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Порядок Адресов в кадре

Глубоко вникнуть в состав pui — файла меня вынудило
несколько случаев. Один из них был просто дурацкий: мне нужно было получить такой порядок адресов в кадре :

G90 G41….. Используя PB, получалось только так:

G41 G90 ….

Я много раз пытался сделать это  — не выходило.
Создавать свой адрес, когда был такой же в наличие (по функционалу), было
как то глупо. Ругнулся и
открыл pui-файл. Внимательно
изучив содержимое, я обнаружил описание и порядок адресов, решил их переставить
….. и у меня получилось  :):):)
Точно так же, мне удалось решить и проблему адресов еще для одного
постпроцессора, и получить требуемое: M3 S…

## MASTER SEQUENCE START
G_cutcom "$mom_sys_cutcom_code(OFF)" 0 "Cutcom G-Code" 0
G_plane "$mom_sys_cutcom_plane_code($mom_cutcom_plane)" 0 "Plane G-Code" 0
G_adjust "$mom_sys_adjust_code" 0 "Tool Length Adjust G-Code" 0
G_feed "$mom_sys_feed_rate_mode_code($feed_mode)" 0 "Feedrate Mode G-Code" 0
G_spin "$mom_sys_spindle_mode_code($mom_spindle_status)" 0 "Spindle Output Mode G-Code" 0
G_return "$mom_sys_cycle_ret_code(MANUAL)" 0 "Return Plane for Canned Cycles" 0
G_motion "$mom_sys_linear_code" 0 "Motion G-Code" 0
G_cycle "$mom_usd_add_var" 0 "(G_cycle)" 1
G_mode "$mom_sys_output_code($mom_output_mode)" 0 "Positioning Mode G-code" 0
G "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Other G-Codes" 0
X "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "X Axis Position or Canned Cycle X Axis Position" 0
Y "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Y Axis Position or Canned Cycle Y Axis Position" 0
Z "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Z Axis Position or Canned Cycle Z Axis Position" 0
fourth_axis "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "4th Axis Position" 0
fifth_axis "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "5th Axis Position" 0
I "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "X Axis Position of the Circle Center" 0
J "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Y Axis Position of the Circle Center" 0
K "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Z Axis Position of the Circle Center" 0
.....
F "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Feedrate" 0
S "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Spindle Speed" 0
...
M_spindle "$mom_sys_spindle_direction_code($mom_spindle_direction)" 0 "Spindle Direction M-Code" 0
....
N "" 0 "Sequence Number" 0
....
Text "" 0 "Text String" 0
## MASTER SEQUENCE END

## MASTE SEQUENCE START
G_mode "$mom_sys_output_code($mom_output_mode)" 0 "Positioning Mode G-code" 0
G_cutcom "$mom_sys_cutcom_code(OFF)" 0 "Cutcom G-Code" 0
G_plane "$mom_sys_cutcom_plane_code($mom_cutcom_plane)" 0 "Plane G-Code" 0
G_adjust "$mom_sys_adjust_code" 0 "Tool Length Adjust G-Code" 0
G_feed "$mom_sys_feed_rate_mode_code($feed_mode)" 0 "Feedrate Mode G-Code" 0
G_spin "$mom_sys_spindle_mode_code($mom_spindle_status)" 0 "Spindle Output Mode G-Code" 0
G_return "$mom_sys_cycle_ret_code(MANUAL)" 0 "Return Plane for Canned Cycles" 0
G_motion "$mom_sys_linear_code" 0 "Motion G-Code" 0
G_cycle "$mom_usd_add_var" 0 "(G_cycle)" 1
G "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Other G-Codes" 0
X "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "X Axis Position or Canned Cycle X Axis Position" 0
Y "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Y Axis Position or Canned Cycle Y Axis Position" 0
Z "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Z Axis Position or Canned Cycle Z Axis Position" 0
fourth_axis "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "4th Axis Position" 0
fifth_axis "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "5th Axis Position" 0
I "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "X Axis Position of the Circle Center" 0
J "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Y Axis Position of the Circle Center" 0
K "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Z Axis Position of the Circle Center" 0
.....
F "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Feedrate" 0
M_spindle "$mom_sys_spindle_direction_code($mom_spindle_direction)" 0 "Spindle Direction M-Code" 0
S "$mom_sys_blank_code" 0 "Spindle Speed" 0
...
N "" 0 "Sequence Number" 0
Text "" 0 "Text String" 0
## MASTER SEQUENCE END

Вывод: порядок Адресов в кадре — задается
в pui. И его нужно при необходимости менять.

Исключение: Вывод адреса N.

Добавление MOM-команд,
функций в структуру
pui (tcl, def).

1. Меня всегда интересовало, почему в
PB так неудобно и не понятно работает с
Nurbs и Helix —
интерполяцией. В принципе, она была обычным видом движения. Но реализация через
uplevel { } — раздражала.
 В pui—файле за это отвечает следующая часть:

Для решения этого насущного вопроса,
откроем pui—файл, и добавим строчки, чтобы получилось
как показано ниже.

#Motions Start
{Linear Move} {linear_move} {Linear Move}
{Circular Move} {circular_move} {Circular Move}
{Rapid Move} {rapid_traverse rapid_spindle} {Rapid Move}
{Nurbs Move} {} {Nurbs Move}
{Helix Move} {} {Helix Move}
#Motions End

После открытия модифицированного Pui в PB получим следующую картинку, и более того, в tcl — файле будут образованы следующие команды, которые мы можем редактировать и наполнять прямо из PB: #========================================== proc MOM_nurbs_move { } { #========================================== } #========================================== proc MOM_helix_move { } { #========================================== }

Точно также, Вы можете добавлять и обработчики, и
другие вспомогательные команды:

##Tool Path Start #Control Functions Start {Tool Change} {} {$gPB(event,tool_change,name)} {Length Compensation} {} {Length Compensation} {Set Modes} {} {Set Modes} {Spindle RPM} {PB_CMD_spindle} {Spindle RPM} {Spindle Off} {spindle_off} {Spindle Off} {Coolant On} {coolant_on} {Coolant On} {Coolant Off} {coolant_off} {Coolant Off} {Inch Metric Mode} {} {Inch Metric Mode} {Feedrates} {} {Feedrates} {Cutcom On} {} {Cutcom On} {Cutcom Off} {cutcom_off PB_CMD_D_flag_v_nol} {Cutcom Off} {Delay} {delay} {Delay} {Opstop} {opstop} {Opstop} {Auxfun} {auxfun} {Auxfun} {Prefun} {prefun} {Prefun} {Load Tool} {} {Load Tool} {Stop} {stop} {Stop} {Tool Preselect} {tool_preselect} {Tool Preselect} {Pprint} {PB_CMD_pprint} {Pprint} {Operator Message} {PB_CMD_operator_message} {Operator Message} {Insert} {PB_CMD_insert} {Insert} {Origin} {PB_CMD_origin} {Origin} {Text} {PB_CMD_text} {Text} {Zero} {PB_CMD_zero} {Zero} #Control Functions End

2. Используя выше приведенную методику.
Теперь вы можете, добавлять в меню PB нужные Вам
функции. И не только, начинающееся на знакомое
PB_CMD_*.
Ограничение, я думаю одно — процедура не должна содержать аргументы.
Если, Вы, хотите добавить свою собственную процедуру, то предварительно, опишите
её в tcl — файле, дополните
pui,
а уж , затем открывайте Ваш проект в PB.

{Command} \
{"Custom Command" "" "New Custom Command"} \
{"MOM_set_seq_off" "" "MOM Command"} \
{"MOM_set_seq_on" "" "MOM Command"} \
{"MOM_coolant_off" "" "MOM Command"} \
{"MOM_coolant_on" "" "MOM Command"} \
{"MOM_set_modes" "" "MOM Command"} \
{"MOM_spindle_css" "" "MOM Command"} \
{"MOM_spindle_off" "" "MOM Command"} \
{"MOM_spindle_rpm" "" "MOM Command"} \
{"SET_SIGN_OF_RADIUS" "" "Custom Command"} \
{"int_value" "" "Custom Command"} \
{"PRBCUT" "" "Custom Command"} \
{"PROBE" "" "Custom Command"} \
{"SET_Tool_type" "" "Custom Command"} \
{"PB_CMD_5axis_flag" "" "Custom Command"} \
{"PB_CMD_5axis_flag3_V_nol" "" "Custom Command"} \
......

Copyright © 2001—2009 че

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  Post Building Techniques

  Student GuideJuly 2006

  MT11060 Post Builder 3.5

  Publication Number

  mt11060_g NX 4

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  Manual History

  ManualRevision

  UnigraphicsVersion

  PublicationDate

  Version 17.0 February 2001

  Version 18.0 May 2002

  Unigraphics NX February 2003

  Unigraphics NX 2 March 2004

  NX 3 May 2005NX 4 July 2006

  This edition obsoletes all previous editions.

  Proprietary & Restricted Rights Notice

  This software and related documentation are proprietary to UGS
  Corp.

  2006 UGS Corp. All Rights Reserved.

  All trademarks belong to their respective holders.

  2006 UGS Corp.

  All Rights Reserved.

  Produced in the United States of America.

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  Contents

  The NX/Post Post Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

  Post Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2Summary . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  1-6

  Building a Post Processor with Post Builder . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . 2-1

  Post Builder Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

  Activity Preparation for using the Post Builder . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . 2-4Post Builder Menu and Tool Bars . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6Using the Post Builder to
  Create a New Post Processor . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

  Activity Introduction to Post Builder . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . 2-11NX/Post Builder Parameters . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16Machine Tool
  Parameter Selections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . 2-18Program And Tool Path Property Page . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . 2-20

  Activity Word Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . 2-22Program and Tool Path Property Page
  (continuation) . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29

  About the interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30Activity Program and Tool Path
  Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

  NC Data Definitions Property Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . 2-42Activity NX Data Definition . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-45Creating New M or G code
  groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-54

  Activity Creating a New M-Code Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . 2-55Output Settings Property Page . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57

  Activity Output Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . 2-61Post Files Preview Property Page . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-63Summary . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . 2-64

  Post Builder for Wire EDM Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . 3-1

  Using Post Builder to create 2-axis and 4-axis Wire EDM
  PostProcessors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2Activity Creating a 2axis Wire EDM
  Post . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5Summary . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . 3-8

  Post Builder for 5-Axis Mill Applications . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

  Using Post Builder to create 5-axis Mill Post Processors . . . .
  . . . . . . 4-2Activity Creating a 5Axis Mill Post with Post
  Builder . . . . . . . . . . 4-8Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  4-11

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  Contents

  Post Builder for Lathe Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

  Using Post Builder to create Lathe Post Processors . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . 5-2Activity Creating a Lathe Post with Post Builder .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

  Creating Mill-Turn Post Processors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

  Mill-Turn Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2Mill-Turn and the Post Builder .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3Heads
  for Mill-turn centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . 6-4Creating a Mill-Turn Post Processor . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-55 Axis Mill-Turn Centers
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  6-115-Axis Mill-Turns and the Post Builder . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . 6-13

  Activity Creating a 5Axis Multi-Link Mill-Turn Post . . . . . .
  . . . 6-14Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-28

  Tcl Basics for Post Builder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

  Tcl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2Tcl Command Structure .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  7-3Tcl Scripts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4Tcl Control of Word
  Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . 7-5Tcl Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6Tcl Mathematical
  Expressions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . 7-7

  Variable Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8Tcl Variable Definitions . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9

  Variable Substitution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10Variable Substitution Examples . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11Activity Tcl
  Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . 7-12Tcl Procedures and Functions . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14Tcl I/O . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . 7-16Tcl Special Characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-17Constructing a Simple Procedure .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-18Tcl Flow
  Control Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . 7-21

  Activity Tcl Flow Constructs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . 7-24Tcl Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-27Tcl and
  Unigraphics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . 7-28

  Tcl Reference Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-30

  Customizing a Post Processor with Post Builder . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . 8-1

  Activity Custom Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . 8-7Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17

  User Defined Events (UDEs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

  User Defined Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

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  Contents

  User Defined Event Syntax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3Activity Creating User Defined Events
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6Activity Modify the
  Coolant UDE for Thru-Spindle . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11Summary . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . 9-15

  Virtual NC Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

  Integrated Simulation and Verification Overview . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . 10-2Machine Tool Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

  Activity Using Post Builder to crate a VNC . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . 10-5Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-7

  A Guide to Best Practices of Building a Post Processor . . . . .
  . . . 11-1

  Custom Command Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . A-1

  Advanced Post Building Topics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

  Guide to modifying and customizing existing post processors . .
  . . . . B-2Activity Modifying an Event Handler . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . B-4Definition File . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6

  Activity Modifying a Definition file . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . B-7Machine Kinematics . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-11Circles . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  B-12

  Advanced Kinematics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . B-13Rotary Axes Designations . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-144th Axis Center Offsets . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-15

  5th Axis Center Offsets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . B-16Axis Rotation (Standard or Reverse) . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-17Zero Position Offset . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-20Pivot
  Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . B-22Dual Table Kinematics . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-24Special Case 5-Axis Dual
  Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-26UG/Post
  Postprocessing using Runugpost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  B-28

  Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-29

  Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Index-1

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  Lesson

  1 The NX/Post Post Processor

  Purpose

  This lesson describes the post processing function of NX and the
  variouscomponents of aNX/Postpost processor. An overview of the
  Post Buildermodule is also presented.

  Objective

  Upon completion of this lesson, you will be able to:

  Understand the terminology and interrelationships of the
  variouscomponents ofNX/Post.

  Understand the use of thePost Builderas a tool to build post
  processors.

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  The NX/Post Post Processor

  Post Processing

  You use the Manufacturing applications of NX to generate tool
  paths. Thetool path consists of GOTO points and other information
  that controls the

  movement of the tool. This tool path usually cannot be used for
  machiningsince each machinetool/controller combination has
  different requirements,tool change requirements, and software
  characteristics, such as the sequenceof G codes which are permitted
  on a line of output.

  The tool path must be formatted to match the unique
  characteristics of themachine tool/controller combination. The
  procedure of modifying this generictool path to a form that can be
  understood and used by the machine toolcontroller is called post
  processing.

  Two elements arerequired for post processing. They are:

  Tool path — A NX internal tool path.

  Note: Pre V16 legacy data must be imported into the current
  version of NX inorder to be post processed usingNX/Post.

  Post processor — this is a computer program that reads, converts
  andreformats tool path information for a particular machine
  tool/controllercombination.

  NX/Post Execute

  NX provides a post processor, NX/Post, which utilizes NX tool
  path data

  as input, and outputs machine controller readable NC/CNC code.
  PostProcessors for NX/Post are customizable through the use of user
  createdEvent Handler and Definition files. These files, in
  conjunction withNX/Post,are used to generate output for the
  simplest to the very complex of machinetool/controller
  combinations.

  TheNX/Postprocessor can be used to generate output for simple
  millingmachines and lathes to ultra complex multi-axis (4+ axis)
  machining andproduction centers (a production center is considered
  to be a milling/turningtype machine). The extensibility
  ofNX/Postpost processors is achievedthrough the scripting
  languageTcland the use of the NX concept of Definition

  files.The followingflowchart illustrates the steps required to
  process (post process)tool path data in an acceptable format for a
  machine tool/controller usingthe NX/Postpost processor:

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  The NX/Post Post Processor

  TheNX/Postexecute module consists of the following
  components:

  Event Generator — sends Events and variables to NX/Postwhen
  youpost process. An Event is a collection of data which is
  processed by

  NX/Post, creating data which causes a specific action(s) by the
  machine

  tool/controller.

  Event Handler -is a file containing a specific set of
  instructions, writtenin the Tcl scripting language, dictating how
  each event type is to beprocessed. This file is created when using
  Post Builder.

  Definition file -is a file containing specific information about
  machinetool/controller format. Thisfile is also created when using
  Post Builder.

  Outputfile -is a machine tool readable file generate byNX/Post,
  passedto the machine tool/controller, that executes specific
  machine toolinstructions.

  The Event Generator, Event Handler, and the Definition file
  areinterdependent and together convert the internal tool path into
  a setof instructions that can be read and executed by the specific
  machinetool/controller combination.

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  The NX/Post Post Processor

  Manufacturing Output Manager (MOM)

  The Manufacturing Output Manager, referred to as MOM, is a
  utility programused byNX/Postforgenerating output based upon data
  that is stored within

  the internal tool path. NX/Postuses the MOM to start, add data
  and specifyfunctions to the interpreter, and to load Event Handlers
  and Definition files.

  Post Builder

  TheNX/Postmechanism uses Tcl (Tool Command Language) scripts and
  filesfor post processing. These files extract information from the
  part file, processthis information according to defined rules,
  formats the information for outputand then outputs the data to a
  file which is later used by the machine controlfor machining a
  part. These files are highly customizable, and if manuallyedited,
  require the working knowledge of the Tcl scripting language.

  Post Builder provides a graphical User Interface for building
  posts. Thedesign intent of thePost Builderis to create all the
  necessary files needed forpost processing without detailed
  knowledge of the file structure or Tcl.

  Post Builderis very flexible and allows for the definition of
  various types ofoutput blocks and word addresses. Sequence of
  output in the NC outputfile is very easy to control for blocks
  involving the start of program, start ofoperation, end of
  operation, end of program, tool changes and canned cycles.

  Post Builder currently configures post processors for the
  following:

  3-axis milling machines

  3-axis mill-turn centers (XZC)

  multi-axismill-turn centers

  4-axis milling machines with a rotary table or a rotary head

  5-axis milling machines with dual rotary heads or rotary
  tables

  5-axis milling machines with rotary head and rotary table

  2-axis lathes

  2 and 4-axis Wire EDM machines

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  The NX/Post Post Processor

  The followingflowchart illustrates the process of building a
  post processorusing the Post Builder:

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  The NX/Post Post Processor

  Summary

  In this lesson you were introduced to:

  The post processing function ofNX/Post.

  Interrelationships and functionality of the
  variousNX/Postcomponents.

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  Lesson

  2 Building a Post Processorwith Post Builder

  Purpose

  This lesson describes the procedures of building post processors
  throughthe use of the Post Builder.

  Objective

  Upon completion of this lesson, you will be able to:

  Understand the various components ofPost Builder.

  Use thePost Builderto build a 3-axis mill post processor.

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  Building a Post Processor with Post Builder

  Post Builder Overview

  Post Builderprovides an easy to use interface for creating and
  modifying postprocessors. Drag and drop functions allows the
  creation of formats, addresses,

  sequences and blocks. ThePost Buildercreates the defi

  nition of outputblocks, formats for addresses and controls the
  sequence of output for the startand end of program, start and end
  of operation and tool path Events.

  ThePost Builderworks in conjunction with three files.

  TheDefinition file, with .def extension, contains information
  about themachine tool/controller functionality and format
  requirements.

  TheEvent Handler, with .tcl extension, contains instructions of
  how eachEvent type is to be processed.

  ThePost Builder parameterfile, with .pui extension, contains
  theparameters that are used byPost Builderfor an individual post.
  Thisfile is referenced whenever you would edit or customize a post
  processorusing thePost Builder..

  An existing library of post processors is provided by UGS
  athttp://ftp.ugs.com/unigraphics/pb_posts/post_index.htm.

  Machine tools and machine controllers in industry vary greatly,
  you shouldbe aware that postprocessors made available on this ftp
  site should beconsidered as example postprocessors only and
  considerable adjustment of

  these postprocessors may be required to suit the specifi

  c machine tool.The activities, in this lesson, will use a copy
  of the main CAM mach\resourcedirectory. The logic behind this
  concept is that you can experiment with

  various ideas and techniques without the worry of corrupting any
  system filesthat would normally be used by NX/Postor Post
  Builder.

  You will assume that the CAM Mach\resource directory has not
  been copiedto your home directory (unless instructed otherwise by
  your instructor).

  The following activity will take you through the process of
  creating a copy ofthe mach\resource directory structure to your
  home directory.

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  Activity Preparation for using the Post Builder

  In this activity you will make a copy of the MACH/RESOURCE
  directorystructure in the home directory and modify the directories
  for read/write

  access.Step 1: Copy the mach\resource directory.

  Start NX.

  On the NX Main Menu Bar, select Help NX Log File toverify
  themach\resourcedirectory being used. Search for theenvironment
  variableUGII_CAM_RESOURCE_DIR.

  Open an XP Explorer window and locate the directory fromthe
  previous action item.

  Highlight themach\resourcedirectory, right click
  onmach\resourcedirectory and select Copy.

  Highlight your home directory, right click on your homedirectory
  and select Paste.

  Step 2: Copy the environmentfile, ugii_env.dat to your home
  directory.

  From the XP Explorer window locate theugii_env.dat file in
  the\NXxx0\UGIIdirectory (note: xx represents current version).

  Highlight theugii_env.dat file, right click on the
  ugii_env.datfile and select Copy.

  Highlight your home directory, right click on your homedirectory
  and select Paste.

  Step 3: Edit the ugii_env.dat file to redefine your
  mach\resource directorylocation.

  Highlight theugii_env.dat file from your home directory,
  rightclick on the ugii_env.dat file and selectOpen with Wordpad

  (note: prior to editing thisfi

  le, you may have to associate thefile with either Wordpad or
  Notepad).

  Scroll down the file until you find the following
  line:UGII_CAM_RESOURCE_DIR=${UGII_CAM_BASE_DIR}resource\and change
  the line toUGII_CAM_RESOURCE_DIR=${HOMEDRIVE}${HOMEPATH}\resowhere
  HOMEDRIVE is the letter designator of thedisk drive where your home
  directory is located andHOMEPATHis the directory structure.

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  Savethe file and exit from the editor.

  Step 4: Change protection on the resource directory that was
  created.

  Navigate to your home directory, highlight the
  resourcedirectory, right click, select properties, select the
  security tab,highlight the user nameEveryonein the upper dialog, on
  thelower dialog, check on Full Control.

  ChooseOK until you return to the main Explorer dialog.

  Step 5: Restart NX.

  Log off NX and then log back on.

  On the NX Main Menu bar, selectHelpNX Log Fileto verify

  the updated\mach\resourcedirectory is being used.

  This completes this activity.

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  Post Builder Menu and Tool Bars

  Post Builderis started by choosing from the desktop menu
  bar,StartAllPrograms NX Post ToolsPost Builder.

  When you initially enter thePost Builderyou will see thePost
  Builder MenuBar. The Menu Bar contains a Cue Lineand twoTool
  Bars.

  TheCue line displays prompt messages on expected input by the
  currentoption. These messages indicate the next action which you
  need to take.

  ThePost Filing toolbar contains three command buttons associated
  withcreatingnew, openingand savingpost processors.

  Create Newoption allows for creation of a new post
  processor.

  Open Existingoption allows for modification or editing of an
  existing postprocessor.

  Saveoption allows for saving the post processor currently being
  worked upon.

  TheHelp tool barcontains command buttons associated with help
  options.

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  Balloon Tipoption, when turned on, displays a message balloon
  that containsdescriptions concerning the functionality of the
  widget, whenever the cursorstops at a widget on the dialog.

  Context Helpoption when turned on, changes the pointer into a
  questionmark. You can then click on an icon or item on the display
  that you are inquestion about and will see an explanation of the
  function of the icon or item.Click on the explanation window to
  close.

  Users Manualis a complete online manual on the Post Builder.
  TheUsersManualalso contains MOM events and variables.

  Pull Down menus are also available forFile, Options,
  Utilitiesand Help.

  TheFilepull down menu allows for the creation, opening, saving
  and closingof post processor files. It also allows you to access a
  list of the most recentlyopened posts as well as exiting from the
  Post Builderprogram.

  The Options pull down menu allows for the validation of the
  syntax,addresses, blocks and formats used in Custom Commands as
  well as thenumber of backup files created.

  TheUtilitiespull down menu allows for modification of
  theTemplate_post.datdata file and the addition of MOM
  variables.

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  TheHelppull down menu allows for the activation ofBalloon
  Tips,ContextSensitive Help, access to the Users Manual, Release
  Notes and specificinformation concerning the version of thePost
  Builderbeing utilized.

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  Building a Post Processor with Post Builder

  Using the Post Builder to Create a New Post Processor

  To create a new post processor, theNew option (or Create New
  commandbutton from the Post Filing Tool Bar) from the File pull
  down menu is

  selected. TheCreate New Post Processormenu is displayed which
  allowsfor post processor naming and description, output units and
  machine tooland controller type.

  ThePost Name field is the name of the post processor being
  created. Spacesare not allowed.

  The Description field allows for text describing machine
  tool/controllercharacteristics and any other miscellaneous
  information.

  Post Output Unitsselection buttons allow for inch or metric
  output.

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  Machine Toolallows the selection of various milling (multi-axis)
  machine,lathe configurations and Wire EDM type machines.

  Controllerallows the selection ofgeneric, library or Users
  machinecontrollers.

  Genericcontroller contains defaults for a generic control

  Libraryallows theselection of controller from a NX supplied
  list

  Usersallows the selection of post processors by browsing for
  specificpost processors

  NOTE: You can select a previously created post processor.

  TheMachine Tooland Controllerselections determine base files
  used to

  create the post processor which contains various Events,
  commands andprocedures.

  TheOk button enables acceptance of specifications for the
  machine tool andcontroller and advances you to the main editor
  portion of the user interface.

  TheCancelbutton will dismiss the current menu, terminates the
  process ofcreating a new post processor and returns you to the Post
  Buildermenu bar.

  When you create a new post processor, you can add the name of
  the postto thetemplate_post.dat file. This file contains a list of
  post processors forNX/Post to use. It defines a list of post
  processors that are available in the

  Post Process dialog. The name of the post processor can be added
  by using theUtilitiespull down menu from the main tool bar.

  The following activity will introduce you to the basic concepts
  and use of thePost Buildermodule.

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  Building a Post Processor with Post Builder

  Activity Introduction to Post Builder

  Step 1: Start thePost Builder.

  On the menu bar, choose Start All Programs Post ToolsPost
  Builder.

  Select theNew option in theFilemenu and in thePost Namefield,
  name the post processor***_my_post, where***standsfor your
  initials.

  Note: Use lower case characters only and no spaces.

  Step 2: Select various initial options.

  ForPost Output Unit you will accept the default ofinches.

  ForMachine Tool you will accept the default ofMill.

  Notice the 3-axis button bar.

  Select the 3-axis button bar and notice the choices
  available.

  You will accept the default for 3-axis.

  Dismiss the 3-axis.

  ForControlleryou will accept the default ofGeneric. Somecommon
  controllers are already provided. If you were to select the

  Libraryoption, a list of available controllers would be
  available forselection as a template in building your post.

  Select OK.

  TheMain Editorproperty page (tab) is displayed.

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  Step 3: Save your newly created post processor to your home
  directory.

  SelectFilefrom the menu bar and then select Save As.

  Filter to your home post processor directory.

  Visually check theFile name box, if the file name shown isthe
  same asthe file name of your post processor, select OK,

  otherwise type in the correct name and then select OK.

  When you save your file, three files are actually saved. The
  fileshave the extension .pui, .tcl, and.def.

  In order for your newly created post processor to be includedin
  the NX Post Processing window by default, you must savethe post to
  your home post processing directory and modify thetemplate_post.dat
  file to include the new post processor. This fileis also located in
  the home post processor directory. This file isadded to the
  template_post.dat file by using the Utilitiesfunctionfrom the main
  menu bar.

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  Step 4: Add your newly created post processor to the
  template_post.datfile.

  Choose theUtilitiesoption and then chooseEdit TemplatePosts Data
  Filefrom the pull down menu.

  The Install Posts dialog is displayed.Browse to your post
  processor directory, then select thetemplate_post.dat file and
  choose OK.

  Highlight theTOOL LISTline as shown below, then select
  theNEWbutton.

  The Open dialog is displayed.

  Navigate to your home directory and select the post
  processorwhich you previously saved.

  Choose the Open button.

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  The path and name of the file are inserted into
  theTemplate_post.datfile.

  Choose theOK button at the bottom of the dialog.

  The Save As dialog appears.

  If necessary, select the file nametemplate_post.dat.

  Choose the Savebutton.

  ChooseYesto the Save Aswarning message to replace
  thetemplate_post.dat file.

  Step 5: Verify the post processor has been added to the Post
  Process dialog.

  Return toa NX session and retrieve the part
  filemill_testfromyourstudent_home\partsdirectory.

  Verify the post processor by entering the Manufacturing

  Application in NX and selecting the post processing icon.

  You will see your post processor,***_ my_post, under Available
  Machineson the Post Process dialog.

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  Choose Cancel.

  Return to thePost Buildermain dialog.

  This concludes the activity.

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  NX/Post Builder Parameters

  As you proceed to build a post processor using thePost Builder,
  the userinterface takes on the appearance of a tabbed notebook.
  There are five major

  tabs (also referred to as property pages) which are displayed.
  They are:Machine Tool, Program and Tool Path, NC Data Definition,
  Output SettingsandPost Files Preview. When a major property page is
  selected, menus andor sub property pages are displayed which allows
  for the setting of variousparameters used in creation of your post
  processor.

  Machine Tool Property Page

  TheMachine Tool property page allows the selection of output to
  includeCircular Records or to output linear motion only. You can
  also specifyLinearAxis Travel Limits,Home Position,Linear Motion
  Step Size and TraversalFeed Rate, Axis Multipliersand vectors
  representing theInitial Spindle Axis.

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  TheDisplay Machine Toolbutton gives a simple, generic,
  representation ofthe motions of the machine tool being
  configured.

  TheDefaultbutton returns you to the state when the post was last
  saved forthe current «screen».

  TheRestorebutton returns you to the state when you entered the
  current»screen».

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  Machine Tool Parameter Selections

  In this activity you will examine and modify some of the various
  MachineTool Parameters located within the Machine Tool selection of
  the Post Builder

  and will then restore them to their original state.Step 1:
  Examine the various Machine Tool Parameters.

  Select Display Machine Tool.

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  Notice the display of a simple 3-axis mill.

  Clear the display of the machine tool by selecting the
  Closebutton on the Machine Tool title bar.

  Set the linear travel limits to the following: X=60,
  Y=50andZ=40.

  Select theRestorebutton.

  Notice that the X, Y and Z axis limits are returned to their
  originalsettings.

  This concludes the activity.

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  Program And Tool Path Property Page

  TheProgram and Tool Pathproperty page allows for creation,
  modificationand customization of the Event Handlers for all Events
  which occur by theuse of multiple function property pages. These
  functions, presented in thetab format, are:

  Program allows the addition, modification and customization of
  ProgramStart Sequences, Operation Start Sequences, Tool Path Events
  includingMachine Control Events, Motion Events, Canned Cycles
  Events, OperationEnd Sequences and Program End Sequences.

  G Codes property page will allow you to specify default G-codes
  used

  throughout the post processor. Changing any of the G-codes in
  this list willupdate the G-codes globally.

  M Codesproperty page will allow you to specify default M-codes
  usedthroughout the post processor. Changing any of the M codes in
  this list, willupdate the M-codes globally.

  Word Summaryproperty page provides a summary of all addresses
  and allowsthe individual modification of the various elements used
  in data definition ofthe address. This property page allows the
  modification of groups of wordsthat use the same format and also
  allows modification of the format itself. If

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  you want to specify a different format for only one of the
  words, you would go tothe Format section of NC Data Definitions
  property page to make the change.The following parameters are
  available in Word Summary:

  Word is the same that you will find in the word section of the
  NC DataDefinitions section.

  Leader/Code — allows you to modify the leader for any word. The
  leader isthe character that precedes the numeric information. For
  example, if theword is X20.0000, then the leader is X. You can
  either enter a new leaderor right click on the existing leader and
  choose from the list.

  Data Type — can beeither numeric or text. Specify text when the
  codeneeded cannot be formatted from a number directly into a word
  addressand a value. If, for example, you need a G84.1 for tapping
  and G81

  (without a decimal) for drilling, you would make the G-motion
  word textand change all of the G codes to G81 instead of 81 with a
  leader of G.You may also go to the format property page in NC Data
  Definitions tochange only the G-motion word to text.

  Plus (+) — allows a plus sign for all positive numbers. If set
  tono the (+)sign is not generated. A minus sign (-) is generated
  for all numeric data ifthe value isnegative.,

  Lead Zero — will allow the output of leading zeroes.

  Integer — controls number of digits output to the left of the
  decimal point.An error isgenerated if the numeric data exceeds the
  format specified.

  Decimal (.) — controls whether or not numeric data has a decimal
  point.An error is generated if the decimal is suppressed and
  leading or trailingzeroes are not output.

  Fraction — determines how many digits are output to the right of
  thedecimal point.

  Trail Zero — will allow the output of trailing zeroes.

  To change how the post processor will output a value of zero for
  coordinatedata, select either thezero_int or zero_realoption for
  formats in the NCData Definitions section under the Format property
  page. This will outputa zero in front of the decimal point.

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  Activity Word Summary

  In this activity you will modify some of the various word
  formats and changethe sequence number. You will find these items in
  the Program and Tool Path

  andWord Summary section of the Post Builder.

  Step 1: Enter the Word Summary subsection of the Program and
  Tool Pathsection ofPost Builder.

  Select theProgram and Tool Pathproperty page from
  thePostBuilderselection menu.

  Select theWord Summaryproperty page.

  Step 2: Change the X, Y, and Z-axis word format to 3.3.

  Scroll down theWordcolumn until you reach the X address.

  In the row of the X address, locate the integercolumn and

  change the value from 4 to 3.

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  In the row of theX address, locate the fractioncolumn andchange
  the value from 4 to 3.

  Notice that changing the X address word format also changesall
  other axis word formats.

  Step 3: Change the F address format to 3.1.

  Scroll down theWordcolumn until you reach theF address.

  In the row of the Faddress, locate theintegercolumn andchange
  the value from 7 to 3. Thefractioncolumn is set to2,change the
  value to1.

  Step 4: Change the S address format to 4.

  In the row of the S address, locate the integercolumn andchange
  the value from 5 to 4. Thefractioncolumn is set to 0and does not
  need to be changed.

  Step 5: Allow for maximum tool offset of 999 by changing the D
  addressto 3.0.

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  Scroll down theWordcolumn until you reach the address.

  Notice that the range for the offset is from 0 to 99. The
  maximumnumber allowable since the format for the word is Digit_2.By
  changing the format toDigit_4, you can then allow for themaximum
  desired tool offset of 999.

  Click on the word, under the Wordcolumn heading.

  The Word D: property page is displayed.

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  Change the format from 2 to 4 by selectingthe drop down arrow
  and selecting Digit_4.

  Change the number of available offsets from 99 to999 bychanging
  theMaximum valueparameter from99 to 999.

  Choose OK.

  Step 6: Change the sequence number to start at 5 and increment
  by 5

  for each block afterwards.

  SelectOther Data Elementsfrom theWord Summarypropertypage.

  The Other Data Elements property page is displayed.

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  Change theSequence Number Startfrom10 to 5, then
  changetheSequence NumberIncrementfrom10 to 5.

  Choose OK.

  Step 7: Save the post and run it against the test part,
  mill_test.

  If necessary, enter theManufacturing Applicationin NX.

  Using the Operation Navigation Tool, expand theT12345-Aparent
  andselect the FACE_MILLINGoperation.

  Select thepost processing icon.

  Highlight your post processor which you have modified and
  selectOK.

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  The default directory is write protected, you will need to
  change the outputdirectory to your home directory.

  Change the default for Output File to your home directory and
  then selectOK.

  Verify the output.

  Your output will be similar to the following:

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  Return to the Post Builder.

  This completes the activity.

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  Program and Tool Path Property Page (continuation)

  Word Sequencingallows the customization of the order of output
  of wordscomprising a block of NC data. The sequence order of the
  words will prevail

  throughout the post processor. If for example, the X and Y words
  werereversed, it will be reflected in all of the blocks generated
  by all Events. Youcan also suppress or make any word active.
  IfBalloon Helpis active, eachword will display the context of that
  word. By default, a representative code isused to display that
  word, for example, the G17 word can also be G18 or G19.In other
  cases a D or T represents the adjust register or tool number
  register.

  Custom Commandallows the addition of user created custom
  commands.These are Tcl procedures that are executed by an Event.
  When creating acustom command, thePost Builderwill place all of the
  correct syntax aroundthe body of the procedure that you are
  creating. The first line of the CustomCommand will be: proc
  PB_CMD_name_of_proc {} { and the last line willbe }.

  TheCustom Commandprocedure will be processed in the sequence
  where itwas placed. ThePost Builderwill check the validity of the
  syntax of CustomCommands. Numerous Custom Commands, designed for
  common «specialapplications», are supplied with every release of
  the Post Builder..

  Linked Postsallows you to specify posts that can be linked to
  your currentpost. Linked Posts would be applicable in situations
  where separate postshave been developed for special machine options
  such as right angle millingheads, specialized mill-turn centers,
  machining centers having more than two

  rotary axis or any application that requires multiple post
  processors.

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  About the interface

  Under the Program property page, you will see two distinct
  windowsdisplayed. The left most window, also referred to as
  theComponent Window,

  contains a list of components that make up a program, displayed
  in a treeformat. When a component is selected, the parameters
  associated with thecomponent is displayed in the right most window,
  also referred to as theParameter Window.

  A detailed explanation of the above numbered components
  follows:

  The Program contains the following sequences;

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  An NC program has a beginning and an end with a number of
  operations orsteps in between. Collectively, the program is
  considered to be composed ofa sequential order of Events. Due to
  the way that tool paths are createdwithin NX, certain Events, such
  as Tool Change, Spindle Start or Approach

  Motion Events canoccur at the start and end of an NC program and
  for eachoperation. At themarkers(designated as yellow rectangular
  blocks) of thesepre-determined Events, you can force certain
  instruction blocks to be output.This is referredto as a sequence.
  Understanding the sequences and theevents that trigger them allow
  you to properly place custom commands andblocks to obtain the
  desired output.

  Three types of components can be attached to the markersof the
  varioussequences. They are identified by the following icons:

  Cube: a normal block

  Hand: a custom or MOM command

  Page: an operator message

  When a rectangular block appears light-blue in color, it
  designates thecomponent as being used by more than one marker.
  Changing one instancewill affect all instances of that
  component.

  When a rectangular block appears white in color, it designates
  the componentas being used only once.

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  From the post processors view, an NC program consists offive
  sequences anda collection of Events that can occur in each
  operation. They are as follows:

  Program Start Sequencewhich determines which blocks are output
  whenthis particular Event occurs before the tool path is read. This
  Eventoccurs before any other Event is processed.

  Operation Start Sequencecontains Events and actions that will
  occurfrom the start of an operation to the first cut motion. Every
  operation willhave a first tool change, automatic tool change,
  manual tool change orno tool change.

  Tool Path Sequenceconsist of Events and actions that pertain to
  machinecontrol, motion control and canned cycles.

  Machine Controloptions control items such as coolant, spindle,
  tailstocksand clamps. They can also be used to change modes such as
  incrementalor absolute, inverse time, feed per minute/per
  revolution and constantsurface speed. Information can be passed to
  a post processor by parameterdata which is available at the Start
  of Operation. This includes feedsand speeds and any cutting
  parameters such as stepover and tolerances.Information can also be
  passed by way of User Defined Events-UDEs-(sometimes referred to as
  post commands). UDEs specified as Startof Post come out after the
  Start of Operation in the order specified byOperation Markers (a
  marker indicates Events that may occur). UDEsassociated with the
  tool, program, method, or any other parent group are

  output before the Start of Operation Event. The recommended
  method ofoutput for the Start of Operation NC code is to organize
  all of the data(spindle speed, spindle direction, coolant status,
  length compensation,tool number) and then output this data as part
  of the Operation StartSequence.

  Motionoptions describe how the post processor will process
  GOTOrecords in the tool path. All motion generated with a feed rate
  of zero isprocessed by the Rapid Move Event. If any motion types
  have a non-zerofeed rate, the Linear Move Event will be used.
  Motion types included inthis Event type are cut, engage, first cut,
  stepover and side cut. Circular

  motion is handled by the Circle Move Event. An Event type for
  Nurbsis currently handled by the Post Builderfor Fanuc 6M, Siemens
  andHeidenhain controls.

  Canned Cycleoptions describe how the post processor will handle
  cannedcycles. You can define and or modify the G-code, associated
  parameters,and output blocks that will be used with pre-defined
  cycles.

  Operation End Sequencecontains Events and actions that occur
  fromthe final retract motion to the end of the operation. These are
  items like

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  returning to a home position or turning off the spindle and or
  coolant. Ifthe same End of Operation function is always going to be
  performed atthe end of every operation you can enter it into this
  sequence instead ofprogramming UDEs.

  Program End Sequencecontains Events and actions that occur from
  theend of the last operation to the end of the program.

  By activating the Add Block button, you can drag and drop a
  blockcomponentinto the location desired. The block component can be
  placedabove, below or next to an existing block component. Block
  components whichare available are listed in theAdd Block component
  available option menu.

  Activating theDisplay Combined N/C Code Blocks toggle button
  will displayall block components in the form of NC codes. By
  default, block componentsare displayed in terms of their
  descriptions.

  The Add Blockcomponent option menu describes the blocks which
  areavailable. You can create a new block component and apply it to
  a sequence.

  You may also select one of the pre-defined block components.

  TheTrashbin is used to delete any unwanted block component by
  draggingthe block component to the trash bin icon.

  You can also delete the component by right clicking on the
  component andselecting delete from the drop down menu.

  TheOperation Startsequence is one of the sequences which can
  occur witheach operation (one of the five sequences,Program Start,
  Operation Start,Tool Path, Operation End and Program End). Yellow
  colored blocks alwaysrepresent the sequence blocks (also referred
  to as markers).

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  You can neither add or delete Event blocks.

  A block component can be placed above, below or next to an
  existing block.

  If you right click on the block component, a pop-up menu appears
  which allowsyou toCut, Copy As or Deletea custom command block. If
  a block containsNC data, your options are Edit,Force
  Output,Cut,Copy Asor Delete.

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  Activity Program and Tool Path Parameters

  In this activity youwill examine and modify Program and Tool
  PathParameters.

  Step 1: Enter the Program and Tool Path section ofPost
  Builder.

  Select theProgram and Tool Pathproperty page from
  thePostBuilderselection menu.

  If necessary select the Programproperty page.

  Step 2: Create a Program Start Sequence with a Rewind Stop Code
  of (#).

  Select the Program Start Sequence from the ComponentWindow.

  Double-click theblock componentcontaining the% from theSequence
  Window.

  Prior to selecting this particular component, notice the
  light-bluecolor of the block component. This indicates that this
  particularblock is used again in either the same or another
  sequence. In thisparticular example, this block component appears
  again in theProgram Endsequence.

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  The Block: rewind_stop_codeproperty page is displayed.

  Highlight the selection box containing the «%»,
  usingMB3,selectChange Element, then selectUser Defined
  Expression.

  The Expression Entry text box is displayed.

  Change the «%» to «#».

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  ChooseOK from the Expression Entrytext box.

  ChooseOK from theBlock: rewind_stop_codeproperty page.

  As mentioned earlier in this activity, this block component
  alsoappears in theProgram Endsequence. A change to one
  blockcomponent will change all like components, regardless of
  theirlocation.

  Step 3: Create a Program Start sequence with a
  G70G90G40G17G94block by modifying the Word sequence (NOTE: list the
  G codes inthe order shown).

  Select theWord Sequencingproperty page from the menu.

  Select the «G» block withMB1 and «drag» it to the beginningof
  the line.

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  Select the «G90» block withMB1 and «drag» it between the «G»and
  «G40» block.

  Select the «G01» block and position it between the «G17″
  and»G43» block.

  Step 4: Suppress the output of selected words.

  Position the mouse over the «G97» block and click once
  tosuppress the «G97» output (turns from pink to blue).

  Repeat the previous action and suppress the following: «G99»,the
  three «P» words and the «E» word.

  Step 5: Change the order of the «D» and «H» words.

  Move the «D» word behind the «H» word.

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  Step 6: Change the tool parameter number to a maximum of 999
  andminimum of 1.

  Position the mouse over the «T» block and withMB3
  selectEdit.

  Change the maximum value from 99 to 999.

  Change the minimum value from 0to 1.

  Change the Tcode output format by selecting Edit underFormat and
  change the output field from2 to 3.

  Choose,OKtwice.

  Savethe post processor.

  Step 7: Save the post and run it against the test part,
  mill_test.

  If necessary, enter theManufacturing application.

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  Using the Operation Navigation Tool, expand the T12345-Aparent
  and select the FACE_MILLINGoperation.

  Select the post processing icon.

  Highlight your post processor which you have modified andselect
  OK.

  Accept the default forOutput Fileand then select OK.

  Verify the output.

  Your output should be similar to the following:

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  Return to the Post Builder.

  This completes this activity.

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  NC Data Definitions Property Page

  TheNC Data Definitionsproperty page allows the definition of
  output formatsfor NC data.

  Data definitions are broken down into four sub classifications,
  alsorepresented in tabular format. These sub classes are:

  Blockdefines the format sequence of the instruction data that
  appearsas output. Blocks are made up of word elements, each being
  defined byan address and variable. There are two methods used to
  create a block.From the sequence or event property page you may
  drag a blank blockand drop it into a sequence or event. You can
  also edit any existing block

  with the sequence, event or NC Data Defi

  nitions block property page. Youmay then edit or build your
  block of data.

  Worddefines the address, output format and the structure of the
  wordsthat comprise the instructions. Parameters associated with
  addressare format, maximum and minimum values, modality and leading
  andtrailing characters. A word is composed of an address leader, a
  number ortext and a trailer. An address leader may be any
  character. The addressleader is usually a single character such as
  G, M, X, Y, Z, etc. The traileris usually a blank character. You
  can specify the format for current words

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  from an existing list of formats or edit one of the existing
  formats. You canalso create a new format from the Format section of
  this property page.

  Formatfor data output can be defined asreal, integeror character
  string.

  Parameters for Formatvary according to the data type selected.
  Realnumbers are generally used for co-ordinate values; integersare
  used forregisters andcharacter stringsare used for commentary
  messages andspecial output.

  Other Data Elementsallow for the control of sequence number
  output, theuse of special characters for word separation, end of
  block and messagestart and end codes.

  You have probably noticed that block word address icons have
  symbolsassociated with them. These various icon symbols are
  switchedon when you

  pass the mouse over the word address icon and select the pull
  down menuwithMB3. ChoosingOptional, No Word Separator, Force Output
  or anycombination of the three from the pull down menu will turn
  the varioussymbols on.

  A checkmark before the option is an indicator of the option
  being turned on.

  Force Outputforces the selected code for output within the
  current blockonly. This is useful, for example, to force out a T or
  some other code foreach tool change. By default all words are modal
  and will output only ifthe value changes from one block to the
  next. Force Outputcan only bespecified within the context of an
  Event or sequence.

  No Word Separatorresults in the separator character being
  suppressedfollowing the word on output. This is used mainly for CLS
  output.

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  Optionalwill test to see if the address has a variable defined,
  if defined, itwill be used; if the variable is not defined, the
  address will be suppressed.Note that this option takes priority
  over the «Force Output» option.

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  Activity NX Data Definition

  In this activity youwill modify a word address to force a G91
  code and thenmodify the existing G84 tapping code to produce a
  G84.1 rigid tapping

  cycle.Step 1: Enter NC Data Definition section of the Post
  Builder.

  Select theNC Data Definitionfrom thePost
  Builderselectionmenu.

  If necessary, choose theBlockproperty page.

  Step 2: Change the incremental mode block address variable to
  force out a

  G91 code.

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  Right click theincremental_modevariable and then selectForce
  Output .

  Notice the white bar, indicatingForce Output, that appears onthe
  block address icon.

  Step 3: Create a G84.1 Rigid tapping sequence.

  You will now modify the existingG code that will be output for
  atapping cycle. You will change the standard G84 code toG84.1used
  in a rigid tapping sequence.

  If necessary choose theN/C Data Definitionproperty page.

  Choose theWordproperty page.

  Highlight theG block, usingMB3, selectCreate.

  The G_1 block is created.

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  The standard tapcode isG84 which represents a two digit integer.
  You will becreating a new tap code,G84.1, which represents a three
  digit, real number.

  You will now create a new format to represent the new tapping
  code ofG84.1.

  ChooseNewunder Format.

  TheFormat: user_fmtproperty page is displayed.

  EnterDigit_2_1in theFormat Nametext box.

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  Select theNumericradio button under Data Type.

  TheFormat: user_fmtproperty page displayed is expanded.

  Change the output to two places to the left of the decimal and
  one placeto the right.

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  Check the Output Decimal Point box.

  Choose OK.

  You have just completed setting the format for the G84.1code.
  You must nowset the parameters to allow customization of the
  tapping code.

  Choose theProgram and Tool Pathproperty page.

  If necessary, choose the Program Propertypage.

  HighlightCanned Cyclesand then click onCommon Parameters.

  TheEvent: Cycle Parameters property page is displayed.

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  Under theG Codeand Customizationsection, scroll down
  toCustomizeTapand check the box.

  Choose OK.

  You must now discard the previous tapping word block and create
  a tappingword block that allows for the G84.1word.

  Choose theN/C Data Definitionsproperty page.

  Choose theBlockproperty page.

  Highlight cycle_tap.

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  Drag theG84block to the trash bin.

  ChooseG_1 from the Add Wordpull down menu, then
  chooseG-UserDefined Expression.

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  Choose theAdd Wordbutton and drag the block to the beginning of
  theline.

  TheExpression Entrydialog box is displayed.

  Key in84.1into theExpression Entrybox.

  Choose OK.

  Save the post and run it against the test part, mill_test.

  If necessary, enter theManufacturing applicationin NX.

  Using the Operation Navigation Tool, expand theT12345-Aparent
  andselect the TAP_.5_13UNCoperation.

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  Select the post processing icon.

  Highlight your post processor which you have modified and
  selectOK.

  Accept the default forOutput Fileand then selectOK.

  Verify the output.

  Your output should be similar to the following:

  Return to the Post Builder.

  This completes this activity.

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  Creating New M or G code groups

  M and G codes are normally classified into logical groups. One
  such group istheMotiongroup. This group consists of the words G00
  for rapid, G01 for

  linear feed, G02 for circular interpolation CW, G03 for circular
  interpolationCCW and G80 thru G89 codes that represent drill
  cycles. Only one word fromthis group can be active at any given
  time, i.e. it is illogical for a machine tobe moving in the G00
  mode (rapid) while making a G01 move (linear
  feed)simultaneously.

  As a general rule,Post Buildersupports all common M and G code
  groups.In some instances however, certain machine tool/controller
  combinationssupport functions that are unique and require custom M
  or G codes. PostBuilderallows you to create these new M or G code
  groups as will be shown inthe following activity.

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  Activity Creating a New M-Code Group

  In this activity, you will create a new M-code group to support
  a machine toolfeature of coolant through the tool. In a later
  activity, you will modify the

  coolant UDE (User Defi

  ned Event) to support this function within NX.Step 1: Continue
  using***_my_postin Post Builder.

  If necessary open***_my_postusing thePost Builder.

  Step 2: Create the new M-code word group.

  Choose theNC Data Definitionsproperty page.

  Choose theWordproperty page.

  You will now create the new M-code word group by copying an

  existing group. It is recommended, as a best practice, to copy
  agroup that is as similar as possible to the desired group. This
  willutilize the existing settings of the formats and word
  characteristics.

  Step 3: Scroll down and then highlight theM_coolantword.

  Step 4: Choose theCreatebutton.

  TheM_coolant _1word is created.

  Step 5: Change the name of the new word group.

  Highlight theM_coolant_1word.

  Change the name to M_coolant_thru.

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  Save the post processor.

  This completes this activity.

  In support of the creation of the new wordM_coolant_thru, you
  will need tobuild a UDE to turn on the coolant through the tool,
  create a custom commandto detect and interpret the coolant-through
  the tool UDE and then output theappropriate M-code. These steps
  will be performed in future activities.

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  Output Settings Property Page

  The Output Settingsproperty page allows the generation and
  control ofoutput used in a listingfile. Items for output are X, Y
  and Z co-ordinates, 4th

  and 5th-axis angle, and feeds and speeds. You can also
  specifyfi

  le extensionsfor listing and NC output. Tabs are present
  forListing File control and forOther Options.

  Under Other Options, the Output Control Elements section,
  GenerateGroup Outputallows the definition of how the post processor
  will processGroups. Operations may be organized into groups in
  order to create morethan one NC program in a part file. Each group
  is considered to be a separate

  program. The default setting for this option is OFF. This option
  shouldonly be used when you want to post process more than one NC
  program ata time. Selecting more than one Group with this option
  turned ON willresult in one file containing all the Groups which
  have been selected. Thefile naming convention will be the name of
  your file with the name of thegroup appended. For example, if the
  base file name is «1234» and the groupis called «finish_mill», then
  the name of the file will be 1234_finish_mill.ptp.When Group output
  is set to ON, you should not mix operations in groupswith
  operations outside of groups. This will result in unpredictable
  output.When the group output setting is OFF, you will only get a
  single NC output

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  file called 1234.ptp. All operations in any selected group will
  be output in asingle file. Any group organization will be
  ignored.

  The name of the group or program in NX can be used as the
  programname in theStart of Program Event. This will be passed as
  the variablenamemom_group_name. By changing the name of
  thePROGRAMin theOperation Navigator, and by creating a custom
  command, you can create theequivalence of a PARTNO statement.

  Output Warning Messageswill result in warnings generated to a
  logfile.

  Display Verbose Error Messages will result in detailed error
  messages beingdisplayed as your job is being post processed.

  Activate Review Toolinitiates theReview Toolwhich aides in the
  debuggingof a post processor.

  TheReview Toolconsists of three list boxes, each having
  horizontal andvertical scroll bars to assist in viewing the
  information.

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  Building a Post Processor with Post Builder

  The left most list box displays all the MOM events in sequential
  order thathave been created during the post processing cycle. Each
  MOM event isdisplayed with the appropriate MOM event number.
  Selection of an event

  in this box will highlight the corresponding generated output
  code in theright list box.

  The middle list box displays the MOM generated variables and
  addressesassociated with a particular Event in alphabetical
  order.

  The right list box displays the output generated by the post
  processor.

  Note: Extensions defined inside ofPost Builderwill be superseded
  by theoutput file name displayed in the post processor dialog.
  Default extensions forlisting output are.lpt, for machine output,
  the default is .ptp.

  UnderUser Tcl Source, theSource Users Tcl file option allows the
  useof anexisting Tcl source program.

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  Building a Post Processor with Post Builder

  TheGenerate Virtual NC Controller (VNC) option, when checked,
  createsa Virtual NC Controller which is used by the Integrated
  Simulation and

  Verification (IS&V) module of NX.

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  Building a Post Processor with Post Builder

  Activity Output Settings

  In this activity youwill modify the data which is selected for
  output to alistingfile.

  Step 1: Enter the Output Settings section ofPost Builder.

  Select theOutput SettingsListing File.

  Check theGenerateListing Filebox.

  Uncheck the4th and 5th axis angle box.

  Step 2: Save the post and run it against the test part,
  mill_test.

  If necessary, enter the Manufacturing application in NX.

  Using the Operation Navigation Tool, expand the T12345-Aparent
  and select the FACE_MILLINGoperation.

  Select the post processing icon.

  Highlight your post processor which you have modified andselect
  OK.

  Accept the default forOutput Fileand then select OK.

  Verify the listingfile. The listingfile will be located in
  yourhome directory and will have a .lptextension. Open the filewith
  the Notepad editor and examine the contents.

  The contents of the listingfile should be similar to the
  following:

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  Building a Post Processor with Post Builder

  Return to the Post Builder.

  This completes this activity.

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  Post Files Preview Property Page

  ThePost Files Preview property page allows you to examine the
  Definitionfile (.def) and the Event Handlers (.tcl) before output
  generation. Newly

  defi

  ned code appears in the top window while the original code is
  displayedin the bottom window.

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  Building a Post Processor with Post Builder

  Summary

  ThePost Builderis an efficient and robust tool that can be used
  to build themajority of the post processors that are required in
  todays manufacturing

  environment. The following functions were used in conjunction of
  building apost processor with thePost Builder:

  Created a directory structure for testing post processors
  developed withthe Post Builder.

  Creation, modification and customization of Event handlers with
  theProgram and Tool path function.

  Defined output formats.

  Modified listing and output options.

  Verified the output of your post processor using the PostReview
  Tool.

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  Lesson

  3 Post Builder for Wire EDMApplications

  Purpose

  This lesson describes the procedures for building post
  processors for WireEDM applications through the use of the Post
  Builder.

  Objective

  Upon completion of this lesson, you will be able to:

  Use thePost Builderto build 2 or 4-axis Wire EDM post
  processors.

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  3

  Post Builder for Wire EDM Applications

  Using Post Builder to create 2-axis and 4-axis Wire EDM
  PostProcessors

  There are two different selections, available in the Post
  Builderfor creating

  Wire EDM post processors. They are: 2-axis

  4-axis

  Once you make the selection of a 2-axis or 4-axis Wire EDM, you
  will thenneed to select the type of controller. Your choices
  available are:

  Generic

  Library

  Users

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  Post Builder for Wire EDM Applications

  Genericcontroller defaults to a generic template that uses
  generic featurescommon to most machine tool controllers.

  Librarycontroller allows the selection of templates for Agie,
  Charmilles andMitsubishi (the main Wire EDM manufactures). These
  custom templatescontain the basic codes required for the most
  common Wire EDM functionssuch as threading, start and end of cut
  and power settings required by the

  various controllers.

  Userscontroller allows the selection, as a template, of a
  previous post thatyou have created. Selection is accomplished by
  choosing the Browsebuttonand then selecting the previously created
  post processor from a specificdirectory.

  When youchoose the option for the controller that you will be
  using as atemplate, choosingOK will display the Machine Tool
  property page. Thisallows you to choose various parameters from the
  component window thatare necessary for your post processor.

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  Post Builder for Wire EDM Applications

  Selection of theDisplay Machine Tool button, displays a generic
  view of themachine tool that corresponds to the type of machine
  selected.

  The majority of the options/parameters available are
  self-explanatory.

  The following activity will familiarize you with the functions
  and parametersthat are available when creating a Wire EDM post
  processor.

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  Post Builder for Wire EDM Applications

  Activity Creating a 2axis Wire EDM Post

  Step 1: If necessary, start the Post Builder.

  On the Windows desktop menu bar, choose Start All

  Programs NX Post Tools Post Builder.

  Step 2: Create a new 2-axis Wire EDM post.

  Select theNew option in theFilepull down menu and in theName
  field, name the post processor ***_wire_edm_post,where***stands for
  your initials.

  Note: Use lower case characters only and no spaces.

  UnderMachine Tool, selectWire EDMand accept the defaultof
  2-axis.

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  Post Builder for Wire EDM Applications

  UnderController, selectLibrary.

  Select the down arrow and then select Charmillesfrom thepull
  down menu.

  Select OK.

  You will accept all defaults to create the post, however, before
  yousave your post, explore the various options available.

  Save the post to your home post processing directory
  byselectingFile,Save Asand then specifying your
  postprocessorlocation.

  Step 3: You will open a part file and browse for the post
  processor.

  Return to a NX session and retrieve the part
  filewedm_2_4_axisfrom yourstudent_home\partsdirectory.

  Step 4: Run the post against the test part, wedm_2_4_axis.

  From theProgram Viewof the Operation Navigator, select
  thePROGRAMparent.

  Select the Post Process icon from the Manufacturing

  Operations tool bar.

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  Post Builder for Wire EDM Applications

  ChooseBrowseand select the***_wire_edm_post.

  Choose OK.

  ChooseOK on the Postprocess dialog.

  This completes this activity and the lesson.

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  3

  Post Builder for Wire EDM Applications

  Summary

  The flexibility and robustness of the Post Builder allows you to
  easilygenerate post processors for 2 and 4 axis Wire EDM machines.
  In this lesson

  you were introduced to: Creating a 2-axis Wire EDM post
  processor using the Post Builder tool.

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  Lesson

  4 Post Builder for 5-Axis MillApplications

  Purpose

  This lesson describes the procedures for building post
  processors for 5-axismills through the use of the Post Builder.

  Objective

  Upon completion of this lesson, you will be able to:

  Use thePost Builderto build 5-axis mill post processors.

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  4

  Post Builder for 5-Axis Mill Applications

  Using Post Builder to create 5-axis Mill Post Processors

  There are currently, five different selections, available in the
  Post Builder forcreating 4 and 5-axis post processors. They
  are:

  4-Axis with rotary table

  4-Axis with rotary head

  5-Axis with dual rotary heads

  5-Axis with dual rotary tables

  5-Axis with rotary head and table

  Once you makethe selection of the type of multi-axis machine,
  the MachineToolproperty page is displayed, allowing you to choose
  General,Fourth AxisandFifth Axisparameters from the component
  window of the property page.

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  Post Builder for 5-Axis Mill Applications

  Selectionof theDisplay Machine Tool button, displays a generic
  view of themachine tool that corresponds to the type of machine
  selected.

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  Post Builder for 5-Axis Mill Applications

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  Post Builder for 5-Axis Mill Applications

  Selecting the 4th or 5th axis from the component window of the
  MachineToolproperty page results in a rotary axis configuration
  property page beingdisplayed. This property page allows you to
  configure the various parametersfor each axis of rotary motion.

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  Post Builder for 5-Axis Mill Applications

  Parameters in this dialog are:

  Rotary Axis- selection of the configure button results in the
  Rotary AxisConfiguration dialog displayed. This dialog allows the
  selection of plane ofrotation, axis word address designation,
  default linearization tolerance andthe method of handling Axis
  Limit violations.

  Machine Zero to Rotary Axis Center- allows the definition of the
  center of

  the 4th and or 5th axis in relation to the machine zero.

  Rotary Motion Resolution- allows the specification of accuracy
  of rotation indegrees.

  Maximum Feed Rate — allows the specification of the maximum
  degrees ofrotation per minute.

  Pivot Distance- specifies the distance from the head or table
  rotation pivotpoint to the spindle gage point. This option is not
  valid for dual rotary typemachine tools.

  Angular Offset- this offset adjusts the rotary angle motion and
  is generally

  used when the tool axis of 0,0,1 does not result in angular
  positions of 0 forthe fourth and or fifth axis.

  Axis Rotation- specifies the rotation of the 4th and or 5th axis
  according tothe right-hand rule.

  Axis Direction- determines clockwise or counterclockwise
  direction of rotarymotion. Two options are available to determine
  axis direction. The firstoption, Magnitude Determines Direction,
  determines that the sign is usedto determine the angular position.
  B-90 and B90 are different positions

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  Post Builder for 5-Axis Mill Applications

  and are 180 degrees apart. Rotation to a larger angle is always
  clockwise,to a smaller angle, counterclockwise. The second
  option,Sign DeterminesDirection, signifies that the sign only is
  used for direction. B-90 and B90are the same position on the rotary
  table. B-90 designates that the table

  will rotate counterclockwise to B90. The reverse is true for B90
  to B-90, thetable will rotate clockwise.

  Axis Limits- allows for control of the minimum and maximum
  angles thatcan be programmed for the fourth and or fifth axis. If
  the range of travel islimited to less than 360 degrees, the travel
  is measured clockwise. If thereis no range of travel limits, there
  are two possible choices for minimum andmaximum angles. If sign
  determines direction, 0 degrees is the minimum and360 is the
  maximum. If magnitude determines direction, the minimum is-359.999
  and the maximum is 359.999.

  Rotary Axis Can be Incremental- this check box allows rotary
  output to be

  incremental with respect to the previous rotation.

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  4

  Post Builder for 5-Axis Mill Applications

  Activity Creating a 5Axis Mill Post with Post Builder

  Step 1: If necessary, start the Post Builder.

  On the Windows desktop menu bar, choose Start

  AllPrograms NX Post Tools Post Builder.

  Step 2: Create a new 5-axis mill post with dual rotary
  tables.

  Select theNew option in theFilepull down menu and in theName
  field, name the post processor ***_5_axis, where***stands for your
  initials.

  Note: Use lower case characters only and no spaces.

  Set thePost Output Unit to Inch.

  Set theMachine Toolto Mill.

  UnderMachine Tool, select the blue button and then select5-axis
  with dual rotary tables.

  Set theControllerto Generic.

  Choose OK.

  The Property Pages dialog is displayed.

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  Post Builder for 5-Axis Mill Applications

  Select theMachine Toolproperty page.

  You will accept all defaults to create the post, however, before
  yousave your post, explore the various options available under 4th
  and5th axis located in the Component Window.

  Save the post by selectingFileSave.

  Step 3: Run the post against the test