AcuBeam Manual English

User Guide
ACUBEAM LASER GALVO CONTROL SOFTWARE
SOFTWARE VERSION: 2.XX

User Guide Rev. A
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 2010 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: 6/17/2010
Original Instruction 2010 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 .......................................................2 SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION...............................................................5 OVERVIEW .......................................................................................5 APPLICATION ...................................................................................5 WEB: CUT-ON-THE-FLY ..............................................................5 WEB: INDEXED ...........................................................................6 INDIVIDUAL PARTS .....................................................................6 ACUBEAM FUNCTIONAL MODES .......................................................6 MULTI-STATION MODE ................................................................6 STAND-ALONE MODE .................................................................6 ACUBEAM APPLICATION TERMS .......................................................7 OPERATING SYSTEM ..................................................................7 DISTRIBUTION ............................................................................7 HARDWARE ARCHITECTURE .............................................................8 OPERATOR INTERFACE ...................................................................9 OVERVIEW .......................................................................................9 ACUBEAM MAIN SCREEN LAYOUT ....................................................9 JOB EXECUTER MODE INTERFACE ....................................................9 SINGLE SYSTEM.......................................................................10 DUAL SYSTEM .........................................................................11 JOB EXECUTER MAIN SCREEN REGIONS .........................................12 JOB EXECUTER MENU TOOL BAR REGION ................................12 JOB EXECUTER MODE FILE MENU ............................................12 JOB EXECUTER MODE FILE MENU OPTIONS ........................13 JOB EXECUTER MODE VIEW MENU ...........................................13 JOB EXECUTER MODE VIEW MENU OPTIONS ......................14 JOB EXECUTER MODE UNITS MENU..........................................14 JOB EXECUTER MODE UNITS MENU OPTIONS .....................14 JOB EXECUTER MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU ..............................15 JOB EXECUTER MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU OPTIONS ..........15 JOB EXECUTER MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU WINDOWS ....................15 SCANHEAD STATUS WINDOW ...................................................15 RTC STATUS SYSTEM 1 ........................................................16
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide ii Contents
DIGITAL I/O WINDOW ...............................................................17 PMAC I/O WINDOW .................................................................18 PMAC AXIS I/O WINDOW .........................................................18 JOB EXECUTER MODE HELP MENU.................................................18 JOB EXECUTER MODE HELP MENU OPTIONS ............................18 JOB EXECUTER STATUS BAR REGION .............................................19 SYSTEM MODE BUTTONS REGION ..................................................19 SYSTEM ALARMS WINDOW .......................................................20 JOB EXECUTER MODE DRAWING PALETTE REGION .........................21 JOB EXECUTER MODE PROPERTIES REGION.............................22 JOB TAB ........................................................................................22 MESSAGE TAB ...............................................................................23 VISION TAB ....................................................................................24 JOB EXECUTER MODE SYSTEM REGION .........................................25 CYCLE CONTROL BUTTONS ......................................................25 CONTROLS ..............................................................................26 JOB EXECUTER MODE CONTROL BUTTONS REGION ........................26 JOB EXECUTER MODE CONTROL WINDOWS ..............................27 MDI MODE WINDOWS ....................................................................27 RTC CONTROL WINDOW ................................................................27 ACUPOWER CONTROL WINDOW .....................................................28 DELTA TAU PMAC CONTROL WINDOW ...........................................28 JOG MODE WINDOW ......................................................................29 CALIBRATE MODE WINDOW ............................................................30 SCAN HEAD INFORMATION........................................................30 GALVO TAB..............................................................................30 VISION TAB ..............................................................................36 LASER TAB ..............................................................................37 JOB EXECUTER I/O CONTROL BUTTONS REGION ............................38 SETUP MODE INTERFACE ...............................................................39 SETUP MODE MAIN SCREEN.....................................................39 SETUP MODE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS ......................................40 SETUP MODE MENU TOOL BAR REGION ...................................40 SETUP MODE FILE MENU .........................................................40 SETUP MODE FILE MENU OPTIONS .....................................41 SETUP MODE EDIT MENU .........................................................48 SETUP MODE EDIT MENU OPTIONS ....................................48 SETUP MODE VIEW MENU ........................................................49 SETUP MODE VIEW MENU OPTIONS ...................................49 SETUP MODE UNITS MENU.......................................................51 SETUP MODE UNITS MENU OPTIONS ..................................51 SETUP MODE DRAW MENU ......................................................52 SETUP MODE DRAW MENU OPTIONS ..................................52 SETUP MODE SYSTEM MENU ...................................................54 SETUP MODE SYSTEM MENU OPTIONS ...............................54 SETUP MODE SYSTEM CONFIGURATION WINDOWS ...................55 SCREEN 1 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION GENERAL PROPERTY TAB .........................................................................................56
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AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Contents iii
SCREEN 1 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION TEMPLATES DISPLAY ..58 SCREEN 2 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION BLOCKS PROPERTY TAB60 SCREEN 3 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION CELLS PROPERTY TAB 62 SCREEN 4 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION SUB-CELLS PROPERTY TAB .........................................................................................65 SCREEN 5 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION PROCESS ON THE FLY TAB .........................................................................................68 WEB CONTROLLED PROCESS ON THE FLY ..........................70 SETUP MODE SYSTEM TABLE PARAMETERS WINDOW ...............71 SETUP MODE SYSTEM WEB INDEXER PARAMETERS WINDOW ...74 SETUP MODE SETTINGS MENU .......................................................77 END POINT TOLERANCES OPTION.............................................77 SNAP MODE OPTION ..........................................................77 SETUP MODE TOOLS MENU......................................................79 SETUP MODE TOOLS MENU OPTIONS .................................79 SETUP MODE HELP MENU ........................................................80 SETUP MODE HELP MENU OPTIONS ...................................80 SETUP MODE STATUS BAR REGION ..........................................80 SETUP MODE DRAWING PALETTE REGION ................................81 SETUP MODE PROPERTIES REGION..........................................81 AUTOMATION TAB ..............................................................82 VISION TAB ..............................................................................85 GALVO PEN SETTINGS TAB ..............................................87 ANALOG CONTROLS ...........................................................90 GROUP/PATH SETTINGS TAB ..............................................90 TRANSFORM WINDOW ..............................................................92 ARRAY WINDOW ......................................................................93 OPERATION......................................................................................95 TO LOAD THE ACUBEAM SOFTWARE PROGRAM ..............................95 TO EXIT THE ACUBEAM SOFTWARE PROGRAM ...............................95 GALVANOMETER CALIBRATION .......................................................96 BEAM FOCUS .................................................................................96 FOCUS USING THE SMALLEST POINT ........................................96 FOCUS USING THE TENT-SHAPED TARGET METHOD ..................97 FOCUS USING THE MEASURED CUT METHOD ............................97 GRID CALIBRATION ........................................................................98 GALVO ROTATION CALIBRATION ...................................................101 OFFSET CALIBRATION ..................................................................103 VISION CALIBRATION ....................................................................107 ENGINEERING UNITS (EU) CALIBRATION .................................107 COORDINATE CALIBRATION (IN-FIELD METHOD) ......................108 COORDINATE CALIBRATION (OUTFIELD METHOD)....................111 POWER PROBE CHECKS ..............................................................113 LASER CALIBRATION ....................................................................116 PROGRAMMING REFERENCE......................................................119
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AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide iv Contents
OVERVIEW ...................................................................................119 FILE TYPE AND FILE INTERACTION OVERVIEW ...............................120 ACUBEAM RULE SETS AND ASSIGNMENTS ....................................123 PREPARE AND EXECUTE A CUT PATH IN ACUBEAM .......................123 APPENDIX A: ACUBEAM/ACUVISION II FLOWCHARTS ............125 APPENDIX B: GALVO AND LASER DELAYS .............................. 129 LASER DELAYS ............................................................................129 LASERON DELAY .........................................................................129 LASEROFF DELAY ........................................................................129 SCANNER DELAYS .......................................................................130 JUMP DELAY ................................................................................131 MARK DELAY ...............................................................................132 POLYGON DELAY .........................................................................133 VARIABLE POLYGON DELAY .........................................................134 MAXIMUM POLYGON DELAY..........................................................135 OPTIMIZING DELAYS ....................................................................135
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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 provides all the information needed to properly unpack, install, operate, pack and ship your Preco laser system. This manual is not designed to assist with any type of service function. If any problem is experienced with your laser, please contact Preco Service Department. At the front of the manual is a Reader's Comment Form. We would very much appreciate your help in evaluating the manual. Please complete the form and return it to the address shown at the beginning. This will greatly assist us in further refining and improving the laser system's documentation. Important: Operators should never make unassisted attempts to troubleshoot or repair internal problems with the laser. Troubleshooting and repair procedures are not included in this publication because many of them are potentially hazardous and should only be performed by qualified, Preco Trained Service Technician. 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.
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 2 Introduction
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.
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 to know 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.
HOW THIS GUIDE IS ORGANIZED

This laser control softwares user guide is designed to provide information on how to use and program Laser Control Software preloaded on your systems computer. This guide is organized as follows:
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Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Introduction 3

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. 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.
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Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 4 Introduction
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Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Software Description 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 the operating interface or programming, refer to the OPERATING INTERFACE and PROGRAMMING REFERENCE sections in this guide. 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.
APPLICATION
AcuBeam Laser 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 in-house web controller typically controls the web. Otherwise, a web-handling
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 6 Software Description

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 such as a vision system that determine 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, cut 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.
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 and so on, 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.
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AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Software Description 7
ACUBEAM APPLICATION TERMS

Primitives A Primitive is the base geometric element or entity in TrueCAD. 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 Windows XP operating systems.
DISTRIBUTION
AcuBeam Laser Control Software is distributed on a CD-Rom using an install program. A custom CD-Rom that contains configuration files is also provided.
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Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 8 Software Description
HARDWARE ARCHITECTURE
The typical hardware layout for the AcuBeam Laser Control System is shown in the following figure:
Figure 1. AcuBeam Hardware Architecture
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AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 9
OPERATOR INTERFACE
OVERVIEW
This section describes the AcuBeam Laser Control Software operating interface in the Windows environment. For more information about the AcuBeam Laser Control Software program, refer to the SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION section of this guide. The AcuBeam Laser 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.
ACUBEAM MAIN SCREEN LAYOUT

When the system starts, the initial screen displayed is main operator control interface. This is the starting point for both 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 Executer: 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 or dual system.
JOB EXECUTER MODE INTERFACE

This section describes the AcuBeam Job Executer Mode operating interface. For information regarding the AcuBeam Setup Mode, see SETUP MODE INTERFACE later in this section.
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 10 Operator Interface
SINGLE SYSTEM
The following figure displays the main screen for a single system. See the JOB EXECUTER MAIN SCREEN REGIONS later in this section for a description of the main screen regions.
Figure 2. AcuBeam Job Executer Main Screen Single System
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DUAL SYSTEM
The following figure displays the main screen for a dual system. See the JOB EXECUTER MAIN SCREEN REGIONS later in this section for a description of the main screen regions.
Figure 3. AcuBeam Job Executer Main Screen Dual System
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JOB EXECUTER MAIN SCREEN REGIONS

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

The Job Executer Menu Tool Bar topics is displayed in a drop-down 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 EXECUTER MODE FILE MENU

The File menu lists options for opening files. This menu also displays a list of the most recently opened documents.
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JOB EXECUTER 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) This list may not be enabled on your system. Exits the AcuBeam system. A dialog screen is displayed requesting verification to exit the system
Exit
Click on Yes to exit the system, click on No to cancel the request to exit the AcuBeam system. 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 Recently Opened Files List of the last eight (8) files opened.
JOB EXECUTER 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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JOB EXECUTER MODE VIEW MENU OPTIONS

The View menu options are described below: 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. Show partial/ full screen Check Show Partial/Full Screen to display the entire screen (no tabs along the right of the screen).
JOB EXECUTER MODE UNITS MENU

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

The Units menu options are described below. Inch Selects inches as the unit of measure. Metric Selects metric as the unit of measure.
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JOB EXECUTER MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU

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

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

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

The Scan head Status window displays input and output information for the scan head. Two (2) options can be displayed, System 1 and System 2.
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RTC STATUS SYSTEM 1

The RTC Status System 1 window displays the driver and firmware files version information, and system status information for the installed galvanometer(s). Note: The Temperature, Power, X-Position and Y-Position info is only valid when using Scanlab galvos.
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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 NOK) ScanHead sensors (green OK, red NOK) ScanHead sensors (green OK, red NOK)
Firmware-Hex File
GALVO 1
RTC3 hardware version
Serial number
Installed options
Temperature
Power
X-position
Y-position
ScanHead sensors (green OK, red NOK)
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.
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PMAC I/O WINDOW

The PMAC I/O window displays Standard PMAC eight (8) inputs and eight (8) outputs status through the Dual Ported Ram. The strings associated with these I/O are contained in the acubeam.ini file.
PMAC AXIS I/O WINDOW

The PMAC Axis I/O window displays PMAC axis input and output status information for each axis.
JOB EXECUTER MODE HELP MENU

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

The Help menu options are described below. Manuals Opens the AcuBeam Laser 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).
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JOB EXECUTER STATUS BAR REGION

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

The System Mode buttons are used to display system alarms and to switch between Job Executer 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 Job Executer mode. The Alarms button turns: RED during system Fatal and Stop alarm conditions. YELLOW during system Message and Warning alarm conditions. Single System Dual System
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Job Execute
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 Executer 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 the problem. Click on the Reset button to clear the alarms and continue processing. Click on the Close button to close the Alarms window.
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JOB EXECUTER MODE DRAWING PALETTE REGION

The Job Executer drawing palette region displays the drawing layout as drawn in Setup Mode.
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JOB EXECUTER MODE PROPERTIES REGION

The Job Executer Mode Properties region contains two (2) 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. Total Number Of Parts: 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 Reset 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 Subcell: Displays the subcell from which to begin processing. Process only the selected subcell: Check this check box to enable limited processing from selected cell. 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) Runtime: Displays the runtime (cumulative total of cycle times). Format: day:hour:minute:second (dd:hh:mm:ss)
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MESSAGE TAB
The Message tab displays information about the condition of the system hardware and soft-ware. These status messages may give the operator important information regarding the status of the machine that may require operator action.
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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 processing. X Offset (mm): Used to adjust the position of parts that are located through using vision. Y Offset (mm): Used to adjust the position of parts that are located through using vision Rotate (deg): Used to adjust the rotation position of parts that are located through using vision Scale (%): Used to adjust the scale position of parts that are located through using vision. 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 position of the fiducial last captured by using camera 2. Enable: Enables camera 2. Disable: Disables camera 2.
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JOB EXECUTER MODE SYSTEM REGION

The Job Executer 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 Index 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 Index 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. Feedrate
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CONTROLS
The Feedrate control fields are used to override feedrate controls in a fixed beam system. 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 predetermined percent increment (default is 10%).
JOB EXECUTER MODE CONTROL BUTTONS REGION

The Job Executer control mode buttons are described as follows: Auto (automatic) mode is used for program execution. 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 system. Since all of the work systems are referenced from the zero point of the machine system, none of these features is available until the machine homing operation has completed. Calibrate mode displays the Calibration window. Calibrate mode is used to align galvanometers (galvos) and then align the galvo system to the table and/or work
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surface. See CALIBRATE MODE WINDOW later in this section.
JOB EXECUTER MODE CONTROL WINDOWS

The Mode control windows are displayed when you click 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: Delta TAU PMAC.
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 predetermined machine zero location. Pen Field: Enter the desired pen number and press Change. Units: Click on the desired unit of measure: Millimeters or Bits.
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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, read Laser ON and the laser will 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.
DELTA TAU PMAC CONTROL WINDOW

The Delta Tau PMAC window is used to directly communicate with the Delta Tau PMAC control board.
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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 pre-determined 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 axes 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.
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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 on 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.
GALVO TAB
The Galvo tab is used to select the Focus Line, Grid Calibration, Offset and Rotation procedures.
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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: (Optional) 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. Translator Actual Position: (Optional) 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.
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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).
Note: Changing the field size or working distance invalidates any previous calibration on this file.
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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. Cut Power Enter a value (in 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.
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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.
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Calibration Rotation: Displays the degree of rotation required to calibrate the galvanometer to the work surface.
Before
After
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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. Coordinate Calibration Camera Coordinate Calibration (This calibration determines the offset and rotation of the selected camera 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 (in inches). 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: Press to calibrate the camera.
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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 laser power loss at the work surface due to dusty mirrors, laser derogation, etc. 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 Enter the value printed on the power probe meter (in Watts/volt). 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 Enter the amount of time (in seconds) that the laser will fire when the Laser Trigger button is pressed. Laser Trigger button: Press this button to fire the laser to test the power using a power probe.
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JOB EXECUTER 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.
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SETUP MODE INTERFACE

This section describes the operating interface of the AcuBeam Setup Mode. For information regarding the AcuBeam Job Executer Mode, see to JOB EXECUTER MODE INTERFACE earlier in this section.
SETUP MODE MAIN SCREEN

The following figure displays the main screen for AcuBeam Setup Mode. See the SETUP MODE MAIN SCREEN REGIONS later in this section for a description of the main screen regions.
Figure 4. AcuBeam Setup Mode Main Screen
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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 topics are displayed in a drop-down menu when you select an option. 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.
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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.
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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. As the drawing loads, a loading status bar at the bottom of the screen will show the progress of the load. Open 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. Since AcuBeam uses a standard Windows font system and AutoCAD does not, the AutoCAD fonts must be converted to AcuBeam equivalents. This conversion is also done in the DXF/DWG Conversion Settings dialog box. The conversion settings must be set before you use the Open drawing option to load the AutoCAD *.dwg or *.dxf file because the fonts are converted during these functions. Load/ Append Appends a file into a currently open file. For example, a *.dxf or a *.dwg drawing file.
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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. Saves the changes to a drawing file with a different file name. 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.
If you are saving an AutoCAD (*.dwg or *.dxf) file, note the following:
Pen Colors Save as AcuBeam pens are identical to AutoCAD pens. If the colors are different, click on the Pen button on the Control Bar and set the AutoCAD Colors option. Fonts Since AcuBeam uses a standard Windows font system and AutoCAD does not, the AutoCAD fonts must be converted to AcuBeam equivalents. This conversion is also done in the DXF/DWG Conversion Settings dialog box. NOTE: If no drawing has been previously loaded, this menu item is not displayed. 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. Print Setup Displays the Print Setup dialog box.
Create Cut File
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Displays the Print dialog box, prints or plots a drawing.
Print
If the Print button is selected, the Printer Defaults dialog box appears.
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In this dialog box, the following parameters can be set: X Offset and Y Offset The X and Y offset boxes let the operator offset the drawing on the paper. The offset is measured in millimeters (mm). X Offset box displaces the drawing to the right if a positive value is input, and to the left if a negative value is input. Y Offset box displaces the drawing downwards if a positive value is input and, upwards if a negative value is input. Minimum Pen and Maximum Pen NOTE: The words Minimum Pen and Maximum Pen are not shown if you are using a printer with the minimum and maximum pen boxes disabled. The Minimum Pen and Maximum Pen boxes let you specify the range of pens with which to plot when you are outputting to a plotter. The minimum pen is 1 and the maximum pen is 15. When using a plotter with less than 15 pens, specify minimum pens 1 and maximum pens 15. For example if your plotter has six pens, but you have used more than the first six colo211rs in the Color Toolbar (red, olive, yellow, lime, green and teal counting downwards from the top), you should specify minimum pens 1 and maximum pens 15. If you do not, the parts of your drawing drawn with other colors will not be plotted. NOTE: If no drawing has been previously loaded, this menu item does not show up. Zoom Print Lets you print a selected part of your drawing at a selected scale or, to print your drawing to fit a particular paper size. NOTE: If no drawing has been previously loaded, this menu item does not show up.
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Pen Mappings If the Pen Mappings button is selected, the Pen Width Mappings dialog box is displayed.
Change or check the options. Click on the OK button to accept changes, or click on the Cancel button to close the window without changes. 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 four (4) files opened.
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SETUP MODE EDIT MENU

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

The Edit menu options are described in the following table. Option Description
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. 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.
Copy
Paste
Delete
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Option
Description
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.
Select All
SETUP MODE VIEW MENU

The View menu lets you manipulate the visual display of the current application.
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. 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.
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Option
Zoom Window
Description
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. Demagnifies the drawing at the cursor position at a preset demagnification 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. Opens another screen that lets you select the available toolbars are shown on the screen. Check Show Partial/Full Screen to display the entire screen (no tabs along the left of the screen).
Zoom In
Zoom Out
Zoom All
Zoom Sheet
Zoom Previous
Zoom Next
Redraw
Toolbars Show Partial/Full Screen
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SETUP MODE UNITS MENU

The Units menu lists two options for measurement. Select the desired measurement to select 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.
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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.
SETUP MODE DRAW MENU OPTIONS

The Draw menu drawing tools are described in the following table.
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Option
Line (Pt to Pt)
Description
Draws separate lines. Line type: Each line is a new path. Draws chained lines. The end of one line automatically marks the start of the next. Line type: Series of chained lines makes a path. Draws a point. Line type: 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. Line type: The 4 line primitives of the rectangle form a path. Draws an arc by three points. Arc type: 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. Arc type: Each arc is a new path. Draws a circle by center point and point on circumference. Arc type: 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. Arc type: Each ellipses is a new path. 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. Line type: The x line primitives of the polygon form a path.
Lines (Chained)
Point
Rectangle
Arc 3 Point
Arc Radius
Line Arc Line
Circle
Ellipse
Polygon
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Polyline Explode
Draws a polyline (lines only). Explodes a polyline into individual lines.
SETUP MODE SYSTEM MENU

The System menu lists galvanometer configuration options: Configuration and Table Parameters or Web Indexer 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.
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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. Block size is only important on 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
Sub-Cell
This example contains 20 Subcells per Cell, and six (6) Cells per Block.
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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
Sub-Cell
SCREEN 1 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION GENERAL PROPERTY TAB
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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.
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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
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Tri GalvoVertical
Quad GalvoHorizontal
Quad GalvoVertical
Quad GalvoRectangle
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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.
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Location of Lower Left Corner of 1st Block: Displays the offset from the work area home position to the lower left corner of the first block.
Center-to-Center 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.
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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.
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Cell Offset Relative to Block Origin: The distance to the first cell from the block origin.
Center to Center 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)
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Note: A negative number in this field indicates that there is separation between cells. Replicate 1st Cell: When checked, this check box indicates that all information in the first cell will also be cut in the other cells.
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SCREEN 4 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION SUBCELLS PROPERTY TAB
The Sub-Cells property tab is used to enter and modify subcells information for the current job.
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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 subcell in inches. Sub-Cell Offset Relative to Cell Origin: The offset distance to cell origin.
Center to Center 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 display the calculated values based on the data entered in the Sub-Cell Input fields.
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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), SubCell 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 Subcell: When checked this check box indicates that all information in the first sub-cell will also be cut in the other sub-cells.
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SCREEN 5 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION PROCESS ON THE FLY TAB
The Process On The Fly property tab is used to enter and modify galvo information for the current job. Galvo 1, 2,3 or 4 Tabs: These fields are used to enter and modify how and when the galvos (up to four) process files on-the-fly in web applications.
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Project: AcuBeam
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). 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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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, 4 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: 6/17/2010
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 XY table may become unstable.
Issued: 6/17/2010
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 jerk 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. 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.
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Project: AcuBeam
Table Load/Unload Positions: X/Y table load/unload positions. Part Load: Used in conjunction with the Automation Tab (see page 83), 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 83), 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 Executer 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: 6/17/2010
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: 6/17/2010
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 an acceleration higher than the maximum acceleration rate, this parameter is ignored. Feedrate (mm/sec): Maximum programmed web indexer move speed.
Issued: 6/17/2010
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.
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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.
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Project: AcuBeam
Option
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 All
Snap to Line Intersect
Moves the cursor to the nearest intersection of the primitives. 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. Snap is disabled. Move to the end of the nearest line. 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.
Circle Center
Snap to Nearest Line Freehand Snap to End Point Snap to Tangent
Snap to Perpendicular
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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.
Notepad Opens a text document in Notepad.
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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 Control Software Users Guide. 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).
About
SETUP MODE STATUS BAR REGION

The Setup mode status bar region displays directives from the software when an action is required.
Issued: 6/17/2010
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 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.
SETUP MODE PROPERTIES REGION

The Setup mode properties region contains the Automation, Vision, Galvo-Pen Settings and Group/Path Settings tabs.
Issued: 6/17/2010 Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved. Project: AcuBeam
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 this area apply to the automation step selected in the Automation Control Display
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Project: AcuBeam
Automation file selection field: Click on the 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 Auto Cal Enable: Click on this check box to enable automatic calibration. When enabled, the scan head automatically seeks several predefined reference points within a scan area. The resulting offset and gain compensation factors are then calculated and made available for use in all future positioning tasks. The entire automatic calibration procedure is complete in five (5) seconds, no other commands are transferred to the scan head until calibration is complete the laser must be switched OFF during the calibration procedure. Part Load Index: Click on this check box to enable part load indexing. Also refer to page 74. 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: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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 is digital: X: Not Applicable 1: ON 0: OFF Click on the ellipsis button, to the right of the field, to display the Digital I/O Automation Settings window, sample at left. The delay entered 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 cut to be repeated.
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VISION TAB
The Vision tab is used to associate fiducials to sub-cells and also to 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 SubCells. 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 Equals Cut Location: Vision capture occurs when the table reaches a given subcell. 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.
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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 subcells 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.
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GALVO PEN SETTINGS TAB

The Galvo-Pens 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. System Pen Settings (These controls affect all pens): Variable Polygon Delay: Allows varying the length of the polygon delay depending on the angle between two (2) successive marking vectors. 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. Variable Jump Delay: A variable delay time (for the lag between set position and real position) after each jump command. 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. Description: Displays a brief pen description. Throughput Control 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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
Degrees Per Segment: Sets the degrees of arc that span each created segment. 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: Sets the delay between any two contiguous vectors regardless of the intersection angle. 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. 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.
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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 setpoints 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.
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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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).
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. See Array Window. 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.
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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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ARRAY WINDOW
The Array window is used to replicate parts in a drawing. Array Total: Displays the total (inclusive) number of objects created. Columns: Enter the number of columns and the desired space between columns. Rows: Enter the number of rows and the desired space between rows. Center to Center: Select if spacing is to be measured from center-tocenter.
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Project: AcuBeam
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Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operation 95
OPERATION
This section describes the Operation and activities for the AcuBeam Laser Control Software System.
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 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.
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 96 Operation
GALVANOMETER CALIBRATION
The calibration process is accessed from the Job Executer mode screen. Click on the Job Executer 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 MethodBurn a point on burn paper and adjust to the smallest point, Focus Using the Tent-shaped Target MethodBurn 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 MethodBurn 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 exhaust. 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.
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Project: AcuBeam
NOTE: Note the Adjustment Counter number and save the number for easy reference.
FOCUS USING THE TENT-SHAPED TARGET METHOD

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 Executer mode button. 4. Click on the Calibrate button to display the calibration tabs window. 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. 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.)
NOTE: Using the Focus Adjustment Counter, make very small adjustments until this focus point is achieved.
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 Executer mode button to display the Job Executer 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 and Galvo.
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.
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Project: AcuBeam
6. Measure the distance from the scan head to work surface. Place the product to be cut on the work surface. Using a square ruler or tape measure, measure the perpendicular distance from the bottom of the Scan Head to the top surface of the product on the work surface. (See figure below.)
7. If necessary, enter the correct Field Size value or Working Distance in the respective field.
NOTE: You need only 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.
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8. Select the 9 Points, 25 Points or 16 Line calibration option. Determine which of the following methods of measurement are best for your system. If you are using a Z axis measuring device, use a 9 or 25 point grid. 2-Axis Measurement: Use the 9 Point or 25 Point grid correction table. Measure the part and enter the measured values into the Grid Correction table. Click on the Apply button after entering all correction values.
NOTE: Use the 9 Point or 25 Point method of measurement if possible. Single Axis Measurement: Use the 16 Line grid correction table when a two (2) dimensional measurement device is not available. Refer to the sample 16-Line grid below. a) Measure the length of each line and enter the value into the appropriate Line Distance field b) Click on the Apply button after entering all correction values. c) Use the Load button if your measurement device can generate a text file with the X/Y measurement pairs each on a separate line with the file.
IMPORTANT:
Ensure that the paper is lying perfectly flat on the work surface with no wrinkles. 9. Click on the Run button to cut a grid. 10. Measure the part and enter the measured values into the Grid Correction table (see step 11d). 11. Click on the Apply button after entering all correction values. 12. Use the ellipsis button to perform a Save As to a new file so that the last corrections are saved.
13. Click on the Run button to cut another grid. 14. Inspect the new cut grid. Repeat steps 7 through 9 until the X and Y values in the grid table are close to the measured (actual) X and Y values. NOTE: Acceptable deviations are dependent on the accuracy requirements of the parts being processed.
GALVO ROTATION CALIBRATION

This procedure is used to change the galvo cutting field rotation. 1. Click on the Job Executer mode button to display the Job Executer screen.
2. Click on the Galvo tab to display the Galvo tab window.
3. Select the System, Rotation and Galvo.
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4. Enter the value of the Cut Pattern Size.
NOTE: The Cut Pattern Size value should be five (5) percent (%) less than the galvanometer field size. See Field Size in Grid Calibration. 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 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 an iterative process whereby you cut a pattern, inspect the new pattern and 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.
d) Enter the degree value in the Calibration Rotation field.
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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.
OFFSET CALIBRATION
This procedure is used to calibrate a cut pattern offset in a multiple galvanometer system. Refer to
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Offset in the OPERATING INTERFACES section of this manual for more information. 1. Click on the Job Executer mode button to display the Job Executer screen.
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2. Click on the Galvo tab to display the Galvo tab window and Select the System, Galvo and Offset.
3. Enter the value of the Cut Pattern Size.
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 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 X-/Y-axis offset adjustment is required. This is an iterative process whereby you cut a pattern, inspect the new pattern, determine an offset value and enter the values into the Calibration Offset fields. For example, a) Cut a pattern.
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b) Inspect the pattern.
c) Determine an offset value. d) Enter x-/y-axis offset values in the Calibration Offset Xand 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 Executer button to display the Job Executer 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 (EU), 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 Executer mode button to display the Job Executer 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).
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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 galvo field of view (FOV). 1. Click on the Job Executer mode button to display the Job Executer screen.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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 camera 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 12c, 12d and 12e. 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 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, the average laser power can be read out on the dial.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
The process takes about one minute. If you need to make several power measurements in succession, immerse the absorbing head in a beaker 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 six (6) inches above the work surface) for the amount of time inscribed on the probe, use a stop watch for timing.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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 Corner Block for the same amount of time. b) Continue to check power back to the laser until the fault is found, refer to the following figure power 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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
LASER CALIBRATION
The Power Probe Checks procedure must be done before this procedure. See the POWER PROBE CHECKS PROCEDURE later earlier in this section. 1. Click on the Job Executer mode button to display the Job Executer 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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Programming Reference 119
PROGRAMMING REFERENCE
OVERVIEW
This section provides programming reference information for the AcuBeam Laser Control Software in a Windows environment. The AcuBeam Laser Control Software provides an operating interface to the system for programming laser operation modes, laser parameter settings, and system diagnostics. The AcuBeam Laser Control Software programming reference includes information on the following programming issues: File Types and File Interaction Control Events
For more information about the operating interface, refer to the OPERATING INTERFACE section of this guide. For more information about the AcuBeam Laser Control Software, refer to the SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION section of this guide.
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 120 Programming Reference
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 utilizes.
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 galvo-delay parameters that are associated with the colors on the drawing. This file can have unlimited entries. 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.
Pen Set file
xxx.pen
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
File Type
Automation file
File Name
xxxx.aut
Description
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. Upon launching AcuBeam, a default field file is loaded. The Field file is referenced in the header of the executable file, xxx.glv.
Default Field file
xxxx.fld
Executable file
xxxx.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.
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
Executable file
xxxx.glv
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
File Type
File Name
Description
of these files, an error message is displayed to the operator and no file is loaded.
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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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, and so on). All geometry on layer 0 is processed then, all from layer 1, and so on until everything in the subcell is processed. This is done for each subcell. If anything is present on layer 5, a second pass is made through al subcells to process geometery that exists on that layer. This is useful for large thru-cuts that reduct 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 subcells Second pass through all subcells 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).
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
4. Select System configuration to set up the work area cells and sub-cells. 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 obtain vision offset before continuing. 8. Select Job Executer, select Auto and select Run.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Flowcharts 125
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: 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.
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 126 Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Flowcharts
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Flowcharts 127
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 128 Appendix A: AcuBeam/AcuVision II Flowcharts
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Appendix B: Galvo and Laser Delays 129
APPENDIX B: GALVO AND LASER DELAYS

This appendix presents additional information about galvo (scan head) and laser control. Also, refer to the SCANLAB RTC3 PC INTERFACE BOARD INSTALLATION AND OPERATION manual.
LASER DELAYS
Laser delays affect 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.
AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 130 Appendix B: Galvo and Laser Delays
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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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.
Figure 6. JumpDelay
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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.
Figure 7. Mark Delay
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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.
LaserOn Delay
LaserOff Delay
Laser
Set Position Real Position
Position
...
Mark Command Mark Polygon Polygon Command Delay Delay Last Mark Mark Jump Command Delay Command in this Polyline etc.
Time
Figure 8. Polygon Delay
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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
scale ( )
Maximum Maximum Polygon Delay
1 cos ( ) Average delay, defined by set_scanner_delays 1
0 0 90 180
Figure 9. Variable Polygon Delay
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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.
LaserOn Delay LaserOff Delay LaserOn Delay LaserOff Delay
Laser
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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
Jump Delay too short After a jump, the first mark vector has already started although the scanners have not yet settled. Running-in oscillation (overshoot).
No visible effects
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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam
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 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.
Issued: 6/17/2010
Project: AcuBeam

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User Guide

ACUBEAM LASER GALVO CONTROL SOFTWARE

SOFTWARE VERSION: 2.XX

MADE IN THE USA

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Contents i

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide ii Contents

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Contents iii

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide iv Contents

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Introduction 1

ABOUT THIS GUIDE

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 2 Introduction

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

HOW THIS GUIDE IS ORGANIZED

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Introduction 3

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 4 Introduction

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Software Description 5

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 6 Software Description

ACUBEAM FUNCTIONAL MODES

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Software Description 7

ACUBEAM APPLICATION TERMS

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 8 Software Description

Figure 1. AcuBeam Hardware Architecture

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 9

ACUBEAM MAIN SCREEN LAYOUT

JOB EXECUTER MODE INTERFACE

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 10 Operator Interface

Figure 2. AcuBeam Job Executer Main Screen Single System

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 11

Figure 3. AcuBeam Job Executer Main Screen Dual System

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 12 Operator Interface

JOB EXECUTER MAIN SCREEN REGIONS

JOB EXECUTER MENU TOOL BAR REGION

JOB EXECUTER MODE FILE MENU

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 13

JOB EXECUTER MODE FILE MENU OPTIONS

JOB EXECUTER MODE VIEW MENU

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 14 Operator Interface

JOB EXECUTER MODE VIEW MENU OPTIONS

JOB EXECUTER MODE UNITS MENU

JOB EXECUTER MODE UNITS MENU OPTIONS

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide Operator Interface 15

JOB EXECUTER MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU

JOB EXECUTER MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU OPTIONS

JOB EXECUTER MODE DIAGNOSTICS MENU WINDOWS

SCANHEAD STATUS WINDOW

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.

AcuBeam Laser Galvo Control Software User Guide 16 Operator Interface

RTC STATUS SYSTEM 1

Original Instruction 2010 Preco, Inc. All rights reserved.