Stand-Alone Punch machine user manual - Finn-Power International ...

6 OPTIMIZATION
Optimization is the process of combining all the tooling jobs together. It works in
conjunction with nesting to bring the amount of tool changes to a minimum, thus
maximizing the ability of the machine utilization. NC Express optimization will
prepare a proper functioning nest for Finn-Power equipment to be processed into NC
code.
In a typical environment, a nested plate will utilize the Automatic Optimizer. For
more complex nests, or for greater control, the use of interactive optimization can be
used. The Optimizer provides automatic clamp placement prior to nesting, thus
reducing repositions to a minimum. When combined with PCS clamping, it can
virtually eliminate the need to reposition at all.
Once parts have been nested onto a plate they are ready to be processed by the
Optimizer. This step determines the most efficient path for the machine to process
and produce all parts on the plate. The following section will cover items including
Automatic Optimization, Interactive Optimization, and Interactive Zone creations.
Automatic Optimization
Presheared Parts
Interactive Optimization
Interactive Zones
6.1 Automatic Optimization
The second stage of nesting parts is the process of optimization. Even though an
efficient tool path is important there are also many other machine related items that
are checked during the process. Machine related items, including: clamp protection
zones, machine working area, form avoidance, and proper tool usage are very
important when creating error-free code for the machine. These items are all
automatically checked when running the Automatic Optimizer.
Within the background of NC Express, machine parameters are setup to create a
complete model of the working machine. When the Automatic Optimizer is ran the
items mentioned above (i.e. working area, clamp protection, etc…) are automatically
checked accessing the set machine parameters. Punches nested within the clamp
protection area are seen by the optimizer and an automatic reposition of the clamps is
done. Tools outside the working area of the machine (X-axis) also are given a
reposition of the clamps to allow proper punching. Tool restrictions, multi-tool not
capable of punching either very low or very high in the Y-axis (if placed manually*),
will receive an error if found when optimizing. The general goal of the Automatic
Optimizer is to create an automated environment when processing plates, as well as
generate error free code at the machine. *Automatic Nesting will nest Multi-tools within their
working area of the machine.
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