Windows Operating System
AcuBeam MPLC RS232
RTC 3/4
Galvo
Vision Card
Cameras
I/O Delta Tau PMAC Ethernet USB PCI ISA
System Control and States
I/O XY Table Motor/Drives or Web Index
Laser
Power Sensor
Windows Operating System
I/O AcuBeam MPLC RS232
Web Encoder (on the fly)
RTC 3/4
Galvo
Vision Card
Cameras
Figure 1. AcuBeam Hardware Architecture
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
OPERATOR INTERFACE
OVERVIEW
This section describes the AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software Operating Interface in the Windows environment. For more information about the AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software program, refer to the SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION section of this guide. The AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software program provides operator and control interface to the system for programming and selecting the laser control parameters. For programming information, refer to the PROGRAMMING REFERENCE section of this guide. NOTE: Your AcuBeam software was formatted for your machine. Some of the information and images in this section may not be applicable nor look identical to your version of AcuBeam.
ACUBEAM MAIN SCREEN LAYOUT

When the system starts, the initial screen displayed is the main operator control interface. This is the starting point for both the system operation and configuration. The AcuBeam operating interface window consists of two main regions: Drawing Palette: The Drawing Palette displays a graphic representation of the part geometry after a cut path file is loaded. You can also draw the geometry that represents the cut path for new parts on the drawing palette. Property Tabs: The Property Tabs are use to monitor and modify system information for the associated tab: Job Execute: Job, Message, and Vision tabs. Setup Mode: Automation, Vision, Galvo-Pen Settings, and Group Setting (cut order) tabs.
The AcuBeam Laser Control System Software can be used to control a single system or a dual system.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE MODE INTERFACE

This section describes the AcuBeam Job Execute Mode operating interface. For information regarding the AcuBeam Setup Mode, see SETUP MODE INTERFACE later in this section.
SINGLE SYSTEM
The following figure displays the main screen for a Single System. See the JOB EXECUTE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS later in this section for a description of the main screen regions.
Figure 2. AcuBeam Job Execute Main Screen Single System
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
DUAL SYSTEM
The following figure displays the main screen for a Dual System. See the JOB EXECUTE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS later in this section for a description of the main screen regions.
Figure 3. AcuBeam Job Execute Main Screen Dual System
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Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS

The following Job Execute main screen regions are described in this section.
JOB EXECUTE MENU TOOL BAR REGION

The Job Execute Menu Tool Bars topics are displayed in a dropdown menu when you select an option. Move your mouse pointer to select (highlight) an option. The menu topics are discussed in the following sections.
JOB EXECUTE MODE FILE MENU

The File menu lists options for opening files. This menu also displays a list of the eight (8) most recently opened documents.
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Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE MODE FILE MENU OPTIONS

The File menu options are described in the following table. Option Description
Displays the Open dialog box. Open If a drawing is displayed on the screen that has not been saved, the open option displays the save dialog screen to save the current drawing. The Open option lets you open the AcuBeam *.glv files. Remote File List (Optional) Opens a list of files to run on remote file selection.
Exits the AcuBeam system. A dialog screen is displayed requesting verification to exit the system
Exit
Click on Yes to exit the system or No to cancel the request to Exit the AcuBeam system. If AcuBeam is exited, all motion is stopped, the laser will shut off and the shutter is closed (if the laser is not in manual mode). List of Recently Opened Lists the last eight (8) files opened. Files
JOB EXECUTE MODE VIEW MENU

The View menu lists options for manipulating the visual display of the current application. Select the desired option.
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Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE MODE VIEW MENU OPTIONS

The View menu options are described in the following table Option
Work Area Outline
Description
Check this option to display the entire work area.
Cell Layout
Check Cell Layout to display the cell layout template.
Sub cell Layout
Check Sub cell Layout to display the Sub Cell Layout template. Check Show Partial/Full Screen to toggle the display for partial screen (no tabs along the right of the screen) or entire screen.
Show Partial/Full Screen
JOB EXECUTE MODE UNITS MENU

The Units menu lists options for measurement. Select the desired measurement to select either inches (Inch) or millimeters (Metric).
JOB EXECUTE MODE UNITS MENU OPTIONS

The Units menu options are described in the following table. Option
Inch
Description
Selects Inches as the unit of measure.
Metric
Selects Metric as the unit of measure.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU

The Diagnostics menu lists options for displaying diagnostic status windows for various system components.
JOB EXECUTE MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU OPTIONS

The Diagnostics menu options are described below.
Option Description Displays the RTC (Real Time Controller) Status window for System 1 and System 2.
Scanhead Status
PMAC Auxiliary I/O
Displays the PMAC Auxiliary I/O window.
PMAC AXIS I/O PMAC Standard I/O Opto 22 I/O
Displays the PMAC Axis I/O window. Displays the PMAC Standard I/O window. Displays the Opto 22 I/O window.
JOB EXECUTE MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU WINDOWS

The Diagnostics Menu windows are described as follows:
SCANHEAD STATUS WINDOW

The Scanhead Status window displays input and output information for the scan head. Two (2) options can be displayed, System 1 and System 2.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
RTC STATUS SYSTEM 1

The RTC Status System 1 window displays the driver file version information, the firmware file version information, and the system status information for the installed galvanometer(s). NOTE: The Temperature, Power, X-Position and Y-Position info is only valid when using Scanlab brand galvos.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Version
Driver-DLL
Driver-DLL
Displays the software version number of the DriverDLL file. Displays the software version number of the firmware-Hex file. Displays Galvos 1 through 4 per system configuration. Displays the hardware version number of the installed RTC board. Displays the serial version number of the installed RTC board. Displays the available options of the installed RTC board. ScanHead sensors (green OK, red Not OK) ScanHead sensors (green OK, red Not OK) ScanHead sensors (green OK, red Not OK)
Firmware-Hex File
Galvo 1-4
RTC3 hardware version
Serial number
Installed options
Temperature
Power
X-position
Y-position
ScanHead sensors (green OK, red Not OK)
DIGITAL I/O WINDOW

The Digital I/O window displays AcuBeam digital input and output status information. The inputs and outputs are configurable on a digital I/O board. Twelve (12) inputs and twelve (12) outputs are defined and configured from the acubeam.ini file. This file contains parameters for activating the I/O as well as the identifier strings for the I/O. These I/O are scanned and updated on a continuous basis when this screen is open.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
PMAC AUXILIARY I/O WINDOW

The PMAC I/O Auxiliary window displays Standard PMAC four (4) inputs and four (4) outputs status through the Dual Ported Ram. The strings associated with these I/O are contained in the acubeam.ini file. Your machine may have more or less I/O compared to the image shown.
PMAC AXIS I/O WINDOW

The PMAC Axis I/O window displays PMAC Axis. Your machine may have more or less Axis compared to the image shown.
PMAC STANDARD I/O WINDOW

The PMAC Standard I/O window displays PMAC axis input and output status information for each axis.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE MODE LANGUAGE MENU

The Language menu displays the different languages available for viewing within the AcuBeam system. Highlight and click the left button the mouse to select a language.
JOB EXECUTE MODE LANGUAGE MENU OPTIONS

Option English Spanish Danish Portuguese German Description Translates all of the text to English. Translates all of the text to Spanish. Translates all of the text to Danish. Translates all of the text to Portuguese. Translates all of the text to German.
JOB EXECUTE MODE HELP MENU

The Help menu displays the available online help topics.
JOB EXECUTE MODE HELP MENU OPTIONS

The Help menu options are described below.
Option Manuals Description Opens the AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide.
About
Displays a screen that lists information about the AcuBeam application such as the version number, how to contact Preco, Inc. (telephone numbers, address and email addresses).
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE STATUS BAR REGION

The Job Execute mode status bar region displays directives from the software when an action is required.
Status Bar
SYSTEM MODE BUTTONS REGION

The System Mode buttons are used to display system alarms and to switch between Job Execute and Setup Mode. Single System Dual System
ALARMS
Single System Dual System
The Alarms buttons are used to view and hide the System Alarms window for the associated system. The Alarms buttons are only visible in the Job Execute mode. The Alarms button turns: RED during system Fatal and Stop alarm conditions. YELLOW during system Message and Warning alarm conditions.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE
Single System Dual System
The Execute buttons are used to switch views to jobs running in System 1 and 2. When you click on the Execute button, it turns green and displays the Job Execute screen for the selected system.
SETUP MODE
The Setup Mode button is used to display the Setup Mode screen. When you click on the Setup Mode button, it turns green and the Setup Mode screen is displayed.
SYSTEM ALARMS WINDOW

This window displays system alarm messages. Check the alarm list and resolve any problems. Click on the Reset button to clear the alarms and continue processing. When you click on the close button, the window will close.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE MODE DRAWING PALETTE REGION

The Job Execute drawing palette region displays the drawing layout as drawn in Setup Mode.
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Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE MODE PROPERTIES REGION

The Job Execute Mode Properties region contains three (3) tabs that, when selected, display system information for the current job.
JOB TAB
The Job tab is used to display part-count information for the current job. Click on the Reset button to reset the part-count field values of the associated field. Job Tab: Displays part-count information for the currently-loaded cut file name. Parts Requested: Displays the number of parts that were requested for the job. Total Number Of Parts Run: Displays the total number of parts processed for this job. The Reset button can be clicked on to reset total number of parts to zero (0) at the beginning of a job. Number Of Parts Passed: Displays the number of parts that were passed. It is updated automatically by the System Controller as parts cycle through the system. The Reset button can be clicked on to reset the value to zero (0) at the beginning of a job. Number Of Parts Failed: Displays the number of parts that failed. It is updated automatically by the System Controller as parts cycle through the system. The button can be clicked on to reset parts failed to zero (0) at the beginning of a job. Max Vision Captures Failed: Displays the maximum number of failed vision captures allowed. Enter the maximum amount of vision capture failures allowed before an alarm occurs. Enabled: Check this check box to enable vision failed alarming. Select Starting Sub cell: Displays the Sub cell from which will begin processing. Process only the selected Sub cell: Check this check box to enable limited processing to only the selected cell.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Cycle Time: Displays the cycle time (how long it takes to run one part: from part header to part footer, see the AUTOMATION TAB). Format: hour: minute: second: millisecond (hh: mm: ss: ms) Run Time: Displays the runtime (cumulative total of cycle times). Format: day: hour: minute: second (dd: hh: mm: ss) Total Run Time: Displays the total run time (cumulative total of all run times). Format: day: hour: minute: second (dd: hh: mm; ss) Total Up Time: Displays the total time the system has been up (total of all run and cycle times). Format: day: hour: minute: second (dd: hh: mm: ss)
MESSAGE TAB
The Message tab displays information about the condition of the system hardware and software. These status messages may give the operator important information regarding the status of the machine that may require operator action.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
VISION TAB
The Vision tab is used to display the nominal and actual fiducial positions. It is also used for making small adjustments to the cut position of a vision-registered part. Using the radio buttons, you can enable/disable the entire vision system or each camera individually. Vision Enable: This check box is used for disabling vision-based part registration. X Offset (in): Used to adjust the position of parts that are vision located. Y Offset (in): Used to adjust the position of parts that are vision located. Rotate (deg): Used to adjust the rotation position of parts that are vision located. Scale (%): Used to adjust the scale position of parts that are vision located. Camera 1 Galvo 1: Displays the Nominal and Actual X/Y position of the fiducial last captured by using camera 1. Enable: Enables camera 1. Disable: Disables camera 1. Camera 2 Galvo 1: Displays the Nominal and Actual X/Y fiducial position last captured by using camera 2. Enable: Enables camera 2. Disable: Disables camera 2.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
JOB EXECUTE MODE SYSTEM REGION

The Job Execute Mode System region contains the Cycle buttons and Feedrate settings.
CYCLE CONTROL BUTTONS
Click on the Run button to execute the selected action. Click on the Stop button to stop processing immediately. You may continue processing the part by clicking on the Run button. Click on the Load/Unload button to move the table to the Load/Unload position that is configured in Setup Mode. See SETUP MODE SYSTEM MENU later in this section. Click on the Single Part button to run one part from part header to part footer. Click on the Single Step button to allow single stepping through all automation steps. To view single indexing, 1. Select the Message tab to display the Message window. 2. Click on the Auto Mode button. 3. Click on the Single Step button. 4. Click on the Run button. Select the Dry Run button to test run a part program to ensure that the machine motions are correct without firing the laser. Click on the Abort button to clear the current actions and restart at the beginning of the part.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
FEEDRATE CONTROLS
The Feedrate control fields are used to override the current feedrate settings. The Index Rapid feedrate control is used to override the rapid feedrate. This setting refers to Fixed Beam systems. Index Rapid controls the speed of movement between cells. The Cut Feedrate control can override the programmed feedrate. This setting refers to Fixed Beam systems. The Cut switch has a range of 0 to 200 percent of the programmed feedrate and overrides the programmed feedrate by a pre-determined percent increment (default is 10%).
JOB EXECUTE MODE CONTROL BUTTONS REGION
The Job Execute control mode buttons are described as follows: Auto (automatic) mode is used for production based machine control. MDI (Manual Device Interface) mode displays the MDI window. See MDI MODE WINDOW later in this section. Jog mode displays the Jog window. Jog mode is used for systems with X-Y tables. See JOG MODE WINDOW later in this section. Home mode is used for systems with X-Y tables. It is used to move all active axes to a pre-determined machine zero location called the Home position. This position is established through using a home limit switch mounted on the machine. The execution of machine Home establishes the machine zero point. Since all of the work systems are referenced from the zero point of the machine, none of these features are available until the machine homing operation has completed.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Calibrate mode displays the Calibration window. Calibrate mode is used to align and calibrate all devices used for part processing. See CALIBRATE MODE WINDOW later in this section.
JOB EXECUTE MODE CONTROL WINDOWS

The Mode control windows are displayed when clicking on the associated Mode control button.
MDI MODE WINDOWS

The Manual Device Interface (MDI) window is displayed when you click on the MDI mode control button. This window offers optional displays: Galvo: RTC Card, Galvo: AcuPower:
RTC CONTROL WINDOW

The RTC Control window is used to manually control the laser and scan head.
Position: Displays the current position of the configured axes: X, Y, and Z.
Home Button: Click on the Home button to move all axes to the machines predetermined zero location. Pen Field: Enter the desired pen number and press Change.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Units: Click on the desired unit of measure: Millimeters or Bits. Laser Trigger: Enter the amount of time the laser will fire, then, use the Laser OFF/ON button to fire the laser. Laser OFF/ON Button: Click and hold the Laser OFF trigger button to fire the laser. When the Laser OFF button is held, the button will turn green and will read Laser ON. The laser will then fire for the length of time specified in the Time Interval field.
ACUPOWER CONTROL WINDOW

The AcuPower Control window is used to directly communicate with the AcuPower control board.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
JOG MODE WINDOW

The Jog window is displayed when you click on the Jog control button. This window is used to control table movement. The axis motion is controlled by clicking the left mouse button on the appropriate axis directional button on the screen or by using the numeric keypad arrow keys (press the Num Lock key on the keyboard to unlock the numeric keypad). Jog Type Select: The options offered on the screen change depending on jog method. The axes can be jogged using three different methods: Continuous: The axes move continuously while the mouse pointer button or the arrow key on the numeric keypad is held down. Incremental: The axes move at the predetermined distance (increment) each time the mouse or the arrow key is clicked on. The increment at which the axes move is determined by the setting of the Speed/Step Select. Handwheel: The axis move when the handwheel is turned. The Increment Select dial on the handwheel sets the speed at which the axes move. Jogging the axes with the handwheel is default in Teach mode. Step/Speed Select: The speed at which the axes move is determined by the following settings: Low Medium low Medium Medium high High
NOTE: The actual speed set for the above buttons can be modified for specific system requirements.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Axis Directional Buttons: Click on the appropriate axis directional button to jog the table in that direction (+Y, +X, -Y, -X axes). Machine Position: Displays the current table position in inches or millimeters as selected from the Display menu.
CALIBRATE MODE WINDOW

The Calibration window is displayed when you click on the Calibrate mode control button. See the OPERATION section of this guide for calibrating procedures. The Calibration window contains three tabs: Galvo, Vision, and Laser. These tabs are described in the following sections. Scan Head Information Displays the configuration file version number on each tab. Correction File: Click on the down arrow and select a correction file or, click on the ellipse button and select a correction file.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
GALVO TAB
The Galvo tab is used to select the Focus Line, Grid Calibration, Offset, and Rotation procedures.
Focus Line
The Focus Line feature is used to cut a test line to determine if the focus setting is as required. Scan Head Information Displays the configuration file version number on each tab. Correction File: Click on the down arrow and select a correction file or, click on the ellipse button and select a correction file. Start Point: Enter values (in inches) for the X/Y location at which the test line will begin. End Point: Enter values (in inches) for the X/Y location at which the test line will end. Perforated Line: Select this button if you would like a perforated focus line. Cut Speed: Enter a value (in inches per second) for the focus line cut speed. Cut Power: Enter a value (in percentage of full power) for the focus line laser power. Translator New Position: Enter a focus value (in relation to its home position) to which the translator servo should move the focus lens. If your machine has a manual focus adjustment, this field will not be functional.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Translator Actual Position: Displays a focus value (in relation to its home position) at which the translator focus sensor is currently positioned. If your machine has a manual focus adjustment, this field will not be functional.
Grid Calibration
The Grid Calibration feature is used to correct errors in the Galvo cutting field. Scan Head Information Displays the configuration file version number on each tab. Correction File: Click on the down arrow and select a correction file, or click on the ellipse button and select a correction file. Field Setup Field Size: Displays the size (X and Y in inches) of the square field to be scanned. If you enter a different value, a new Working Distance will automatically be calculated and displayed. Working Distance: Displays the distance (in inches) from the scan head to the work surface. Using a square ruler or tape measure, measure the perpendicular distance from the bottom of the scan head protective window to the top of the work surface and enter the value. The Field Size will automatically be calculated and displayed. Calibration Margin: Displays the area around the active field (in inches). Cut Calibration Speed Margin
Active Field
NOTE: Changing the field size or working distance invalidates any previous calibration on this file.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Cut Speed: Speed used for cutting lines and letters in the grid calibration Cut Power Power used for cutting lines and letters in the grid calibration Pulse Length Length of the laser pulse for making points used in the automatic grid calibration Warning Tolerance Measured point locations that deviate from nominal locations by more than this tolerance will be shown in yellow. Auto point/X line/X Point dropdown menu Line Calibration: Use only if you do not have a 2-axis measurement device. This method, measured in 9, 16, 25, and 81 points, allows the use of a single axis measurement device such as a caliper or a ruler. Point Calibration: Manually measured 9, 25, 81, and 289 point grids. You must have a 2 axis measurement device to measure the grid. Auto Point Calibration: Automatic grid calibration using 9, 25, 81, or 289 points. You must have a camera dedicated to Automatic grid calibration. See Auto Grid Calibration Procedures in the Appendix.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Offset
Offset is used to adjust the position of the galvanometer cut field in reference to the work surface. See the Galvo Offset Calibration procedure in the Operation section of this guide for a description of how to use this tab. NOTE: This option should only be used with systems which contain two or more scan heads. Scan Head Information Displays the configuration file version number on each tab. Correction File: Click on the down arrow and select a correction file or click on the ellipse button and select a correction file. Galvo Offset Cut Pattern Size: Displays the cut pattern size (in inches). You can enter a different value. The size will apply to all galvos if you have more than one. Cut Speed: Enter a value (in inches per second) for the focus line cut speed. percentage of full power) for the focus line laser power. Calibration Offset: Enter X and Y offset values (in inches) as needed. See the Galvanometer Offset Calibration Model below.
Y-Axis Offset
Galvo 1 X-Axis Offset
Galvo 1
Galvo 2
Galvo 2
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Rotation
Rotation is used to adjust the angular position of the cut field in reference to the work surface. See the Galvo Rotation Calibration procedure in the Operation section of this guide for a description of how to perform galvanometer calibration rotation. Scan Head Information Displays the configuration file version number on each tab. Correction File: Click on the down arrow and select a correction file or, click on the ellipse button and select a correction file. Galvo Rotation Cut Pattern Size: Displays the size of the cut pattern in relation to the field of view (FOV). This value should not be greater than 95% of the galvo field of view size. Cut Speed: Enter a value (in inches per second) for the focus line cut speed. Cut Power: Enter a value (in percentage of full power) for the focus line laser power. Cut Pattern Count X Y: Displays the number of cut patterns to cut in the X and Y directions. Calibration Rotation: Displays the degree of rotation required to calibrate the galvanometer to the work surface.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Before
After
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
VISION TAB
The Vision tab is used to calibrate the camera(s). Select the desired camera to be calibrated from the tree list if multiple cameras are being used. NOTE: If your machine does not include any cameras, you will not have the Vision Tab installed in your AcuBeam software.
Coordinate Calibration
Camera Coordinate Calibration Determines the selected cameras offset and rotation relative to the center of the galvo FOV. Large Circle Diameter: Enter the desired large circle diameter (in inches). (The small circle diameter is 50% of the large circle diameter). Circle Cut Offset: Enter the X and Y offset values for positioning the cut circles. NOTE: Only non-zero if the camera is with the FOV of the galvo
Calibrated Camera Position Camera Offset: Displays the current X and Y camera offset (in inches). Camera Rotation: Displays the current rotational camera position (in degrees). Last Calibration Time: Displays the date and time of the last camera calibration. Calibrate button: Click the Calibrate button to calibrate the camera.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
LASER TAB
The Laser tab is used to modify the laser power if needed as indicated by the power probe checks procedures, see the Power Probe Checks procedure in the Operation section of this guide. The measurements and entries allow the system to compensate for the lasers power loss at the work surface due to dusty mirrors, laser derogation, etc.
NOTE: Making a change here will affect all laser processing Power Calibration Rated Power: Enter the rated power for the laser (in watts). Measured Power: Using a power probe, measure the laser power and enter the measured value. Power Meter Scale: This value is used to scale the input from the high speed power detector (if you have this option installed) Do NOT change this value unless directed to do so by Preco. Laser Trigger Laser Power: Enter the desired laser power as a percentage of the rated power. Actual Laser Power: Displays the actual laser power being produced (in watts). Trigger Timer button: Enter the amount of time (in seconds) that the laser will fire when the Laser Trigger button is pressed.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Laser Trigger button: Click this button to fire the laser to test the power using a power probe.
JOB EXECUTE I/O CONTROL BUTTONS REGION

The I/O Control buttons are used to activate various (optional) peripheral devices. Click on the I/O buttons once to activate and again to de-activate. They are also activated using the Ctrl + corresponding function key (F key) from the keyboard. NOTE: The I/O Control buttons may vary according to your system configuration. Refer to the OPERATIONS INTERFACE section of the system operations manual that accompanies this guide for system specific information. NOTE: Only the available I/O Control buttons for your system configuration are visibly labeled.
SETUP MODE INTERFACE

This section describes the operating interface of the AcuBeam Setup Mode. For more information regarding the AcuBeam Job Execute Mode, see JOB EXECUTE MODE INTERFACE earlier in this section.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE MAIN SCREEN

The following figure displays the main screen for AcuBeam Setup Mode. See the SETUP MODE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS in this section for a description of the main screen regions.
Figure 4. AcuBeam Setup Mode Main Screen
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS

The Setup Mode main screen regions are described in the following sections.
SETUP MODE MENU TOOL BAR REGION

The Setup Mode Menu Tool Bar options are displayed in a drop-down menu when an option is selected. Move your mouse pointer to select (highlight) an option. The menu topics are discussed in the following sections.
SETUP MODE FILE MENU

The File Menu lists options for opening, saving, and printing files. This menu also displays a list of the most recently opened documents.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE FILE MENU OPTIONS

The File menu options are described in the following table. Option Description
If a drawing is displayed on the screen that has not been saved, the New option displays the Save dialog screen to save the current drawing. New If a drawing is displayed on the screen that has been saved, the New option clears the screen of the current drawing. The blank drawing uses the defaults stored in the startup.drg file. These defaults include palette size, scale, units, and background color.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Displays the Open dialog screen. If a drawing is displayed on the screen that has not been saved, the Open option displays the Save dialog screen to save the current drawing. The Open option lets you open the following file types: AutoCAD *.dwg and *.dxf files. AcuBeam *.drg and *.glv files. NOTE: If there is no *.dat file associated with the drawing files, it will be generated at this time. AutoCAD Versions 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 are supported. The version number must be set in the Settings Menu under DWG/DXF Conversion Settings. Open As the drawing loads, a loading status bar at the bottom of the screen will show the progress of the load. When a *.glv file is opened, the *.drg file that shares the same prefix and the *.pen, *.aut, and *.fld files that are in the header of this file are loaded with it. If these files are not found, a message appears informing the operator of this issue and the current settings are kept. When AcuBeam is initially launched, the default files in the Settings section are loaded. All of the objects are displayed in the Layer/Group/Path Box Window of an AcuBeam *.drg drawing. If an AutoCAD *.dwg or *.dxf file is loaded, all of the entities are exploded and assigned names.
Load/ Append
Loads/Appends a file into a currently open file. For example, a *.dxf or a *.dwg drawing file. Saves changes to your drawing file. If the current drawing has not yet been saved, Save operates exactly the same as the Save As option.
Save
If the current drawing has been previously saved, selecting the Save option saves your drawing under the current filename. Save, saves the file in a *.drg extension. NOTE: If the drawing is saved as an AutoCAD (*.dwg or *.dxf) file, no drawing title information is stored.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Saves the changes to a drawing file with a different file name. Save as When you select Save As, the standard Windows Save dialog box appears. NOTE: If the drawing is saved as an AutoCAD (*.dwg or *.dxf) file, no information is stored regarding the titling of the drawing. Creates a *.glv file for execution. The cut file contains all of the information that is used for automation control, laser power control, and cut path geometry. It uses the same file name as the currently loaded *.drg file. NOTE: If no drawing has been previously loaded, this menu item is not displayed. Displays the Print Setup dialog box.
Create Cut File
Print Setup
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Displays the Print dialogue box, prints, or plots a drawing
Print
Click on Yes to Exit the system, click on No to cancel the request to Exit the AcuBeam system.
Exit
If AcuBeam is exited, all motion is stopped, the laser is shut off and the shutter is closed (if the laser is not in manual mode).
List of Recent Files
List of the last eight (8) files opened.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE EDIT MENU

The Edit menu displays the undo, redo, copy, paste, delete, and select all options.
SETUP MODE EDIT MENU OPTIONS

The Edit menu options are described in the following table. Option Description
Undo removes the last item created by the user. Using Undo more than once will remove items sequentially until the last save was performed. Redo will replace any items previously deleted by the user. Using the Redo function will add previously deleted items sequentially until no further items can be added. Cut will temporarily delete selected data in the likelihood that the data deleted will be pasted somewhere else within the document. Copies selected item(s) to the clipboard. An item placed on the clipboard remains there until you replace it with a new item. These items can then be pasted back into AcuBeam or into another Windows application by using the Paste command in that application.
Undo
Redo
Cut
Copy
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Places the clipboard contents at the current cursor position. In AcuBeam, the Paste command requires the usage of the gsGetListHandle, gsGetNextPrim and gsGetObject functions to get and cycle through cut paths and groups in the Primitive Hold Area. Once in the Primitive Hold Area, new group names and new cut path names must be assigned for the new items being pasted. The object name and parent name for each item selected can be obtained using the parentname and objname parameters in CadControl32. In addition, after a Paste command is performed, the Layer/Group/Path Box must be updated to be current with the new paths and groups. Deletes the selection set. Unlike the Cut option, the item is not placed on the clipboard. After a Delete command the Layer/Group/Path Box must be updated reflect the paths and groups deleted. Selects all items in the drawing (cut path, groups, etc.). However, it does not select the galvo field outlines that are on a locked layer, the hidden text on a fixed layer, or anything on items on a layer that was locked by the operator.
Paste
Delete
Select All
SETUP MODE VIEW MENU

The View menu lets you manipulate the visual display of the current application.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE VIEW MENU OPTIONS

The VIEW menu options are described in the following table. Option
Work Area Outline Cell Layout Sub cell Layout Directional Arrows
Description
Check this option to display the entire work area outline. Check this option to display the cell layout template. Check this option to display the Sub cell layout template. Check this option to display directional arrows depicting the direction of the cut on the drawing palette. NOTE: Arrows are only visible on selected primitives. Defines the area you want to zoom into by drawing a box around it. Magnifies the drawing at the cursor position at a preset magnification factor. De-magnifies the drawing at the cursor position at a preset de-magnification factor. Displays your whole drawing at the maximum possible size to fit on the screen. Displays the entire sheet of paper and its contents. Steps backward through the last ten zooms performed. After you have used Zoom Previous, you can step forward through your zooms using Zoom Next. Steps forward through zooms after you used Zoom Previous to step backward through them. Refreshes the screen that currently has focus after editing or deleting. Check Show Partial/Full Screen to display the entire screen (no tabs along the left of the screen).
Zoom Window
Zoom In
Zoom Out
Zoom All Zoom Sheet
Zoom Previous
Zoom Next
Refresh Show Partial/Full Screen
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE UNITS MENU

The Units menu lists two options for measurement. Select the desired measurement to use either inches (Inch) or millimeters (Metric).
SETUP MODE UNITS MENU OPTIONS

The Units menu options are described in the following table. Option
Inch Metric
Description
Select inches as the displayed unit of measure. Selects metric as the displayed unit of measure.
SETUP MODE DRAW MENU

The Draw menu lists options for drawing. The Draw menu options coincide with the drawing toolbar on the left side of the drawing palette display region.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE DRAW MENU OPTIONS

The Draw menu drawing tools are described in the following table. Option
Line (Pt to Pt)
Description
Draws separate lines. Each line is a new path. Draws chained Lines. The end of one line automatically marks the start of the next. Series of chained lines makes a path. Creates a Point. Each point is a new path. Draws a Rectangle by two diagonally opposite corners. The four lines making up the rectangle are automatically grouped in TrueCAD so that you can select the whole rectangle by clicking on it once. The 4 line primitives of the rectangle form a path. Draws an arc by three points. Each arc is a new path. Draws an arc by end points and entering a radius. Draws a Line Arc Line sequence. This option inserts an arc with a specified radius at corners while you are drawing to create a smooth sequence of lines and arcs. Each arc is a new path. Draws a Circle by center point and point on circumference. Each Circle is a new path. Draws Ellipses by positioning the center point and entering in the length of the major axis, the aspect ratio and the angle. This option lets you draw full Ellipses. Each Ellipses is a new path.
Lines (Chained)
Point
Rectangle
Arc 3 Point Arc Radius
Line Arc Line
Circle
Ellipse
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Polygon
Draws Polygons entering the number of sides and by positioning the cursor at the center point and then the circumference. When you create a Polygon, the lines in it are automatically grouped so that you can select the whole polygon by clicking on it once. The x line primitives of the Polygon form a path. Draws a Polyline (lines only). Explodes a polyline into individual lines.
Polyline Explode
SETUP MODE SYSTEM MENU

The System menu lists galvanometer configuration options: Configuration and Table/Web Parameters
SETUP MODE SYSTEM MENU OPTIONS

The System menu options are described in the following table. Option
Configuration Table Parameters Web Indexer Parameters
Description
Displays the System Configuration windows. Displays the Table Parameters window. Displays the Web Indexer Parameters window.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE SYSTEM CONFIGURATION WINDOWS
In System Configuration, it is important to understand the components of the cutting field layout: Block, Cell and Sub cell. Block: The block size (block index) is usually set to a multiple of the galvo field of view (FOV) size. NOTE: Block size is only relevant for systems with multiple galvos. Example: For example, if the scan heads on a system have a physical separation of 20 inches, the galvo FOV is 5 inches and the cell size is 5 inches with no overlap, Block Index Y = (number of scan heads Y) x 20 inches The same setting for Block Index X. Cell: The cell division allows for nested part grouping.
Block
Part
Cell
Subcell
This example contains 20 Sub cells per Cell, and six (6) Cells per Block.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Sub cell: The Sub cell size is a further division of the cell that allows for vision registration of individual parts within a cell. The Sub cell size must be smaller than the galvo FOV.
Cell
Subcell
SCREEN 1 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION GENERAL PROPERTY TAB
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Galvo Configuration: This field is a drop-down menu, click on the down arrow and select the configuration associated with your system.
NOTE: Preco recommends that you do not modify this field value once setup in the initial configuration of your system. Center to Center Dist. (in): Displays the physical distance between the galvo centers.
Table (in): X-Direction: Displays the table work surface size in the X-axis direction as was set in the acubeam.ini file. Table (in): Y-Direction: Displays the table work surface size in the Y-axis direction as was set in the acubeam.ini file.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SCREEN 1 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION TEMPLATES DISPLAY

This region displays the selected galvo configuration template. One of the following templates can be used to dictate the layout of the work area. Single Galvo Dual GalvoHorizontal
Dual GalvoVertical
Tri GalvoHorizontal
Tri GalvoVertical
Issued: 10/26/2011
Quad GalvoHorizontal
Project: AcuBeam
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SCREEN 2 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION BLOCKS PROPERTY TAB
Block Information: These block fields are used to define groups of galvo fields.
Number of Blocks: Displays the number of blocks for the X direction and the Y direction.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Location of the Lower Left Corner of the 1st Block:

Block Offset to Home Position 1st Block Offset to 1 Block
st
2nd Block
Displays the offset from the work area home position to the lower left corner of the first block.
Work Area
Center-to-Center Block Dist: The distance from the center of one block to the center of the next block.
Block Information (Calculated):

These block information fields display the calculated values based on the data entered on the Blocks, Cells, and Sub cells property tables. Size (in): The block size (in inches) is calculated as follows:
Block Size = CO + CS + (CN-1) x CCC + (GN-1) X GCC Block Overlap = BS BCC
Legend: Cell Offset (CO), Number of Cells (CN), Cell Size (CS), Cell Overlap (COV), Cell Center to Center (CCC), Block Size (BS), Block Center-to-Center Distance (BCC), Number of Galvos (GN), Galvo Center to Center (GCC)
NOTE: A negative number (value) in this field indicates separation between the blocks. Replicate 1st Block: Check this box to replicate the first block. All geometry cut out in the first block will be automatically cut in the remaining blocks.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SCREEN 3 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION CELLS PROPERTY TAB
Cell Information: Definition of the cell layout within each block.
Number of Cells Per Galvo: Displays the number of cells per galvo.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Cell Offset Relative to the Block Origin: The distance to the first cell from the block origin.
Cell Offset to Block Origin Block 1st Cell 2ndCell Offset to 1st Cell
Center to Center Cell Dist: The distance from the center of one cell to the center of the next cell. Load Defaults button: Click to load a default cell layout. Cell Information (Calculated): These cell information fields display the calculated values based on the data entered in the Cell Input fields. Total Cells Per Block: Displays the number of cells per block. Size: The cell size is calculated as follows: Cell Size = SO + SS + (SN 1) x SO Cell Overlap: Displays the cell overlap or separation. The cell overlap is calculated as follows: Cell Overlap = CS CCC Legend:
Cell Size (CS), Cell Offset (CO), Number of Cells (CN), Cell Overlap (COV), Cell Center to Center Distance (CCC), Sub cell Size (SS), Sub cell Offset (SO), Number of Sub cells (SN), Sub cell Overlap (SOV)
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
NOTE: A negative number in this field indicates that there is separation between cells. Replicate 1st Cell: Check this box to replicate the first block. All geometry cut out in the first block will be automatically cut in the remaining blocks.
SCREEN 4 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION SUB CELL PROPERTY TAB
The Sub cell property tab is used to enter and modify Sub cells information for the current job.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Sub cell Information: These Sub cell fields are used to define which portions of the geometry are processed at each cut location. Number of Sub cells Per Cell: Displays the number of Sub cells per cell. Size (in): Displays the size of the Sub cell in inches. Sub cell Offset Relative to the Cell Origin: The offset distance to cell origin.
Sub-Cell Offset to Cell Origin Cell 3rd Sub 4th Sub cell cell 1st Sub 2nd Sub cell cell
Offset to 1st Sub Cell
Center to Center Sub-Cell Distance: The distance from the center of one Sub cell to the center of the next Sub cell. Load Defaults Button: Click to load a default Sub cell layout. Sub cell Information (Calculated): These galvo information fields displays the calculated values based on the data entered in the Sub cell Input fields.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
NOTE: Use the center-to-center distance to introduce Sub cell overlap if necessary. Sub cell Overlap: Displays the Sub cell overlap or separation. The Sub cell overlap is calculated as follows: Sub cell Overlap = SS SCC
Legend: Sub cell Size (SS), Sub cell Offset (SO), Number of Sub cells (SN), Sub cell Overlap (SOV), Sub cell Center to Center Distance (SCC)
NOTE: A negative number in this field indicates that there is separation between cells. Replicate 1st Sub cell: When checked this check box indicates that all information in the first Sub cell will also be cut in the other Sub cells.
SCREEN 5 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION PROCESS ON THE FLY TAB
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
The Process On The Fly property tab is used to enter and modify galvo information for the current job. Galvo 1, 2, or 3 These fields are used to enter and modify how and when the galvos (up to four) process files on-the-fly in web applications.
Trigger Mode
Trigger Mode: This drop down list provides the following options: Disabled: Disables the selected galvo. Distance: The selected galvo processes when the web has moved the distance defined in the Distance mode repeat field (only visible when Distance is selected). Eye Spot: The selected galvo processes when an eye spot mark is sensed but at a delayed point as defined in the Eye Spot Offset field (only visible when Eye Spot is selected.) Fixed Beam: The selected galvo processes continually as a fixed beam.
Retract speed Enter the speed at which the selected galvo returns to the beginning point of the cut pattern (in inches or millimeters per second). If the value is too high, the galvo mirrors may not be settled after the retracttoo low and the maximum throughput will be slowed. Distance mode repeat Enter the distance the web must travel between processing when Distance has been selected in the Trigger Mode field (in inches or millimeters).
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Eye Spot Offset Visible only if Eye Spot is selected in the Trigger Mode drop-down menu. Enter the distance processing will begin after an eye spot has been detected (in inches or millimeters). Speed Compensation Time Because there is a very slight delay between the command to begin the cut pattern and when the cut actually begins, a compensation time (in milliseconds) can be entered in this field.
WEB CONTROLLED PROCESS ON-THE-FLY
Eye Spot Spacing Enter the distance between the eye spot marks on the product (in inches). If an eye spot mark is not detected and the Queue Eye Spots box is not checked, the system will process at this distance anyway. It will skip processing at the missing eye spot location if the Queue Eye Spots box is checked. Synchronize Galvos Galvo cut process timing can be controlled by a selected galvo(s). When the signal to process is received by this galvo, the other galvos begin processing. The drop-down list contains a configuration number (1-6) followed by a dash and the galvo numbers. The first number is the controlling galvo: Disabled (disables the synchronize galvos feature) 1-12 (galvo 1 controls galvo 2) 2-123 (galvo 1 controls galvos 2 and 3) 3-23 (galvo 2 controls galvo 3) 4-34 (galvo 3 controls galvo 4) 5-1234 (galvo 1 controls galvos 2, 3, and 4) 6-12,34 (galvo 1 controls galvo 2 and 3 controls galvo 4) NOTE: Your system may have fewer than 4 galvos. Queue Eye Spots box The Trigger Mode drop down menu must be set to Eye Spot to enable this function.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
If this box is not checked the trigger point distance is constantly adjusted to coincide with the eye spot mark. If an eye spot is missed, the cut process will trigger anyway based on the distance setting. If this box is checked the eye spot location is placed in a buffer. If the location gets too far from the distance value, the location is removed from the buffer and the cut process is skipped. This allows for randomly located eye spots.
SETUP MODE SYSTEM TABLE PARAMETERS WINDOW

For system using an X/Y table only.
This option displays the Table Parameters window. This window is used to display or modify table movement parameters.
WARNING:
Modify the following parameters with caution as the X/Y table may become unstable.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
System 1 Rapid
Maximum Acceleration Rate (mm/sec^2): The table will not accelerate faster than this setting. Acceleration Time (msec): Amount of time required to reach the desired speed. S-Curve (%): Rate of changes in acceleration. The S-Curve percent smoothes out acceleration changes resulting in less jerking and less vibration. Feedrate (mm/sec): Maximum table speed.
Homing
X Offset (mm): X-axis distance from table position 0,0. Y Offset (mm): Y-axis distance from table position 0,0. Z-Offset (mm): X-axis distance from table position 0,0. U-Offset (mm): X-axis distance from table position 0,0. V-Offset (mm): X-axis distance from table position 0,0. W-Offset (mm): X-axis distance from table position 0,0.
Tolerances
In Position Band (mm): Table destination tolerance. The table is deemed in position if its actual position is within this distance of the commanded position. In Position Servo Cycles: Number of servo cycles during which the table needs to be within the In Position Band in order for processing to continue.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Table Load/Unload Positions: X/Y table load/unload positions. Part Load: Used in conjunction with the Automation Tab (see 78), Part Header Automation. If Part Loading is checked, the position must be entered in this field.
X (mm): X-axis table load position. Y (mm): Y-axis table load position. Part Unload: Used in conjunction with the Automation Tab (see page 78), Part Footer Automation. If Part Unloading is checked, the position must be entered in this field.
X (mm): X-axis table unload position. Y (mm): Y-axis table unload position. Manual Load/Unload: Used in conjunction with the Load/Unload button on the Job Execute screen Cycle buttons. Click on the Load/Unload button, then Run to move the table to the load/unload position entered in this field.
X (mm): X-axis table load/unload position. Y (mm): Y-axis table load/unload position.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE SYSTEM WEB INDEXER PARAMETERS WINDOW

For web based systems only.
This option displays the Web Indexer Parameters window. This window is used to display or modify web indexer movement parameters.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Coordinate System 1 Pulses Per Unit Web Indexer: Defines how many encoder pulses per unit of measure for the web indexer. Rapid Maximum Acceleration Rate (in/sec^2): Sets a limit to the commanded acceleration magnitude for jog and programmed web index moves. If the acceleration time parameter is set too low and requests a higher rate of acceleration, this rate is used. Acceleration Time (msec): Establishes the time spent in acceleration in a jog or programmed web indexer move. If this parameter requires acceleration higher than the maximum acceleration rate, this parameter is ignored. S-Curve (%): Establishes the percentage of the acceleration time spent doing S-Curve acceleration modification. The S-Curve smoothes out the acceleration by changing the acceleration profiles resulting in less jerking and vibration. If acceleration time requires acceleration higher than the maximum acceleration rate, this parameter is ignored. Feedrate (mm/sec): Maximum programmed web indexer move speed.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Tolerances: Displays tolerances. In Position Band (mm): Table destination tolerance. The table is deemed in position if its actual position is within this distance of the commanded position. In Position Servo Cycles: Number of servo cycles during which the table needs to be within the In Position Band in order for processing to continue. Unwind Direction: Controls the unwinder reel rotation direction and the rotation speed based on the core diameter.
Rewind Direction: Controls the rewinder reel direction of rotation, and the speed of rotation based on the core diameter.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE SETTINGS MENU

The Settings menu options are End Point Tolerances and Snap Mode.
END POINT TOLERANCES OPTION

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

The Snap Mode option displays the Snap Mode window. Snaps are used to position the cursor exactly on a specific point. There are ten submenus associated with this mode, which are described in the table following the figure. You can also use Ctrl/right click to activate a Snap Mode selection dialogue box. This is useful while drawing or measuring objects.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Option
Freehand Snap is disabled.
Description
Moves the cursor to the closest point, intersection or grid point enclosed within the cursor box. This function searches within the cursor box in the following order: 1. If a point (such as, a point, end of a line, end of an arc, an arc or circle center) is found in the box, the cursor jumps to the nearest one. 2. If a geometry intersection is found in the box, the cursor jumps to the nearest one. 3. If any other intersection is found in the box, the cursor jumps to the nearest one. 4. If a grid point is found in the box, the cursor jumps to the nearest one. Snap to End Point Move to the end of the nearest line. Moves the cursor to the nearest arc or circle center. Move your cursor close the circle center you want to jump to. Click the mouse pointer. The cursor jumps exactly onto the circle center. Moves the cursor to the nearest point on the nearest line or arc. Moves the cursor to the nearest intersection of the primitives. Move to tangent point of nearest arc or circle. Must not be the first point of a primitive. Move to perpendicular point on nearest line or arc. Not active with first point of primitive.
Snap to All
Circle Center
Snap to Nearest Line Snap to Line Intersect
Snap to Tangent
Snap to Perpendicular
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE TOOLS MENU

The Tools Menu is used to access the calculator or to open a Windows text file.
SETUP MODE TOOLS MENU OPTIONS

The Tools menu options are described below:
Calculator
Displays the calculator tool. In the Calculators View menu, you can select between the Scientific Calculator (shown) and a Standard Calculator.
Notepad
Opens a text document in Notepad.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE HELP MENU

The Help menu displays the available online help topics.
SETUP MODE HELP MENU OPTIONS

The Help menu options are described in the following table. Option
Manuals
Description
Opens the AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software Users Guide. Displays a screen that lists information about the AcuBeam application such as the version number and how to contact Preco, Inc. (telephone numbers, address, and the website).
About
SETUP MODE STATUS BAR REGION

The Setup Mode Status Bar region displays directives from the software when an action is required.
Status Bar
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE DRAWING PALETTE REGION

The Setup Mode Drawing Palette region can be used to display a graphic representation of the part geometry after a cut path file is loaded. You can also draw the geometry that represents the cut path for new parts. See the Setup Mode Draw Menu earlier in this section for a description of the drawing tools along the left-side of the drawing palette.
CAD control Command line: Used to enter a CAD control command. Displays the current X/Y drawing position. The first number is the X-axis position, and the second number is the Y-axis position.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
SETUP MODE PROPERTIES REGION

The Setup mode properties region contains the Automation, Vision, Galvo-Pen Settings and Group/Path Settings tabs.
AUTOMATION TAB
The Automation tab is used for setting up automation that occurs at specific intervals during the cutting of a part. Use the automation control display to select the automation level. The fields shown below the display apply to the selected automation step. The fields shown in this area apply to the automation step selected in the Automation control Display
Automation Control Display
The fields shown in the Part Header Information apply to the automation step selected in the Automation Control Display
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Automation file selection field: Click on the drop down arrow and select an automation file, or click on the ellipsis button and select an automation file from another directory. Automation control display area: Used to configure automation before and after each Part, Block, Cell, Sub cell and Part Layer. Header and footer names appear in bold if they contain digital IO or configuration delays.
Part Header Automation Part Load Index: Click on this check box to enable part load indexing. Layer Header Automation Cut Enable: Click on the check box to enable cutting on the selected layer. The selected layer is only cut when this box is checked. Vision Implemented: Click on this check box to apply vision to the selected layer. The field information display for digital inputs and outputs: X: Not Applicable 1: ON 0: OFF Click on the ellipsis button, to the right of the field, to display the Pre-index Digital I/O Automation Settings window or the Post-index Digital I/O Automation Settings window.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Click on the ellipsis button, to the right of the field, to display the Digital I/O Automation Settings window, sample at left. The Digital Input Delay entered (milliseconds) will be applied after the specified inputs are satisfied.
Cut Repeat Count: Displays the number of times to cut the layer. Enter the correct number of times for the layer cut to be repeated.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
VISION TAB
The Vision tab is used to associate fiducials to Sub cells and to also configure how each fiducial is captured by the camera system. Vision file Selection Field: Displays the requested vision file. Click on the down arrow and select a vision file or click on the ellipsis button and select a vision file from another directory. This file name should be the name of the file that was used for fiducial training in your vision software program. Fiducials: Displays the known fiducials. Used to select a fiducial to assign to one or more Sub cells. All circles on Layer 10 will be displayed here. Layer 10 is the fiducial layer. Sub cells: Displays the Sub cells. Used to select one or more Sub cells that will use the selected fiducial. Hold the Shift key to select multiple contiguous Sub cells. Hold the Ctrl key to select noncontiguous Sub cells. Capture Location Selection field: Select the type of capture location. The capture location is the position of the X/Y table when the camera captures the vision image.
Capture Location Section
Fiducials Display
Capture Location Equals Cut Location: Vision capture occurs when the table reaches a given Sub cell. You must select the capture Sub cell. Manual Capture Location: You must enter the capture location. Select Button: Click on the Select button to allow the use of the mouse to select the capture location on the drawing palette. The Select button is only used with Manual Capture Location. You can also jog the table to the camera FOV.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Automatic Capture: The capture locations are set automatically. The table will move so that the nearest camera is over the fiducial. X: Location of the Sub cell center. Y: Location of the Sub cell center. Assign Button: Click on the Assign button to assign the vision system information to the selected fiducial. NOTE: The Assign button must be pressed whenever changes are made to the fiducial locations. Selected Fiducial Info: Displays the Sub cells that will use the current fiducial for cut registration. X: Displays the fiducial nominal X location in the part drawing. Y: Displays the fiducial nominal Y location in the part drawing. Remove Button: Click on the Remove button to exclude the selected Sub cell from the list of Sub cells assigned to the current fiducial.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
GALVO PEN SETTINGS TAB

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

Note: These controls affect all pens in the current pen file. Pen File Selection Field Variable Polygon Delay: Allows varying the length of the polygon delay depending on the angle between two (2) successive marking vectors. More acute angles receive longer delays than obtuse angles. Max Polygon Delay (microseconds): Enter the maximum allowed variable polygon delay. The delay should be set to a value that narrowly avoids a burn-in effect (ie laser on, stationary, and burning a hole). The laser will shut off after this delay. Variable Jump Delay: A variable delay time (for the lag between set position and real position) after each jump command. Longer jumps will incur longer delays for mirror settling. Min Jump Delay (microseconds): Enter the minimum allowed jump delay. Min Jump Length (%FOV): Minimum allowed jump length (this value is a percentage of the FOV). Jumps shorter than this value have variable delays assigned to them down to the minimum jump delay. Pen file selection field: Click on the down arrow to select a pen file, or click on the ellipsis button, to the right of the field, to select a pen file from another directory.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
PEN VARIABLES: CUT

Speed (mm/sec) Mark: Sets the speed at which the scan head moves the beam during cutting. Jump: Sets the speed at which the scan head moves the beam position when not cutting. Delays (microseconds) Mark: Sets the time delay that allows for the lag that occurs during a series of mark commands. Jump: Sets the delay time (for the lag between set position and real position) after each jump command. Polygon 90: Sets the delay between any two contiguous vectors. If variable polygon delay is not enabled, the delay will always be the same regardless of the intersection angle. If variable polygon delay is enabled, this value specifies the delay applied between two vectors meeting at a 90 degree angle. The delay applied to vectors meeting at different angles will be scaled using this value and Max Polygon Delay. Laser On: Sets the delay time between the start of a mark and the moment the laser is actually turned ON. Laser Off: Sets the delay time to allow for the difference between the set position and the real position of each mirror.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Power Control
Mode selection field: Click on the down arrow and select a mode. AcuPower Mode: In this mode, the laser pulse rate is controlled by the AcuPower system. The AcuPower system controls the power and frequency coming from the laser. Single Pulse Mode: In this mode, each time the laser is turned ON a single pulse is output. The laser pulses for a programmed amount of time. CW Mode: In this mode, the laser is ON at a programmed or set (by operator) power or OFF. This mode does not use the axis inputs; therefore table motion or position does not affect the laser. Power Min / Power Max (%): Power values are limits imposed on the modulated duty cycle going to the laser. The power minimum and maximum set points are entered in percentage of laser duty cycle. Duty cycle will never drop below power minimum. Duty cycle will never rise above power maximum. NOTE: Some laser manufacturers may have maxi-mum duty cycle limits pre-imposed on their laser controls.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Cut Power (%): Cut power (in percentage), along with velocity maximum, defines the desired relationship between the mirror speed and the laser duty cycle. An entry of 50% would give half power at velocity maximum - provided power minimum is less than 50% and power maximum is greater than 50%. Frequency (Hz): Frequency is the laser pulse rate controlled by the AcuPower system. Minimum and maximum laser frequency settings are determined by the laser control manufacturer; typical maximum frequency range from 20 kHz and higher. Velocity Min / Velocity Max (mm/s): Velocity values define the range of Mark Speed velocities. These mini-mum and maximum velocities are used by the AcuPowerTM system to calculate the modulated power duty cycle output. Velocities greater than the maximum will have the power set point output; mirror velocities between the minimum and maximum will have the duty cycle output linearly translated between the zero (0) and power set point. Generally, the velocity minimum is set relatively close to zero and the velocity maximum setting is near, but less than, the mark speed velocity setting. A velocity maximum value greater than the mark velocity speed setting would not allow the system to get to maximum duty cycle. Velocity Max = Mark Speed: When this box is checked, the Velocity Maximum is always set to be equal to the Mark Speed. If not checked, the Velocity Maximum may be set independently from Mark Speed.
ANALOG CONTROLS
Power Override (watts): This field is used to control how many watts of power the laser will produce with this pen (dependant on the system capability). First Pulse Power/Duration On applicable systems, these values control energy levels and durations of the first pulse
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
PEN VARIABLES: CUTTER COMPENSATION
Cutter Compensation is a feature in AcuBeam which allows the user to compensate the cut path of lines and arcs in a cut file within AcuBeam without having to use a third-party program to adjust the cut paths manually. Cutter Compensation moves lines and arcs by a desired amount in order to compensate for the size of the laser kerf. Enabled: When this box is checked, cutter compensation is enabled for all pens within the currently selected pen file. Any parts cut when this box is checked will have compensated cut locations. The positions of objects on the drawing palette will not change. If this box is unchecked, all cut locations will match those seen in the drawing palette (i.e. no compensation) Right: The cut location of all objects using this pen will be moved to the right by the amount specified; clockwise circles will get smaller. This will only occur if Enabled is checked. Left: The cut location of all objects using this pen will be moved to the left by the amount specified. Clockwise circles will get larger. This will only occur if Enabled is checked. Amount: The amount of compensation to apply. This value is usually half of the laser kerf size and should be selected by cutting and measuring the part. The amount will only be applied if the Enabled button is checked.
ACUBEAM CUTTER COMPENSATION DETAILS

Cutter Compensation is a pen-based setting which gives the user the ability to compensate some objects and not compensate others. Lines
Issued: 10/26/2011 Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved. Project: AcuBeam
and arcs that are to be compensated will not move on the drawing palette within AcuBeam but will change position when the part is cut. When Cutter Compensation is enabled, every pen that has either the Right or Left checkboxes checked and an amount greater than 0 in the amount textbox will have compensation applied according to the settings. NOTE: Before executing the cut, the user must make sure that only the pens they want compensated have a Right or Left checkbox checked and a compensation amount placed in the textbox.
Figure 1. Left Side Compensation
Figure 2. Right Side Compensation
When compensation is applied to lines meeting at an angle, the line cut positions will be moved according to the cutter compensation settings for the pen. Notice in the example Figure 2 an arc is added to the outside of the vertex when the compensation is performed.
RULES FOR USING CUTTING COMPENSATION

Connected lines and arcs will use the pen settings of the first line or arc in the group. This ensures that the connected lines and arcs will compensate the same amount and in the same direction. Any points that are part of a polyline will be ignored. Arcs having a radius smaller than the compensation amount will be deleted when 1.) the arc is clockwise and the compensation setting is to the right, or 2.) when the arc is counter-clockwise and the compensation direction is to the left. An invalid cut file error will occur when more than two lines intersect a single point on a single layer. If more than two lines meet at a single point on a layer you may be able to move one or more of the lines to different layers. The lines will still compensate by the same amount, however, any gaps created between lines on separate layers will not be filled in with arcs.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
GROUP/PATH SETTINGS TAB

The Group/Path Settings tab is used for viewing or setting the order in which objects (primitives) are cut. Layer Selection Layer Selection field: Click on the down arrow and select the layer to be viewed or modified. Group/Path/Primitives Primitive Swap Ends Button: Changes the direction the cut travels while pressing the selected primitive. Group Create button: Creates a group of all selected primitives. Ungroup button: Breaks or ungroups a group of objects. Move Click on the directional arrows to Move objects up or down in the list of primitives in the display area. This changes the cut order. Modifiers Transform Button: Opens a window that allows for linear translation, rotation and scaling. See Transform Window. Array Button: Configures a Step and Repeat Pattern for the selected objects. New objects are generated for each item arrayed. They are replicated on the original layer. Group Information Shows the objects (primitives) that are members of the selected group. Move: Click on the directional arrows to move a primitive up or down within the group.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
TRANSFORM WINDOW
The Transform window is used to modify selected objects by using Mirroring, Position, Rotation, and Sizing functions.
Mirroring Mirrors the selected object(s). Position Repositions the selected object(s). Rotation Modifies the degree of rotation for the selected object(s). Sizing Scales the selected object(s). Click the Maintain Aspect Ratio option for proportionate scaling.
Press OK to apply your changes and close this window. Press Apply to save your changes. Press Close to close the window.
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Project: AcuBeam
ARRAY WINDOW
The Array window is used to replicate parts in a drawing. Array Total: Displays the total (inclusive) number of objects created. Columns Number of Columns: Enter the number of columns. Column Spacing: Enter the amount of space (mm) between columns. Rows Number of Rows: Enter the number of rows and the desired space between rows. Row Spacing: Enter the amount of space (mm) between rows. Center to Center: Select if spacing is to be measured from center-to-center. Close button: Click this button to close the Selection Array window. Apply button: Click this button to apply the changes made.
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Project: AcuBeam
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Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Programming Reference 93
OPERATION
This section describes the Operation and activities for the AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software System. NOTE: Your AcuBeam software was formatted for your machine. Some of the information and images in this section may not be applicable nor look identical to your version of AcuBeam.
TO LOAD THE ACUBEAM SOFTWARE PROGRAM

1. Power ON the system computer and monitor. 2. Wait until Windows is fully loaded. 3. Double-click on the AcuBeam icon to load the AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software program.
TO EXIT THE ACUBEAM SOFTWARE PROGRAM

1. Click the (Close button) at the far right of the title bar, or 2. Click the File menu, and then select Exit, the following dialog window is displayed, 3. Click on Yes to exit AcuBeam.
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Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 94 Programming Reference
GALVANOMETER CALIBRATION
The calibration process is accessed from the Job Execute mode screen. Click on the Job Execute button and then click on the Calibrate button. The Calibration window contains three (3) tabs: Galvo, Vision, and Laser. Click on the appropriate tab for the calibration procedure you wish to perform.
BEAM FOCUS
The laser beam must be accurately focused to ensure efficiency. There are three ways to determine the optimal beam focus point. Use the combination of methods that is the most comfortable for you. Focus using the Smallest Point Method: Burn a point on burn paper and adjust to the smallest point, Focus using the Tent-shaped Target Method: Burn a line on a tent-shaped burn paper target and adjust until the narrowest part of the beam is at the work surface, Focus using the Measured Cut Method: Burn repeated cuts and measure their width with an optical gauge. Adjust to produce the narrowest cut.
NOTE: Using the Focus Adjustment Counter, make very small adjustments until this focus point is achieved.
FOCUS USING THE SMALLEST POINT

1. Place a target sheet on the work surface. 2. Open the Exhaust.
Counter
3. Open the Laser Shutter. 4. Move the Locking Lever to unlock the LT Focus Adjustment Counter. (See figure at left.) 5. Using the laser trigger, make a quick, pulse burn onto the burn paper and adjust focus by turning the Focus Adjustment Knob and Counter (focus micrometer) to calibrate until the burn mark is at its smallest point.
Focus Adjustment Knob Locking Lever
NOTE: The Adjustment Counter number and save the number for easy reference.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
FOCUS USING THE TENT-SHAPED TARGET METHOD

Tented Target
1. Place a new target sheet in the shape of a tent on the work surface. (See the Figure at left.) 2. Open the Laser Shutter. 3. Click on the Job Execute mode button. 4. Click on the Calibrate button to display the calibration tabs window.
Worksurface
5. Click on the Galvo button to display the Galvo tab window. 6. Click System, Galvo, Focus Line. 7. Select a Cut Speed and Power. 8. Select the Start Point and End Point locations.
Beam Profile
9. Click the Run button to perform the cut pattern(s) onto the target sheet. Adjust the focus until the narrowest part of the beam profile is located at the work surface. (See Figure at left.)
Cut Line Work Surface
NOTE: Using the Focus Adjustment Counter, make very small adjustments until this focus point is achieved.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
FOCUS USING THE MEASURED CUT METHOD

1. Continue to check cuts for quality and number cuts with the Adjustment Counter (make note of the counter number next to each line) until an acceptable cut is attained. 2. If an optical gauge is available, measure the cut widths until the narrowest cut is attained. 3. Close the Laser Shutter. 4. Lock the LT Focus Adjustment Counter. NOTE: Using the Focus Adjustment Counter, make very small adjustments until this focus point is achieved.
GRID CALIBRATION
1. Click on the Job Execute mode button to display the Job Execute screen.
2. Click on the Calibrate button to display the calibration tabs window.
3. Click on the Galvo tab to display the Galvo tab window.
4. Select the System, Galvo, and Grid Calibration.
5. Select a correction file by clicking on the down-arrow, or click on the ellipse button to create or open a new correction file.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
6. Measure the distance from the scan head to the work surface. Place the product to be cut on the work surface. Using a tape measure or square ruler measure the perpendicular distance from the bottom of the Scan Head protective window to the top surface of the product on the work surface. (See figure below.)
Scanhead
Working Distance Protective Window
7. If necessary, enter the correct Field Size value or Working Distance in the respective field.
NOTE: You only need to enter the correct value into one of the two fields. Since these two values are interrelated, modifying the value of one field automatically updates the value of the other field. The Calibration Margin is automatically calculated.
8. Place a sheet of suitable material on the worksurface below the galvo protective window. Make sure that it is lying perfectly flat.
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Project: AcuBeam
9. Determine which of the following methods of measurement are best for your system and select that method of calibration from the pull down. If you have the Automatic Grid Calibration option you should choose from one of the Auto options. If you are using a 2-axis measuring device, select the 9, 25, 81, or 289 point grid. Otherwise, if you have only a single axis measurement device such as a caliper or ruler select the 16 line option. Manual single axis grid measurement: Use this method only if you do not have a 2-axis measurement device. This method allows the use of a single axis measurement device such as a caliper or a ruler. Select the 16 line grid calibration option. a) Click on the Run button to cut a grid. b) Measure the length of each line and enter the value into the appropriate Line Distance field c) Click on the Apply button after entering all correction values. Manual 2-axis grid measurement: You must have a 2-axis measurement device that can measure your grid to use this option. Select the 9, 25, 81, or 289 Point grid calibration option. a) Click on the Run button to cut a grid. b) Measure the part and enter the measured values into the Grid Correction table. If your measurement device has export capability you can use the Load button to import the values into the table. Format is one X Y pair on each line. c) Click on the Apply button after entering all correction values.
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Automatic grid measurement: You must have a camera dedicated to Automatic grid calibration to use this option. Select the Auto 9, 25, 81, or 289 Pt grid calibration option. See Auto Grid Calibration Procedures in the Appendix.
IMPORTANT:
Ensure that the paper is lying perfectly flat on the work surface with no wrinkles. NOTE: Acceptable deviations are dependent on the accuracy requirements of the parts being processed.
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GALVO ROTATION CALIBRATION

This procedure is used to change the galvo cutting field rotation. 1. Click on the Job Execute mode button to display the Job Execute screen.
2. Click on the Galvo tab to display the Galvo tab window.
3. Select the System, Galvo, and Rotation.
4. Enter the value of the Cut Pattern Size.
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NOTE: The Cut Pattern Size value should be five (5) percent (%) less than the galvanometer field size. See Field Size in Grid Calibration on page 97. 5. Enter the number of cut patterns to-be-cut in the Cut Pattern Count X and Y fields. 6. Cut a pattern, a) Place a target sheet on the work surface. b) Open the Exhaust. c) Open the Laser Shutter. d) Click the Run button to perform the cut pattern(s) onto the target sheet. 7. Adjust the calibration rotation by entering the degree of rotation in the Calibration Rotation field. This is a repetitious process whereby you cut a pattern, inspect the new pattern, determine a degree of rotation and enter the values into the Calibration Rotation field. For example, a) Cut a pattern. b) Inspect the pattern. c) Determine the degree of rotation required.
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d) Enter the degree value in the Calibration Rotation field.
e) Cut a new pattern. f) Inspect the new pattern.
g) Repeat steps a) through f) until the pattern is at the correct position. 8. Close the Exhaust and close the Laser Shutter. If your system is a single galvanometer system, calibration is complete. Otherwise, go to the GALVO OFFSET CALIBRATION procedure in this section to complete galvanometer calibration.
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OFFSET CALIBRATION
This procedure is used to calibrate a cut pattern offset in a multiple galvanometer system. Refer to offset in the OPERATING INTERFACES section of this manual for more information. 1. Click on the Execute mode button to display the Job Execute screen.
2. Click on the Galvo tab to display the Galvo tab window and Select the System, Galvo and Offset.
3. Enter the Cut Pattern Size value.
NOTE: The Cut Pattern Size should be less than the galvanometer field size and an even multiple of the distance between galvanometers. 4. Cut a pattern, a) Place a target sheet on the work surface. b) Open the Exhaust. c) Open the Laser Shutter. d) Click the Run button to perform the cut pattern(s) onto the target. 5. Inspect the cut pattern and determine if the X-/Y-axis offset adjustment is required. This is a repetitious process whereby you cut a pattern, inspect the new pattern, determine an offset value, and enter the values into the Calibration Offset fields.
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For example, a) Cut a pattern. b) Inspect the pattern.
Y-Axis Offset
Galvo 1 X-Axis Offset
Galvo 1
Galvo 2
Galvo 2
c) Determine an offset value. d) Enter the X-/Y-axis offset values in the Calibration Offset X- and Y- fields.
e) Cut a new pattern. f) Inspect the new pattern.
g) Repeat steps a) through f) until the pattern is at the correct position. 6. Close the exhaust and close the Laser Shutter.
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VISION CALIBRATION
Vision Calibration is a two-step process. Perform the Engineering Units (EU) calibration procedure first, and then perform the Coordinate Calibration procedure. NOTE: The galvanometer Grid Calibration must be completed before performing the Coordinate Calibration.
ENGINEERING UNITS (EU) CALIBRATION

1. Click on the Job Execute button to display the Job Execute screen.
3. Click on the Vision tab to display the Vision tab window.
4. Select the System, Galvo, and Camera.
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5. Select EU Calibration, and click on the EU Calibration button to display the AcuVision II EU Calibration window.
Refer to EU Calibration in the Operator Interface section of the Preco AcuVision II Laser Control Software User Guide. 6. When you complete the AcuVision II EU Calibration procedures, return to the AcuBeam screen to continue vision calibration.
COORDINATE CALIBRATION (IN-FIELD METHOD)

Use this method for systems that have cameras mounted within the galvo field of view (FOV). 1. Click on the Job Execute mode button to display the Job Execute screen.
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4. Select the System, Galvo and Camera.
5. Select Coordinate Calibration.
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6. Enter the size of the large circle diameter. The diameter depends on the field of view (FOV) of your camera. The circle diameter value that is entered should be approximately one third the size of the camera FOV.
7. Find the X and Y offset of the camera FOV center relative to the galvo center. a) Make a pencil mark on the work surface at the approximate center of the camera field of view. b) Measure the distances in X and Y from the center point of a 9-point grid to the pencil mark. 8. Enter the X/Y location of the camera within the galvo FOV. This value needs to be entered so that the large circle will be near the center of the camera FOV.
9. Click on the Run button to cut the circles. 10. Click the Calibrate button (on the Vision tab).
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NOTE: It may be necessary to adjust the threshold values to obtain a clear focus of the circles, see the ADJUSTING THE THRESHOLD VALUES procedure in the ACUVISION II LASER CONTROL SOFTWARE USER GUIDE. 11. In AcuVision II, a) Click the Test button, if the large circle is not in the center of the FOV, repeat steps 8, 9, 10, and 11a. b) Reposition and resize the boxes to surround each circle location. c) Adjust the threshold and filter values. d) Click the Test button, if the Count Field on the screen does not read 2, repeat steps 11c and 11d. e) Click on the Save button. f) Click on the Close button. 12. In AcuBeam, click on the Calibrate button. If the Calibrate button turns red, repeat steps 11b through 12.
COORDINATE CALIBRATION (OUTFIELD METHOD)

Use this method for systems that have cameras mounted outside the galvos field of view (FOV). 1. Click on the Job Execute mode button to display the Job Execute screen.
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4. Select the System, Galvo and Camera then, select Coordinate Calibration.
5. Enter the size of the large circle diameter.
The diameter depends of the field of view (FOV) of your camera. The circle diameter value that is entered should be approximately one third the size of the camera FOV.
6. Enter zeros for the X and Y Circle Cut Offset.
7. Click on the Run button to cut the circles. 8. Click on the Jog mode button.
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9. In AcuVision II, a) Click on the CS Cal button on the Tool Bar of the AcuVision II main screen to display the Coordinate System (CS) Calibration screen. b) Click on the Enable Video button. 10. In AcuBeam, jog the table until the large circle is approximately centered in the cameras FOV. 11. In AcuVision II, a) Click on the Disable Video button. b) Click on the Test button. c) Reposition and resize the boxes to surround each circle location. d) Adjust the threshold and filter values. e) Click on the Test button, if the Count Field does not read 2, repeat steps 11c, 11d and 11e. f) Click on the Save button. g) Click on the Close button. 12. In AcuBeam, a) Click on Calibrate mode. b) Click on the Calibrate button on the Vision tab.
POWER PROBE CHECKS

The Power Probes are calorimeter-type power meters that measure laser power using a timed exposure. They display the average power absorbed on a calibrated readout scale. Power probe checks are done periodically to monitor the laser beam power level. When the power level check determines there is power degradation, the beam path optics need to be cleaned. Each power probe is a self-contained unit consisting of an absorbing head, a temperature measuring mechanism, a zeroing knob, and a readout gauge. In operation, the dial is zeroed. Then, the absorbing head on the end of the Power Probe is exposed to the non-focused laser beam for a specified time interval. After the Power Probe has been removed from the laser beam, read the average laser power on the dial.
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The process takes about one minute. If you need to make several power measurements in succession, immerse the absorbing head in a container of water between measurements to rapidly cool the head.
Absorbing Head Time Inscription
Readout Gauge
1. Press the button on the External Trigger switch. 2. Hold the power probe absorbing head in the laser beam approximately six (6) inches above the focus point (6 inches above the work surface) for the amount of time inscribed on the probe. Use a stop watch for timing.
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Scan Head
Dynamic-Z Module
Power Probe
Corner Block
15 cm Above Work Surface
Power Probe Focus Point (Work Surface)
3. Release the External Trigger switch button. 4. Read the readout gauge.
CAUTION:
DO NOT try to measure at the Focus Point or damage will occur. Take readings six (6) inches above Focus Point. a) If the power check is low, check the power inside the scan head. Hold the Power Probe absorbing head between the Dynamic-Z and the last corner block for the same amount of time. b) Continue to check power back to the laser until the fault is found. Check points (at each corner block) from scan head back to laser. c) If the power probe check determines there is power degradation the beam path optics, from the fault to the work surface, need to be checked and cleaned if necessary. See OPTICS CLEANING in MAINTENANCE section of the system operations manual that accompanies this guide.
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LASER CALIBRATION
The Power Probe Checks procedure must be done before this procedure. See the POWER PROBE CHECKS PROCEDURE earlier in this section. 1. Click on the Execute mode button to display the Job Execute screen.
3. Click on the Laser tab to display the Grid tab window.
4. Enter the laser power (Watts) in the appropriate fields.
5. Click on the Apply button.
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PROGRAMMING REFERENCE
OVERVIEW
This section provides programming reference information for the AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software in a Windows environment. The AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software provides an operating interface to the system for programming laser operation modes, laser parameter settings, and system diagnostics. The AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software programming reference includes information on the following programming issues: File Types and File Interaction Control Events
For more information about the AcuBeam Laser Control Software, refer to the SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION section on page 5 of this guide. For more information about the operating interface, refer to the OPERATOR INTERFACE section on Operator Interface on page 9 of this guide. NOTE: Your AcuBeam software was formatted for your machine. The images in this section may not look identical to your version of AcuBeam.
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FILE TYPE AND FILE INTERACTION OVERVIEW

AcuBeam requires a number of different types of files for operation. These files are described as follows: File Type
Initialization and Setup Files
File Name
acubeam.ini
Description
Stores all of the default (or user set) options that AcuBeam uses at launching. The options include such items as the number of galvos, number of galvo fields, most recent file list, etc. This file also incorporates all of the settings in cad.ini file that TrueCad uses.
startup.drg
When AcuBeam is launched, a blank drawing is displayed that uses the defaults stored in the startup.drg. These defaults include palette size, scale, units and background color.
Four file formats representing the cut path are supported, *.drg (native AcuBeam format) *.dwg (native AutoCad format) *.dxf (AutoCADs data exchange format) HPGL (HP Graphics Language format) These files represent the cut path for only loading into the setup module of AcuBeam and are not used for actual cut path execution. NOTE: The HPGL format is limited in that it does not support layer information where as the other programs may support it.
Group and Cut-Path Files
Galvo Laser data base file
acubeampens.mdb This file is a Microsoft Access Data Base that represents a data base of user selectable laser and galvodelay parameters that are associated with the colors on the drawing. This file can have unlimited entries. xxx.pen Up to 64 pen colors can be downloaded to AcuPower. Multiple Pen Sets can be set up where the user selects the items from the data base. Upon launching AcuBeam, a default pen set is loaded and downloaded to AcuPower. The Pen Set file is referenced in the header of the executable file, xxx.glv. Upon launching AcuBeam a default automation file is loaded. Automation is associated to the layers in the drawing. The automation file is referenced in the header of the executable file, xxx.glv.
Pen Set file
Automation file
xxxx.aut
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File Type
Default Field file
File Name
xxxx.fld
Description
Upon launching AcuBeam, a default field file is loaded. The Field file is referenced in the header of the executable file, xxx.glv. The execute module of AcuBeam uses this file. It contains all of the information that is used for automation control, laser power control, and cut path geometry. This file contains all of the field information for multi-field applications. The xxx prefix component has the same prefix name as the part file name (e.g. same prefix name as the *.drg file). The header of this file contains the references to the xxx.aut, the xxx.fld, xxx.drg and the xxx.pen files. If this file is loaded by AcuBeam, AcuBeam refers to the header of this file and loads the *.drg, xxx.aut, xxx.pen and xxx.fld files associated to this file. If AcuBeam cannot find all of these files, an error message is displayed to the operator and no file is loaded.
Executable file
xxxx.glv
Grid calibration file
*.cor, *.ctb
The *.cor file contains all the required information about all parameters used for geometry field correction. The *.ctb file is required to be downloaded to the Scanlab control cards. The execute module of AcuBeam uses this file. It contains all of the information that is used for automation control, laser power control, and cut path geometry. This file contains all of the field information for multi-field applications. The xxx prefix component has the same prefix name as the part file name (e.g. same prefix name as the *.drg file). The header of this file contains the references to the xxx.aut, the xxx.fld, xxx.drg and the xxx.pen files. If this file is loaded by AcuBeam, AcuBeam refers to the header of this file and loads the *.drg, xxx.aut, xxx.pen and xxx.fld files associated to this file. If AcuBeam cannot find all of these files, an error message is displayed to the operator and no file is loaded.
Executable file
xxxx.glv
Grid calibration file
*.cor, *.ctb
The *.cor file contains all the required information about all parameters used for geometry field correction. The *.ctb file is required to be downloaded to the Scanlab control cards.
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ACUBEAM RULE SETS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Rule sets and assignments are as follows: Laser and galvanometer parameters are associated with pens (colors) of which 64 are available at a given time. Different pen files can be established and selected, each with a limit of 64 pens per file. Automation is associated with layers. Layers are assigned to galvanometer fields. Each layer set has its own set up for automation (that is, wait for index, vision, index X-Y table, etc. All geometry on layer 0 is processed then, all from layer 1, and so on until everything in the sub cell is processed. This is done for each sub cell. If anything is present on layer 5, a second pass is made through al Sub cells to process geometry that exists on that layer. This is useful for large thru-cuts that reduce vacuum for the remainder of the part.
Layer numbers are pre-associated to galvanometer fields as follows:
Layers 0 through 4 (galvo) Layer 5 (galvo) Layers 6 through 9 Layer 10
First pass through all Sub cells Second pass through all Sub cells Fixed Beam Layers (future) Fiducial Layer (vision targets)
PREPARE AND EXECUTE A CUT PATH IN ACUBEAM

This procedure describes how to prepare and execute a cut path in AcuBeam. 1. Generate a part file in a CAD package (such as AutoCAD) or in AcuBeam itself. 2. Select File/Open or File/Load to bring the drawing into AcuBeam. 3. Position the part on the drawing palette in the desired location with respect to the galvanometer field(s). 4. Select System Configuration to set up the work area cells and Sub cells.
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5. Assign a color to the different primitives and/or objects that make up the cut path. The color associates the laser parameters (power, and so on) as well as the galvanometer delay parameters. 6. Array parts as desired if multiple parts are to-be-cut on a sheet. 7. Assign the desired automation parameters to the layers. Automation is associated to each layer, generally for the purpose of sequence control, such as wait for index or obtains vision offset before continuing. 8. Select Job Execute, select Auto, and then select Run.
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Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Flowcharts 121
APPENDIX A: ACUBEAM/ACUVISION II FLOWCHARTS

This appendix provides you with a flow chart that can be used as a quick reference guide of the procedural steps for AcuBeam/ AcuVision II processing. For detailed information, refer to the appropriate procedure in this guide, or in the AcuVision II Laser Control Software User Guide. Please refer to the following shape key guide: NOTE: Your AcuBeam software was formatted for your machine. The images in this section may not look identical to your version of AcuBeam.
Sample Shapes
Description
The oval shape is used to represent procedural steps to be performed by using AcuBeam Laser Control Software.
AcuBeam Steps
AcuVision II Steps
The rectangle shape is used to represent procedural steps to be performed by using AcuVision II Laser Control Software.
Would you like to save the calibrations?
The diamond shape is used to represent a question in the procedural steps.
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AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 122 Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Flowcharts
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AcuBeam/AcuVision II Engineering Units EU Calibration Procedure Flow Chart

Click on EXECUTER button Click on CALIBRATE Mode button Select SYSTEM, GALVO, CAMERA Click on VISION tab Select ENGINEERING UNITS (EU) Click on EU CALIBRATE button
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Place reticle on part Click on ENABLE VIDEO button ** Reposition & resize boxes to surround each dot location **Adjust & test threshold values for each rectangle Click on TEST button Are target dots clear? Yes No Select a Coordinate Location (0-3) Click on APPLY button Type in dot locations from reticle data sheet Click on Area Filter in Pixels tab Check Reticle Area values Click on CLOSE ADVANCE button Click on Calibration Data tab Yes Is BLOB count correct? Would you like to save the Calibration? Yes Click on YES button Click on CLOSE button Go to AcuBeam main screen No No Note: ** You can disable video hereafter if preferred. Each click on the TEST button captures a new image. With video disabled, repositioning, resizing boxes and threshold are more responsive to input. EU-Calibration Not saved Flow Chart Legend AcuBeam Steps AcuVision II Steps Adjust Threshold values
At AcuBeam main screen
Focus camera on part
Click on ADVANCED button
Click on Calibration Data tab
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Flowcharts 123
Click on TEST button
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 124 Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Flowcharts
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AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Appendix B: Galvo and Laser Delays 125
APPENDIX B: GALVO AND LASER DELAYS

This appendix presents additional information about galvo (scan head) and laser control. Also, refer to the SCANLAB RTCX PC INTERFACE BOARD INSTALLATION AND OPERATION manual. NOTE: Your AcuBeam software was formatted for your machine. Some of the information and images in this section may not be applicable nor look identical to your version of AcuBeam.
LASER DELAYS
Laser delays are affected when the laser is turned ON or OFF before or after a Mark command, or a series of Mark commands. Laser delays do not affect the total marking time unless they are negative (a negative value would be used for materials that need more time to react to laser radiation exposure). There are two different laser delays: LaserOn delay and LaserOff delay.
LASERON DELAY
The LaserOn delay is automatically inserted between the start of a mark and the moment the laser is actually turned ON. See the figure on next page.
LASEROFF DELAY
After the execution of a mark command, the laser should not be turned OFF immediately because the scanners have not yet reached the final set position. The LaserOff command in inserted automatically before the laser is turned OFF to allow for the difference between the set position and the real position of each mirror. See the figure on next page.
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AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 126 Appendix B: Galvo and Laser Delays
Laser on Delay
Laser off Delay
Laser
Set Position Position Real Position
Lag
Mark Command
Mark Delay
Time
Figure 5. LaserOn and LaserOff Delay
SCANNER DELAYS
There are three different types of scanner delays: JumpDelay, MarkDelay and PolygonDelay. One of these commands is inserted after each vector command and before the next command is started.
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JUMP DELAY
When executing a jump command, the mirrors first after the last have to be accelerated up to the defined jump speed. Because of the inertia of the mirrors, a lag occurs between the set position and the real position. At the end of the jump, a certain settling time is necessary for the mirrors to reach the set position within some accuracy. To allow for the settling time and for the lag, a JumpDelay command is inserted after each Jump command, before the next command is executed.
Laser
Jump Delay
Set Position Microvectors
Real Position
Lag Position Time
Figure 6. JumpDelay
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MARK DELAY
Although the marking speed is usually lower than the jump speed, a lag between the set position and the real position occurs not only during a jump but also during a mark command. To make sure that the scanners reach the final set position properly before the next command starts, a MarkDelay command is inserted after the last Mark command in a line or a polyline. See figure below. NOTE: If a marking vector is followed by a zero jump vector or a zero marking vector, then the MarkDelay is NOT executed. If a jump vector is followed by a zero jump vector, then the first JumpDelay is not executed. In contrast, the JumpDelay is executed if the jump vector is followed by a zero marking vector.
Laser on Delay
Laser off Delay
Laser
Set Position Real Position
Lag Position
Mark Command
Mark Delay
Time
Figure 7. Mark Delay
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POLYGON DELAY
Between two successive Mark commands there is no need for a complete stop of the scanners. The MarkDelay between two successive Mark commands is replaced by a PolygonDelay. The MarkDelay and the PolygonDelay can be set independently.
Laser off Delay
Laser off Delay
Laser
Set Position Real Position
Time Position Mark Command Polygon Delay Mark Command Polygon Delay Last Mark Command in this Polyline Jump Command etc.
Mark Delay
Figure 8. Polygon Delay
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VARIABLE POLYGON DELAY

Varying the length of the PolygonDelay depends on the angle between the two (2) successive marking vectors. See figure below. For each corner of the polyline, the variable PolygonDelay is calculated as follows: V_delay () = scale () polygon_delay (where scale () is a scaling function (0 scale () 2)
Angle between the vectors of a polygon
Maximum Maximum Polygon Delay - cos Average delay, defined by set_scanner_delays
Figure 9. Variable Polygon Delay
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MAXIMUM POLYGON DELAY

The Maximum Polygon Delay is used to define an edge level. If the polygon delay between two (2) Mark commands is longer than or equal to this value, the laser is turned OFF after the first Mark command after inserting a LaserOff delay and starts a new polyline at the beginning of the next Mark command. See figure below.
Laser on Delay Laser off Delay Laser on Delay Laser off Delay
Mark Command
Mark Command
Last Mark Command in this Polyline
Time
Legend: 1 Variable polygon delay, shorter than the specified level. 2 Variable polygon delay, longer than the Maximum Polygon Delay (laser is turned OFF between the two mark commands). 3 Mark Delay.
Figure 10. Maximum Polygon Delay
OPTIMIZING DELAYS
Delays are set with the set_scanner_delays and set_laser_delays commands. The delays have to be appropriate for the defined jump speed and the marking speed. If the delays are not optimized, the quality of the scanning results will be reduced and scanning time will be extended. Generally, the lengths of the LaserOn delay and the LaserOff delay have no effect on the total scanning time. The LaserOn and LaserOff delays should be optimized first followed by the scanning delays (jump delay, mark delay and polygon delays). It is useful to set the jump delay and the mark delay to long values.
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The following figures show various effects of non-optimized delays: LaserOn Delay too short At the beginning of a mark vector, the laser is switched ON, although the mirrors have not yet reached the necessary angular velocity. Burn-in effects at the start points of the respective vectors.
LaserOn Delay too long The laser is turned on too late at the beginning of a mark vector. The first part of the vector is not marked.
LaserOff Delay too short The laser is turned OFF after the last Mark command of a line or polyline, although the mirrors have not yet reached the end position of the vectors. The respective vectors are not completely marked. LaserOff Delay too long The laser turned off too late after the last Mark command of a line or polyline. The laser is still ON, although the mirrors have already stopped or move very slowly. Burn-in effects at the end points of the respective vectors. Jump Delay too short
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After a jump, the first mark vector has already started although the scanners have not yet settled. Running-in oscillation (overshoot).
No visible affects
Jump Delay too long No visible effects, however, the scanning time will be extended. Mark Delay too short The command for the succeeding jump vector is already executing although the mirrors have not yet reached the end position of the last vector of a line or polyline. End of the vector is turned toward the direction of the jump vector.
No visible affects
Mark Delay too long No visible effects, however, the scanning time will be extended. Polygon Delay too short Subsequent Mark command in a polyline is already executing although the mirrors have not yet reached the end position of the preceding mark vector. Corners of the polyline are rounded off. Polygon Delay too long
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Mirrors are moving too slowly or are even stopping between subsequent Mark commands. Burn-in effects occur because laser is not turned OFF between vectors.
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AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Appendix C: Auto Grid Calibration 135
APPENDIX C: AUTO GRID CALIBRATION

OVERVIEW
An Auto Grid Calibration is performed to ensure that the scanhead guides the laser beam accurately in all areas of its field of view (FOV). If a Grid Calibration is not complete, the Scanhead will not be process all areas of its FOV accurately. NOTE: Your AcuBeam software was setup specifically for your machine. Some of the information and images in this section may not be applicable nor look identical to your version of AcuBeam. In order for Auto Grid Calibration to work we must have a well calibrated camera. A good EU Calibration, which calibrates the camera, must be done in the AcuVision II Laser Galvo Control Software System. EU Calibration is necessary so that the size of a pixel in the camera FOV can be equated to some known measurement (e.g. one pixel = 0.0002 inches). The system also needs a CS Calibration to be performed on the camera to be used for Auto Grid Calibration. A CS Calibration needs to be complete so that the table can jog the grid that was cut with the galvo over to the camera. This allows the system to know where to jog the image so that the camera can find it.
AUTO GRID CALIBRATION PROCEDURES

Open the AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control System to perform Auto Grid Calibration. 1. Select the Jog button on the bottom of the screen
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AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 136 Appendix C: Auto Grid Calibration
2. Use the directional arrows to locate an area on the work surface where you want to calibrate a grid.
NOTE: The Jog Type Select buttons determine if the table will move in fixed increments or continuously. The Step/Speed Select buttons determine how fast or far the table will jog. 3. Place selected calibration material on the work surface under the protection window of the Galvo Box. It must lie perfectly flat. Remove any foreign materal that does not allow the material to lie flat. 4. In AcuBeam, click on Execute Mode
5. On the bottom of the Job Execute screen, click on Calibrate.
6. In the Galvo tab to the right, select System one or system two (if your AcuBeam is programmed for dual processing), open the Galvo tree, and select Grid Calibration
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Project: AcuBeam
7. In the Grid Correction drop-down menu, select Auto 9Pt, Auto 25Pt, Auto 81Pt, or Auto 289pt.
NOTE: Choose an Auto Point value that will provide you with the amount of accuracy suited for you. Higher Auto Point values will provide more accuracy than lower Auto Point values. It is sometimes necessary to start with an Auto 9Pt grid and calibrate to higher Auto Point levels on successive iterations of the calibration. 8. Adjust the warning tolerance value to a threshold that you need to reach within the calibration 9. Adjust your power, speed, and pulse length settings. Cut Speed: Dictates how fast the laser moves on the letters and numbers in the cut pattern. Cut Power: How much power is used to cut the lines used in a manual grid calibration. THIS VALUE SHOULD BE SET TO ZERO. Pulse Length: Determines how strong of a mark the laser will leave on the work surface for the points that are measured. Decrease the Pulse Length if you are piercing through the material. You should be just damaging the surface of the material enough for the camera system to identify each point. Warning Tolerance: Measured point locations that deviate from nominal locations by more than this tolerance are shown in yellow.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
10. On the control panel, press the Open Laser Shutter pushbutton. 11. In AcuBeam, click on the Run button to begin the Auto Grid Calibration process.
12. Once Auto Grid Calibration begins, maximize the AcuVision II window and watch the live camera screen to ensure the correct points are being captured. After finding the center point, and calculating the rotation of the grid points relative to the camera, the system will start measuring all points of the grid. The center point will not be re-measured. Points R1 and R2 are used to calculate camera rotation relative to the grid points. If the camera finds all of the points successfully within its FOV, it will finish calibrating without interaction and the new correction values will be listed in the Grid Correction screen. If the camera does not find all points successfully the cycle will finish and the camera window will show live video at the point of failure so that you can determine where the problem occurred. After fixing the problem you must re-start the Auto Grid Calibration procedure. 13. When the message Done Measuring, Press Apply or Clear to Finish appears on the bottom of the Grid Correction screen, press the Apply button if you want to apply the corrections. Otherwise press Clear to finish the procedure without performing any correction.
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
The X and Y Headers will be yellow if there is an out-of-tolerance value in the grid. You may need to scroll up and down to find an out-of-tolerance value (depending on how many points you selected to calibrate). If you click on an out-of-tolerance value, the deviation from the nominal value will show up in the upper-left corner of the grid correction area.
Deviation from Nominal value
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam
Issued: 10/26/2011
Project: AcuBeam

AcuBeam Manual Rev B 10-6-2011

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User Guide

ACUBEAM LASER GALVO CONTROL SOFTWARE

SOFTWARE VERSION: 3.3.1.

MADE IN THE USA

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Contents i

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide ii Contents

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Contents iii

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide iv Contents

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Introduction 1

ABOUT THIS GUIDE

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 2 Introduction

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Introduction 3

HOW THIS GUIDE IS ORGANIZED

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 4 Introduction

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 5

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 6 Operator Interface

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 7

ACUBEAM FUNCTIONAL MODES

ACUBEAM APPLICATION TERMS

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 8 Operator Interface

Windows Operating System

AcuBeam MPLC RS232

I/O Delta Tau PMAC Ethernet USB PCI ISA

System Control and States

I/O XY Table Motor/Drives or Web Index

Windows Operating System

I/O AcuBeam MPLC RS232

Web Encoder (on the fly)

Figure 1. AcuBeam Hardware Architecture

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 9

ACUBEAM MAIN SCREEN LAYOUT

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 10 Operator Interface

JOB EXECUTE MODE INTERFACE

Figure 2. AcuBeam Job Execute Main Screen Single System

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 11

Figure 3. AcuBeam Job Execute Main Screen Dual System

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 12 Operator Interface

JOB EXECUTE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS

JOB EXECUTE MENU TOOL BAR REGION

JOB EXECUTE MODE FILE MENU

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 13

JOB EXECUTE MODE FILE MENU OPTIONS

JOB EXECUTE MODE VIEW MENU

Original Instruction 2011 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 14 Operator Interface

JOB EXECUTE MODE VIEW MENU OPTIONS

Check Cell Layout to display the cell layout template.