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IMSpost GuideVersion 8

Document Revision A

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Copyright 2011 by Intelligent Manufacturing Software, Inc.

All rights reserved. Intelligent Manufacturing Software, Inc. reserves the right to change the informationin this document without notice. No part of this work may be processed, reproduced, or transmitted in anyform or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, or by anyinformation storage or retrieval system, except as may be expressly permitted in writing by IntelligentManufacturing Software, Inc.

Printed in the United States of America.

All other product names herein are used for identification purposes only and are recognized as properties(including trademarks, registered trademarks, and referenced copyrighted materials) of their respective

companies.

Intelligent Manufacturing Software, Inc.

800 Broadway

Haverhill, MA 01832 USA

Tel (978) 5560077

Fax (978) 5560171

http://www.ims-software.com

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IMSpost Guide iii

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW ................................................................................................................................................ 1Company Profile ..................................................................................................................................................... 1IMSpost Overview ................................................................................................................................................. 1Installing the IMSpost Software and Getting Started ............................................................................................. 1Before You Begin ............................................................................................................................................ 2

Licensing ......................................................................................................................................................... 2Loading a Postprocessor .................................................................................................................................. 3If You Encounter a Problem... ......................................................................................................................... 3

IMSpost Structure ................................................................................................................................................... 4Postprocessor (CLdata) Statements ........................................................................................................................ 4

Syntax Checking ............................................................................................................................................. 5POSTCMD: Using Postprocessor Commands via the PPRINT Statement ..................................................... 6

Menus and Tool Bars.............................................................................................................................................. 6Menu and Option Notation .............................................................................................................................. 6Tool Tips ......................................................................................................................................................... 6

Environment Modes and Tool Bars ........................................................................................................................ 8Postprocessor ................................................................................................................................................... 8Controller Emulator ......................................................................................................................................... 8

Terms ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8APT Source Statement .................................................................................................................................... 8Block Numeration ........................................................................................................................................... 8Checklist .......................................................................................................................................................... 8CL File ............................................................................................................................................................ 9Comment Block ............................................................................................................................................. 10Component Types ......................................................................................................................................... 10Control Register ............................................................................................................................................ 10Custom Postprocessor ................................................................................................................................... 10Cutter Compensation ..................................................................................................................................... 10Environment and Modes ............................................................................................................................... 11Expression ..................................................................................................................................................... 11Function Code ............................................................................................................................................... 11Function Group ............................................................................................................................................. 11Graphics Window .......................................................................................................................................... 12Helical Interpolation ...................................................................................................................................... 12Integer ........................................................................................................................................................... 12Machine Control Code .................................................................................................................................. 12Macro ............................................................................................................................................................ 12

NC Program .................................................................................................................................................. 13Pointer ........................................................................................................................................................... 13Postprocessing ............................................................................................................................................... 13Project ........................................................................................................................................................... 13Project File .................................................................................................................................................... 13Real Number ................................................................................................................................................. 13Static Table .................................................................................................................................................... 14String ............................................................................................................................................................. 14Tape Format .................................................................................................................................................. 14Tracking the Tool .......................................................................................................................................... 14Variable ......................................................................................................................................................... 14Work Coordinate System .............................................................................................................................. 15

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MAIN AND SECONDARY TOOL BARS ............................................................................................. 17Main Tool Bar ...................................................................................................................................................... 17

File ................................................................................................................................................................ 17Edit ................................................................................................................................................................ 18View .............................................................................................................................................................. 19Execute .......................................................................................................................................................... 20General .......................................................................................................................................................... 20Controller ...................................................................................................................................................... 21Machine ......................................................................................................................................................... 21Report ............................................................................................................................................................ 22User ............................................................................................................................................................... 22Help ............................................................................................................................................................... 22

Secondary Tool Bar .............................................................................................................................................. 23FILE MENU AND OPTIONS ................................................................................................................. 25

New ...................................................................................................................................................................... 26Open ..................................................................................................................................................................... 27General Options .................................................................................................................................................... 27Jobs ....................................................................................................................................................................... 27Preferences ........................................................................................................................................................... 28

Working Directories ...................................................................................................................................... 29File Extensions .............................................................................................................................................. 29Editor ............................................................................................................................................................. 30

Error Definition .................................................................................................................................................... 30Apt Definition....................................................................................................................................................... 31

Altering the Definition File With the Apt Definition Option ........................................................................ 32Changing the Syntax Order ........................................................................................................................... 33Using DEF (Definition) Files ........................................................................................................................ 35

Create Doc ............................................................................................................................................................ 36GenApt.syntax ............................................................................................................................................... 37

Description ........................................................................................................................................................... 37Description .................................................................................................................................................... 37History ........................................................................................................................................................... 38Detail ............................................................................................................................................................. 39Macro ............................................................................................................................................................ 40IsoCode ......................................................................................................................................................... 41

EXECUTE MENU AND OPTIONS ....................................................................................................... 43Postprocess ........................................................................................................................................................... 43Test Commands .................................................................................................................................................... 45Debug ................................................................................................................................................................... 47

Debug Tool Bars and Options ....................................................................................................................... 49New ............................................................................................................................................................... 51Edit ................................................................................................................................................................ 52Import ............................................................................................................................................................ 53Macro Properties ........................................................................................................................................... 54Search ............................................................................................................................................................ 56

Breakpoints ........................................................................................................................................................... 56GENERAL MENU AND OPTIONS ....................................................................................................... 57

Start Program ........................................................................................................................................................ 58Input/Output Units ................................................................................................................................................ 59Part Number ......................................................................................................................................................... 60Start Operation (Catia Only)................................................................................................................................. 61Tool Change ......................................................................................................................................................... 62

Tool Change .................................................................................................................................................. 62Turret Index ................................................................................................................................................... 64

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Coolant ................................................................................................................................................................. 66Cutter Comp ......................................................................................................................................................... 67Feedrate ................................................................................................................................................................ 69

Feed/Minute .................................................................................................................................................. 70Feed/Revolution ............................................................................................................................................ 71Inverse Time .................................................................................................................................................. 72

Spindle .................................................................................................................................................................. 74Drill Cycles........................................................................................................................................................... 75End Operation (Catia Only) .................................................................................................................................. 78End Program ......................................................................................................................................................... 79Threading ............................................................................................................................................................. 79Motion Codes ....................................................................................................................................................... 80

Rapid / Form ................................................................................................................................................. 81Linear ............................................................................................................................................................ 83Circle ............................................................................................................................................................. 87

Nurbs ............................................................................................................................................................. 90Arc Fit ........................................................................................................................................................... 92Line Fit .......................................................................................................................................................... 95Shape Repetition ........................................................................................................................................... 96

Sort Output ........................................................................................................................................................... 98New Command ..................................................................................................................................................... 99

Macro manager ................................................................................................................................................... 103

New ............................................................................................................................................................. 106Edit .............................................................................................................................................................. 107Import .......................................................................................................................................................... 108Macro Properties ......................................................................................................................................... 109Search .......................................................................................................................................................... 111

CONTROLLER MENU AND OPTIONS ............................................................................................ 113Block Number .................................................................................................................................................... 114Comment Blocks ................................................................................................................................................ 116Register Format .................................................................................................................................................. 117

Basic ............................................................................................................................................................ 118Advanced ..................................................................................................................................................... 119Deleting a Register ...................................................................................................................................... 121Changing Control Register Formats During Execution ............................................................................... 121

Function Codes ................................................................................................................................................... 123USE and One-Shot USE1 Parameters ......................................................................................................... 125

Function Groups ................................................................................................................................................. 126Subprograms ....................................................................................................................................................... 127Tables ................................................................................................................................................................. 128

Example of Defining a Lookup Table ......................................................................................................... 129Tape Format ....................................................................................................................................................... 132Import Controller ................................................................................................................................................ 133Apt Definition..................................................................................................................................................... 133

APT/CL Data Code Types .......................................................................................................................... 135Grammar ............................................................................................................................................................. 136

Syntax .......................................................................................................................................................... 137Register ....................................................................................................................................................... 139Function....................................................................................................................................................... 141Variable ....................................................................................................................................................... 143CE Errors ..................................................................................................................................................... 147

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MACHINE MENU AND OPTIONS ..................................................................................................... 149Motion ................................................................................................................................................................ 150

Co-Linear Axes ........................................................................................................................................... 156Components ........................................................................................................................................................ 158References .......................................................................................................................................................... 159

Defining Machine Z Zero ............................................................................................................................ 161Multi-Axis .......................................................................................................................................................... 163

Multi-axis Setup .......................................................................................................................................... 163Work Plane .................................................................................................................................................. 168

Import Machine .................................................................................................................................................. 174IMS Project File .......................................................................................................................................... 174IMS Model File ........................................................................................................................................... 174Pre-defined Machines .................................................................................................................................. 175

REPORT MENU AND OPTIONS ........................................................................................................ 177List ...................................................................................................................................................................... 180

Block Definition .......................................................................................................................................... 180Program Header ........................................................................................................................................... 181Program Footer ............................................................................................................................................ 182Page Header ................................................................................................................................................ 184Page Footer .................................................................................................................................................. 185Page Size ..................................................................................................................................................... 187

Table ................................................................................................................................................................... 188Table Definition .......................................................................................................................................... 188Program Header ........................................................................................................................................... 189Program Footer ............................................................................................................................................ 190Page Footer .................................................................................................................................................. 192Page Header ................................................................................................................................................ 193

USER MENU AND OPTIONS .............................................................................................................. 195User Dialog......................................................................................................................................................... 195Examples ............................................................................................................................................................ 201

Descriptive Comments ................................................................................................................................ 201Opstop ......................................................................................................................................................... 201MULTI HOME ........................................................................................................................................... 202

HELP MENU AND OPTIONS .............................................................................................................. 203Activate PP File .................................................................................................................................................. 204Diagnostics ......................................................................................................................................................... 205

Sample Diagnostic Report File .................................................................................................................... 206MACRO LANGUAGE COMMANDS.................................................................................................. 209

Accessing Variables Within Macros .................................................................................................................. 209Assignment Statements ...................................................................................................................................... 211Math Functions in a Macro ................................................................................................................................. 212Including Operations in Macros ......................................................................................................................... 213Setting Strings in the Macro Language .............................................................................................................. 213FINAL Macro ..................................................................................................................................................... 214ADD ............................................................................................................................................................ 214

BOUND....................................................................................................................................................... 214COPY .......................................................................................................................................................... 215DELETE ...................................................................................................................................................... 215LOCATE ..................................................................................................................................................... 215MOVE ......................................................................................................................................................... 216UPDATE ..................................................................................................................................................... 216

Macro Statements ............................................................................................................................................... 217ASSIGN Statements ........................................................................................................................................... 218

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BREAK Statements ............................................................................................................................................ 218CALL Statements ............................................................................................................................................... 218

Passing Arguments in the CALL Statement ................................................................................................ 219CASE Statements ............................................................................................................................................... 219CLREAD Statements.......................................................................................................................................... 220CUT Statements ................................................................................................................................................. 221FILE Statements ................................................................................................................................................. 221GETAPT Statements .......................................................................................................................................... 222GETAT Statements ............................................................................................................................................ 222GETISO statements ............................................................................................................................................ 222HOOK Statements .............................................................................................................................................. 223IF Statements ...................................................................................................................................................... 224OPTIMIZE Statements ....................................................................................................................................... 225OUTPUT Statements .......................................................................................................................................... 225

Using REGISTER, FUNCTION, and MODE Variables and Values in an OUTPUT Statement................ 226PRINT and DISPLAY Statements ..................................................................................................................... 227PRIORITY Statements ....................................................................................................................................... 228PUSH and POP statements ................................................................................................................................. 228REPORT Statements .......................................................................................................................................... 228RETURN Statements.......................................................................................................................................... 228ROUND Statements ........................................................................................................................................... 229

RUN Statements ................................................................................................................................................. 229SEQNO Statements ............................................................................................................................................ 229SETAT Statements ............................................................................................................................................. 230SOLUTION Statements ...................................................................................................................................... 230

SOLUTION Statements: Format 1 .............................................................................................................. 230SOLUTION Statements: Format 2 .............................................................................................................. 233SOLUTION Statements: Format 3 .............................................................................................................. 235SOLUTION Statements: Format 4 .............................................................................................................. 237SOLUTION Statements: Format 5 .............................................................................................................. 237

SORT Statements ............................................................................................................................................... 238Sorting Output Example .............................................................................................................................. 238

SPLIT Statements ............................................................................................................................................... 239SPRINT Statements ............................................................................................................................................ 240STREXT Statements .......................................................................................................................................... 241STRLEN Statements .......................................................................................................................................... 241STRSTR Statements ........................................................................................................................................... 241TABLE Statements ............................................................................................................................................. 241TOKEN Statements ............................................................................................................................................ 242TOOL_ALONG Statements ............................................................................................................................... 242UCASE and LCASE Statements ........................................................................................................................ 242USER STATEMENTS ....................................................................................................................................... 243WHILE Statements ............................................................................................................................................. 243

MACRO LANGUAGE VARIABLES ................................................................................................... 245CLDATA Variables............................................................................................................................................ 245CLREAD Variables ............................................................................................................................................ 246Component Model Example ............................................................................................................................... 247COMPONENT Variables ................................................................................................................................... 248COOLANT Variables ......................................................................................................................................... 250CUTCOM (Cutter Compensation) Variables ..................................................................................................... 251CYCLE Variables ............................................................................................................................................... 251FEED (Feedrate Definition) Variables ............................................................................................................... 252FUNCTION Variables ........................................................................................................................................ 253Geometry Functions ........................................................................................................................................... 254

VECPROD .................................................................................................................................................. 254MATIDNT .................................................................................................................................................. 254

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VECLEN ..................................................................................................................................................... 254VECANG .................................................................................................................................................... 255MATROT .................................................................................................................................................... 255PNTONPLN ................................................................................................................................................ 255PNT_LINE_CIR_INTRSC ......................................................................................................................... 255PNT_LINE_INTRSC .................................................................................................................................. 256LINE_DIST_PARREL ................................................................................................................................ 256LINE_PARREL .......................................................................................................................................... 256LINE_ANGLE_LINE ................................................................................................................................. 256MATPNTVEC ............................................................................................................................................ 257ISIDENT ..................................................................................................................................................... 257BACKMAT ................................................................................................................................................. 257

Geometry Operations.......................................................................................................................................... 258Geometry Assignments ...................................................................................................................................... 260MACHINE Variables ......................................................................................................................................... 267MODE Variables ................................................................................................................................................ 268REGISTER Variables ......................................................................................................................................... 271SPINDLE Variables ........................................................................................................................................... 273SYSTEM Variables ............................................................................................................................................ 273TOOL CHG (Tool Change) Variables ............................................................................................................... 285

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IMSpost Guide 1

Overview

Intelligent Manufacturing Software (IMS) is the worldwide leader in NC postprocessing software.Founded in 1990, Intelligent Manufacturing Software is a leading provider of manufacturingsoftware products, and a specialist in providing advanced postprocessing solutions.

Companies large and small, from the world's leading CAD/CAM companies, to the smallestmachine shops, continually find new ways to use IMS's software to meet and surpass their dailyrequirements.

Company Profile

Intelligent Manufacturing Software, Inc. is a corporation with over twenty-five years of industry

experience in delivering postprocessing solutions; a company that takes pride in delivering totalsolutions that are tailored to each individual client, and a company that has a vested interest inkeeping the customer satisfied. We pride ourselves on delivering industry leading levels ofservice and support, and we deliver these products and services at a fraction of the cost of ourcompetitors.

IMSpost Overview

IMSpost is the IMS executable module designed for users who wish to develop or maintain theirown postprocessors. The IMS product family includes:

The complete postprocessor solution.

Postprocessor configuration.

The world's most flexible selection of standard postprocessors to meet anyrequirement.

Installing the IMSpost Software and Getting Started

You can request a CD from IMS or you can download your software requirements through the

IMS website at:

www.ims-software.com

Installing the software is a simple process that takes only a few minutes. Most customers prefer touse the IMSpost default directories, but you can specify your own pathnames for the necessarydirectories.

http://www.ims-software.com/http://www.ims-software.com/http://www.ims-software.com/

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2 IMSpost Guide

Before You Begin

Once you have installed the software (from the IMS CD or IMS website), complete these stepsbefore you begin:

1. Request and install a license code. Refer to theLicensingdescription below.

2. Install specific postprocessor license codes, if applicable. Refer to theActivate PP Fileoption

on the Help menu.

Licensing

The IMS protection system provides the means for the protection of both software modules andindividual postprocessor project files. This allows a high level of protection for IMS partners,dealers, and resellers against unauthorized use of project files they have developed. The servicetime and revenue involved in producing postprocessors represents an investment by our partners,and we want to be sure this investment is adequately protected.

The steps involved in obtaining a license are:

1. Decide which license options you require.

For a new license, send your request to sales@ims-software.com.For an update of an existing license, send your request to support@ims-software.com.In either case, include the following information with your request.

Customer Information

Customer Name Address City, State, Country, ZIP/Postal Code Telephone Number Fax Number

Contact Information

The contact information is important, as the license code will be sent by email to this address.

First Name Last Name Title/Position E-mail

2. Request a license code from IMS or your IMS reseller.

3. Install the license code you receive on your system. To do so, refer toIMS_license_installation.PDF and see theHardware Infoentries on the Diagnostic dialog.

4. Set up the IMS software environment on your system.

Customize the IMS software environment to better meet your needs by setting preferences forhow you would like to use the features of the software (open the File menu and select thePreferencesoption). A default version of this file is created in the install directory during theinstallation process. In order for the IMSpexec or IMSpost software to locate this file, it issuggested that you set an environment variable (see your System Administrator) namedIMSDIR_POST_INI.

http://../Content/License_Menu/Licensing/Installing_license_codes.htmhttp://../Content/License_Menu/Licensing/Installing_license_codes.htm

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IMSpost Guide 3

Environment Variable Setup for Windows 2000, NT, or XP

a. In the Windows environment, open the Control Panel.

b. Click on System (or System Properties).

c. Go to the Advanced tab.

d. Click the Environment Variables button.

e. Click the New button.

f. In the Variable name field, enter:

IMSDIR_POST_INI

g. In the Variable value field, enter the directory path of the imspostw.ini file.This will usually be in the IMS installation directory (for example: C:\ProgramFiles\IMS70a\IMSpost\).

h. Click OK.

i. Close the System and Control Panel windows.

j. Restart your system.

Environment Variable Setup for Windows 98

a. Open a DOS window.

b. From the root directory, edit the autoexec.bat file. The environment variable must pointto the directory where the license.ims exists:

IMSDIR_POST_INI=c:\ims\imspost70

c. Save the file.

d. Exit the DOS prompt.

Loading a PostprocessorOnce the environment and preferences are set up correctly, you must load a postprocessor file.You can:

Load a new postprocessor from the IMS postprocessor library, or

Load an existing postprocessor that you or someone else customized.

If You Encounter a Problem...

If you encounter a problem installing or licensing the software, try troubleshooting using the IMSDiagnostics.

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Overview: IMSpost Structure

4 IMSpost Guide

IMSpost Structure

With the proper controller and machine libraries loaded the simplest form of the IMSposthierarchy is:

1. Read the INIT/* macro. This macro is designed to declare all variables and machining modesfor program start-up.

2. Read the INIT_CFG/* macro. It is here that optional dialogs may be displayed, the controllerregisters are sorted in their specified order, sequence numbering, and any codes from the Startof Program dialog (General menu, Start Program option) are output.

3. Begin reading each statement passed in through the APT/CL file. Typically, this is the onlyfile the postprocessor is going to read.

If there is not a macro defined for the statement, the statement will be ignored. Various CAMsystems pass data to their CL/APT files that has nothing to do with machining. In these cases,macros are not required to support this type of data.

4. Continue reading until the end of the file. Then it generates the FINI_CFG/* macro whichwill output any specified code from the End of Program dialog (General menu, End Program

option), generate all necessary output and error files, then close the file.

Postprocessor (CLdata) Statements

NOTE: If it is not possible to generate all the APT commands you might like to use in yourpostprocessor due to CAM system limitations, refer toPOSTCMD: Using PostprocessorCommands via the PPRINT Statementand the end of this description.

CLdata statements are the statements that are passed on to the postprocessor through the APT/CLpart file. These statements consist of major and minor words. Major words are located to the leftof the slash (/) and all minor words (CLDATAM) are located to the right of the slash. Numbers(CLDATAN) may also be included to the right of the slash.

In its simplest form, a major word does not have parameters.If the major word does not exist in the postprocessor macro library, it will be ignored. Forexample:

STOP/

The following is an example of a major word with a minor word (OFF) parameter:

SWITCH/OFF

A major word with a value is:

INDEX/3

Whenever a postprocessor statement has more than one parameter, these parameters are separated

with a comma delimiter. For example:LOADTL/10,LENGTH,50

LOADTLis a major word.LENGTHis a minor word.10is the first CLDATA value.50is the second CLDATA value.

Postprocessors need a way to retract parameters from statements which contain more than oneparameter. The hierarchy of these parameters begins with the left and goes to the right. IMSpost

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IMSpost Guide 5

keeps track of the values with the CLDATAN. It keeps track of the minor words withCLDATAM. It keeps track of all the parameters (words + values) with CLDATA. For example:

CYCLE/DRILL,-25,MMPM,3000,RAPTO,10,RTRCTO,10,30

GLOBAL.DEPTH = CLDATAN.1 The 1st value (-25)GLOBAL.RAPTO = CLDATAN.3 The 3rd value (10)GLOBAL.RAPTO = CLDATAN.RIGHT.1.RAPTO Gets the value to the right of minor word

RAPTO (10)GLOBAL.FEED = CLDATAN.2 The 2nd value (3000)GLOBAL.FEED = CLDATAN.RIGHT.1.MMPM 3000GLOBAL.OPTION = CLDATA.9 The 9th parameter (30)GLOBAL.OPTION = CLDATAN.5 The 5th value (30)

If you connect your values with minor words (such as SWITCH/OFF), your APT statements arenot restricted to a specific format. As long as the postprocessor finds the minor word, it willautomatically connect its value with it.

Syntax Checking

If your postprocessor statement only has two choices (ON/OFF), you could use an IF statement tosee what is coming in (such as SWITCH/OFF). These examples check for minor word OFF:

IF(CLDATAM.1 = "OFF")

IF(CLDATAM.OFF)

IF(CLDATAM.OFF = 1)

The first example is looking for OFF to be the first minor word. The second and third examplesdo not care where the word OFF is located in the postprocessor statement. It is just checking tosee if it exists.

When command can have numerous minor words, use the CASE and ENDCASE statements. Forexample:

CASE (CLDATAM)DRILLstatement(s)

TAPstatement(s)

OFFstatement(s)

AUTOstatement(s)

ENDCASE

There may be a time when you want your macro to determine how many parameters are beingpassed within the postprocessor statement. Lets assume you have this postprocessor statement:

HEAD/LEFT,XOFF,120,YOFF,130,OPTION,54

HEAD/*WORDS = CLDATAM.0 Counts minor words (4): LEFT,XOFF,YOFF,OPTIONNUMBERS = CLDATAN.0 Counts numbers (3): 120,130,54PARAMETERS = CLDATA.0 Counts minor words and numbers (7)

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6 IMSpost Guide

POSTCMD: Using Postprocessor Commands via the PPRINTStatement

On occasion, because of CAM system limitations, it is not possible to generate all the APTcommands you might like to use in your postprocessor. One way IMSpost can get around thislimitation is by using the PPRINT statement to pass APT commands to the postprocessor.Because most CAM systems use PPRINT to generate comments, this provides a convenient andalmost limitless way to input APT statements.

To use this feature, use the keyword POSTCMD as the start of a PPRINT command. Forexample:

PPRINT/POSTCMD,COOLNT/MIST

The above command activates the IMSpost COOLNT macro. Of course, whenever thisPPRINT/POSTCMD is encountered, the macro must exist in the postprocessor macro file;otherwise, the record will be ignored.

Menus and Tool Bars

After you activate the IMSpost software, load any existing postprocessor in order to activate thetool bars through which you can access various menus, options, and dialogs.

Main tool bar

Secondary tool bar,such as:

Menu and Option Notation

Throughout this manual, menus and options are indicated as:

Menu > Option

For example, File > Save indicates that you should select the Save option on the File menu.

Tool Tips

When you set your mouse on (but do not click) an option on the secondary tool bar, you will see atool tip providing a brief description of the feature. For example, when you set your mouse on:

You see a tool tip for the Motion Codes feature:

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IMSpost Guide 7

Another type of tool type is provided for some options. It shows the IMSpost function groupvariable associated with the option. For example, when you set your mouse on:

Coolant off

You see a tool tip for the associated variable:

Similarly, when you set your mouse on an option associated with a macro, the macro is shown:

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Overview: Environment Modes and Tool Bars

8 IMSpost Guide

Environment Modes and Tool Bars

IMSpost operates in two environment modes: Postprocessor and Control Emulator. You canchange between these modes by selecting the mode on the secondary tool bar, as shown below.

Postprocessor

Postprocessor is an operating mode in IMSpost that is active when isdisplayed on the secondary tool bar:

A postprocessor is a program that formats a neutral CL file into an NC file that is suitable for aspecific machine/control combination. The name refers to the fact that the processing takes placeafter the tool path has been generated.

Controller Emulator

A Controller Emulator or reverse processing option is an integrated part of IMSpost. All libraryposts now contain the data necessary to convert from ISO format (NC code) to APT/CLcommands.

The Controller Emulator is active when is displayed on the secondarytool bar:

NOTE:The IMS Controller Emulator functionality includes support for canned cycles, controllersubroutines, controller variables and expressions, and multi-axis machines.

Terms

Terms used in this document and the basic tools provided with IMSpost are described below.They are listed in alphabetical order for easy referencing.

APT Source Statement

An APT source statement typically is generated by the CAM software. It passes cutter locationand machine function data that will be interpreted by a postprocessor to generate a machine codefile. See File >Apt Definition.

Block Numeration

This is the ordering of blocks of information in a machine code file. Block numbering mostcommonly uses the N register to store this information. See Controller >Block Number.

Checklist

IMSpost provides you with a checklist to guide you through the postprocessor developmentprocess, ensuring that you have access to all necessary features, including program codes,controller format, and machine format.

The IMSpost Checklist is a list of steps suggesting a set of tasks necessary to complete yourpostprocessor. For example:

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Overview: Terms

IMSpost Guide 9

You can access the IMSpost dialog sections directly using the checklist. Simply click on the textline of a particular step and the corresponding dialog will display.

When you have completed a dialog and exited the dialog using the OK/Save buttons (not Cancel),a checkmark will appear in the IMSpost checklist next to the appropriate line. You can toggle the

checkmarks on/off for a specific line by double-clicking on the checkmark or empty box.All checklist information is saved with the postprocessor data file, so it is recalled each time youreload a specific postprocessor.

TIP:You can delete all the checkmarks by selecting them with your mouse. Now when youdouble-click on a particular dialog to review, a checkmark is displayed.

CL File

A Center Line or Cutter Location (CL) file is a neutral toolpath file that contains genericcommands to perform tasks such as changing a tool or turning on the coolant. A CL file, which isproduced by a CAM system, is not intended for a specific machine.

These files are produced in response to the virtually unlimited number of machine and controlcombinations. Producing a neutral toolpath file accommodates this large variety of outputrequirements.

CL files are postprocessed into NC files.

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Overview: Terms

10 IMSpost Guide

Comment Block

A comment block is a block of code stored in the machine code file that is not acted on by themachine controller. The block is most often used to comment the machine code file or to provideoperator instructions or messages on the controller screen. See Controller >Comment Blocks.

Component Types

A machine component must be one of the four basic types:

TABLE The machine table or rotary table on which the part to be machined is mounted. Atleast one table piece is a base component, meaning it is not mounted on anothercomponent. You may define any number of TABLE type pieces to representmovement of linear or rotary type axes.

PART Component that can be mounted to the topmost TABLE component. This approach isunnecessary, however, because IMSpost automatically adds this component for you ifit is not added explicitly.

HEAD Component used to represent a spindle or rotary axis mounted to the spindle. A HEADtype, unlike a TABLE type, can have direction associated with it, so a direction

specifier should be entered in the direction field. Note that this is NOT motiondirection, but rather the directional setup of the component itself.

TOOL The cutter that will be doing the machining. Typically, PART components representwhat is being machined and TOOL components represent the cutter itself. Both thePART and the TOOL components are specified within the CUT statement. Forexample, to cut a part component with tools tip:

CUT(PART,TOOL.TIP)

These component types, or pieces, let you physically describe or build your machine for thepostprocessor mathematical model. See Machine >Components.

Control Register

This is a code, sometimes called a letter address, that stores data to be read and interpreted by themachine control. Typically, it is not enough for a postprocessor to output a value. This value isusually associated with a particular address (G,X,Y,Z,F,S,M) and also needs a proper format. SeeController >Register Format.

Custom Postprocessor

Intelligent Manufacturing Software will develop custom postprocessors for any machine andcontroller configuration. You can then maintain the posts and make any enhancements you wantin-house. Contact IMS for more details:

Telephone: 978-556-0077

Fax: 978-556-0171Postal address: 800 Broadway, Haverhill, MA 01832Electronic mail: info@ims-software.com

Cutter Compensation

Cutter compensation is the correction of the cutter line to the left or right of center, from theprogrammed line. See General >Cutter Comp.

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Environment and Modes

After you activate the IMSpost software, load any existing postprocessor in order to activate themain tool barandsecondary tool bar(highlighted in the following example) through which youcan access various postprocessor dialogs.

IMSpost operates in two environment modes:

Postprocessor Control Emulator

Expression

An expression can consist of any supported combination of data types, variables, operations, orfunctions. For example:

REGISTER.T.VALUE > 24

Combined expressions must be separated with parenthesis. For example:

(SYSTEM.MOTION="LINEAR") AND (REGISTER.C.CHANGE)(MACHINE.B > 90) OR (MACHINE.Y < 3.75)

Function Code

A function is a controller code, usually in the form of a G-code or M-code, that causes themachine to take some action. For example, M08 is a function that turns on the coolant. SeeController >Function Codes.

Function Group

Function groups (also referred to as MODES) provide a means for assigning functions into user-defined groups. For example, the MOTION group may contain G00, G01, G02, G03 functionsthat describe some type of movement to the machine controller. These codes are mutuallyexclusive within each group. That is G01 remains in effect until cancelled by another code within

the MOTION group.

You categorize functions into groups for two reasons:

To group together families of functions (such as MOTION, COOLANT, SPINDLE, andCYCLE).

To assign variable names to functions used repeatedly to simplify macro programming.

See Controller >Function Groups.

Each member of a group is assigned a specific function code. For example, the MOTION grouplinks the following members and functions:

The member POSITION for the ISO function G00

The member LINEAR for the ISO function G01

The member CLW for the ISO function G02

The member CCLW for the ISO function G03

Most of the functions associated with grouping functions are intended for advanced users. Youtypically must create new function groups or modify existing groups.

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A function can only be assigned to one group. If you attempt to assign a function to a group thathas already been assigned to another group, you will get an error message. You must first removethe function from the group it is in, and then assign it to a different group.

There are many default groups assigned for commonly used codes. Selecting one of the defaultpostprocessor templates automatically sets up a group definition for commonly used functions.

NOTE:You do not have to assign every function to a member of a group. The function groups(modes) are for convenience in macro programming and are not required.

Some of the dialog and menus in IMSpost use the group/mode variables. Changing a function in adialog may change the function assigned to a group variable. Similarly, changing a groupmembers function assignment may change the setting in a dialog.

Graphics Window

The graphics window (highlighted in the following example) is the largest part of the applicationdisplay. It is where all of the machine graphics are displayed.

Helical Interpolation

For controllers that can support helical interpolation, IMSpost offers helical interpolation supportusing the powerful CIRCLE SOLUTION statement. The library postprocessors also have updatedCIRCLE macros to support this feature.

In order to enable processing of helical interpolation, check the Helical interpolation supportedoption on the Circle definition dialog. See General >Motion Codes(Circle tab).

Within the ArcFit routine, check the Screw option. See General >Motion Codes(Arc Fit tab).

Integer

An integer value consists of one or more digits, which can be preceded by a sign (+ or -). Aninteger does not contain a decimal point. Examples of integers are:

GLOBAL.VALUE = - 3COUNTER = 1

Machine Control Code

A machine control code instructs machines to perform certain tasks, such as turning on thecoolant. In some cases, these codes are standardized. For example, an M08 code means to turn onthe coolant. In other cases, machine tool builders do not follow the same standard and, as a result,the code required to perform a given function can vary drastically from machine to machine.

Macro

An IMS macro is a set of programming language statements that instructs the postprocessor as to

how to respond to a certain event. Each APT source command to be processed by thepostprocessor has an IMS macro of the same name associated with it. All postprocessor output isgenerated through the execution of an IMS macro.

If any APT source commands do not exist in the macro library, these commands will be ignoredby the postprocessor.

See General >Macro manager.

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NC Program

An NC program is produced by a CAM systems to run machine tools such as 2-axis lathes, mills(3-, 4-, and 5-axis), wire EDM machines, mill/turns, lasers, routers, grinders, and punch presses.

Pointer

Pointers are used in conjunction with the LOCATE macro statement. These statements arecommonly used throughout the IMS Revpost product.

Postprocessing

Postprocessing is the process of transforming a neutral toolpath file (called a Center Line, CutterLocation, or CL file) into an NC program that will run a machine tool. Postprocessing isperformed by a postprocessor program.

Postprocessing is a simple task with IMSpost. Most of the work occurs beforehand when youcreate or modify the postprocessor. In most cases, you can edit parameters for controller format,machine structural definition, output file format, and macros using the IMSpost dialogs.Advanced users also have the option of writing macros.

There are two options for running a processor:

Using the IMSpexec.exe file that is installed with IMSpost, or Using the IMSpost generator (see Execute >Postprocess).

The historical and modification data associated with a postprocessor file is saved so you can trackthe files history. You can view or modify this information throughout the development cycle ofthe postprocessor file.

Project

An IMSpost project is a data file consisting of all the parameters necessary for a completepostprocessor. This includes controller definition, machine kinematic description, IMSpost

macros, and other postprocessor data.Multiple projects may be loaded simultaneously in IMSpost. Use File >Opento select an existingproject. Use File >Newto create a new project.

Project File

A project file is a complete postprocessor stored as an external file. The file is saved in encryptedASCII format. This data file contains a complete description of the parameters necessary topostprocess a file, including:

Controller description Machine description

Output file definition Macro programs

Use File >Opento select an existing project file. Use File >Newto create a new project file.

Real Number

Real number values must be written in standard notation. A real number consists of one or moredigits on both sides of a decimal point, which can be preceded by a sign (+ or -). Although inputdata can have an integral value, such as 3.0, such a number is considered to be a real number by

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the system. A value is written and stored as a real number unless entered without the decimalpoint. An example of real numbers is:

GLOBAL.VALUE = 15.375 + 5.775

Static Table

A static table is a table attached to a register. For example, a spindle table might represent 100rpm by S1, 125 rpm by S2, etc.

S1 = 100S2 = 125

See Report >Tableto construct these tables within IMSpost.

String

A string is a sequence of any number of characters enclosed in double quotes. Only printableASCII characters are permitted. Control characters are not supported. However, it is possible tosubstitute a character in a string with a control character.

Examples of strings are:

"1234""S"MYSTRING = "AB4E" + "G85"TOOL_BLOCK = "(** RETRACT FOR SAFETY CLEARANCE **)"DIR = "G90 M3"

Tape Format

Tape format defines the characteristics required by the machine controller to mark the start or endof a file, end of block, or end of program information. See Controller >Tape Format.

Tracking the Tool

IMSpost gives you a number of ways of tracking the tool. To view and select these options, seerefer to the Output using option (see Machine > Multi-axis >Multi-axis Setup).

Variable

For detailed information, refer to Macro Language Variables.

There are four general types of variables (data) allowed in IMS macros: integer, real number,character string, and pointer. Examples are:

Integer INDEX = 1Real number GLOBAL.TABLE_FEED = 1200.0Character string MYTEXT = "G91G28Z0"

Pointer PTH = LOCATE(REGISTER.H)variable = expression

Typically, if you are setting a variable to a number or another variable name, the expression valueshould not be surrounded with quotes. For example:

GLOBAL.SPEED = 2000GLOBAL.RPM_SPEED = GLOBAL.LAST_RPM_SPEED

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When you are setting the variable to text, it must be enclosed in quotes:

MODE.SPINDLE = "OFF"GLOBAL.TMARK = "G28G91XY"

Besides these, IMSpost categorizes its own system variables: REGISTER, FUNCTION, MODE,MACHINE, SOLUTION, and COMPONENT.

REGISTER is associated with the controller address.REGISTER.X.MODAL = "YES"REGISTER.T.FORMULA = "? + 100"REGISTER.Z.LAST = 1500.0

FUNCTION is associated with the machine function.

FUNCTION.M3.NAME = "M13"FUNCTION.G1.USE = "X,Z,I,K,F"

MODE is the current machining mode.

MODE.SPINDLE="CLW"

MACHINE is a parameter associated with the machine axis.

MACHINE.Z.HOME = 4500.0MACHINE.B.LOCKL = 0

SOLUTION is associated with current motion block.

COMPONENT is associated with the machine models component.

COMPONENT.PART.REFERENCE.DIRECTION.HORIZONTAL = "0,1,0"

The REGISTER, FUNCTION, MODE, MACHINE, and COMPONENT variables are dependentupon what was selected through the various postprocessor dialogs. They are all accessible via theIMS macro language.

The SOLUTION variables are dependent upon the type of motion currently being processed.There is a different set of SOLUTION variables for 3-axis, linear motion, circular motion, and

multi-axis motion.

TIP:In your macro debug mode, enter the names of these variable types in the watch area. Ifthey are defined, IMSpost will return the results.

Work Coordinate System

The library posts are equipped with the G54-G59 work coordinate systems. As a default they arenot activated, but can be very easily. With your postprocessor loaded in the IMS environment:

1. Select User >MULTI HOME.

2. Check the Use Multi Home option.

3. If the G54-G59 codes are to be output in the following motion block, check the option toOutput code on next motion block.

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For experienced IMS macro users, these codes are supported with the UCS_MULTI/* macro. TheG54-G59 codes are represented by the MODE.SYSTEM.COORD variables.

Notes

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Main and Secondary Tool Bars

The main and secondary tool bars in the upper left of the window.

Main Tool Bar

A detailed description of each menu on the main tool bar is provided in this section. Also notedare corresponding buttons on the secondary tool bar as well as control key combinations, ifapplicable, to access the option.

File

TheFilemenu includes the following options:

Option Button Keys Description

New Creates a new postprocessor file (*.lib, *.prj).

Open Ctrl O Opens a browsing dialog that enables you to choose apreviously defined postprocessor file (*.lib, *.prj).

Close Closes the currently active postprocessor file.

Save Saves the currently postprocessor file using the samename.

Save As Saves the currently postprocessor file using a different

name that you specify.Jobs Saves the current working environment (saves

breakpoints for debugging). Two options are available:

Load Job Loads a saved job file.

Save Job Saves a job to a file.

Preferences Customizes working directories, file extensions, andother IMS default conditions.

ErrorDefinition

Opens a dialog for error checking.

Apt Definition Translates the CAM system APT language.

Create Doc Creates postprocessor documentation.Description Maintains a history of the postprocessor development.

Exit Quits the application. Prompts you to save documents.

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Edit

The Edit menu includes the following options that are used when working with theDebugfeatureorMacro Manage .r

Option Button Keys Description

Undo Alt

Backspace

Reverses the previous action.

Redo Ctrl Y Restores the previous action that was reversed(undone).

Cut ShiftDelete

Cuts the current selection and places it on theClipboard.

Copy Ctrl C Copies the current selection and places it on theClipboard.

Paste Ctrl V Pastes the cut or copied selection from the Clipboard.

Select All Ctrl A Selects all information, such as all lines of code in amacro.

Find Ctrl F Searches for specified text.

Replace Ctrl H Replaces currently selected text with the informationon the Clipboard.

ToggleBookmark

Ctrl F2 Toggles the bookmark feature to insert or removebookmarks.

NextBookmark

F2 Goes to the next temporary bookmark.

PreviousBookmark

Shift F2 Goes to the previous temporary bookmark.

Clear AllBookmarks

Clears all bookmarks in the window.

Insert/RemoveBreakpoint

F9 Inserts a breakpoint at the current location or removesthe currently selected breakpoint.

To insert a breakpoint, position your cursor at the line

where you want to insert a breakpoint. Click . Ared marker appears to the left of the line. For example,a breakpoint is inserted here at line 31:

To delete a breakpoint, position your cursor at a linewhere a breakpoint exists (such as line 31 above) and

click .

Remove AllBreakpoints

Removes all existing breakpoints.

Line Numbers Displays line numbers, when this option is checked.

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Option Button Keys Description

Go to line Ctrl G Enables you to go to a line number that you specify:

Enter the line number, then click Go To.

View

The View menu includes the following options:

Option Button Description

ISO (3D) Automatically rotates the world coordinates of the current machine

to fit the Isometric view.XZ (Front) Automatically rotates the world coordinates of the current machine

to fit the Front view. The Y axis will be perceived as depth.

YZ (Side) Automatically rotates the world coordinates of the current machineto fit the Side view. The X axis will be perceived as depth.

XY (Top) Automatically rotates the world coordinates of the current machineto fit the Top view. The Z axis will be perceived as depth.

Fit View Fits the view to all objects. This centralizes the graphics window onall of the displayed objects.

DebugWindows

Enables you to select the windows displayed for use whiledebugging:

Macro Manager APT-CL ISO Code Watch Window Machine

Refer toDebug.

ApplicationLook

Provides a variety of options to display the IMSpost application.

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Execute

TheExecutemenu includes the following options:

Option Button Description

Postprocess Displays options and enables you to execute an entire program. InController Emulator mode, you can reverse postprocess.

TestCommands

Displays options and enables you to perform an on-line test ofcommands, executing a partial program.

Breakpoints Available in the next software revision.

General

TheGenera menu includes the following options:l

Option Button Description

Start Program Enables you to enter code for the start of every program.

Input/Output

Units

Enables you to enter default units.

Part Number Specifies how the postprocessor should handle part numberprocessing.

StartOperation

(Catia Only) Enables you to enter code for the beginning of all Catiaoperations.

Tool Change Opens a tool change dialog.

Coolant Opens the Coolant dialog to set coolant codes and conditions.

Cutter Comp Opens the Cutter Comp dialog.

Feedrate Displays feed tabs.

Spindle Opens the Spindle dialog to set spindle codes and conditions.

Drill Cycles Opens the Cycle dialog to define drill cycle parameters.

End Operation (Catia Only) Enables you to enter code for the ending of all Catiaoperations.

End Program Enables you to enter code for the end of every program.

Threading Available in the next software revision.

Motion Codes Sets function codes and conditions for rapid and contouring motion.

Sort Output Sort registers and G/M code functions.

NewCommand Enables you to automatically create a macro.

Macromanager

Opens the IMS macro file management utility. (Your license mustsupport this.) All macros for the active postprocessor are listed.

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Controller

TheControllermenu includes the following options:

Option Button Description

Block Number Specifies block number sequencing (Nxxxx).

CommentBlocks

Enables you to enter operator comments and set parameters for thecomment block.

RegisterFormat

Defines tables for controller register formats. You can set the formatof controller letter addresses.

FunctionCodes

Defines controller function codes. All G/M codes in thepostprocessor are listed.

FunctionGroups

Lists all Mode/Group variables.

Subprograms Provides options to support subroutines.

Tables Enables you to create look-up tables.

Tape Format Provides options for special characters needed on tape (such as %).ImportController

Overrides the existing controller file with another controller file.

Apt Definition Sets the APT definition to convert.

Grammar Sets the grammar format.

Machine

TheMachinemenu includes the following options:

Option Description

Motion Displays all programmable machine axes.

Components Specifies model components.

References Specifies machine offsets (pivot points).

Multi-Axis Provides setup options for tool tracking.

Multi-axis Setup Sets specific formatting and conditions for multi-axisprogramming.

Work Plane Sets formatting for a multi-axis machine with a controllerthat supports different working planes.

Import

Machine

Overrides the existing machine model with:

IMS project file From another postprocessor file.

IMS model file From an existing machine model.

Pre-defined machines View and select predefined machine model.

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Report

TheReportmenu includes the following options:

Option Button Description

List Creates an optional *.lis output file (enter commentary data alongwith the machine code).

Table Creates an optional tool data table and displays specified tool/cutterdata.

User

TheUsermenu includes the following options:

Option Description

User Dialog Enables you to create custom dialogs.

Descriptive Comments EXAMPLE of a user dialog:Activates tape comments. This is an IMS-developed dialog.

Opstop EXAMPLE of a user dialog:Activates output of M01 codes. This is an IMS-developed dialog.

MULTI HOME EXAMPLE of a user dialog:Enables you to active work coordinate systems. This is an IMS-developed dialog.

Help

The Help menu provides options to displayed information about the IMSpost application or visitthe IMS Web site.

TheHelpmenu includes the following options:

Option Button Description

Help Topics Displays IMSpost help information.

Activate PPFile

Enables you to install specific postprocessor (PP) license codes, ifapplicable.

Diagnostics Creates a license diagnostic.

AboutIMSpost

Displays the current IMS software release.

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Secondary Tool Bar

The secondary tool bar appears in the upper left under the main tool bar and looks like this inPostprocessor mode:

It looks like this in Control Emulator mode:

Buttons provide the following functions.

Button Description

Opens a dialog to select a startup postprocessor from a library.

Opens a browsing dialog that enables you to choose a previously definedpostprocessor file (*.lib, *.prj). You can also access this option with this keycombination: Ctrl O

Saves the currently postprocessor file using the same name.

Cuts the current selection and places it on the Clipboard. You can also access thisoption with this key combination: Shift Delete

Copies the current selection and places it on the Clipboard. You can also access thisoption with this key combination: Ctrl C

Pastes the cut or copied selection from the Clipboard. You can also access this optionwith this key combination: Ctrl V

Toggles between the Postprocessor and Control Emulator modeenvironments.

Displays the checklist.

Displays options and enables you to execute an entire program.

Displays options and enables you to perform an on-line test of commands, executinga partial program.

Opens the IMS macro file management utility. (Your license must support this.) Allmacros for the active postprocessor are listed.

Sets function codes and conditions for rapid and contouring motion.

(Available with Postprocessor only.) Specifies block number sequencing (Nxxxx).

(Available with Postprocessor only.) Enables you to enter operator comments and set

parameters for the comment block.Defines tables for controller register formats. You can set the format of controllerletter addresses.

Defines controller function codes. All G/M codes in the postprocessor are listed.

(Available with Po