Edited by Foxit PDF Editor

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For Evaluation Only.

6
Programming:
Programming Contours
 Edited by Foxit PDF Editor
Copyright (c) by Foxit Software Company, 2004 - 2007
6.1 Tool movements
6.1 Tool movements For Evaluation Only.

Path functions
A workpiece contour is usually composed of several contour elements L
such as straight lines and circular arcs. With the path functions, you L CC
can program the tool movements for straight lines and circular arcs.
L
FK Free Contour Programming C
If a production drawing is not dimensioned for NC and the dimensions
given are not sufficient for creating a part program, you can program
the workpiece contour with the FK free contour programming and
have the TNC calculate the missing data.
With FK programming, you also program tool movements for straight
lines and circular arcs.

Miscellaneous functions M
With the TNC’s miscellaneous functions you can affect
n Program run, e.g., a program interruption
Y
n Machine functions, such as switching spindle rotation and coolant
supply on and off
80
n Contouring behavior of the tool
CC
60
Subprograms and Program Section Repeats

0
R4
40
If a machining sequence occurs several times in a program, you can
save time and reduce the chance of programming errors by entering
the sequence once and then defining it as a subprogram or program
section repeat. If you wish to execute a specific program section only
under certain conditions, you also define this machining sequence as X
10 115
a subprogram. In addition, you can have a part program call a separate
program for execution.
Programming with subprograms and program section repeats is
described in Chapter 9.

Programming with Q parameters

Instead of programming numerical values in a part program, you enter
markers called Q parameters. You assign the values to the Q
parameters separately with the Q parameter functions. You can use
the Q parameters for programming mathematical functions that
control program execution or describe a contour.
In addition, parametric programming enables you to measure with the
3-D touch probe during program run.
Programming with Q parameters is described in Chapter 10.

128 6 Programming: Programming Contours

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6.2 Fundamentals of Path

6.2 Fundamentals of Path Functions

For Evaluation Only.

Functions
Programming tool movements for workpiece
machining Z
You create a part program by programming the path functions for the
individual contour elements in sequence. You usually do this by
entering the coordinates if the end points of the contour elements
Y
given in the production drawing. The TNC calculates the actual path of
X
the tool from these coordinates, and from the tool data and radius
compensation.
The TNC moves all axes programmed in a single block simultaneously.
100
Movement parallel to the machine axes
The program block contains only one coordinate. The TNC thus moves
the tool parallel to the programmed axis.
Depending on the individual machine tool, the part program is
executed by movement of either the tool or the machine table on
which the workpiece is clamped. Nevertheless, you always program
path contours as if the tool moves and the workpiece remains
stationary. Z
Example:

L X+100 Y
X
L Path function for “straight line” 50
X+100 Coordinate of the end point
The tool retains the Y and Z coordinates and moves to the position
X=100 (see figure at upper right). 70
Movement in the main planes
The program block contains two coordinates. The TNC thus moves the
tool in the programmed plane.
Example:

L X+70 Y+50
Z
The tool retains the Z coordinate and moves in the XY plane to the
position X=70, Y=50 (see figure at center right). Y
Three-dimensional movement X
The program block contains three coordinates. The TNC thus moves
the tool in space to the programmed position.
Example:

L X+80 Y+0 Z-10 80

-10

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Entering more than three coordinates For Evaluation Only.
The TNC can control up to 5 axes simultaneously. Machining with 5
axes, for example, moves 3 linear and 2 rotary axes simultaneously.
Such programs are too complex to program at the machine, however,
and are usually created with a CAD system.
Example:

L X+20 Y+10 Z+2 A+15 C+6 R0 F100 M3

The TNC graphics cannot simulate movements in more

than three axes.

Circles and circular arcs

The TNC moves two axes simultaneously in a circular path relative to
the workpiece. You can define a circular movement by entering the
circle center CC.
Y Y
When you program a circle, the TNC assigns it to one of the main
planes. This plane is defined automatically when you set the spindle
axis during a TOOL CALL:
Tool axis Main plane
CC
YCC
Z XY, also
UV, XV, UY

Y ZX, also
WU, ZU, WX X X
XCC
X YZ, also
VW, YW, VZ

You can program circles that do not lie parallel to a main

plane by using the function for tilting the working plane
(see “WORKING PLANE (Cycle 19),” page 330) or Q
parameters (see “Principle and Overview,” page 356). Z
DR+
Direction of rotation DR for circular movements
Y DR– CC
When a circular path has no tangential transition to another CC
contour element, enter the direction of rotation DR: X
Clockwise direction of rotation: DR–
Counterclockwise direction of rotation: DR+

130 6 Programming: Programming Contours

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6.2 Fundamentals of Path Functions

Radius compensation For Evaluation Only.
The radius compensation must be in the block in which you move to
the first contour element. You cannot begin radius compensation in a
circle block. It must be activated beforehand an a straight-line block
(see “Path Contours — Cartesian Coordinates,” page 139) or
approach block (APPR block, see “Contour Approach and Departure,”
page 133).

Pre-positioning
Before running a part program, always pre-position the tool to prevent
the possibility of damaging it or the workpiece.

Creating the program blocks with the path function keys

The gray path function keys initiate the plain language dialog. The TNC
asks you successively for all the necessary information and inserts the
program block into the part program.
Example — programming a straight line:

Initiate the programming dialog, e.g. for a straight

line.

Coordinates ?

Enter the coordinates of the straight-line end point.

10

Radius comp. RL/RR/no comp. ?

Select the radius compensation (here, press the RL

soft key - the tool moves to the left of the
programmed contour).

Feed rate F=? / F MAX = ENT

Enter the feed rate (here, 100 mm/min), and confirm

100 your entry with ENT. For programming in inches,
enter 100 for a feed rate of 10 ipm.

Move at rapid traverse: press the FMAX soft key, or

Move at automatically calculated speed (cutting data

table): press the FAUTO soft key.

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For Evaluation Only.
Miscellaneous function M ?

3 Enter a miscellaneous function (here, M3), and

terminate the dialog with ENT.

The part program now contains the following line:

L X+10 Y+5 RL F100 M3

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6.3 Contour Approach and

6.3 Contour Approach and Departure

For Evaluation Only.

Departure
Overview: Types of paths for contour approach
and departure
The functions for contour approach APPR and departure DEP are
activated with the APPR/DEP key. You can then select the desired
path function with the corresponding soft key:

Function Soft key Approach Departure

Straight line with tangential connection

Straight line perpendicular to a contour

point

Circular arc with tangential connection

Circular arc with tangential connection

to the contour. Approach and departure
to an auxiliary point outside of the
contour on a tangentially connecting
line.

Approaching and departing a helix

The tool approaches and departs a helix on its extension by moving in
a circular arc that connects tangentially to the contour. You program
helix approach and departure with the APPR CT and DEP CT functions.

Important positions for approach and departure

n Starting point PS
You program this position in the block before the APPR block. Ps lies
outside the contour and is approached without radius compensation
(R0).
n Auxiliary point PH RL
Some of the paths for approach and departure go through an
auxiliary point PH that the TNC calculates from your input in the
APPR or DEP block. RL
n First contour point PA and last contour point PE
You program the first contour point PA in the APPR block. The last PN R0
contour point PE can be programmed with any path function. If the
APPR block also contains a Z axis coordinate, the TNC will first move PA RL PE RL
the tool to PH in the working plane, and then move it to the entered
depth in the tool axis. PH RL

PS R0

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n End point PN
6.3 Contour Approach and Departure For Evaluation Only.
The position PN lies outside of the contour and results from your
input in the DEP block. If the DEP block also contains a Z axis
coordinate, the TNC will first move the tool to PH in the working
plane, and then move it to the entered depth in the tool axis.

Abbreviation Meaning
APPR Approach

DEP Departure

L Line

C Circle

T Tangential (smooth connection)

N Normal (perpendicular)

You can enter the position data in absolute or incremental coordinates

and in Cartesian or polar coordinates.
The TNC does not check whether the programmed contour will be
damaged when moving from the actual position to the auxiliary point
PH. Use the test graphics to simulate approach and departure before
executing the part program.
When approaching the contour, allow sufficient distance between the
starting point PS and the first contour point PA to assure that the TNC
will reach the programmed feed rate for machining.
The TNC moves the tool from the actual position to the auxiliary point
PH at the feed rate that was last programmed.

Radius compensation
The tool radius compensation is programmed together with the first
contour point PA in the APPR block. The DEP blocks automatically
remove the tool radius compensation.
Contour approach without radius compensation: If you program the
APPR block with R0, the TNC will calculate the tool path for a tool
radius of 0 mm and a radius compensation RR! The radius
compensation is necessary to set the direction of contour approach
and departure in the APPR/DEP LN and APPR/DEP CT functions.

134 6 Programming: Programming Contours

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6.3 Contour Approach and Departure

Approaching on a straight line with tangential
For Evaluation Only.
connection: APPR LT Y
35
The tool moves on a straight line from the starting point PS to an
auxiliary point PH. It then moves to the first contour point P A on a

R
straight line that connects tangentially to the contour. The auxiliary

R
15
PA
point PH is separated from the first contour point PA by the distance 20 RR
LEN.
U Use any path function to approach the starting point PS. 10
U Initiate the dialog with the APPR/DEP key and APPR LT soft key: PH PS
U Coordinates of the first contour point PA RR R0

U LEN: Distance from the auxiliary point PH to the first

contour point PA X
20 35 40
U Radius compensation RR/RL for machining

Example NC blocks
7 L X+40 Y+10 RO FMAX M3 Approach PS without radius compensation
8 APPR LT X+20 Y+20 Z-10 LEN15 RR F100 PA with radius compensation RR, distance PH to PA:
LEN=15
9 L Y+35 Y+35 End point of the first contour element
10 L ... Next contour element

Approaching on a straight line perpendicular to

the first contour point: APPR LN Y
35
The tool moves on a straight line from the starting point PS to an
auxiliary point PH. It then to the first contour point PA on a straight line

R
perpendicular to the first contour element. The auxiliary point PH is

R
separated by the distance LEN plus the tool radius from the first PA
contour point PA. 20 RR
15
U Use any path function to approach the starting point PS.
U Initiate the dialog with the APPR/DEP key and APPR LCT soft key: 10
PH PS
U Coordinates of the first contour point PA
RR R0
U Length: Distance to the auxiliary point PH. Always
enter LEN
as a positive value! X
10 20 40
U Radius compensation RR/RL for machining

Example NC blocks
7 L X+40 Y+10 RO FMAX M3 Approach PS without radius compensation
8 APPR LN X+10 Y+20 Z-10 LEN15 RR F100 PA with radius comp. RR
9 L X+20 Y+35 End point of the first contour element
10 L ... Next contour element

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Approaching on a circular path with tangential
For Evaluation Only.
connection: APPR CT Y
35
The tool moves on a straight line from the starting point PS to an
auxiliary point PH. It then moves to the first contour point PA following

R
R
a circular arc that is tangential to the first contour element. PA
20 RR
The arc from PH to PA is determined through the radius R and the CCA=
center angle CCA. The direction of rotation of the circular arc is 180°
automatically derived from the tool path for the first contour element. 0
10 R1
U Use any path function to approach the starting point PS. PS
PH R0
U Initiate the dialog with the APPR/DEP key and APPR CT soft key:
RR
U Coordinates of the first contour point PA
X
U Radius R of the circular arc 10 20 40
n If the tool should approach the workpiece in the
direction defined by the radius compensation: Enter
R as a positive value.
n If the tool should approach the workpiece opposite
to the radius compensation:
Enter R as a negative value.
U Center angle CCA of the arc

n CCA can be entered only as a positive value.

n Maximum input value 360°
U Radius compensation RR/RL for machining

Example NC blocks
7 L X+40 Y+10 RO FMAX M3 Approach PS without radius compensation
8 APPR CT X+10 Y+20 Z-10 CCA180 R+10 RR F100 PA with radius comp. RR, radius R=10
9 L X+20 Y+35 End point of the first contour element
10 L ... Next contour element

Approaching on a circular arc with tangential

connection from a straight line to the contour: Y
35
APPR LCT R

The tool moves on a straight line from the starting point PS to an

R

auxiliary point PH. It then moves to the first contour point PA on a PA

20 RR
circular arc.
The arc is connected tangentially both to the line PS – PH as well as to
0
the first contour element. Once these lines are known, the radius then 10 R1
suffices to completely define the tool path. PS
R0
U Use any path function to approach the starting point PS. PH
U Initiate the dialog with the APPR/DEP key and APPR LCT soft key: RR
X
U Coordinates of the first contour point PA 10 20 40
U Radius R of the circular arc. Enter R as a positive value.

U Radius compensation RR/RL for machining

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6.3 Contour Approach and Departure

Example NC blocks For Evaluation Only.
7 L X+40 Y+10 RO FMAX M3 Approach PS without radius compensation
8 APPR LCT X+10 Y+20 Z-10 R10 RR F100 PA with radius comp. RR, radius R=10
9 L X+20 Y+35 End point of the first contour element
10 L ... Next contour element

Departing on a straight line with tangential Y

connection: DEP LT 35
Y
RR
The tool moves on a straight line from the last contour point PE to the

R
R
end point PN. The line lies in the extension of the last contour element.
PA
PN is separated from PE by the distance LEN. 20
20 RR PE
U Program the last contour element with the end point PE and radius
compensation. RR

12.5
0
U Initiate the dialog with the APPR/DEP key and DEP LT soft key: 10 R1
PS
U LEN: Enter the distance from the last contour element PN R0
PE to the end point PN. PH R0
RR
X
X
10 20 40
Example NC blocks
23 L Y+20 RR F100 Last contour element: PE with radius compensation
24 DEP LT LEN12.5 F100 Depart contour by LEN=12.5 mm
25 L Z+100 FMAX M2 Retract in Z, return to block 1, end program

Departing on a straight line perpendicular to the

Y
last contour point: DEP LN
RR
The tool moves on a straight line from the last contour point PE to the PN
end point PN. The line departs on a perpendicular path from the last
contour point PE. PN is separated from PE by the distance LEN. plus the R0
20 PE
tool radius.
RR
U Program the last contour element with the end point PE and radius 20
compensation.
U Initiate the dialog with the APPR/DEP key and DEP LN soft key:
U LEN: Enter the distance from the last contour element
PN.
Always enterLEN as a positive value! X

Example NC blocks
23 L Y+20 RR F100 Last contour element: PE with radius compensation
24 DEP LN LEN+20 F100 Depart perpendicular to contour by LEN=20 mm
25 L Z+100 FMAX M2 Retract in Z, return to block 1, end program

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Departure on a circular path with tangentialFor Evaluation Only.
connection: DEP CT Y
The tool moves on a circular arc from the last contour point PE to the RR
end point PN. The arc is tangentially connected to the last contour PN
element.
R0
U Program the last contour element with the end point PE and radius 20
PE
compensation.

R8
180° RR
U Initiate the dialog with the APPR/DEP key and DEP CT soft key:
U Center angle CCA of the arc

U Radius R of the circular arc

n If the tool should depart the workpiece in the
direction of the radius compensation (i.e. to the X
right with RR or to the left with RL): Enter R as a
positive value.
n If the tool should depart the workpiece on the
direction opposite to the radius compensation:
Enter R as a negative value.

Example NC blocks
23 L Y+20 RR F100 Last contour element: PE with radius compensation
24 DEP CT CCA 180 R+8 F100 Center angle=180°,
arc radius=8 mm
25 L Z+100 FMAX M2 Retract in Z, return to block 1, end program

Departing on a circular arc

tangentially connecting the contour
and a straight line: DEP LCT Y
RR
The tool moves on a circular arc from the last contour point PS to an
auxiliary point PH. It then moves on a straight line to the end point PN.
The arc is tangentially connected both to the last contour element and
to the line from PH to PN. Once these lines are known, the radius R 20
PE
R8
then suffices to completely define the tool path.
RR
U Program the last contour element with the end point PE and radius 12
compensation. PH
PN
U Initiate the dialog with the APPR/DEP key and DEP LCT soft key: R0
R0
U Enter the coordinates of the end point PN.

U Radius R of the circular arc. Enter R as a positive value. X

10
Example NC blocks
23 L Y+20 RR F100 Last contour element: PE with radius compensation
24 DEP LCT X+10 Y+12 R+8 F100 Coordinates PN, arc radius=8 mm
25 L Z+100 FMAX M2 Retract in Z, return to block 1, end program

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6.4 Path Contours — Cartesian

6.4 Path Contours — Cartesian Coordinates

For Evaluation Only.

Coordinates
Overview of path functions
Function Path function key Tool movement Required input
Line L Straight line Coordinates of the end points of
the straight line

Chamfer: CHF Chamfer between two straight Chamfer side length

lines

Circle Center CC No tool movement Coordinates of the circle center or

pole

Circle C Circular arc around a circle center Coordinates of the arc end point,
CC to an arc end point direction of rotation

Circular Arc CR Circular arc with a certain radius Coordinates of the arc end point,
arc radius, direction of rotation

Circular Arc CT Circular arc with tangential Coordinates of the arc end point
connection to the preceding and
subsequent contour elements

Corner Rounding RND Circular arc with tangential Rounding-off radius R

connection to the preceding and
subsequent contour elements

FK Free Contour Straight line or circular path with see “Path Contours—FK Free
Programming any connection to the preceding Contour Programming,” page
contour element 158

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Straight line L For Evaluation Only.

The TNC moves the tool in a straight line from its current position to
the straight-line end point. The starting point is the end point of the Y
preceding block.
40
U Coordinates of the end point of the straight line

15
Further entries, if necessary:
U Radius compensation RL/RR/R0

10
U Feed rate F
U Miscellaneous function M

Example NC blocks
7 L X+10 Y+40 RL F200 M3 20 X
10
8 L IX+20 IY-15
9 L X+60 IY-10 60

Actual position capture

You can also generate a straight-line block (L block) by using the
ACTUAL-POSITION-CAPTURE key:
U In the Manual Operation mode, move the tool to the position you
wish to capture.
U Switch the screen display to Programming and Editing.
U Select the program block after which you want to insert the L block.
U Press the ACTUAL-POSITION-CAPTURE key: The
TNC generates an L block with the actual position
coordinates.

In the MOD function, you define the number of axes that

the TNC saves in an L block (see “MOD functions,” page
418).

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6.4 Path Contours — Cartesian Coordinates

Inserting a chamfer CHF between two straight
For Evaluation Only.
lines
The chamfer enables you to cut off corners at the intersection of two
straight lines.
n The blocks before and after the CHF block must be in the same Y
working plane.
n The radius compensation before and after the chamfer block must
be the same.
n An inside chamfer must be large enough to accommodate the
current tool.
U Chamfer side length: Length of the chamfer

Further entries, if necessary:

U Feed rate F (only effective in CHF block)

Example NC blocks X
7 L X+0 Y+30 RL F300 M3
8 L X+40 IY+5
9 CHF 12 F250
Y 12
10 L IX+5 Y+0

You cannot start a contour with a CHF block.

12
5
30
A chamfer is possible only in the working plane.
The corner point is cut off by the chamfer and is not part
of the contour.
A feed rate programmed in the CHF block is effective only
in that block. After the CHF block, the previous feed rate
becomes effective again. 5 X
40

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Corner rounding RND For Evaluation Only.

The RND function is used for rounding off corners.

The tool moves on an arc that is tangentially connected to both the Y
preceding and subsequent contour elements.
The rounding arc must be large enough to accommodate the tool.
40
U Rounding-off radius: Enter the radius
Further entries, if necessary: R5 25
U Feed rate F (only effective in RND block)

Example NC blocks
5
5 L X+10 Y+40 RL F300 M3
6 L X+40 Y+25 X
10 40
7 RND R5 F100
8 L X+10 Y+5

In the preceding and subsequent contour elements, both

coordinates must lie in the plane of the rounding arc. If
you machine the contour without tool-radius
compensation, you must program both coordinates in the
working plane.
The corner point is cut off by the rounding arc and is not
part of the contour.
A feed rate programmed in the RND block is effective only
in that block. After the RND block, the previous feed rate
becomes effective again.
You can also use an RND block for a tangential contour
approach if you do not want to use an APPR function.

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6.4 Path Contours — Cartesian Coordinates

Circle center CC For Evaluation Only.

You can define a circle center CC for circles that are programmed with
the C key (circular path C). This is done in the following ways:
n Entering the Cartesian coordinates of the circle center, or
Z
n Using the circle center defined in an earlier block, or Y
n Capturing the coordinates with the ACTUAL-POSITION-CAPTURE
key. CC

U Coordinates CC: Enter the circle center coordinates,

or YCC X
If you want to use the last programmed position, do
not enter any coordinates.

Example NC blocks
X CC
5 CC X+25 Y+25

or

10 L X+25 Y+25
11 CC

The program blocks 10 and 11 do not refer to the illustration.

Duration of effect
The circle center definition remains in effect until a new circle center
is programmed. You can also define a circle center for the secondary
axes U, V and W.

Entering the circle center CC incrementally.

If you enter the circle center with incremental coordinates, you have
programmed it relative to the last programmed position of the tool.

The only effect of CC is to define a position as circle

center: The tool does not move to this position.
The circle center is also the pole for polar coordinates.

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Circular path C around circle center CC For Evaluation Only.

Before programming a circular path C, you must first enter the circle
center CC. The last programmed tool position before the C block is
used as the circle starting point. Y
U Move the tool to the circle starting point.
U Coordinates of the circle center

U Coordinates of the arc end point

E S
U Direction of rotation DR CC
Further entries, if necessary:
U Feed rate F
U Miscellaneous function M
X
Example NC blocks
5 CC X+25 Y+25
6 L X+45 Y+25 RR F200 M3
7 C X+45 Y+25 DR+
Y
Full circle
Enter the same point you used as the starting point for the end point
in a C block.

The starting and end points of the arc must lie on the CC
circle. 25

Input tolerance: up to 0.016 mm (selected with MP7431).

X
25 45

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6.4 Path Contours — Cartesian Coordinates

Circular path CR with defined radius For Evaluation Only.

The tool moves on a circular path with the radius R.

U Coordinates of the arc end point Y
U Radius R
Note: The algebraic sign determines the size of the
arc!
U Direction of rotation DR R
Note: The algebraic sign determines whether the arc E1=S2
is concave or convex! S1=E2
CC
Further entries, if necessary:
U Miscellaneous function M

U Feed rate F
X
Full circle
For a full circle, program two CR blocks in succession:
The end point of the first semicircle is the starting point of the second.
The end point of the second semicircle is the starting point of the first.
Y
Central angle CCA and arc radius R
The starting and end points on the contour can be connected with four
arcs of the same radius: 1
Smaller arc: CCA<180°
Enter the radius with a positive sign R>0 DR+
40
ZW
Larger arc: CCA>180° R R
Enter the radius with a negative sign R<0
2
The direction of rotation determines whether the arc is curving
outward (convex) or curving inward (concave):
Convex: Direction of rotation DR– (with radius compensation RL)
X
Concave: Direction of rotation DR+ (with radius compensation RL) 40 70

Example NC blocks
3
10 L X+40 Y+40 RL F200 M3 Y
11 CR X+70 Y+40 R+20 DR- (arc 1)
ZW
or

11 CR X+70 Y+40 R+20 DR+ (arc 2) R R

40

or

11 CR X+70 Y+40 R-20 DR- (arc 3) 4

DR+
or
X
11 CR X+70 Y+40 R-20 DR+ (arc 4) 40 70

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For Evaluation Only.
The distance from the starting and end points of the arc
diameter cannot be greater than the diameter of the arc.
The maximum radius is 99.9999 m.
You can also enter rotary axes A, B and C.

Circular path CT with tangential connection

The tool moves on an arc that starts at a tangent with the previously
programmed contour element. Y
A transition between two contour elements is called tangential when
there is no kink or corner at the intersection between the two
contours—the transition is smooth.
The contour element to which the tangential arc connects must be
programmed immediately before the CT block. This requires at least
two positioning blocks. 30
25
U Coordinates of the arc end point 20

Further entries, if necessary:

U Feed rate F

U Miscellaneous function M
X
25 45
Example NC blocks
7 L X+0 Y+25 RL F300 M3
8 L X+25 Y+30
9 CT X+45 Y+20
10 L Y+0

A tangential arc is a two-dimensional operation: the

coordinates in the CT block and in the contour element
preceding it must be in the same plane of the arc.

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6.4 Path Contours — Cartesian Coordinates

For Evaluation Only.
Example: Linear movements and chamfers with Cartesian coordinates

Y 10

31
95
4

10
20
1
5
21
20 X
5 95

0 BEGIN PGM LINEAR MM

1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X+0 Y+0 Z-20 Define blank form for graphic workpiece simulation
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+100 Y+100 Z+0
3 TOOL DEF 1 L+0 R+10 Define tool in the program
4 TOOL CALL 1 Z S4000 Call tool in the spindle axis and with the spindle speed S
5 L Z+250 R0 F MAX Retract tool in the spindle axis at rapid traverse FMAX
6 L X-10 Y-10 R0 F MAX Pre-position the tool
7 L Z-5 R0 F1000 M3 Move to working depth at feed rate F = 1000 mm/min
8 APPR LT X+5 Y+5 LEN10 RL F300 Approach the contour at point 1 on a straight line with
tangential connection
9 L Y+95 Move to point 2
10 L X+95 Point 3: first straight line for corner 3
11 CHF 10 Program chamfer with length 10 mm
12 L Y+5 Point 4: 2nd straight line for corner 3, 1st straight line for corner 4
13 CHF 20 Program chamfer with length 20 mm
14 L X+5 Move to last contour point 1, second straight line for corner 4
15 DEP LT LEN10 F1000 Depart the contour on a straight line with tangential connection
16 L Z+250 R0 F MAX M2 Retract in the tool axis, end program
17 END PGM LINEAR MM

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For Evaluation Only.
Example: Circular movements with Cartesian coordinates

95

R3
85
R10

0
40

X
5 30 40 70 95

0 BEGIN PGM CIRCULAR MM

1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X+0 Y+0 Z-20 Define blank form for graphic workpiece simulation
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+100 Y+100 Z+0
3 TOOL DEF 1 L+0 R+10 Define tool in the program
4 TOOL CALL 1 Z S4000 Call tool in the spindle axis and with the spindle speed S
5 L Z+250 R0 F MAX Retract tool in the spindle axis at rapid traverse FMAX
6 L X-10 Y-10 R0 F MAX Pre-position the tool
7 L Z-5 R0 F1000 M3 Move to working depth at feed rate F = 1000 mm/min
8 APPR LCT X+5 Y+5 R5 RL F300 Approach the contour at point 1 on a circular arc with
tangential connection
9 L X+5 Y+85 Point 2: first straight line for corner 2
10 RND R10 F150 Insert radius with R = 10 mm, feed rate: 150 mm/min
11 L X+30 Y+85 Move to point 3: Starting point of the arc with CR
12 CR X+70 Y+95 R+30 DR- Move to point 4: End point of the arc with CR, radius 30 mm
13 L X+95 Move to point 5
14 L X+95 Y+40 Move to point 6
15 CT X+40 Y+5 Move to point 7: End point of the arc, radius with tangential
connection to point 6, TNC automatically calculates the radius

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6.4 Path Contours — Cartesian Coordinates

16 L X+5 For
Move to lastEvaluation Only.
contour point 1
17 DEP LCT X-20 Y-20 R5 F1000 Depart the contour on a circular arc with tangential connection
18 L Z+250 R0 F MAX M2 Retract in the tool axis, end program
19 END PGM CIRCULAR MM

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For Evaluation Only.
Example: Full circle with Cartesian coordinates

CC
50

X
50

0 BEGIN PGM C-CC MM

1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X+0 Y+0 Z-20 Define the workpiece blank
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+100 Y+100 Z+0
3 TOOL DEF 1 L+0 R+12.5 Define the tool
4 TOOL CALL 1 Z S3150 Tool call
5 CC X+50 Y+50 Define the circle center
6 L Z+250 R0 F MAX Retract the tool
7 L X-40 Y+50 R0 F MAX Pre-position the tool
8 L Z-5 R0 F1000 M3 Move to working depth
9 APPR LCT X+0 Y+50 R5 RL F300 Approach the starting point of the circle on a circular arc with
connection
10 C X+0 DR- Move to the circle end point (= circle starting point)
11 DEP LCT X-40 Y+50 R5 F1000 Depart the contour on a circular arc with tangential
connection
12 L Z+250 R0 F MAX M2 Retract in the tool axis, end program
13 END PGM CCC MM

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6.5 Path Contours — Polar

6.5 Path Contours — Polar Coordinates

For Evaluation Only.

Coordinates
Overview
With polar coordinates you can define a position in terms of its angle
PA and its distance PR relative to a previously defined pole CC (see
“Fundamentals,” page 158).
Polar coordinates are useful with:
n Positions on circular arcs
n Workpiece drawing dimensions in degrees, e.g. bolt hole circles

Overview of path functions with polar coordinates

Function Path function key Tool movement Required input
Line LP + Straight line Polar radius, polar angle of the
straight-line end point

Circular arc CP + Circular path around circle center/ Polar angle of the arc end point,
pole CC to arc end point direction of rotation

Circular arc CTP + Circular arc with tangential Polar radius, polar angle of the arc
connection to the preceding end point
contour element

Helical interpolation + Combination of a circular and a Polar radius, polar angle of the arc
linear movement end point, coordinate of the end
point in the tool axis

Polar coordinate origin: Pole CC

You can define the pole CC anywhere in the part program before
blocks containing polar coordinates. Enter the pole in Cartesian Y
coordinates as a circle center in a CC block.
U Coordinates CC: Enter Cartesian coordinates for the
pole, or
If you want to use the last programmed position, do
not enter any coordinates. Before programming polar CC
coordinates, define the pole CC. You can only define YCC
the pole CC in Cartesian coordinates. The pole CC
remains in effect until you define a new pole CC.

Example NC blocks
12 CC X+45 Y+25 X
XCC

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Straight line LP For Evaluation Only.

The tool moves in a straight line from its current position to the
straight-line end point. The starting point is the end point of the
preceding block. Y
U Polar coordinates radius PR: Enter the distance
from the pole CC to the straight-line end point.

30
U Polar coordinates angle PA: Angular position of the 60°
straight-line end point between –360° and +360°. 60°

The sign of PA depends on the angle reference axis: 25

CC
n Angle from angle reference axis to PR is counterclockwise: PA>0
n Angle from angle reference axis to PR is clockwise: PA<0

Example NC blocks X
45
12 CC X+45 Y+25
13 LP PR+30 PA+0 RR F300 M3
14 LP PA+60
15 LP IPA+60
16 LP PA+180

Circular path CP around pole CC

The polar coordinate radius PR is also the radius of the arc. It is defined
by the distance from the starting point to the pole CC. The last
programmed tool position before the CP block is the starting point of Y
the arc.
U Polar-coordinates angle PA: Angular position of the
arc end point between –5400° and +5400°
0
U Direction of rotation DR R2
25
Example NC blocks CC

18 CC X+25 Y+25
19 LP PR+20 PA+0 RR F250 M3
20 CP PA+180 DR+ X
25

For incremental coordinates, enter the same sign for DR

and PA.

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6.5 Path Contours — Polar Coordinates

Circular path CTP with tangential connectionFor Evaluation Only.
The tool moves on a circular path, starting tangentially from a
preceding contour element. Y
U Polarcoordinates radius PR: Distance from the arc
end point to the pole CC
U Polar coordinates angle PA: Angular position of the 120°
arc end point

5
0

R2
R3
Example NC blocks 30°
35
12 CC X+40 Y+35 CC

13 L X+0 Y+35 RL F250 M3

14 LP PR+25 PA+120
15 CTP PR+30 PA+30 X
16 L Y+0 40

The pole CC is not the center of the contour arc!

Helical interpolation
A helix is a combination of a circular movement in a main plane and a
liner movement perpendicular to this plane.
Z
A helix is programmed only in polar coordinates.
Y CC
Application
n Large-diameter internal and external threads
X
n Lubrication grooves

Calculating the helix

To program a helix, you must enter the total angle through which the
tool is to move on the helix in incremental dimensions, and the total
height of the helix.
For calculating a helix that is to be cut in a upward direction, you need
the following data:
Thread revolutions n Thread revolutions + thread overrun at
the start and end of the thread
Total height h Thread pitch P times thread revolutions n
Incremental total Number of revolutions times 360° + angle for
angle IPA beginning of thread + angle for thread
overrun
Starting coordinate Z Pitch P times (thread revolutions + thread
overrun at start of thread)

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Shape of the helix For Evaluation Only.
The table below illustrates in which way the shape of the helix is
determined by the work direction, direction of rotation and radius
compensation.

Work Radius
Internal thread Direction
direction comp.
Right-handed Z+ DR+ RL
Left-handed Z+ DR– RR

Right-handed Z– DR RR
Left-handed Z– DR+ RL

External thread
Right-handed Z+ DR+ RR
Left-handed Z+ DR– RL

Right-handed Z– DR RL
Left-handed Z– DR+ RR

Programming a helix

Always enter the same algebraic sign for the direction of

rotation DR and the incremental total angle IPA. The tool
may otherwise move in a wrong path and damage the Z
contour.
Y
For the total angle IPA, you can enter a value from CC
R3
–5400° to +5400°. If the thread has more than 15

5
270°
revolutions, program the helix in a program section repeat
(see “Program Section Repeats,” page 344) 25 X

U Polar coordinates angle: Enter the total angle of 40

tool traverse along the helix in incremental
dimensions. After entering the angle, identify the
tool axis with an axis selection key.
U Coordinate: Enter the coordinate for the height of the
helix in incremental dimensions.
U Direction of rotation DR
Clockwise helix: DR–
Counterclockwise helix: DR+
U Radius compensation RL/RR/R0
Enter the radius compensation according to the table
above.
Example NC blocks: Thread M6 x 1 mm with 5 revolutions

12 CC X+40 Y+25
13 L Z+0 F100 M3
14 LP PR+3 PA+270 RL F50
15 CP IPA-1800 IZ+5 DR-

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6.5 Path Contours — Polar Coordinates

For Evaluation Only.
Example: Linear movement with polar coordinates

Y
100
31
21
60°

5
R4
CC
50 1 41

61 51
5

X
5 50 100

0 BEGIN PGM LINEARPO MM

1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X+0 Y+0 Z-20 Define the workpiece blank
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+100 Y+100 Z+0
3 TOOL DEF 1 L+0 R+7.5 Define the tool
4 TOOL CALL 1 Z S4000 Tool call
5 CC X+50 Y+50 Define the datum for polar coordinates
6 L Z+250 R0 F MAX Retract the tool
7 LP PR+60 PA+180 R0 F MAX Pre-position the tool
8 L Z-5 R0 F1000 M3 Move to working depth
9 APPR PLCT PR+45 PA+180 R5 RL F250 Approach the contour at point 1 on a circular arc with
tangential connection
10 LP PA+120 Move to point 2
11 LP PA+60 Move to point 3
12 LP PA+0 Move to point 4
13 LP PA-60 Move to point 5
14 LP PA-120 Move to point 6
15 LP PA+180 Move to point 1
16 DEP PLCT PR+60 PA+180 R5 F1000 Depart the contour on a circular arc with tangential connection
17 L Z+250 R0 F MAX M2 Retract in the tool axis, end program
18 END PGM LINEARPO MM

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For Evaluation Only.
Example: Helix

Y
100

M64 x 1,5
CC
50

X
50 100

0 BEGIN PGM HELIX MM

1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X+0 Y+0 Z-20 Define the workpiece blank
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+100 Y+100 Z+0
3 TOOL DEF 1 L+0 R+5 Define the tool
4 TOOL CALL 1 Z S1400 Tool call
5 L Z+250 R0 F MAX Retract the tool
6 L X+50 Y+50 R0 F MAX Pre-position the tool
7 CC Transfer the last programmed position as the pole
8 L Z-12.75 R0 F1000 M3 Move to working depth
9 APPR PCT PR+32 PA-180 CCA180 R+2 Approach the contour on a circular arc with tangential
RL F100 connection
10 CP IPA+3240 IZ+13.5 DR+ F200 Helical interpolation
11 DEP CT CCA180 R+2 Depart the contour on a circular arc with tangential connection
12 L Z+250 R0 F MAX M2 Retract in the tool axis, end program
13 END PGM HELIX MM

To cut a thread with more than 16 revolutions

...
8 L Z-12.75 R0 F1000
9 APPR PCT PR+32 PA-180 CCA180 R+2 RL F100

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6.5 Path Contours — Polar Coordinates

10 LBL 1 IdentifyFor Evaluation
beginning Only. section repeat
of program
11 CP IPA+360 IZ+1.5 DR+ F200 Enter the thread pitch as an incremental IZ dimension
12 CALL LBL 1 REP 24 Program the number of repeats (thread revolutions)
13 DEP CT CCA180 R+2

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6.6 Path Contours—FK Free
6.6 Path Contours—FK Free Contour Programming For Evaluation Only.

Contour Programming
Fundamentals
Workpiece drawings that are not dimensioned for NC often contain
unconventional coordinate data that cannot be entered with the gray
path function keys. You may, for example, have only the following data
on a specific contour element:
n Known coordinates on the contour element or in its proximity
n Coordinate data that are referenced to another contour element
n Directional data and data regarding the course of the contour
You can enter such dimensional data directly by using the FK free
contour programming function. The TNC derives the contour from the
known coordinate data and supports the programming dialog with the
interactive programming graphics. The figure to the upper right shows
a workpiece drawing for which FK programming is the most
convenient programming method.
If you wish to run FK programs on old TNC models, use the conversion
function (see “Converting an FK program into HEIDENHAIN
conversational format,” page 47).

The following prerequisites for FK programming

FK programming
The FK free contour programming feature can only be
used for programming contour elements that lie in the
working plane. The working plane is defined in the first
BLK FORM block of the part program.
You must enter all available data for every contour
element. Even the data that does not change must be
entered in every block - otherwise it will not be recognized.
Q parameters are permissible in all FK elements, except in
elements with relative references (e.g. RX or RAN), or in
elements that are referenced to other NC blocks.
If both FK blocks and conventional blocks are entered in a
program, the FK contour must be fully defined before you
can return to conventional programming.
The TNC needs a fixed point from which it can calculate
the contour elements. Use the gray path function keys to
program a position that contains both coordinates of the
working plane immediately before programming the FK
contour. Do not enter any Q parameters in this block.
If the first block of an FK contour is an FCT or FLT block,
you must program at least two NC block with the gray path
function keys to fully define the direction of contour
approach.
Do not program an FK contour immediately after an LBL
label.

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6.6 Path Contours—FK Free Contour Programming

Graphics during FK programming For Evaluation Only.

If you wish to use graphic support during FK

programming, select the PGM + GRAPHICS screen layout
(see “Program Run, Full Sequence and Program Run,
Single Block,” page 8).

Incomplete coordinate data often are not sufficient to fully define a

workpiece contour. In this case, the TNC indicates the possible
solutions in the FK graphic. You can then select the contour that
matches the drawing. The FK graphic displays the elements of the
workpiece contour in different colors:
White The contour element is fully defined.
Green The entered data describe a limited number of possible
solutions: select the correct one.
Red The entered data are not sufficient to determine the
contour element: enter further data.

If the entered data permit a limited number of possible solutions and

the contour element is displayed in green, select the correct contour
element as follows:
U Pressthe SHOW soft key repeatedly until the correct
contour element is displayed.
U Ifthe displayed contour element matches the
drawing, select the contour element with FSELECT.
Select the green contour elements as soon as possible with the
FSELECT soft key. In this way, you can reduce the ambiguity of
subsequent elements.
If you do not yet wish to select a green contour element, press the
EDIT soft key to continue the FK dialog.

The machine tool builder may use other colors for the FK
graphics.
NC blocks from a program that you called with PGM CALL
are displayed in another color.

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Initiating the FK dialog For Evaluation Only.

If you press the gray FK button, the TNC displays the soft keys you can
use to initiate an FK dialog: See the following table. Press the FK
button a second time to deselect the soft keys.
If you initiate the FK dialog with one of these soft keys, the TNC shows
additional soft-key rows that you can use for entering known
coordinates, directional data and data regarding the course of the
contour.

Contour element Soft key

Straight line with tangential connection

Straight line without tangential connection

Circular arc with tangential connection

Circular arc without tangential connection

Pole for FK programming

Free programming of straight lines

Straight line without tangential connection
U To display the soft keys for free contour programming,
press the FK key.
U To initiate the dialog for free programming of straight
lines, press the FL soft key. The TNC displays
additional soft keys.
U Enter all known data in the block by using these soft
keys. The FK graphic displays the programmed
contour element in red until sufficient data are
entered. If the entered data describe several
solutions, the graphic will display the contour element
in green (see “Graphics during FK programming,”
page 159).

Straight line with tangential connection

If the straight line connects tangentially to another contour element,
initiate the dialog with the FLT soft key:
U To display the soft keys for free contour programming,
press the FK key.
U To initiate the dialog, press the FLT soft key.
U Enter all known data in the block by using the soft
keys.

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6.6 Path Contours—FK Free Contour Programming

Free programming of circular arcs For Evaluation Only.

Circular arc without tangential connection

U To display the soft keys for free contour programming,
press the FK key.
U To initiate the dialog for free programming of circular
arcs, press the FC soft key. The TNC displays soft
keys with which you can enter direct data on the
circular arc or data on the circle center.
U Enter all known data in the block by using these soft
keys. The FK graphic displays the programmed
contour element in red until sufficient data are
entered. If the entered data describe several
solutions, the graphic will display the contour element
in green (see “Graphics during FK programming,”
page 159).

Circular arc with tangential connection

If the circular arc connects tangentially to another contour element,
initiate the dialog with the FCT soft key:
U To display the soft keys for free contour programming,
press the FK key.
U To initiate the dialog, press the FCT soft key.
U Enter all known data in the block by using the soft
keys.

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Input possibilities For Evaluation Only.

End point coordinates

Y
Known data Soft keys
Cartesian coordinates X and Y
R15
30
30°
Polar coordinates referenced to FPOL
20

Example NC blocks
7 FPOL X+20 Y+30
8 FL IX+10 Y+20 RR F100
9 FCT PR+15 IPA+30 DR+ R15 10 X
20
Direction and length of contour elements

Known data Soft keys

Length of a straight line Y

Gradient angle of a straight line

AN
Chord length LEN of the arc LEN

Gradient angle AN of the entry tangent

Angle of the leading axis to the arc end point

X

Example NC blocks
27 FLT X+25 LEN 12.5 AN+35 RL F200
28 FC DR+ R6 LEN 10 A-45
29 FCT DR- R15 LEN 15

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6.6 Path Contours—FK Free Contour Programming

Circle center CC, radius and direction of rotation in the FC/FCT
For Evaluation Only.
block
The TNC calculates a circle center for free-programmed arcs from the
data you enter. This makes it possible to program full circles in an FK
program block.
If you wish to define the circle center in polar coordinates you must
use FPOL, not CC, to define the pole. FPOL is entered in Cartesian
coordinates and remains in effect until the TNC encounters a block in
which another FPOL is defined.

A circle center that was calculated or programmed

conventionally is then no longer valid as a pole or circle
center for the new FK contour: If you enter conventional
polar coordinates that refer to a pole from a CC block you
have defined previously, then you must enter the pole
again in a CC block after the FK contour.

Known data Soft keys

Circle center in Cartesian coordinates

Circle center in polar coordinates

Rotational direction of the arc

Radius of the arc

Example NC blocks

10 FC CCX+20 CCY+15 DR+ R15

11 FPOL X+20 Y+15
12 FL AN+40
13 FC DR+ R15 CCPR+35 CCPA+40

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Closed contours For Evaluation Only.
You can identify the beginning and end of a closed contour with the
CLSD soft key. This reduces the number of possible solutions for the
last contour element.
Y
Enter CLSD as an addition to another contour data entry in the first and
last blocks of an FK section.

Beginning of contour: CLSD+ CLSD+

End of contour: CLSD-
Example NC blocks

12 L X+5 Y+35 RL F500 M3

13 FC DR- R15 CLSD CCX+20 CCY+35 CLSD–
... X
17 FCT DR- R+15 CLSD-

Auxiliary points
You can enter the coordinates of auxiliary points that are located on
the contour or in its proximity for both free-programmed straight lines
and free-programmed circular arcs. Y
Auxiliary points on a contour
The auxiliary points are located on a straight line or on the extension 60.071 R10
of a straight line, or on a circular arc. 53

Known data Soft keys 70°

X coordinate of an auxiliary
point
P1 or P2 of a straight line

Y coordinate of an auxiliary
point X
P1 or P2 of a straight line 50
42.929
X coordinate of an auxiliary
point
P1, P2 or P3 of a circular arc

Y coordinate of an auxiliary
point
P1, P2 or P3 of a circular arc

Auxiliary points near a contour

Known data Soft keys

X and Y coordinates of an auxiliary point near
a straight line

Distance auxiliary point/straight line

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6.6 Path Contours—FK Free Contour Programming

Known data Soft keys For Evaluation Only.
X and Y coordinates of an auxiliary pointnear
a circular arc

Distance auxiliary point/circular arc

Example NC blocks

13 FC DR- R10 P1X+42.929 P1Y+60.071

14 FLT AN-70 PDX+50 PDY+53 D10

Relative data
Data whose values are based on another contour element are called
relative data. The soft keys and program words for entries begin with
the letter “R” for Relative. The figure at right shows the entries that Y
should be programmed as relative data.
20
The coordinates and angles for relative data are always
programmed in incremental dimensions. You must also
enter the block number of the contour element on which 20 45°
the data are based. 90°

R20
20°
The block number of the contour element on which the 10
relative data are based can only be located up to 64 FPOL
positioning blocks before the block in which you program
the reference. 35 X
10
If you delete a block on which relative data are based, the
TNC will display an error message. Change the program
first before you delete the block.

Data relative to block N: End point coordinates

Known data Soft keys
Cartesian coordinates
relative to block N

Polar coordinates relative to block N

Example NC blocks
12 FPOL X+10 Y+10
13 FL PR+20 PA+20
14 FL AN+45
15 FCT IX+20 DR– R20 CCA+90 RX 13
16 FL IPR+35 PA+0 RPR 13

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Data relative to block N: Direction and distance of the contour
For Evaluation Only.
element

Known data Soft key

Angle between a straight line and another element Y
or between the entry tangent of the arc and another
element

Straight line parallel to another contour element

220°

20
Distance from a straight line to a parallel contour 95°

12.5
element

105° 15°
Example NC blocks
12.5 X
17 FL LEN 20 AN+15
18 FL AN+105 LEN 12.5 20

19 FL PAR 17 DP 12.5
20 FSELECT 2
21 FL LEN 20 IAN+95
22 FL IAN+220 RAN 18

Data relative to block N: Circle center CC

Known data Soft key

Cartesian coordinates of the circle Y
center relative to block N
20
Polar coordinates of the circle center 35
relative to block N

15
R10
Example NC blocks
CC
12 FL X+10 Y+10 RL
10
13 FL ...
14 FL X+18 Y+35
15 FL ... X
10 18
16 FL ...
17 FC DR– R10 CCA+0 ICCX+20 ICCY-15 RCCX12 RCCY14

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6.6 Path Contours—FK Free Contour Programming

Converting FK programs For Evaluation Only.

You can convert an FK program into HEIDENHAIN conversational

format by using the file manager:
U Call the file manager and display the files.
U Move the highlight to the file you wish to convert.
U Press the soft keys MORE FUNCTIONS and then
CONVERT FK->H. The TNC converts all
FK blocks into HEIDENHAIN dialog blocks.

Circle centers that you have entered before programming

an FK contour may need to be redefined in the converted
program. We recommend that you test the converted part
program before executing it.
FK programs with Q parameters cannot be converted.

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For Evaluation Only.
Example: FK programming 1

Y
100

R1
5
75

R18
30
R15
20

X
20 50 75 100

0 BEGIN PGM FK1 MM

1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X+0 Y+0 Z-20 Define the workpiece blank
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+100 Y+100 Z+0
3 TOOL DEF 1 L+0 R+10 Define the tool
4 TOOL CALL 1 Z S500 Tool call
5 L Z+250 R0 F MAX Retract the tool
6 L X-20 Y+30 R0 F MAX Pre-position the tool
7 L Z-10 R0 F1000 M3 Move to working depth
8 APPR CT X+2 Y+30 CCA90 R+5 RL F250 Approach the contour on a circular arc with tangential connection
9 FC DR- R18 CLSD+ CCX+20 CCY+30 FK contour:
10 FLT Program all known data for each contour element
11 FCT DR- R15 CCX+50 CCY+75
12 FLT
13 FCT DR- R15 CCX+75 CCY+20
14 FLT
15 FCT DR- R18 CLSD- CCX+20 CCY+30
16 DEP CT CCA90 R+5 F1000 Depart the contour on a circular arc with tangential connection
17 L X-30 Y+0 R0 F MAX
18 L Z+250 R0 F MAX M2 Retract in the tool axis, end program
19 END PGM FK1 MM

168 6 Programming: Programming Contours

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6.6 Path Contours—FK Free Contour Programming

For Evaluation Only.
Example: FK programming 2

10
Y 10

R20

55
R30 60°
30

X
30

0 BEGIN PGM FK2 MM

1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X+0 Y+0 Z-20 Define the workpiece blank
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+100 Y+100 Z+0
3 TOOL DEF 1 L+0 R+2 Define the tool
4 TOOL CALL 1 Z S4000 Tool call
5 L Z+250 R0 F MAX Retract the tool
6 L X+30 Y+30 R0 F MAX Pre-position the tool
7 L Z+5 R0 F MAX M3 Pre-position the tool in the tool axis
8 L Z-5 R0 F100 Move to working depth

HEIDENHAIN TNC 426, TNC 430 169

 Edited by Foxit PDF Editor
6.6 Path Contours—FK Free Contour Programming Copyright (c) by Foxit Software Company, 2004 - 2007
9 APPR LCT X+0 Y+30 R5 RR F350 For Evaluation
Approach the contour Only.
on a circular arc with tangential connection
10 FPOL X+30 Y+30 FK contour:
11 FC DR- R30 CCX+30 CCY+30 Program all known data for each contour element
12 FL AN+60 PDX+30 PDY+30 D10
13 FSELECT 3
14 FC DR- R20 CCPR+55 CCPA+60
15 FSELECT 2
16 FL AN-120 PDX+30 PDY+30 D10
17 FSELECT 3
18 FC X+0 DR- R30 CCX+30 CCY+30
19 FSELECT 2
20 DEP LCT X+30 Y+30 R5 Depart the contour on a circular arc with tangential connection
21 L Z+250 R0 F MAX M2 Retract in the tool axis, end program
22 END PGM FK2 MM

170 6 Programming: Programming Contours

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6.6 Path Contours—FK Free Contour Programming

For Evaluation Only.
Example: FK programming 3

Y
R1
0
50

R36
R24
R1,5

R5

30
R
R6 6 R5 X
-10

0
R4

R6
-25

R5
0
12 44 65 110

0 BEGIN PGM FK3 MM

1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X-45 Y-45 Z-20 Define the workpiece blank
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+120 Y+70 Z+0
3 TOOL DEF 1 L+0 R+3 Define the tool
4 TOOL CALL 1 Z S4500 Tool call
5 L Z+250 R0 F MAX Retract the tool
6 L X-70 Y+0 R0 F MAX Pre-position the tool
7 L Z-5 R0 F1000 M3 Move to working depth

HEIDENHAIN TNC 426, TNC 430 171

 Edited by Foxit PDF Editor
6.6 Path Contours—FK Free Contour Programming Copyright (c) by Foxit Software Company, 2004 - 2007
8 APPR CT X-40 Y+0 CCA90 R+5 RL F250 For Evaluation
Approach the contour Only.
on a circular arc with tangential connection
9 FC DR- R40 CCX+0 CCY+0 FK contour:
10 FLT Program all known data for each contour element
11 FCT DR- R10 CCX+0 CCY+50
12 FLT
13 FCT DR+ R6 CCX+0 CCY+0
14 FCT DR+ R24
15 FCT DR+ R6 CCX+12 CCY+0
16 FSELECT 2
17 FCT DR- R1.5
18 FCT DR- R36 CCX+44 CCY-10
19 FSELECT 2
20 FCT DR+ R5
21 FLT X+110 Y+15 AN+0
22 FL AN-90
23 FL X+65 AN+180 PAR21 DP30
24 RND R5
25 FL X+65 Y-25 AN-90
26 FC DR+ R50 CCX+65 CCY-75
27 FCT DR- R65
28 FSELECT
29 FCT Y+0 DR- R40 CCX+0 CCY+0
30 FSELECT 4
31 DEP CT CCA90 R+5 F1000 Depart the contour on a circular arc with tangential connection
32 L X-70 R0 F MAX
33 L Z+250 R0 F MAX M2 Retract in the tool axis, end program
34 END PGM FK3 MM

172 6 Programming: Programming Contours

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6.7 Path Contours — Spline

6.7 Path Contours — Spline Interpolation

For Evaluation Only.

Interpolation
Function
If you wish to machine contours that are described in a CAD system
as splines, you can transfer them directly to the TNC and execute
them. The TNC features a spline interpolator for executing third-
degree polynomials in two, three, four, or five axes.

You cannot edit spline blocks in the TNC. Exception: Feed

rate F and miscellaneous function M in the spline block.

Example: Block format for two axes

7 L X+33.909 Z+75.107 F MAX Spline starting point
8 SPL X+39.824 Z+77.425 Spline end point
K3X+0.0983 K2X-0.441 K1X-5.5724 Spline parameters for X axis
K3Z+0.0015 K2Z-0.9549 K1Z+3.0875 F10000 Spline parameters for Z axis
9 SPL X+44.862 Z+73.44 Spline end point
K3X+0.0934 K2X-0.7211 K1X-4.4102 Spline parameters for X axis
K3Z-0.0576 K2Z-0.7822 K1Z+4.8246 Spline parameters for Z axis
10 ...

The TNC executes the spline block according to the following third-
degree polynomials:
X(t) = K3X · t3 + K2X · t2+ K1X · t + X
Z(t) = K3Z · t3 + K2Z · t2 + K1Z · t + Z
whereby the variable t runs from 1 to 0. The incrementation of t
depends on the feed rate and the length of the spline.

Example: Block format for five axes

7 L X+33.909 Y-25.838 Z+75.107 A+17 B-10.103 F MAX Spline starting point
8 SPL X+39.824 Y-28.378 Z+77.425 A+17.32 B-12.75 Spline end point
K3X+0.0983 K2X-0.441 K1X-5.5724 Spline parameters for X axis
K3Y-0.0422 K2Y+0.1893 K1Y+2.3929 Spline parameters for Y axis
K3Z+0.0015 K2Z-0.9549 K1Z+3.0875 Spline parameters for Z axis
K3A+0.1283 K2A-0.141 K1A-0.5724 Spline parameters for A axis
K3B+0.0083 K2B-0.413 E+2 K1B-1.5724 E+1 F10000 Spline parameters for B axis with
exponential notation
9 ...

HEIDENHAIN TNC 426, TNC 430 173

 Edited by Foxit PDF Editor
6.7 Path Contours — Spline Interpolation Copyright (c) by Foxit Software Company, 2004 - 2007
The TNC executes the spline block according to the following For
third-Evaluation Only.
degree polynomials:
X(t) = K3X · t3 + K2X · t2 + K1X · t + X
Y(t) = K3Y · t3 + K2Y · t2 + K1Y · t + Y
Z(t) = K3Z · t3 + K2Z · t2 + K1Z · t + Z
A(t) = K3A · t3 + K2A · t2 + K1A · t + A
B(t) = K3B · t3 + K2B · t2 + K1B · t + B
whereby the variable t runs from 1 to 0. The incrementation of t
depends on the feed rate and the length of the spline.

For every end-point coordinate in the spline block, the

spline parameters K3 to K1 must be programmed. The
end-point coordinates can be programmed any sequence
within the spline block.
The TNC always expects the spline parameters K for each
axis in the sequence K3, K2, K1.
Besides the principal axes X, Y and Z the TNC can also
process the secondary axes U, V and W, and the rotary
axes A, B and C. The respective corresponding axis must
then be programmed in the spline parameter K
(e.g. K3A+0.0953 K2A-0.441 K1A+0.5724).
If the absolute value of a spline parameter K becomes
greater than 9.999 999 99, then the post processor must
output K in exponential notation (e.g. K3X+1.2750 E2).
The TNC can execute a program with spline blocks even
when the working plane is tilted.
Ensure that the transitions from one spline to the next are
as tangential as possible (directional changes of less than
0.1°). The TNC otherwise performs an exact stop if the
filter functions are disabled, resulting in a jolting of the
machine tool. If the filter functions are active, the TNC
decreases the feed rate accordingly at these positions.

Input ranges
n Spline end point: –99 999.9999 to +99 999.9999
n Spline parameter K: –9.999 999 99 to +9.999 999 99
n Exponent for spline parameter K: -255 to +255 (whole number).

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For Evaluation Only.

7
Programming:
Miscellaneous functions