AcuRite CNC 3500i - Manual

ACU-RITE 3500i vii Manual Inf o rm ation Manual Information Message symbols Fonts Used in this manual 3500i reference to the console KEYS 3500i reference to the touch screen Buttons Changes (errors) HEIDENHAIN Corporation is continuously striving to improve. Please help HEIDENHAIN Corporation by sen...

viii Manual Inf o rm ation Model, Software and Features This manual describes functions and features provided by 3500i as of the following NC software numbers. The machine tool builder adapts the usable features of the CNC to his machine by setting machine parameters. Some of the functions described...

ACU-RITE 3500i ix Manual Inf o rm ation New Functions of Software 689 871-01-02  CAM now includes a Save button to allow quickly saving progress. Ctrl-S can now be used as well.  CAM geometry creation dialogs now support copying and pasting between dialogs.  ARC Help Forms now support all planes....

x Manual Inf o rm ation Changed Functions of Software 689 871-01-01  Feed & Speed Calculator in MDI was changed; see page 55.  Feeds & Speeds Table functionality and description was expanded; see page 68.  Additional information for the Repeat blocks feature is being provided; see page 14...

ACU-RITE 3500i xi Contents Introduction 1 Machining Fundamentals 2 Manual Data Input 3 Tool Management 4 Program Management 5 Conversational Editing 6 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7 Drawing Programs 8 Running a Program on the Machine 9 CAM: Programming 10 G-code Edit, Help, & Advance...

3500i xiii Table of Contents Controls of the 3500i Keys on visual display unit ....................................................................................... iv Numerical keys ........................................................................................................ iv Data En...

xiv Main Operating Modes ....................................................................................... 8Sub Modes ......................................................................................................... 9Upper Menu and Status Information Bar ..................................

3500i xv 2.2 Manual Machine Positioning Jog Mode Moves ................................................................................................... 34 Changing the Jog Mode.................................................................................... 34Incremental Moves ...................

xvi Find ................................................................................................................... 65Finding a tool using text.................................................................................... 65Clear Feature ..................................................

3500i xvii Program Management 5.1 Program Management Introduction Accessing Program Management ......................................................................... 88 Program Screen Description .................................................................................. 88 Program Manager...

xviii Moving Blocks in a program ........................................................................... 111Canceling edits to a program block: ................................................................ 111Restore edits to a program block: .....................................................

3500i xix Boring Bidirectional Cycle ............................................................................... 151Boring Unidirectional Cycle ............................................................................. 151Chip Break Cycle .........................................................

xx Inside Corner Finding ..................................................................................... 223Inside/Outside Boss/Hole Finding .................................................................. 225Inside/Outside Web Finding ...........................................................

3500i xxi Running a Program on the Machine 9.1 Running a program Modes of Programmed Operation ....................................................................... 264 Auto mode ........................................................................................................... 264 Startin...

xxii Quick Coordinate Entry ........................................................................................ 288 Job Setup: Basic tab ............................................................................................ 289 Basic tab Data Entries .........................................

3500i xxiii CAM Setup .......................................................................................................... 311 Selection tab: .................................................................................................. 311Output tab: .........................................

xxiv CAM Example 2 ................................................................................................... 339 Example Two: ................................................................................................. 339Create Circle Geometry: ..........................................

3500i xxv G - Functions ........................................................................................................ 372 Basic Modal Functions .................................................................................... 373Multi -Segment Blocks.......................................

xxvi User Macros (G65, G66, G67) ........................................................................ 407Macro Body Structure ..................................................................................... 408Setting and Passing Parameters .....................................................

2 1 Introduction 1 .1 The 350 0i 1.1 The 3500i The ACU-RITE 3500i control is a touch screen workshop-oriented contouring control that enables you to program conventional machining operations right at the machine in an easy-to-use conversational programming language. The control is also capable of ru...

ACU-RITE 3500i 3 1 .1 The 350 0i Powering Up the CNC Machine Turn on the CNC machine according to the builder's instructions. Turn the power switch on to the 3500i console. The 3500i completely resets, activating the startup screen.  With the EMERGENCY STOP button out, reset the servo drive by pres...

ACU-RITE 3500i 5 1 .1 The 350 0i Writing Programs The 3500i allows many features to be used without having to write a program. But for operations that repeat or complex machining it is best to write a program. Before you start to write a program, determine the work-holding device and the location of...

6 1 Introduction 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit 1.2 Visual Display Unit Operating Panel with Touch Screen display The ACU-RITE 3500i has a 12.1-inch Flat-Panel Color Touch Screen Display. The following list of items are also located on the front panel. See "Manual Data Input" on page 20 for mapp...

ACU-RITE 3500i 7 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit Menus, Dialogues, and Forms This section describes general overview of the pop-up menus, dialogues, and forms provided by the 3500i. Complete information is provided in this manual where specific examples of actions are being explained. Pop-up menus allow ...

8 1 Introduction 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit General Operating Guidelines The following provides the general operating guidelines for the 3500i.  Mode specific function buttons are always located on the left vertical edge of the screen.  Scroll bars automatically appear when the window information ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 9 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit  Program Management provides access to existing programs for running, simulating or editing. New programs can be created here with access to the CAM, and Draw features. Programs can also be copied to or from a USB memory device (like a memory stick or thu...

10 1 Introduction 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit Upper Menu and Status Information Bar The 3500i display screen upper bar always remains the same regardless of the operation or function that is being preformed, and general status information. See "Manual Data Input" on page 20 for a complete des...

ACU-RITE 3500i 11 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit Machine function buttons Machine function buttons are always located on the right side of the screen. They remain constant, and do not change regardless of the current action the machine is performing. They provide an easy way to perform supported machine...

12 1 Introduction 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit Keyboard An on screen QWERTY keyboard will automatically pop-up when you enter a field that requires text information input.  The 3500i touch screen keyboard becomes visible (pop-up) when text, and numerical information is required for an action that is ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 13 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit Additional Buttons The following additional buttons are always available on the keyboard. Special Characters The keyboard has a second “Special Characters” page provided which is accessed by touching the “ (#*\! ” button 1 .  Touching the “ (#*\! ” butto...

14 1 Introduction 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit Programming Sliders The following list describes the slider controls shown here.  Scroll Bar(s) are used to scroll through the active window.  Window Slider(s) are used to resize a window on the screen. Scroll bars, and/or sliders are available in all s...

ACU-RITE 3500i 15 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit Numeric touch pad  An on screen numeric touch keypad will automatically pop-up when you enter a field that requires numeric data input.  When information has been entered using the on screen numeric keypad, touch the Enter button. The next field requiri...

16 1 Introduction 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit Calculator The on screen numeric keypad has a built in calculator feature.  The 3500i on screen numeric touch pad calculator feature is available whenever the on screen numeric keypad is open.  To open the calculator feature, touch the Calculator button...

ACU-RITE 3500i 17 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit Context Sensitive Help The Acu-Rite 3500i uses an intuitive method to aid the user when assistance is desired. When assistance is needed with a feature, the User Manual can be displayed directly at the point which describes the pertinent feature. To use H...

18 1 Introduction 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit The following buttons are available when using Help. Button Function Help button activates the User Manual Help screen window. Back moves back through the current viewing history. Next moves forward through the current viewing history. Show/Hide Tree togg...

ACU-RITE 3500i 19 1 .2 V isual Displa y Unit Console Key Pad The following keys are located on the console key pad. There is also a quick reference guide located at the beginning of this manual, see "Controls of the 3500i" on page iv. 1 Axis keys, use to select the required axis. 2 Numeric k...

20 1 Introduction 1 .3 Main Oper ating Mode Scr e ens 1.3 Main Operating Mode Screens Display navigation The three main operating modes: Manual Data Input, Program Management, and Program Run each have there own screen. A condensed description of these has been provided here on how to navigate, beco...

ACU-RITE 3500i 21 1 .3 Main Oper ating Mode Scr eens Program Management Screen The Program Management screen displays several windows, and buttons. The following list maps what is being viewed on this screen. See “Accessing Program Management” on page 88. 1 Program Management main mode button. 2 Pro...

ACU-RITE 3500i 23 1 .4 A c cessor ies: 1.4 Accessories: Available accessories include a selection of electronic Touch Probes, and Hand Wheels. Touch probes Touch Probe Function software option. With the various HEIDENHAIN 3-D touch probe systems you can:  Automatically align work pieces  Quickly a...

24 1 Introduction 1 .4 A c cessor ies: TT 140 tool touch probe for tool measurement The TT 140 is a triggering 3-D touch probe for tool measurement and inspection. Your CNC provides three cycles for this touch probe with which you can measure the tool length and radius automatically either with the ...

26 2 Machining Fundamentals 2.1 F u ndamentals of P o sitioning 2.1 Fundamentals of Positioning Position encoders and reference marks The machine axes are equipped with position encoders that register the positions of the machine table or tool. Linear axes are usually equipped with linear encoders, ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 27 2.1 F undamentals of P o sitioning Reference system A reference system is required to define positions in a plane or in space. The position data are always referenced to a predetermined point and are described through coordinates. The Cartesian coordinate system (a rectangular coor...

28 2 Machining Fundamentals 2.1 F u ndamentals of P o sitioning Designation of the axes on milling machines The X, Y and Z axes on your milling machine are also referred to as tool axis, principal axis (1st axis) and minor axis (2nd axis). The assignment of the tool axis is decisive for the assignme...

ACU-RITE 3500i 29 2.1 F undamentals of P o sitioning Setting the pole and the angle reference axis The pole is set by entering two Cartesian coordinates in one of the three planes. These coordinates also set the reference axis for the polar angle PA. Absolute and incremental polar coordinates Absolu...

30 2 Machining Fundamentals 2.1 F u ndamentals of P o sitioning Angle Measurements Polar measurement of angles is referenced from the 3 o'clock position (0 degrees). Positive angles rotate in a counterclockwise direction; negative angles rotate in a clockwise direction.

ACU-RITE 3500i 31 2.1 F undamentals of P o sitioning Absolute and incremental work piece positions Absolute work piece positions Absolute coordinates are position coordinates that are referenced to the datum of the coordinate system (origin). Each position on the work piece is uniquely defined by it...

32 2 Machining Fundamentals 2.1 F u ndamentals of P o sitioning Setting the datum Fixture Offsets A production drawing identifies a certain form element of the work piece, usually a corner, as the absolute zero datum. When setting the datum, you first align the work piece along the machine axes, and...

ACU-RITE 3500i 33 2.1 F undamentals of P o sitioning Example2: SetZero See "Absolute Zero Set" on page 138 for more information on using the SetZero cycle. The work piece drawing shows holes ( 1 to 4 ) whose dimensions are shown with respect to an absolute datum with the coordinates X=0 Y=0....

34 2 Machining Fundamentals 2.2 Manual Mac h ine P o sitioning 2.2 Manual Machine Positioning Jog Mode Moves You can make or change jog moves when the CNC is in Manual Data Input Mode, Teach Mode, or in the Tool Page; and the servos are on. Changing the Jog Mode Jog move modes, with the exception of...

ACU-RITE 3500i 35 2.2 Manual Mac h ine P o sitioning Adjusting the Feedrate The Feedrate Override rotary switch can be used to override the currently active feedrate or rapid rate for machine moves. The switch provides a range of 0% to 150%. Setting the switch to 100% will allow the actual feedrate ...

36 2 Machining Fundamentals 2.2 Manual Mac h ine P o sitioning

ACU-RITE 3500i 39 3.1 Manual D a ta Input (MDI) Manual Data Input Mode Settings Features (or settings) that remain active for more than one operation are referred to as modal. Modal features remain active until you change or cancel them. Most CNC functions are modal. As an example, if the CNC is in ...

40 3 Manual Data Input 3.1 Manual D a ta Input (MDI) Manual Data Input Menu Bar The following table describes the bottom bar menu buttons. Button Function Mill Line opens the Mill Line pop-up dialogue where information can be entered to mill a line. Mill Arc opens the Mill Arc pop-up dialogue where ...

42 3 Manual Data Input 3.1 Manual D a ta Input (MDI) Manual Data Input Operations The following explains a few of the machining operations that are available with Manual Data Input. Examples have been provided to explain an overview to the operator of the 3500i’s capabilities. The Drill Cycles , Poc...

44 3 Manual Data Input 3.1 Manual D a ta Input (MDI) Manual Data Input Cycles The MDI Cycles are grouped in three categories as described in the following groups.  Drill Cycles  Basic  Pecking  CounterBore  Bi-Dir Bore  Uni-Dir Bore  Flat Bottom Bore  Tapping  Thread Mill  Chip Break  Poc...

ACU-RITE 3500i 45 3.1 Manual D a ta Input (MDI) When a Cycles button is touched, the available cycles in that category are listed.  Touch the name of the cycle that is to be executed by the machine to display the manual data input form. Pocket Cycle Example  From the bottom menu bar touch the Pock...

46 3 Manual Data Input 3.1 Manual D a ta Input (MDI) The More button is used to enter additional (or optional) parameters regarding the machining of the pocket such as corner radius, side finish stock, etc. These additional parameters are not typically required.  To exit from the More Menu, touch t...

ACU-RITE 3500i 47 3.1 Manual D a ta Input (MDI) Block History The MDI block history allows the operator to record all cycles that are programmed into the MDI to be retrieved or saved into a part program. By default the recording of the MDI cycles is on and can be turned off by toggling the Record bu...

ACU-RITE 3500i 49 3.1 Manual D a ta Input (MDI) MDI Touch Screen Feature Dialogues The 3500i allows the operator to do quick machine functions directly from the Manual Data Input screen. Touching on any of these marked touch screen zones opens a dialogue for data input. The data entered only affects...

52 3 Manual Data Input 3.1 Manual D a ta Input (MDI) Tool The tool dialogue allows the operator to temporarily adjust tool settings or mount a new tool. If only a tool number is entered, the system will mount the tool, and use the values stored in the tool table. If any of the other values are enter...

ACU-RITE 3500i 57 3.1 Manual D a ta Input (MDI) MDI Teach The 3500i MDI also has a Teach mode which allows the operator to be able to manually move the machine and record the positions to be stored into a part program for running. The machine can be manually moved by using the Jog buttons on the con...

60 4 Tool Management 4.1 T o ol T a ble 4.1 Tool Table Tool Table / Tool Management When the CNC executes a program block that activates a tool number, the values on that row of the Tool Table are activated. Tool Table values are automatically converted to their inch or millimeter equivalents when t...

ACU-RITE 3500i 61 4.1 T ool T a ble Tool numbers / Tool names Each tool is identified by a number between 0 and 100. The tool name is its tool number. The machine builder determines the number of tools available. The tool number 0 is automatically defined as the zero tool (empty spindle) with the le...

62 4 Tool Management 4.1 T o ol T a ble Editing the tool table With the tool table open, it can now be edited by changing existing information, or adding a new tools information.  Find the required tool by using the arrow keys, and/or scroll bars.  Touch the desired field to make changes.  Type i...

ACU-RITE 3500i 63 4.1 T ool T a ble Second Menu Bar The following is a description the lower menu bar page two buttons that are also available. To use the numeric pad in the on screen menu, note the following:  Use the numeric keys to enter the required data. Use the Back Space or Clear button to d...

64 4 Tool Management 4.1 T o ol T a ble Clearing an entire line of tool data All data pertaining to a tool number can be removed at once.  Select the tool number.  Touch the Next Menu button in the lower tool bar.  Touch the Clear Line button to remove all data. Clearing the current tool table Al...

ACU-RITE 3500i 65 4.1 T ool T a ble Find The Find button provides a search of the Tool Table using either the Tool number, or text. Searching for text is case sensitive. As an example; if searching for end mill, but the text was inserted in upper case letters “END MILL”, Find will only search for lo...

66 4 Tool Management 4.1 T o ol T a ble Clear Feature The Clear Feature button is available in the Tool Table, and also in the Fixture Offsets feature. In the Tool Table feature, it’s application is not the same as in the Fixture Offsets feature. The following description is for the Tool Table featu...

ACU-RITE 3500i 67 4.1 T ool T a ble Tool Table Structure Tool table: Standard tool data Column Description Tool Number by which the tool is called in the program (e.g. tool 2 = T2). Diameter Compensation value for the tool diameter. Length Compensation value for tool length. D. Wear Tool diameter we...

68 4 Tool Management 4.1 T o ol T a ble Feeds & Speeds Table Feeds & Speeds Overview The Feeds & Speeds Table allows the user to enter additional tool data for each tool so that the control can calculate Feeds and Speeds to be used in MDI (Feed and Speed MDI Touch Screen Feature Dialog) ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 69 4.1 T ool T a ble Data can be entered based on the Tool Diameter and Tool Length as well as other entered tool parameters the Spindle Speed, Rough Feed and Finish Feed can be automatically calculated for each tool in the Tool Table. Column Description Tool Number Number of the tool...

70 4 Tool Management 4.1 T o ol T a ble Using the Feeds & Speeds Table The 3500i can calculate spindle speed, rough feed and finish feed for each tool.  To calculate the spindle speed enter the tool's diameter and the desired surface speed. The initial diameter shown is from the tool table. Cha...

ACU-RITE 3500i 71 4.1 T ool T a ble Simulation Tool and Offset Tables The 3500i includes the advanced ability to utilize a second set of the tool and offset tables, which apply only to Simulation mode. This allows a user to create and simulate programs in the background while running another program...

72 4 Tool Management 4.2 T ool D a ta 4.2 Tool Data T-Codes, and Tool Activation To activate a tool, program a T-Code followed by the tool number. The tool number corresponds to the row number in the Tool Table. A program tool call example starts with a “T”, followed by the tool number, e.g. “T1”. A...

ACU-RITE 3500i 73 4.2 T ool D a ta Tool-Length Offsets Tool-length offset is the distance from Z0 Machine Home to the tip of the tool at the part Z0 (the surface of the work). Tool-length offsets allow each tool used in the part program to be referenced to the part surface. In an idle state, the CNC...

74 4 Tool Management 4.2 T ool D a ta  With the tool in the spindle, carefully jog the tool down until it touches the top surface of the work piece. This is referred to as “Part Zero”.  Touch the Teach button. The 3500i calculates the tool length offset for the selected tool putting the data to th...

ACU-RITE 3500i 75 4.2 T ool D a ta Tool Radius Compensation When tool compensation is not active, the CNC positions the tool's center on the programmed path. When programming a part profile, the cutting edge must be half a diameter away from the path. Using radius compensation moves the cutting edge...

76 4 Tool Management 4.2 T ool D a ta Contouring with radius compensation The tool center moves along the contour at a distance equal to the radius. “Right” or “left” are to be understood as based on the direction of tool movement along the work piece contour as viewed from behind a moving tool. Bet...

ACU-RITE 3500i 77 4.2 T ool D a ta Radius compensation: Machining corners  Outside corners:If you program radius compensation, the CNC moves the tool around outside corners on a transitional arc. If necessary, the CNC reduces the feed rate at outside corners to reduce machine stress, for example at...

78 4 Tool Management 4.2 T ool D a ta Ramping into a Compensation Move  Entry moves allow a smooth transition into a contour. Allowing a way to avoid areas you do not want to affect with the tool when entering a contour, Entry Move button (G36). If an entry move without compensation is required, pr...

ACU-RITE 3500i 79 4.2 T ool D a ta Arc Tangent Entry Move In an arc tangent entry move the tool approaches the contour through an arc and enters tangent to the first move of the contour. The tool feeds from the current position to a calculated point based on the Angle (C) and Radius (R) then feeds t...

80 4 Tool Management 4.2 T ool D a ta Special Code: Temporary Change of Tool Diameter To change the tool radius in order to leave stock for a finish pass, program the “stock-variable”. The variable assigned for this function is #1030. Example: 120 #1030 = .015  When the CNC reads the above block, 0...

ACU-RITE 3500i 81 4.2 T ool D a ta Tool Compensation Path Path of Tool During Tool Compensation In linear-to-linear or linear-to-circular moves, the position at the end of the startup block Compensation LEFT (G41), or Compensation RIGHT (G42), is perpendicular to the next programmed move in the plan...

82 4 Tool Management 4.2 T ool D a ta Intersecting Points You cannot program a plane change during tool compensation. However, a 2-axis move off the currently active plane is allowed. For example: The active plane (compensation in XY). You program an XZ or YZ move. The Z-axis reaches the programmed ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 83 4.2 T ool D a ta General Precautions  When you program tool path instead of part edge, a negative diameter in the Tool Table effectively changes the moves during compensation.  Third axis moves (not in the active plane) are permitted during compensation.  The CNC automatically r...

84 4 Tool Management 4.2 T ool D a ta Fixture Offsets - Tool menu In the Tool menu bar, the Fixture Offset display screen is provided to allow data entry in the display fields to set fixture offsets.  Touch the Fixture Offsets button to open the offsets menu. With the display screen open, data can ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 85 4.2 T ool D a ta Lock, or Unlock a Tool In the Tool Table, select the tool to be locked, or unlocked.  Open the column field under “TL”.  Select No to unlock the tool, or Yes to lock the tool. When a tool’s usage limits have been exceeded, the tool is locked. If a replacement too...

88 5 Program Management 5.1 Pr ogr am Manag e ment Intr oduction 5.1 Program Management Introduction Accessing Program Management The Program Management mode provides access to all of the program utilities. These functions include creating, selecting, editing, deleting, and copying programs. The Pro...

ACU-RITE 3500i 89 5.1 Pr ogr am Manag e ment Intr oduction Program Manager Menu Bar In the Program screen, the horizontal menu bar displays the following Utility buttons: Button Function Use Navigation Arrow - Back to go to the previous folder. Use Navigation Arrow - Forward to go to the next folder...

90 5 Program Management 5.1 Pr ogr am Manag e ment Intr oduction Utility Function Buttons In the Program screen, the vertical side bar menu displays the following Utility buttons: Button Function Preview toggles open, or close the preview window. Folders toggles open, or close the Explorer window. T...

ACU-RITE 3500i 91 5.1 Pr ogr am Manag e ment Intr oduction Display window arrangement  The dialogue window displays can be re-sized by dragging the sliders. The selected program is displayed in the program window.  Touching the Folders button toggles between showing only the programs, and the fold...

92 5 Program Management 5.2 Pr ogr am Manag e r F unctions 5.2 Program Manager Functions Folder Filter  To select what type of programs to show, touch the Showing button. This opens the Folder Filter dialogue.  In the Folder Filter pop-up dialogue check, or uncheck the program types to be displaye...

ACU-RITE 3500i 93 5.2 Pr ogr am Manag e r F unctions Utility Button Functions Preview button  Select a program to preview from the program directory. A graphical image of the program is displayed in the preview window.  Touch the Preview button on the side bar to preview the program.  A preview o...

ACU-RITE 3500i 95 5.2 Pr ogr am Manag e r F unctions Sorting Folder Contents  The sorting button can be used to sort the contents of the folder list. The sorting button shows the current sort method (default is Sort By Name, Ascending).  The options for sorting are Name, Size, Type and Date. The o...

96 5 Program Management 5.2 Pr ogr am Manag e r F unctions Recycle Bin  When a program is deleted it is sent to the Recycle Bin. The Recycle Bin allows the operator to restore, or permanently delete programs that have been deleted from the folder.  Touch the Recycle Bin button located on the botto...

ACU-RITE 3500i 97 5.3 Cr eating, Editing, & Selecting t o Run 5.3 Creating, Editing, & Selecting to Run Creating a New Part Program  Touch the New Program button in the Program Manager to create a new program.  The New Program dialogue opens.  Select Conversational or G-code/ISO depending...

98 5 Program Management 5.3 Cr eating, Editing, & Selecting t o Run Selecting a Program To Run You must select a program before you can run it. Only one program can be selected at a time.  From the Manual Data Input screen (default screen), touch the Program Management button to activate the pr...

100 6 Conversational Editing 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming 6.1 Conversational Programming Getting Started Program blocks are written using the Edit button. Regardless whether a new program is being created, or an existing program is being edited. See “Accessing Program Management” on page 88. ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 101 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Program Edit Screen The program edit screen provides the name of the program in the upper Status Bar, and the program is displayed in numerical order in the main window. The conversational edit buttons are available in the bottom menu bar. Selec...

102 6 Conversational Editing 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Program Edit buttons  When editing a program, these edit buttons are available. Button Function Abs/Inc toggles between Absolute, and Incremental mode. Milling activates the bottom menu bar for e.g. Rapid, Line, Arc. More Milling open...

ACU-RITE 3500i 103 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Conversational Data Input Cycles Milling Button  Select the Milling button to display the milling button features in the bottom bar menu.  Milling  RPM  Entry Move  Rapid  Line  Arc  Exit Move  Tool  Repeat  Sub Programs When editing,...

104 6 Conversational Editing 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Milling Feature Buttons When the Milling Button is selected, the bottom menu bar changes to provide the following features to add, or edit the milling requirements of the program. Button Function RPM opens the Spindle RPM dialogue so t...

ACU-RITE 3500i 105 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming More Milling Button  Select the More Milling button to display the more milling button features in the pop-up menu.  More Milling  Offset  Dwell  SetZero  MCode  Home  BlockForm  Plane  PathTol  SysData  Feed  FeedU  Comment  Unit...

106 6 Conversational Editing 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Drill Features Button  Select the Drill Cycles button to display the more milling button features in the pop-up menu.  Drill Cycles  Basic  Pecking  CounterBore  Bi-Dir Bore  Uni-Dir Bore  Flat Bottom Bore  Chip Break  Tappin...

ACU-RITE 3500i 107 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Pocket Cycles Button  Select the Pocket Cycles button to display the pocket milling features in the pop-up menu.  Pocket Cycles  Rectangular  Circular  Frame  Ring  Draft Angle  Plunge Rectangular  Plunge Circular  Slot  Circular Slot...

108 6 Conversational Editing 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Other Cycles Button  Select the Other Cycles button to display additional milling features in the pop-up menu.  Other Cycles  Face  Hole  Rect Profile  Circ Profile  Linear Engraving  Arc Engraving  Mill Cycle  EndMill Cycle ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 109 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Program Editing The feature edit buttons provided for editing a program offer assistance when editing. On screen functions, and a description of these buttons are describe here. When in Edit mode to edit a program, touch the Edit Features button...

110 6 Conversational Editing 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Deleting a program block: There are two ways to delete program blocks from a Program Listing. The following provide the steps necessary to delete a block, or blocks.  In Edit Mode, place the cursor at the beginning of the first block ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 111 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Copy/Paste Blocks in a program Multiple blocks can be copied, and inserted in the same way.  Highlight the selected blocks to copy, and touch the Copy button.  Place the cursor at the beginning of a block where the copied blocks are to be inse...

112 6 Conversational Editing 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Restore edits to a program block: Using the redo button to reverse edits made to a program and restore the block(s) to its edited form.  Touch the Redo button to redo one or more recent actions taken in sequential reverse order.  Con...

ACU-RITE 3500i 113 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Program Text Editing Find: Specific Text or Code in a program Use the Find button in Edit Mode to search for blocks, or for specific text. Text, or Program Codes can be searched for throughout the entire program, or at specific locations. The fo...

114 6 Conversational Editing 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Program Edit Preview The Edit Preview feature provides a graphic representation of a part edge and/or tool path as the part program is being written. Edited, or inserted blocks can be viewed automatically as changes are made to the pro...

ACU-RITE 3500i 115 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Preview Features Menu For a complete description of the pan and rotate buttons see "Rotate Drawing View" on page 259, also see "Pan Drawing View" on page 259.  On screen preview buttons are available in the Preview Features menu...

116 6 Conversational Editing 6.1 Con v ersational Pr ogr a mming Program / Display Relation A program line can be selected in the editing area, or preview area. When selected, it is highlighted in purple in the preview area. When selected from the preview area, the cursor defaults to its program lin...

118 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles 7.1 Explaining Basic Cycles Round/Chamfer Corner Rounding Corner rounding permits the operator to blend the intersection of consecutive moves. To activate corner rounding, the operator keys a radius value (positive) into th...

ACU-RITE 3500i 119 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Line-to-Arc Corner Rounding  When the first move contains a CornerRad value, the CNC automatically finds the radius center and the tangent points necessary to calculate the tool path. The resulting tool path follows the solid line. Arc-to-Arc Corner ...

120 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Rapid Rapid Move Rapid Move initiates rapid traverse. The machine builder sets the actual rapid rate in the Setup Utility. Use Rapid Move to position the tool prior to or after a cut. Do not use Rapid Move to cut a part.  ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 121 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Rapid Move - Angle and Radius:  Specify the desired end point coordinate using the radius and angle of the movement. Rapid Move - Angle and X:  Specify the desired end point coordinate using the angle of the movement and the actual X-Axis position d...

122 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Rapid Move - Angle and Y:  Specify the desired end point coordinate using the angle of the movement and the actual Y-Axis position designation. Rapid Move - Radius and X:  Specify the desired end point coordinate using th...

ACU-RITE 3500i 123 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Rapid Move - Radius and Y:  Specify the desired end point coordinate using actual position designations, either in absolute or incremental. Line Line Move: Line Move initiates a straight-line feed motion and is used to cut a part. Straight-line motio...

124 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Line Move - EndPoint:  Specify the desired end point coordinate using actual position designations, either in absolute or incremental.  All parameters are optional. Field Code Description X X Absolute position of, or incr...

128 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Arc Arc Move: An Arc block initiates a feed motion and is used to cut an arc in a part. The 3500i executes arcs in the XY plane by default. For an arc in the XZ or YZ plane, program the plane change before the arc move. Aft...

132 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Using Arc Center and EndPoint to create a circle Since the start point and end point of a circle are the same, you do not need to program an end point to create a circle. Position the tool at the required starting point bef...

ACU-RITE 3500i 133 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Dwell: Dwell (G4) can be used to program a delay between blocks. A Timed Dwell is a timed stop. An Infinite Dwell is a stop that can be canceled only by pressing START. With a dwell activated, the 3500i halts motions on all axes, but other functions (...

134 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Plane Selection Make plane changes prior to circular interpolation. XY is the default plane at power-on. Circular moves and tool diameter compensation are confined to the plane you select (XY, XZ, or YZ).  Select the More ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 135 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Reference Point Return: The Home command returns the specified axes to their respective permanent reference position. The machine returns directly to its X, Y, Z, and (U) reference point (Machine Home). Axes return from the current position to their r...

136 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Fixture Offset (Work Coordinate System Select): Use the work coordinate system commonly known as fixture offsets to shift Absolute Zero to a preset dimension. Fixture Offset dimensions are referenced to Machine Zero. Fixtur...

ACU-RITE 3500i 137 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Unit (Inch/MM) Use the Unit block to specify and activate the desired unit of measurement in a program. The active Unit is modal, and remains active until overridden.  Select the More Milling button, and then "Unit" from the pop-up menu.  Co...

138 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Absolute Zero Set Absolute Zero is the X0, Y0, Z0 position for absolute dimensions. Refer to chapter 3 "Manual Data Input (MDI)" on page 38 for more information on Absolute positioning. A SetZero block sets the Abso...

ACU-RITE 3500i 139 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Block Form The BlockForm command is used to define a window in relation to the part zero. This is used by the Draw function to present a solid model of the raw stock. Block Form can be placed anywhere within the program and must be accompanied by all ...

140 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Temporary Path Tolerance The PathTol command is used to temporarily override the parameter for path tolerance. This should only be used in a program and should be programmed by itself. The value in the system configuration ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 141 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles System Data The SysData command can be used in a program to override system configuration data during the program execution. The new value is only in effect during the program run, and reverts back to the original value after program completion. This ...

142 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles FeedRate A Feed block sets the feedrate for Line moves, arcs, and cycles that do not contain specifically programmed feed rates. Feed blocks also set the feedrate for modal moves. Add Feed blocks whenever necessary  Select...

ACU-RITE 3500i 143 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Spindle RPM Use the RPM command to designate and activate the desired spindle speed, in Revolutions Per Minute. Programming an RPM does not activate any spindle motion; it only sets the speed at which any subsequent spindle rotation will occur at.  C...

144 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Tool Definition and Activation Use the Tool command to define and/or use a tool in the program. On a machine with a fixed bin tool changer, a Tool call will always mount the tool, with no need for the MCode 6. On a machine ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 145 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles Repeat Blocks The Repeat command allows a series of previously programmed blocks to be repeated one time. Wherever it is used, the repeated blocks will be processed, just as if they were written in the program at that point. For more advanced features...

146 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 1 Explaining Basic Cy cles This program will drill four holes. A Fixture Offset is used to relocate X Y zero. When the Repeat Cycle is encountered, it will drill four more holes at the offset location. Block Description 11 Y 0.0000 12 DrillOff 13 Off...

ACU-RITE 3500i 147 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s 7.2 Canned Cycles Canned Cycles A canned cycle is a preset sequence of events initiated by a single block of data. Canned cycles are part of the CNC software and cannot be altered. They simplify the programming of complicated cycles. One block of data c...

148 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Drilling Cycles Drilling, Tapping, and Boring When you activate a drilling cycle, it executes after each programmed position, until you cancel it. The following reminders are for drill cycles:  F feedrate is optional. If it is not g...

150 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Tapping Cycle  The tapping canned cycle is used for tapping holes. During a tapping cycle, the tool feeds from the R-plane to Z depth. The spindle stops and reverses, the tool feeds to the retract plane, and the spindle stops, and t...

152 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Chip Break Cycle  This is the chip-breaker peck-drilling cycle, generally used to peck-drill medium to deep holes. The cycle feeds from the R-plane to the first peck depth in Z, rapid retracts the chip-break increment (W), feeds to ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 153 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Flat Bottom Boring Cycle  This boring cycle generally used to program a pass in each direction with a dwell at the bottom. The tool feeds from the R-plane to Z depth, dwells for specified time, then feeds to the retract (P) dimension.  G-code format: ...

154 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Drill Bolt Hole Cycle  Use the drill bolt hole cycle to drill a partial or full bolt circle. A drill cycle must be programmed prior to the bolt hole cycle. You can move around the pattern clockwise or counterclockwise, either point ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 155 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Drill Pattern Cycle  Use the automatic hole pattern cycle to program partial or full pattern hole grids. You can use this for a corner pattern when holes are required only on four corners. It calculates the hole locations from the entered variables. Yo...

156 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Milling Cycles Mill Cycle  The Mill Cycle is intended for contour milling operations. Tool diameter compensation, Z Pecking, Finish Stock, RoughFeed, and FinishFeed are supported. The cycle rapids to the XY start point (compensated,...

158 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles EndMill Cycle  The mill cycle is terminated with the EndMill block; at which point, it rapids up to the StartHgt and rapids to the X and Y location specified. If X and Y are not specified the tool remains in the current position.  ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 159 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Face Mill Cycle Facing cycles simplify the programming required to face the surface of a part.  Execution begins one tool radius from the D and E (start point). The selected stepover determines the approach axes.  Facing cycles can start in any corner...

160 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles  G-code format: G170 Field Code Description XStart D X coordinate of the starting point. Defaults to current position.NOTE: Type the required absolute X Start and Y Start coordinates when possible. YStart E Y coordinate of the start...

ACU-RITE 3500i 161 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Hole Mill Cycle  Use the hole milling cycle to machine through holes or counter-bores. You can position the tool at the hole center prior to the this block. Activate a tool prior to, so that the CNC knows the tool diameter.  If you do not provide Z an...

162 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Thread Mill Cycle  Use the thread milling for cutting inside or outside threads. It cuts either Inch or MM, left or right hand, and Z movement up or down. A single tooth or multi-toothed tool may be used. Start can be at the top or ...

164 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles  Tool Length Offset is set the same as with any other tool or operation. A tool diameter also has to be set in the tool table, as tool diameter compensation is built into this cycle (tool diameter compensation is not allowed during ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 165 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Circular Profile Cycle The Circular Profile Cycle cleans up the inside or outside profile of an existing circle.  When executed, the CNC rapids to Ramp#1 starting position, rapids to H (StartHgt), then feeds to the depth of the first cut.  The machine...

166 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles  If you enter B (DepthCut), the CNC executes the number of passes required to get from the H (StartHgt) to Z (ZDepth), cutting to the Depth Cut = B (Z Max.cut) on each pass.  When you enter an S (FinStock) value, the CNC leaves the...

ACU-RITE 3500i 167 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Rectangular Profile Cycle  The Rectangular Profile Cycle cleans up the inside or outside profile of a rectangle. When run, the CNC rapids to the Ramp #1 starting position, rapids to H (Z StartHgt), and then feeds to the depth of the first cut.  The ma...

ACU-RITE 3500i 169 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Pocket Cycles  Pocketing cycles eliminate extensive programming. One block of programming mills out the described pocket.  Activate a tool before programming a pocket cycle. All pockets use the current tool diameter from the Tool Table. When using a c...

170 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Draft Angle Pocket Cycle  Use the draft pocket milling cycle to machine a draft angle on the outer contour of a pocket. The tool must be positioned at the center point of the lower-left corner radius, at the bottom of the draft pock...

ACU-RITE 3500i 171 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Continued:  G-code format: G73 Draft Angle Pocket Example:  This program cuts the draft angle pocket shown in the figure. The drawing does not show the finish pass. Assume an existing rectangular pocket (4 in. long x 2 in. wide x 1 in. deep) with a th...

172 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Rectangular Pocket Cycle  Use the rectangular pocket cycle to mill square or rectangular pockets. You must position the tool directly over the center of the pocket prior to the Rectangular Pocket cycle, or use the X Y data.  Activa...

174 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Circular Pocket Cycle  Use the circular pocket cycle to mill round pockets. You must position the tool directly over the center of the pocket prior to the block, or use the X Y data.  Activate the tool prior to programming the pock...

176 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Plunge Rectangular Pocket Cycle  Use the plunge rectangular pocket cycle for carbide tooling, where a multiple-axis ramp-in move is not possible. The Z-axis plunges (single axis) to the programmed depth. You must position the tool d...

178 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Plunge Circular Pocket Cycle  Use the plunge circular pocket cycle for carbide tooling, when a multiple-axis ramp-in move is not possible. The Z-axis plunges (single axis) to programmed depths. You must position the tool directly ov...

180 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Frame Pocket Cycle  Use the frame pocket cycle to mill a frame or trough around an island of material. You must position the tool directly over the center of the island, or use the X Y words.  Activate the tool prior to programming...

182 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Ring Pocket Cycle  Use the ring pocket cycle to mill a circular frame or trough around a circular island of material. You must position the tool directly over the center of the island, or use the X Y words.  Activate the tool prior...

184 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Slot Cycle  Use the Slot Cycle to mill a slot.  A slot is defined by a center (X,Y), length, width, and depth.  If X and Y variable words are not programmed, the CNC will use the current position as the slot center. The tool needs...

186 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Circular Slot Cycle  Use the circular slot cycle to mill a slot along a circular path. You must position the tool directly over the circle center prior to the circular slot cycle block, or use the X and Y words.  Activate a tool pr...

188 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Irregular Pocket Cycle  Use this to mill irregular pockets. You must enter the perimeter of the shape into a sub-program. The main irregular pocket needs to be a closed shape, with contiguous line and arc movements starting and endi...

190 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Islands  An Island is an area within a pocket cycle that is left uncut. This cycle provides the ability to create islands within pockets. The Island step can define up to five sub-programs as islands.  Islands must be programmed us...

ACU-RITE 3500i 191 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Bottom Finish  Use Bottom Finish to remove bottom stock left by a previously programmed pocket cycle.  Bottom Finish must be programmed immediately after a compatible pocket cycle that has left bottom stock. All of the bottom stock is removed in one p...

192 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 2 Canned Cy cles Side Finish  Use Side Finish to remove side stock left by a previously programmed pocket cycle.  Side Finish must be programmed immediately after a compatible pocket cycle that has left side stock. All side stock is removed in one ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 193 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Engraving Cycles Engraving cycles provides a quick and easy way to engrave part numbers, legends, or any alpha/numeric inscription. The usual type of cutter is a sharp point or center drill type tool. Options are given for engraving on an angle (G190), ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 195 7. 2 C a n n e d C y c le s Programming the Arc Engrave Cycle To program the Arc Engrave Cycle:  In Edit mode, touch Other Cycles , then touch Arc Engrave cycle to display the Engrave Cycle menu.  Complete the entry fields, and touch USE . Field Code Description Text A Text stri...

ACU-RITE 3500i 197 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles 7.3 Probing Cycles Tool, and Spindle Probe cycles This section describes operation and an overview of the tool and spindle probe canned cycles available on the 3500i CNC products. The cycles provided perform the most common tool and spindle probing functions....

198 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Tool Probe Cycles Before using your tool probe and tool probe cycles, you must setup the probe following the probe manufacturer's specifications. The tool probe updates the tool registers only. If you are going to use the tool bein...

ACU-RITE 3500i 199 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Tool Probe Calibration Cycle  This is used to set the Z datum for length preset, the effective probe stylus diameter for setting tool diameter registers, and establishes the center of the probe stylus.  This cycle is used to calibrate the probe. This is use...

200 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles To calibrate the tool probe:  Jog the calibration standard (the calibration standard should be in the spindle) to the top of your work piece or a common surface where all your tools will be calibrated to, and set its tool-length o...

ACU-RITE 3500i 201 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles  The Z-axis then does a guarded Z move down 0.1" (2.54 mm) or whatever amount was placed in the E cycle parameter and then moves over toward the probe stylus 0.3" (7.62 mm) or until it touches the probe stylus. If contact is not made with the probe o...

202 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Field Code Description Tool# T Tool number. (Required)With only the T cycle parameter present, the canned cycle does not step over half the tool's diameter but comes straight down measuring the tool length and storing it in the too...

ACU-RITE 3500i 203 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Field Code Description DistDown E The incremental distance from the current Z Retract amount to go down along the side of the probe stylus when doing a diameter pick. The maximum E value is 0.55" (13.97 mm) or the tool may crash into the probe or table. I...

204 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles To use the automatic tool preset: Field Code Description OvrSlwFeed S This is the override for the slow feedrate that was set in the machine setup parameter ZFirstPickFeedRate_Slow. This is used for the same reason as the F cycle p...

206 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Format: G151 T(tool#) D (tool rough diameter) With T and D cycle parameter only set:  The machine rapids the Z-axis up, picks up the tool designated in the T cycle parameter, and rapids directly over the center of the probe stylus...

208 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Manual Tool-Length Offset Preset  Updates tool-length register. To be used for large face mill style tools or shell mill tools that have a hole in the center of the bottom of the tool. This cycle is used to measure the length of l...

ACU-RITE 3500i 209 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Field Code Description OvrSlwFeed S This is the override for the slow feedrate that was set in the machine setup parameter ZFirstPickFeedRate_Slow. This is used for the same reason as the M cycle parameter. This can only be set slower. Trying to set this high...

210 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles  You must have the tool positioned over the probe stylus so the tooth that sticks down the furthest is directly over the center of the probe stylus and above the stylus less than 0.100" (2.0 mm). To measure the tool length:  ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 211 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Manual Tool Diameter Measure for Special Tools  Updates tool diameter register for irregular shaped tools or tools with a hole in the center of the bottom. This cycle is used to measure the diameter of irregularly shaped tools or tools with a hole in the cen...

212 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles You must:  Load the tool in the spindle and call up that tools offset.  Know the distance from the top of the probe stylus down you have to move so that the largest part of the tool diameter is even with the side of the probe sty...

ACU-RITE 3500i 213 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles From the Manual Data Input Mode with G-code MDI selected and the spindle off, input:  "G153 Tn Dn En" and touch the NC Start button. Where T is the tool number, D is roughly the diameter of the special tool (this should be larger but not more than 0....

214 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Tool Breakage, Length and Diameter Wear Detection  Checks the tool and gives an alarm if not within tolerance. Length and Diameter Wear - Check the Length and/or Diameter and updates the Length and/or Diameter wear registers up to...

ACU-RITE 3500i 217 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles  The G154 cycle loads the tool, checks, and updates length and diameter wear registers if specified, until a maximum value is exceeded, then it alarms out stopping the program.  This cycle can be used in place of calling up a tool before running it.  You m...

218 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles positioningFeedRate_Normally - set to the feedrate the control will use while normally positioning the probe around the part positioningFeedRate_FirstTouch - set to the feedrate the control will use while making its initial touch t...

220 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Edge Finding  Calibrate the work probe at least once before trying to use this cycle.  A preliminary tool-length offset must be set by eye for the work probe and that tool offset, and work coordinate active before using this cycl...

ACU-RITE 3500i 221 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Outside Corner Finding  Calibrate the work probe at least once before trying to use this cycle.  A preliminary tool-length offset must be set by eye for the work probe. The tool offset, and work coordinate must be active before using this cycle in a program...

222 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles To use the Outside Corner Finding Cycle:  Place the probe in the spindle with its tool number active and the tool type set to "Touch Probe".  Manually jog the probe stylus less than 0.1" (2.54 mm) away from the outsid...

ACU-RITE 3500i 223 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Inside Corner Finding  Calibrate the work probe at least once before trying to use this cycle.  A preliminary tool-length offset must be set by eye for the work probe. The tool offset, and work coordinate must be active before using this cycle in a program....

224 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles To use the Inside Corner Finding Cycle:  Place the probe in the spindle with its tool number active and the tool type set to "Touch Probe".  Manually jog the probe stylus 0.1" (2.54 mm) away from the inside of the cor...

226 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles To use the Inside/Outside Boss/Hole Finding Cycle:  Place the probe in the spindle with its tool number active and the tool type set to "Touch Probe".  Manually jog the probe stylus the approximate center in X & Y wit...

ACU-RITE 3500i 227 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Inside/Outside Web Finding  An inside Web is a slot. An outside Web is a standing rib. Webs can only be measured in the X- or Y-axis.  Calibrate the work probe at least once before trying to use this cycle.  A preliminary tool-length offset must be set by ...

228 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles To use the Inside/Outside Web Finding Cycle:  Place the probe in the spindle with its tool number active and the tool type set to "Touch Probe".  Manually jog the probe stylus the approximate center in X or Y within 0.1&#...

ACU-RITE 3500i 229 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Protected Probe Positioning  When an X, Y, and/or Z move is programmed using the Protected Positioning Cycle, the control stops the axis travel and program and alarm, if the probe stylus is triggered before reaching the target set in the X, Y, and/or Z param...

230 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Skew Compensation  G68, axis rotation, cannot be used with skew compensation find.  Skew compensation is only supported for along the side edge of a part relative to the X,Y plane. Skew compensation is only supported for along th...

ACU-RITE 3500i 231 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Field Code Description EstAngle S Estimated amount of angle from 3 O'clock. Default is 0 which causes the cycle to find the angle of the back edge of the part starting its first pick in the upper-left corner and making the second pick to the left of that, as ...

232 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles To use the skew compensation Cycle:  Place the probe in the spindle with its tool number active and the tool type set to "Touch Probe".  Manually jog the probe stylus to the appropriate start position relative to the part...

ACU-RITE 3500i 233 7. 3 Pr obing Cy cles Using the Z Work Offset Update Feature If you would like to calibrate all your tools to a fixed Z axis location on the machine, and then use the Z Axis Work Offset to shift all the tools to the top of a part, you must use the G141 Edge Finding cycle with Spin...

234 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr a ms 7.4 Sub-programs Sub-program information: Overview Program repetitive sequences or patterns in a sub-program. Enter sub-programs in the program after the end of the main program. Call sub-programs from the main program.  A sub-prog...

ACU-RITE 3500i 235 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr ams Defining a sub-program To define and enter the blocks for a sub-program, use the Sub command to designate the start of the sub-program along with a number to identify that particular sub-program. sub-programs need to be entered after the end of the main program...

236 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr a ms Looping a sub-program Use the Loop command to repeat the execution of a sub-program the specified number of times. It is possible to optionally conduct each sub-program iteration in a new location by specifying the increment amount ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 237 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr ams Rotate, Mirror, and/or Scale a sub-program Use RMS blocks to Rotate, Mirror, and/or Scale sub-programs. These functions turn off when the sub-program ends.  Select "Other Cycles" and then "RMS" from the pop-up menu.  Conversational format: RMS...

ACU-RITE 3500i 239 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr ams Pocket and Islands example The pocketing and islands features are very powerful programming features that provide the user the ability to program the machining of parts from a simplified nature, to a very complex design. By providing examples of using these fea...

240 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr a ms  Blocks 1 through 4 are comments.  Blocks 5 through 7 define common defaults.  Block 8 defines the blockform or stock size. This is only needed for the 3D solid. The stock defined is 6x6 with center at 0,0.  Blocks 9 through 12 ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 241 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr ams Pocket/Island example 2 This example shows a circular pocket with an island in the center. The island is in the form of a circle. The cutting tool is a ¼ “ diameter. end mill.

ACU-RITE 3500i 243 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr ams Pocket/Island example 3 This example shows an irregular pocket with an island in the center. The island is in the form of a diamond. The cutting tool is a ¼ “ diameter end mill.

ACU-RITE 3500i 245 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr ams Pocket/Island example 4 This example shows a rectangular pocket with an island in the center. The island is in the form of a diamond. This example is similar to Example 1 but uses the coarse tool feature by first using a roughing tool and then a finer tool. The...

ACU-RITE 3500i 247 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr ams Pocket/Island example 5 Example 5 builds on Example 4 by leaving some stock to then be removed with a finish cycle. It's possible to have the pocket cycle remove stock but by using a separate finish cycle the machine is allowed to change tools (if needed).

ACU-RITE 3500i 249 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr ams Pocket/Island example 6 Example 6 shows a more complex contour with three islands one of which is nested. This will also use the coarse tool feature. Stock will be left to be removed with a finish cycle. The initial roughing tool has a 1” diameter. A roughing f...

ACU-RITE 3500i 251 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr ams  Blocks 1 through 5 are comments.  Blocks 6 through 8 define common defaults.  Block 9 defines the blockform or stock size. This is only needed for the 3D solid.  Block 10 defines the initial roughing tool which has a 1” diameter.  Blocks 11 through 13 def...

252 7 Programming: Canned Cycles, sub-programs 7. 4 Sub-pr ogr a ms  Block 20 defines the finish tool which a 1/4” diameter. Finishing could be done with the same tool but for illustration purposes a different tool is used.  Block 21 re-defines the island for the side-finish tool. This is necessar...

254 8 Drawing Programs 8.1 Dr a w 8.1 Draw Viewing Programs Draw Graphics (part graphics) is a method by which to prove a program before you cut any material. It allows you to view the part edge and/or tool path from different angles, inspect the moves the machine is programmed to make, without nece...

ACU-RITE 3500i 255 8.1 Dr a w Starting Draw  Draw Simulation Mode is started from the Program Manager. You can make some changes from the buttons while a simulation is running. In Draw Simulation Mode, the 3500i does not hold the operation of the program for Dwells and tool mounts and other machine...

256 8 Drawing Programs 8.1 Dr a w  Touch the Display Program button to open the program and dashboard screen. View Options Menu  The Side Bar menu contains buttons to change the graphic view modes and style. The following table describes these buttons. Button Function 2D Top Plane Solid View is a ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 257 8.1 Dr a w Adjust View Menu  Touch the Adjust View button to open the adjust view buttons. Button Function Adjust Blk Form changes the work piece size to aid in determining the appropriate block form dimensions. Zoom opens the zoom menu bar. Rotate opens the rotate menu bar. Part...

ACU-RITE 3500i 259 8.1 Dr a w Rotate Drawing View  Touch the Rotate button to access the directional rotate buttons. The display can also be rotated by touching the screen, and dragging.  Touch the Reset Rotate button to return to the default display orientation. Pan Drawing View When the 2D, or 3...

260 8 Drawing Programs 8.1 Dr a w The following is a description of the panning buttons that are available. Line View Adjustments  Touch the 2D, or 3D Wire Frame View button to activate the tool path view from the side bar.  Touch the Line Numbers button to toggle the line numbers on or off.  Tou...

ACU-RITE 3500i 261 8.1 Dr a w Draw Options  Touch the Options button to activate the Options Dialogue. The Options dialogue functions the same as in Programing. In Draw, blocks of the program can be marked to stop, or be skipped. When these are selected, the Stop or Skip feature is activated. The R...

262 8 Drawing Programs 8.1 Dr a w Sim Tools  Touch the Sim Tools button to activate the Draw Tool Table. The simulator tool table is a separate table that Draw uses to simulate the machining of the part. The machine tool table can be copied into the Draw tool table. Any changes made in this table d...

264 9 Running a Program on the Machine 9.1 Running a pr ogr am 9.1 Running a program Modes of Programmed Operation There are two modes to run a program: Automatic Mode: Runs a program automatically, without pausing. Single-Step Mode: Runs a program one block at a time. The display for these modes re...

ACU-RITE 3500i 265 9.1 Running a pr ogr am Starting a program  With a program selected and in Program Run Mode, touch the Auto button to put the 3500i in auto mode.  Select the starting block in the program if necessary.  Touch the START button to execute the program, placing the CNC in motion. P...

266 9 Running a Program on the Machine 9.1 Running a pr ogr am Single Step  Single-Step Mode runs a program block by block. This mode enables you to step through the program and verify the moves before you cut an actual part.  Once a program has been selected, and the Program Run mode has been act...

ACU-RITE 3500i 267 9.1 Running a pr ogr am Block Search The Block Search feature can be used to begin program execution from a point other than the beginning of the program. The 3500i will begin program execution from the selected block location, skipping all previous blocks in the program.This feat...

268 9 Running a Program on the Machine 9.1 Running a pr ogr am Using Draw with running programs When Draw is activated, a display window opens. When the program is started, the loaded tool movement, and the action it is taking is displayed.  In Program Run mode, touch the Draw button to activate th...

ACU-RITE 3500i 269 9.1 Running a pr ogr am Program Status Area The following table provides a description of the various display fields for the Program Status area shown while running a program on the machine. Button Function 1 Active program name. 2 In-Position display. Indicates if the machine has...

270 9 Running a Program on the Machine 9.1 Running a pr ogr am Parts Counter The 3500i keeps track of how many parts have been machined during the active program run session. When first entering into Program Run mode, the Parts Counter is initialized to a value of zero. Each time the active program ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 271 9.1 Running a pr ogr am Program Run Timers The 3500i also keeps track of the program machining time during the active program run session. When first entering into Program Run mode, both of the timers are initialized to a value of zero hours, minutes, and seconds. The timers begin...

272 9 Running a Program on the Machine 9.1 Running a pr ogr am Axis Jog keys The Axis Jog keys are located on the front panel of the console.  From the Manual Data Input Mode, pressing the JOG key repeatedly will toggle through the available modes, and feed rates.  Description of how to use the Jo...

ACU-RITE 3500i 273 9.1 Running a pr ogr am In-Program Axis Jogging While a program is active in Program Run mode, it is possible to pause the automated execution and conduct manual axis jogging. This should be used with extreme caution, and only when absolutely necessary.  In Program Run mode, pres...

276 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming 10.1 CAM Programming CAM Mode CAM Mode is different from the standard CNC programming method of part programming. With CAM programming, you create part programs with the help of geometry tool buttons. These buttons prompt you for necessary informatio...

ACU-RITE 3500i 277 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Recommended CAM Programming Sequence CAM Setup Review the CAM Setup data to verify the default settings work for your program requirements (see page 311). If you are not an experienced user the default settings should be adequate. Experienced users can fi...

278 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming CAM Mode Mouse Operations CAM works with the touch screen, but for ease of use it is recommended to use a mouse or other pointing device be used. Along with the standard method of touching to select items, CAM mode offers special mouse functions that...

ACU-RITE 3500i 279 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming CAM Mode Screen In CAM Mode the CNC displays the CAM Mode screen. The CAM Mode screen Displays three groups of icons, and one Toolbar on the left:  Geometry Toolbar menu 2 .  Modifying Toolbar menu 3 .  Viewing Toolbar menu 4 .  Vertical button bar ex...

280 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Creating a New Program CAM Mode buttons Geometry and Tool Path tools are used to create geometry that will be converted into shapes and to create tool paths from shapes. The following table describes the buttons that are available in each Toolbar. Ge...

ACU-RITE 3500i 281 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Point Tool buttons  Touching the Point Tool button activates the following buttons in the Vertical button bar. Point Editing Existing points can easily be edited. To edit a point:  Select the Properties button.  Select the point to be edited. The Point...

282 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Line Tool buttons  Touching the Line Tool button activates the following buttons in the Vertical button bar. Button Function Select Parallel line in the Y axis to create a line parallel to the Y axis at an X coordinate. Select Parallel line in the X...

ACU-RITE 3500i 283 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Editing a Line Parameter values are interdependent. When one parameter value is changed other parameters are updated to reflect the change that was made. After a change to a parameter has been made touch inside another parameter field, or use the ENTER bu...

284 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Circle Tool buttons  Touching the Circle Tool button activates the following buttons in the Vertical button bar. Circle Editing Existing parameters can easily be edited. To edit an arc, or circle:  Select the Properties button.  Select the paramet...

ACU-RITE 3500i 285 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Shape Tool buttons  Touching the Shape Tool button activates the following buttons in the Vertical button bar. Button Function Select Rectangle to create a rectangular shape. Select Polygon to create a polygon with three or more sides. Select Triangle to...

286 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Tool Path Buttons  Touching the Tool Path button activates the following buttons in the Vertical button bar. Button Function Select Job Setup to define specific job setup feature. Select Block Form to create a block form used for the program. Select...

ACU-RITE 3500i 287 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Tool Path Data Input Selecting a tool path type opens a data input dialogue. The dialogue will have tab sections for additional parameters for that tool path. Tool path data input dialogues have a Basic tab, and a Comment tab (except Drilling). Basic Tab ...

288 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Quick Coordinate Entry Entries that require X and Y coordinates can use an existing point, circle or circle center to specify these values. This eliminates the need to re-type data, or prevent possible errors.  Select the Quick Coordinate button. A ...

290 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Tool Length Entered automatically if tool length has been previously defined in the Tool Table.  Enter the tool’s length. Tool Action Choose None, Use Tool Number, or Define, and Use.  None: Tool Action parameter is ignored. Any previously defined ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 291 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Job Setup: Advanced tab Advanced tab Data Entries This allows the toolpath to rotated, scaled, or mirrored. Rotation Angle  Enter rotation angle. X Center  Enter the center of rotation in X axis. Y Center  Enter the center of rotation in Y axis. Rotati...

292 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Scale Action - Choose None, Use, or Off.  None: Scale Action parameter is ignored. Any previously defined Scale Action remains active.  Use: Turns on scaling and uses the scaling factors defined in the Scale Factor X, Scale Factor Y and Scale Facto...

ACU-RITE 3500i 293 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Block Form: Basic tab Basic tab Data Entries Block Form defines the dimensions of the stock. The Block Form is used for graphical purposes only and allows a solid 3D view of the program to be generated. At least one Block Form must be defined in the progr...

294 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Drilling Cycle: The Drilling tool path defines a drill cycle type, location, and parameters for drilling. Certain parameters apply only to specific cycles. These parameters appear as needed based on the selected Drill Cycle. The following describes t...

ACU-RITE 3500i 295 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Drill Cycle: Boring Unidirectional  A unidirectional boring cycle is a boring cycle that allows the X-axis to back off the bore surface after the spindle has stopped and oriented itself. The cycle feeds from the Start Height to Z depth, dwell for the spe...

296 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Drilling dialogue: The Drilling dialogue has (5) tabs available for inputting information for the desired drilling requirement: Basic, Setup, Bolt Hole, Pattern, and Comment. Basic tab  Drill Cycle: There are (6) drill cycle options available: Basic...

ACU-RITE 3500i 297 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Setup tab:  Tool: Once the tool has been entered into the tool table, its tool number can be entered here.  Feed: The tool feed rate is entered here. This is automatically calculated if tool being used is defined in the Tool Table.  Coolant: Choose Non...

298 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Pattern tab: The Pattern tab must have the appropriate data filled in to use the Pattern option in the Drill Location selection.  # X Holes: Enter the number of holes in X-axis.  # Y Holes: Enter the number of holes in Y-axis.  Style: Choose to us...

ACU-RITE 3500i 299 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Mill Cycle The Mill Cycle tool path is used to generate a milling cycle from a defined shape. The cycle rapids to the X Start, Y Start point, rapids to the Start Height and then feeds to the Z Depth using the Z Feed and mills the selected shape. The cycle...

300 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming  Arc Tangent - The tool exits the contour in an arc move of a given radius and angle and tangent to the last move of the contour.  Line Arc Tangent - The tool exits the contour in an arc move of a given radius, tangent to the last move of the conto...

ACU-RITE 3500i 301 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Pocket Cycle The Pocket Cycle tool path is used to generate a pocket cycle with or without islands from defined shapes. Islands within islands are allowed. The cycle rapids to the X Start, Y Start point, rapids to the Start Height and then feeds to the fi...

ACU-RITE 3500i 303 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Pocket Finish Cycles The Pocket Finish Cycles tool path is used to generate a bottom and/or side pocket finish cycle. A Pocket Cycle tool path is required prior to the pocket finish cycle. The Pocket Finish cycle uses the shape and islands specified in th...

304 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Adding a Machining Side: When a shape is created a prompt appears to add a machining side to a shape. The machining for pockets is typically on the inside, and for islands on the outside. The Machining Side tool enables this feature to be added anyti...

ACU-RITE 3500i 305 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Engraving Cycle The Engraving Cycle provides a quick and easy way to engrave part numbers, legends, or any alpha/numeric inscription. Engraving does not require the use of shapes or geometry. There are two types of engraving patterns, Linear and Circular....

306 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Setup tab:  Tool: Enter the tool number to use for the cycle.  Feed: Enter the feed rate used while engraving.  Coolant: Choose None, On or Off. See "Coolant" on page 290.  Spindle Dir: Choose Forward, Reverse, Off or None. See "Spind...

ACU-RITE 3500i 307 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Modifying Toolbar In the following table is a brief description of the Modifying Tools located in the Modifying Toolbar. These buttons provide the ability to Modify existing geometry. They are described in more detail later in this chapter. See "Modif...

308 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Viewing Tools Viewing Tools allow you to toggle and switch between viewing options. Viewing Tool Buttons: Button Function Select 2D Wire frame to view 2D Wire-frame for geometry creation and edits. Select 3D Tool Path to view 3D tool paths. Buttons f...

ACU-RITE 3500i 311 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming CAM Setup The Setup button, opens the CAM Setup dialogue. There are four tabs in this dialogue used for setting up the CAM program. Preferences, required values, and parameters are input here. Selection tab:  Start Shape: Default value is 1. The starting...

312 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Display tab:  Shape Color: Color to display shapes. Default value is Yellow.  Shape First Color: Color of the first geometry object of a shape. Default value is White.  Default Color: Color of all geometry objects. Default value is Cyan.  Highlig...

314 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Geometry Defining Geometry: Geometry items are the basic element of CAM programming. Shapes are created from geometry and tool paths are generated from these shapes.  To define geometry, the applicable button from the Geometry Tools in the main Tool...

316 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming  In many cases when creating geometry there is more than one solution. When multiple solutions are available, all geometry solutions appear.  The Prompt Menu bar will ask that only the lines to be kept should now be selected: Select the top, and bo...

ACU-RITE 3500i 317 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Finalizing the geometry  Unwanted lines now need to be trimmed from the final shape. Select the geometry Trim button from the Modifying Toolbar to complete the geometry. See "Modifying Tools Buttons:" on page 307.  Select the Trim button from th...

318 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Creating the shape  Touch the Select button from the bottom button menu.  Select the bottom line between the two arc’s.  Notice that a small circle appears at the end of the line. This circle appears on the closest end to where the line was touche...

ACU-RITE 3500i 319 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming DXF Import Feature The DXF import feature allows information in a Drawing Exchange Format (.DXF extension) to be used to create a CNC program in CAM Mode. Shapes can be created from the geometry in the DXF file using a mouse and "point and touch" ...

320 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Modifying Tools The Modifying Tools are described in the following information providing a description of their use and application. These tools have been briefly described in the table “Modifying Toolbar” on page 307. Corner Radius (inserting) The c...

ACU-RITE 3500i 321 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Trimming Geometry The geometry Trimming tool allows trimming at the intersecting point between two segments of geometry.  To Trim existing geometry, perform the following:  Select the Trimming button from the Modifying Toolbar.  Select the geometry to ...

322 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Shapes Geometry items are the basic element of CAM programming. Shapes are created from geometry, and tool paths are generated from these shapes. For an example of how to create a shape see "Geometry" on page 314.  The following describes co...

ACU-RITE 3500i 323 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Tool Table The CAM Mode tool table is used to define parameters for machining tools used in the program. Entering parameters into the tool table enables you to manage tool information from one location. When a tool that is setup in the tool table is speci...

324 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Tool Table Parameters Tool Number Tools are numbered from 1 to the maximum number of tools. The maximum number of tools is a configuration item. Refer to the CNC's Tool Table for more information. Must be entered by user. Tool Diameter Diameter of th...

ACU-RITE 3500i 325 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Setting up the Tool Table To setup the Tool Table:  Select the Setup button. The CAM Setup dialogue opens.  Touch the right arrow key in the CAM Setup dialogue until the Tool Table tab appears.  Select the Tool Table tab. The Tool Table opens in the CA...

326 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Tool Paths Creating a Tool Path in CAM Mode Tool paths are created from shapes that have been defined. To create a tool path in CAM Mode:  Select the Tool Path button from the main Toolbar.  Select the button for the tool path that is to be created...

ACU-RITE 3500i 327 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Tool Path Editing The tool path edit dialogue allows editing, and arranging existing tool paths in the program. Tool path operations are used to generate the CNC program. The program is generated in the order in which the tool paths are created. The Tool ...

328 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Editing a Tool Path To edit a Tool Path:  Select the Tool Path Edit button to open the Tool Path Edit dialogue.  Select the tool path to edit from the numbered list of tool path buttons.  Select the Edit button. A Data dialogue opens, displaying t...

ACU-RITE 3500i 329 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Smart Programming CAM Mode creates Smart Programs. Smart programs are arranged by cycle blocks. Edits to machining characteristics can easily be made from the machine by editing the cycle block that requires changes. Changes can also be made in CAM Mode a...

330 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming CAM Example 1 Creating basic geometry for tool path usage. In this exercise a pocket slot will be created, and completing the slot will require the use of a tool path for clean up. The slot will be .500” wide, by 1.000” long on center, and .375” deep...

ACU-RITE 3500i 331 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming  Insert the following data in the dialogue fields on the pop-up dialogue using the pop-up numeric pad, or the key board.  Start “X” field input 0.0.  Start “Y” field input 0.0.  Radius field input 0.25.  Touch Use on the pop-up dialogue, or Enter fro...

332 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Connecting the Geometry: To create a continuous path, the next step requires the circles to be connected together.  The Line Tool button will be selected next in this example to complete the Geometry. Selection example:  Select the Line Tool button...

ACU-RITE 3500i 333 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Finalizing the geometry  Unwanted lines now need to be trimmed from the final shape. Select the Trim button from the Modifying Toolbar to complete the geometry. See "Modifying Tools Buttons:" on page 307.  Select the Trim button from the Modifyi...

ACU-RITE 3500i 335 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Creating the tool paths: To create a continuous path, the machining, material size, and tooling requirements must be defined. The material size can either be a block large enough to accommodate the tool path, or can be the actual size of the finished prod...

ACU-RITE 3500i 337 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming  Select the Pocket Cycle button from the Vertical button bar to open the Pocket Cycle Form dialogue.  Step Over: Enter 0.090.  Start Height: Enter 0.100.  Z Depth -0.375.  Touch Use button.  Select the shape by clicking on any part of the geometry t...

338 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming  The program for the slot pocket is now complete. This can be used as its own program, or be imported to other programs.  The order of steps taken are as follows:  Create Geometry.  Create Shape.  Create the Job Setup (Define tool).  Create the...

ACU-RITE 3500i 339 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming CAM Example 2 Example Two: Creating a Rough Pocket/Finish Pocket. Specifications: Units - Inch, Material - Mild Steel 1020, Tool #1 - 4 flute roughing end mill, Tool #2 - 4 flute finish end mill. Tool #1, Path #1: Rough pocket, Z depth 0.740. Tool #2, Pat...

ACU-RITE 3500i 341 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming Create Line Geometry  Select the Line button from the Geometry Tools in the main Toolbar.  Select the Line Tangent (between two circles) button from the side Toolbar, then select the two smaller circles.  With all possibilities shown, select the line h...

342 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming  The screen now has three circles, and one tangent line on the two smaller circles. Finalizing the geometry  Unwanted geometry now needs to be trimmed from the final shape. Select the Trim button from the Modifying Toolbar.  Select the Trim button...

344 10 CAM: Programming 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming  Select the geometry on the other side of the circle. This selects all geometry completing the tool path.  All geometry is now yellow in color, and is considered a shape, (or contour).  Touch Ok to accept machining side to shape.  Exit out of CAM...

ACU-RITE 3500i 345 1 0 .1 CAM Pr ogr a mming  Select the Job Setup button from the Vertical button bar to open the Job Setup dialogue.  For the Program Units select “Inch”.  Enter “1” for the Tool Number.  Enter .375 for the Tool Diameter.  Enter -1 for the Tool Length.  Enter Define and Use T...

350 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .1 G-Code Pr ogr a m Editing 11.1 G-Code Program Editing The 3500i supports G-Code programming. This section provides an overview of G-Codes supported, and features available when using G-Codes. Activating Edit Mode Program blocks are written usi...

ACU-RITE 3500i 351 1 1 .1 G-Code Pr ogr a m Editing Program Edit Screen The program edit screen provides the name of the program in the upper Status Bar, and the program is displayed in numerical order in the main window. Edit option buttons are available in the bottom menu bar. Each time a program ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 353 1 1 .1 G-Code Pr ogr a m Editing Edit Features menu When editing a program, the following buttons are available in the Edit Features menu: Button Function Insert Block inserts a blank line for a program block at the cursor. This differs from the Insert key on the Edit Menu. Mark i...

354 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .1 G-Code Pr ogr a m Editing Preview Features menu In the Edit screen, the Preview button is available on the side bar. This is a toggle key that when activated, opens the preview screen. Also, other available types of preview buttons become acti...

ACU-RITE 3500i 357 1 1 .1 G-Code Pr ogr a m Editing Inserting a program block: To insert a program block (or blocks) in an existing program, follow these steps.  In Edit Mode, touch on the Edit Features button. Place the cursor at the beginning of a block where a new block is to be inserted.  Touc...

358 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .1 G-Code Pr ogr a m Editing Moving Blocks in a program Moving one or more blocks is accomplished by using the Cut button.  In Edit Mode, place the cursor at the beginning of the first of one, or more blocks to be moved, then touch the Edit Feat...

ACU-RITE 3500i 359 1 1 .1 G-Code Pr ogr a m Editing Program Text Editing Buttons are provide to assist with program text editing. Scroll bars, and page navigation buttons are available to move around in the program. A Find/Replace feature is also provided to locate, and/or replace specific text. Thi...

ACU-RITE 3500i 361 1 1 .1 G-Code Pr ogr a m Editing Replace: Specific Text, or Code in a program Use the Find/Replace button in Edit Mode to search for blocks, or for specific text to be replaced. Text, or Program Codes can be replaced throughout the entire program, or at specific locations. The fol...

362 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .1 G-Code Pr ogr a m Editing Preview Features The Edit Preview feature provides a graphic representation of a part edge and/or tool path as the part program is being written. Edited, or inserted blocks can be viewed automatically as changes are m...

ACU-RITE 3500i 363 1 1 .1 G-Code Pr ogr a m Editing Program / Display Relation A program line can be selected in the editing area, or preview area. When selected, it is highlighted in purple in the preview area. When selected from the preview area, the cursor defaults to its program line in the edit...

366 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .2 G-Code and M-Code Definitions G-Code Description Label G80 Use to cancel drill, tap, and bore canned cycles (G81 to G89). Drilling Off G81 Basic drilling cycle, generally used for center drilling or hole drilling that does not require a peckin...

ACU-RITE 3500i 367 1 1 .2 G-Code and M-Code Definitions G-Code Description Label G169 Use to mill irregular pockets. Irregular Pocket Cycle G170 Facing cycles simplify the programming required to face the surface of a part. Face Mill Cycle G171 The Circular Profile Cycle cleans up the inside or outs...

ACU-RITE 3500i 369 1 1 .2 G-Code and M-Code Definitions Typing in Address Words Most address words can manually be typed in without exiting Edit Help. Address words that can be typed into the program via Edit Help include: dimension coordinates (XYZU); spindle codes (S); feed rates (F); tool codes (...

370 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .3 Edit Help 11.3 Edit Help Activating Edit Help G-Code Assist, Edit Help provides diagrams, and entry fields to program move types, and Canned Cycles. The following describes how to activate the Help Screen for a G-Code, and type values in the a...

ACU-RITE 3500i 371 1 1 .3 Edit Help Help Graphic Screens The Edit Help allows a G-Code to be programmed using a form. The form contains parameters for the G-Code, and a graphic parameter aid for each. When the 3500i activates a help graphic screen, its first entry field is highlighted. A highlight i...

ACU-RITE 3500i 373 1 1 .3 Edit Help Basic Modal Functions  The Basic Modal Functions enables: Multi -Segment Blocks  The Multi-Segment Blocks enables:

376 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .3 Edit Help Rotation, Scaling, and Mirroring  The Rotation, Scaling, and Mirroring enables:Refer to Chapter 7 7.2 "Canned Cycles" on page 147 for more information regarding these cycles. Spindle Probing  The Spindle Probing enables: Re...

ACU-RITE 3500i 381 1 1 .3 Edit Help Spindle Functions  The Spindle Functions enables: Tool Change  The Tool Change enables:

382 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming 11.4 Advanced Programming SPEED This section covers S and M code formats. The codes are included in the part program or activated in Manual Data Input Mode. Format: Sxxxxx Spindle speed is programmed via S-Code. The...

ACU-RITE 3500i 383 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Control M - Codes Control M-Codes execute or alter certain 3500i functions, such as program end, sub-program call, dry run, etc. These M-Codes are part of the 3500i software. To use them, enter the appropriate M-Code into the program. M-Code Func...

384 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Order of Execution The order of execution for available codes is as follows: T, M, S, F, G, and XYZ (M98 P {sub call} is the exception). M-Code Function M106 Dry Run, No Z Axis. M106 in a program or in MDI sets Dry ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 385 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Programming Non-modal Exact Stop: With the In-Position Mode activated, the 3500i approaches target and performs an in-position check before it executes the next move. The CNC comes to a complete stop at the end of every block. This could cause wi...

386 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Setting Stroke Limit:  The software limits feature creates an envelope that limits the tool's range of travel. It is also called the Stored Stroke Limit feature. The X, Y, and Z limits represent the extreme distanc...

ACU-RITE 3500i 387 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Modifiers Use modifiers to alter the way the 3500i interprets a word address. For example, a single value in an Inch Mode program may be forced to Metric Mode, without programming G71. Or, arc center values (I, J, or K) may be forced to an absolu...

388 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Tool Offset Modification You can modify a tool diameter or length offset in the program without using the Tool Page. This is useful when rough-milling a profile where cutter diameter compensation requires different ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 389 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Tool Modification Programming Example: This program mills the square shape four times. The 3500i executes the first pass using the tool diameter entered in the Tool Page. Each subsequent pass uses a different, "modified" tool diameter, as...

ACU-RITE 3500i 391 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Expressions and Functions You can program some values as expressions. Parentheses enclose expressions. The 3500i displays an error message if the expression is incorrectly entered. Expressions follow the standard mathematics order of operations (...

392 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Ref. Expression Function s) atan Arctangent t) abs Absolute value u) sqrt Square root v) ln Natural logarithm w) log Logarithm x) exp Exponential y) trun Truncate z) !+-# Unary logical not, positive, negative, indir...

ACU-RITE 3500i 393 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Examples Ref. Example a) G01 X(#100 + #101). All calculations must be enclosed in parentheses. This defines an expression. b) G00 Y&A(#102 * #103)LOOP (5 / 2 / .01) Example of multiplication, division, and modification. c) G01 X(3 + 2)#100 = ...

394 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Ref. Example n) SIN (n) gives the sine of (n). (n) is assumed to be in degrees. G01 X(cos(15)) Y(sin(15)) moves along the hypotenuse of a 15-degree angle with a hypotenuse of 1. o) COS (n) gives the cosine of (n). p...

ACU-RITE 3500i 395 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming System Variables Certain variables are set aside as 3500i system variables. Some may be useful for you to know when programming macros. The system variables range from #1000 to #1099. Most of these variables are "read only". You cannot wr...

396 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming User Variables Certain variables are set aside for the programmer to use. These may be useful when programming macros. You can read from or write to these variables. They are divided into four categories:  Local va...

ACU-RITE 3500i 397 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Variable Programming (Parametric Programming) Variable, or parametric, programming enables you to create macros to generate geometric shapes that are not already available in a canned cycle. Conditional loops, jumps, and GOTO commands can be used...

398 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Select Block Skip The 3500i control has nine (9) optional block skip 'switches'. The (/) code followed by a number 1 through 9 activates the corresponding switch.  In this example, the hole at N15 is skipped. If N1...

ACU-RITE 3500i 399 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Parameters and Variable Registers A macro is a series of instructions designed to achieve a specific result for a given set of constraints. For example, a rectangular pocket of any size always has four sides, four corner radii and a depth. Theref...

400 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Setting and Direct Transfer Variables When using parametric programming with axis addresses and expressions (including unary minus), the complete expression needs to be in parenthesis. For example, X(-#151) is corre...

ACU-RITE 3500i 401 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Indirect Transfer: You can indirectly transfer variables to a depth of four levels by introducing extra hatch marks (#) before the variable number. In an indirect transfer, a value is transferred to one variable via another.  At Block N204, the ...

402 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Example 2 contains two levels of indirection (N219) and shows how the contents from multiple variables can be assigned to a command or expression.  At Block N215, variable #119 is set to constant 100.  At Block N2...

ACU-RITE 3500i 403 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Variable Programming Examples This program uses common variables in the range of #50 to #149. The program mills a pocket with a three-degree draft angle on the sidewalls. The dimensions at the bottom of the pocket are: 15.5730 (X axis) x 13.8850 ...

404 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming The pocket is milled with a side draft angle of three degrees. Z is set to a step-up increment of .02 in. #152 can be set to a desired value, perhaps to determine the finish on the sidewalls of the pocket. In this e...

408 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Macro Body Structure The macro body is defined in the same way as a sub-program. Format: Oxxx O identifies it as a macro. xxx is the label number. Terminate the macro with an M99 code. Use local variables within the...

ACU-RITE 3500i 409 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Setting and Passing Parameters  You can set parameters for a macro before the sub-program call (M98 Pn). Refer to Example 1. Blocks 10 to 12 define variable values for the sub-program called in Block 13.  It may be more convenient to use macro ...

410 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming G65 Macro Programming, Main The following is an example of a simple macro program. In this example, the macro is a "window milling" cycle designed to mill a square or rectangular window through a part. * par...

ACU-RITE 3500i 415 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Macro Programming (Hole Milling Macro) This example machines a CW or CCW hole. A move is made to the hole center and to the required Z depth before calling the macro. After the macro is completed, the Z-axis moves to the clearance plane. The macr...

ACU-RITE 3500i 417 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming SAVEG00 = #1016 * SAVE CURRENT MOVE MODE (RAPID=0,FEED=1) SAVEFRT = #1022 * SAVE CURRENT FEEDRATE TDIA = ABS(#1020) * SAVE CURRENT ABSOLUTE TOOL DIA IF(!VAR(7)) THEN PRINT (ERROR! HOLE DIA. NOT GIVEN) M30 ENDIF IF(!VAR(5)) THEN; #5=#1022; ENDIF *...

420 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Probe Move (G31) G31 is to be issued with an associated axis move (i.e. G31 X10). When the G31 is executed, it moves at current feedrate selected for G1 until the touch probe selected is deflected. At this point, th...

ACU-RITE 3500i 421 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Conditional Statements This subsection discusses the conditional statements IF, THEN, ELSE, GOTO and WHILE. IF - THEN - ENDIF N300 IF (expression) THEN N310 ------------ -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- N360 ENDIF N370 ------------ If the expression in N3...

ACU-RITE 3500i 423 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming In place of an expression, you can use a variable that while not zero is treated as a true expression. (Zero equals false. Any other value equals true). DO - END N620 DO nnnn N630 ------------ -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- N650 IF ( expression ) GOTO 1...

424 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming LOOP instructs the control to execute the following blocks (N685) until it reaches an END command. The sequence is repeated nnnn times. The number of loops can be a variable assignment (LOOP #121). GOTO N698 GOTO nn...

ACU-RITE 3500i 425 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming Logical and Comparative Terms LOGICAL TERMS All logical operations can be carried out using the following command characters or combinations of characters. COMPARATIVE TERMS You can compare variables with variables and variables with constants us...

426 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming INEQUALITY OPERATORS NOT N760 WHILE (#135 != #137) DO 10 N770 ------------ -- -- -- -- N790 END 10 The exclamation mark (!) symbolizes NOT. Therefore, Block N760 instructs the 3500i to continue the loop to N790 whil...

ACU-RITE 3500i 427 1 1 .4 A d v a nced Pr ogr a mming File Inclusion File inclusion is a function that allows a sub-program that is not actually part of the program to be called from the main program, or from another sub-program in the program. In this way, a tool change sub-program or a macro can b...

430 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .5 F our Axis Pr ogr a mming 11.5 Four Axis Programming Axis Type The machine builder sets up the fourth-axis as a linear or rotary axis. The three basic axes are X, Y, and Z. The additional axis is designated as “U” on the 3500i console. The fol...

ACU-RITE 3500i 431 1 1 .5 F our Axis Pr ogr a mming Rotary Axis Programming Conventions  A rotary axis (typically U) programs differently based on the setting of the (Axes->PhysicalAxis->U->CfgRollOver>Shortest Distance) parameter, which is determined by the builder. The default for thi...

432 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .5 F our Axis Pr ogr a mming Example 1: Drill  Mount the fourth axis as described above. Mount a part 6” wide and 8” long on the face of the rotary table. Shortest Distance is set to off.  Drill (10) ten 0.375” holes 36° apart, 1” deep, 0.75” i...

434 11 G-Code Edit, Help, & Advanced Features 1 1 .5 F our Axis Pr ogr a mming Example 3: Mill  Mount a fourth axis as described above. Mount a part 4” in diameter and 8” long on the face of the rotary table. Support the part on the X+ end by a live center. The part has a 0.25”, 45° chamfer on ...

436 12 Software Update 12.1 Updating S y st em Sof tw a re 12.1 Updating System Software Software Update HEIDENHAIN Corporation recommends making a backup of the control with the included USB Recovery Drive (684138-xx) before updating the NC software. Please refer to the manual included with the dri...

438 13 Off-Line Software 13.1 350 0i Of f-Line Sof tw a re 13.1 3500i Off-Line Software Off-Line Simulator The off-line software provides a convenient way to write part programs and simulate machine behavior using a standard Windows based computer. Features and functionality are virtually identical ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 439 13.1 350 0 i Of f-Line Sof tw a re Installation The software is installed in the usual manner by launching the setup program, selecting an installation destination, and choosing the desired features to be installed. Using the default setting for a "Complete" feature instal...

ACU-RITE 3500i 441 Index A Absolute work piece positions 31Accessories 3-D touch probes 23HR hand wheel 24TT 140 touch probe 24 Address Words 369Advanced Programming Block Separators 387Contouring 385Exact Stop 385Expressions 391Macro Body Structure 408Modifiers 387Move Reference 386Speed 382Stroke ...

ACU-RITE 3500i 443 Index Tool Compensation 60Tool numbers/names 61Tool Table / Tool Management 60Top Menu Bar 10Touch Screen Feature 49 U Updating System Software 436 Procedure 436

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