5 Axis Generic Post

5 Axis Generic Post
5-axis post training

Date: October 14, 2002
This presentation is intended as a guide for setting up the
generic 5 axis posts, MPGEN5X_FANUC.PST and
MPGEN5X_MILLPLUS.PST. Run this presentation in
conjunction with a text editing program.
5 Axis Generic Post

What are generic 5 axis posts???
MPGEN5X_FANUC.PST and MPGEN5X_MILLPLUS.PST are generic
5 axis posts that are configurable to these basic machine types:
Table/Table
Tilt Head/Table
Head/Head
Nutator Table/Table
Nutator Tilt Head/Table
Nutator Head/Head
5 Axis Generic Post

With these basic machine control types:
Fanuc M (MPGEN5X_FANUC)
Heidenhain MillPlus (MPGEN5X_MILLPLUS)
5 Axis Generic Post

But this post offers more than positioning data. Some special
features are:
Intelligence is built in to detect rotary limits and automatically
retract and reposition the tool to continue the cut.
Define a safety box and the tool moves to it when
repositioning. A head/head machine configuration follows
the safety box to position around the part.
Bias the starting angles at toolchanges and/or on the
secondary axis.
Fan a cut with a rotary axis on the tool to prevent part
gouging.
Supports axis substitution and polar conversion.
Limited support for Right/Compound angle head.
5 Axis Generic Post

Required files
MPGEN5X_FANUC.PST and MPGEN5X_MILLPLUS.PST are MP
post processors that have part of the post encrypted using the
MPBIN utility. The encrypted post section is written to a file with
a PSB extension. You should have these files to run the post.
PST File
PSB File
TXT File
These files can be renamed to produce new post processors.
MPBIN has been modified to re-encrypt a PSB file setup to run on
any SIM.
The encrypted code is not being released to customers or
dealers.
5 Axis Generic Post

5 Axis Configuration
How do you configure a 5 axis post?
Get the Data. What is the axis layout on the machine? Where
are the rotary axis when the machine is at the home position?
How does the machine interpret the rotary data? What are
the rotary axis limits?
Define the part orientation in Mastercam.
Determine which axis is the primary and secondary axis.
Configure the post.
5 Axis Generic Post

Get the Data
Obtain a picture or drawing with the machine at the home
position. Have the axis address marked on the drawing. Show
the signed axis movement with the limits.
5 Axis Generic Post

Define the part orientation in Mastercam
How the part is placed relative to the
Mastercam WCS is critical in producing
the proper NC code. Parts are normally
oriented to match the machine zero state.
Train your customer to always place the
part drawing or WCS with the orientation
you have determined is needed to
produce proper code.
Nutating machines always have the part
oriented in the top view.
5 Axis Generic Post

Determine which axis is the primary and secondary axis
(This step not needed with nutating types)
The primary axis is the rotary axis
that is rotated first to position a tool
vector in the plane that is
perpendicular to the secondary axis
rotation.
Determine the primary and
secondary axis by imposing the
machine coordinate gnomon onto a
simple part drawing in the proper
orientation for the machine.
5 Axis Generic Post

Observe the axis of rotation for the
machine tool. The Y and Z are the
axis of rotation for this machine.
Select the vectors that represent the
rotary axis. Z+ and Y+ are those
vectors in this example.
Resolve each of these vectors for the
assumed primary axis. Rotate the
vector on the primary axis and
attempt to resolve the vector in the
plane perpendicular to the secondary
axis of rotation. The correct solution
is when both vectors have logical
results.
5 Axis Generic Post

Assuming the Y axis (B) as the primary axis, resolve by
viewing the vector formed by the Z+ axis by first viewing
down the axis of rotation of the assumed primary axis.
Mentally rotate the vector on the primary axis into the plane
perpendicular to the secondary axis of rotation. View down
the axis of rotation of the assumed secondary axis to
observe the result for the secondary axis. Repeat this for
the Y+ vector. Assume that zero is at 3 o'clock and positive
direction is counterclockwise from the viewing direction.
5 Axis Generic Post

Assuming the Y axis (B) as the primary axis for Z+ vector:
Z+ rotates to B90 on primary
Z+ solves to C180 on secondary
5 Axis Generic Post

Assuming the Y axis (B) as the primary axis for Y+ vector:
Y+ is infinite on primary
Y+ solves to C90 on secondary
5 Axis Generic Post

Now re-examine the axis selection assuming the Z axis (C) as the
primary axis. Again, resolve by viewing the vector by first
viewing down the axis of rotation of the assumed primary axis.
Mentally rotate the vector on the primary axis into the plane
perpendicular to the secondary axis of rotation. View down the
axis of rotation of the assumed secondary axis to observe the
result for the secondary axis. Repeat this for the Y+ vector.
5 Axis Generic Post

Assuming the Z axis (C) as the primary axis for Z+ vector:
Z+ is infinite on primary
Z+ solves to B90 on secondary
5 Axis Generic Post

Assuming the Z axis (C) as the primary axis for Y+ vector:
Y+ rotates C90 on primary
Y+ resolves to B180 on secondary
5 Axis Generic Post

From the examination where the Y
axis (B) was assumed as the
primary axis; the result of "Y+ is
infinite on primary" and "Y+ solves
to C90 on secondary" is NOT
logical. Therefore, the conclusion
can be drawn that the Z axis is the
primary axis.
Be aware that some trial and error
is often required to make the
correct selection.
5 Axis Generic Post

5 Axis Configuration (known cases)
The primary axis is always the rotary axis
fixed to the machine tool and the
secondary axis is always the axis
mounted on the primary axis with the
head/head type machine tools.
The primary axis is always the rotary axis

aligned to the Z axis of the WCS and the
secondary axis is always the nutated axis
with the nutating type machine tools.
See the specific requirements for
configuring the nutating type machine.
5 Axis Generic Post

Configure the post
The post can now be configured for the machine tool. The
following slides cover the basic settings. Later slides cover the
more advanced options and their meaning.
Open the post in the editor of your choice and find these post
variables...
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Type Selection
mtype selects the machine type the post needs to support. The
type is based on where the rotary axis are placed on the machine
tool. This post supports the 6 machine types in the list. Enter the
value corresponding to desired basic machine type.
#Machine rotary routine settings
mtype
:0
#Machine type (Define base and rotation plane
below)
#0 = Table/Table
#1 = Tilt Head/Table
#2 = Head/Head
#3 = Nutator Table/Table
#4 = Nutator Tilt Head/Table
#5 = Nutator Head/Head
10
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Type Selection
Table/Table - type 0
Both rotary axis are located on the machine base and the spindle
remains constant.
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Type Selection
Tilt Head/Table - type 1
One axis tilts the spindle while the other rotary axis is located on
the machine base.
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5 Axis Generic Post

Post Type Selection
Head/Head - type 2
Both rotary axis are located in the machine head and tilt the
spindle.
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Type Selection
Nutator Table/Table - type 3
Both rotary axis are located on the machine base and the spindle
remains constant. The rotary axis are not perpendicular.
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5 Axis Generic Post

Post Type Selection
Nutator Tilt Head/Table - type 4
Both rotary axis are located on the machine table and the spindle
remains constant. The rotary axis are not perpendicular.
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Type Selection
Nutator Head/Head - type 5
Both rotary axis are located in the machine head and tilt the
spindle. The rotary axis are not perpendicular.
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5 Axis Generic Post

Define Rotary Axis
The primary and secondary axis as selected earlier are used to
setup these plane selections used in the internal math
calculations. The rotary axis is the normal to the plane that we
use with the global variables in the following code.
#Primary axis angle description (in machine base terms)
#With nutating (mtype 3-5) the nutating axis must be the XY plane
rotaxis1 = vecy #Zero
rotdir1 = vecx #Direction
#Secondary axis angle description (in machine base terms)
#With nutating (mtype 3-5) the nutating axis and this plane normal
#are aligned to calculate the secondary angle
rotaxis2 = vecz #Zero
5 Axis Generic Post

Define Rotary Axis
The only valid variables to use with rotaxis1, rotdir1, rotaxis2,
and rotdir2 are vecx, vecy and vecz. vecx, vecy and vecz
can be signed (-vecx for example). The variables correspond to
the gnomon axis designations as shown.
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5 Axis Generic Post

Define Rotary Axis
This is the general relationship of the rotation axis to the plane
selection variables.
5 Axis Generic Post

Define Rotary Axis
The primary rotation is defined by selecting the gnomon vector
that defines zero (Y+) and assigning it to rotaxis1. From the zero
vector, select the perpendicular vector in the plane that is the
positive direction of travel (X+) and assign it to rotdir1.
15
5 Axis Generic Post

Define Rotary Axis
The secondary rotation is defined by selecting the gnomon vector
that defines zero (Z+) and assigning it to rotaxis2. From the zero
vector, select the perpendicular vector in the plane that is the
positive direction of travel (X+) and assign it to rotdir2.
5 Axis Generic Post

Define Rotary Axis (Nutating)
The secondary rotation for a nutating axis is defined by the plane
formed by the Z+ vector and the normal to the plane the
secondary (nutated) axis lays in. The assignment implies the
plane the nutated axis is in.
The nutating axis is in the YZ

plane in this example.
16
5 Axis Generic Post

Define Rotary Axis (Nutating)
For a nutating axis, the post needs to know the tilt from the Z+
axis. The angle is signed negative if the direction in the plane is
toward X- or Y-.
#Nutating machine (mtype 3-5) describe the plane that the nutated axis
#lays in, this is the plane perpendicular to the primary axis and
#secondary axis
nut_ang_pri : -45 #Nutating head secondary axis angle from machine Z positive
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Axis Direction Correction
Often, the setting for the axis signed direction is entered
incorrectly. Setting the direction for table motion is confusing
because the direction the tool vector moves on the part is
opposite of the table direction. Switching the sign is as easy as
changing the sign for the rotdir1 or rotdir2 variable.
Becomes:
rotdir1 = -vecx #Direction
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5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Axis Valid Plane Selection
The primary and secondary axis planes must not be the same.
Mathematically this is unacceptable. The following table lists the
acceptable plane combinations.
Valid Plane Relations

Primary
Secondary
Option 1
Secondary
Option 2
XY
XZ
YZ
XZ
XY
YZ
YZ
XY
XZ
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Axis Definition Corrections
The post variable shift_90_s may need to be reversed when the
primary axis zero is not in the plane of the secondary axis and the
secondary axis zero is perpendicular to the primary plane. This is
because the post can select the wrong rotation direction in the
internal calculations. This variable is rarely changed.
shift_90_s : 1
#Shift pos.=1, neg.=-1
Secondary Zero
Primary Zero
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5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Output Options
The primary and secondary axis can be output with the options
of signed absolute output or implied shortest distance absolute
output within the range of 0 to 360 degrees.
The post always works internally with the angles as if normal
angle output was applied (rotary axis windup in a linear fashion)
and manipulates the angle when writing to the NC file based on
these settings.
pang_output : 0
#Angle output options, primary
sang_output : 0
#Angle output options, secondary
#0 = Normal angle output
#1 = Signed absolute output, 0 - 360
#2 = Implied shortest direction absolute output, 0 - 360
5 Axis Generic Post

Signed absolute output
Starting at zero (CW positive) Motion
Output
+90
A90
-45
A-45
-90
A-315
+180
A135
+135
A270
-135
A-135
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5 Axis Generic Post

Implied shortest distance absolute
Starting at zero (CW positive) Motion
Output
+90
A90
-45
A45
-90
A315
+180
A135 direction?
+135
A270
-135
A135
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Address
The primary and secondary axis address are assigned to the
string variables in this code. str_pri_axis is the address for the
primary axis. str_sec_axis is the address for the secondary axis.
The post uses the vector math routines with 3D arrays and
str_dum_axis is a place filler.
#Assign axis address
str_pri_axis "C"
str_sec_axis "B"
str_dum_axis "A"
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5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limits
Rotary limits must be applied to each rotary axis. The range of
the limits, the toolpath and the machine type determines how the
post reacts when a limit is violated. Avoiding the limits is the best
machining practice but this is not always possible. The following
slide is the section from the post where the limits are set. It is
important that the limits are set in degrees and that they are in
terms of normal (unlimited windup) output. Limits are resolved to
these four types:
Less than 180 degrees
Equal or greater than 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees
Soft limit at 0-360 degrees with hard limits slightly beyond
Greater than 360 degrees
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limits
auto_set_lim : 1
pri_limtyp : 0
sec_limtyp : 0
#Set the type from the angle limit settings (ignore these)
#Rotary axis travel limits, always in terms of normal angle output

#Set the absolute angles for axis travel on primary
pri_limlo : -9999
pri_limhi : 9999
#Set intermediate angle, in limits, for post to reposition machine
pri_intlo : -9999
pri_inthi : 9999
#Set the absolute angles for axis travel on secondary
sec_limlo : -9999
sec_limhi : 9999
sec_intlo : -9999
sec_inthi : 9999
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5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limits
auto_set_lim allows the post to examine the limit entries and
automatically set the limit type variables. Leave this enabled.
auto_set_lim : 1
pri_limtyp : 0
sec_limtyp : 0
#Set the type from the angle limit settings (ignore these)
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limit Types
Less than 180 degrees
The total rotary axis travel is under 180 degrees. The intermediate
angle is set equal to the axis travel.
pri_limlo : 0
pri_limhi : 110
pri_intlo : 0
pri_inthi : 110
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5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limit Types
The total rotary axis travel is equal to or over 180 degrees and the
less than 360 degrees. The intermediate angle is set equal to the
axis travel.
pri_limlo : 0
pri_limhi : 225
pri_intlo : 0
pri_inthi : 225
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limit Types
This type, when assigned to the
primary axis, attempts to
reduce the number of limit
retract and approach moves by
resetting the limits whenever
the secondary axis is flipped.
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5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limit Types
The rotary axis travel is normally 360 degrees but the rotary axis
can exceed the travel by a small amount. The intermediate angle
is set at the normal travel and the axis travel is set to the
maximum limits.
pri_limlo : -5
pri_limhi : 365
pri_intlo : 0
pri_inthi : 360
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limit Types
This type uses the
intermediate limit to create a
position to retract and
approach when the next
move can not be reached
within the repositioned rotary
limits (usually a 360 degree
move).
Prior Move - 45
Post Generated Move - 0
Current Move - 315
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5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limit Types
The total rotary axis travel is over 360 degrees. The intermediate
angle is set equal to the axis travel. The axis is allowed to
windup. The intermediate angle is set equal to the axis travel.
pri_limlo : -9999
pri_limhi : 9999
pri_intlo : -9999
pri_inthi : 9999
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limit Types
When a limit is reached with this type rotary limit, the variable
typ3_brk_evn automatically adjusts the axis travel angles to an
even 360 degree revolution within the travel limits.
typ3_brk_evn : 0
#Windup limit, use even revolution break position
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5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limit Option
The variable adj2sec stands for adjust to secondary. The
purpose of this post switch is to allow the secondary axis limit to
exercise control over the primary axis. By default, the post
attempts to avoid large primary axis moves. When the secondary
limit is tripped, the post attempts to reposition the primary axis.
The primary axis is repositioned with a 180 degree move and the
secondary axis is checked to see if it is within the limits.
adj2sec
:1
#Attempt to adjust the primary axis from secondary?
#Allows primary axis to flip 180 to satisfy secondary
#0 = Off
#1 = Use method when secondary is out of limit
#Use with pri_limtyp = one to keep secondary as controlling
#limit when limit tripped
#Use with pri_limtyp = two to allow 180 degree reposition
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Axis Offsets
The rotary axis offset variables hold the distance that the primary
and secondary axis of rotation are offset. They have different
meaning based on the machine type selected. saxisx, saxisy
and saxisz are used with non-nutating type machine axis offsets
and nutating machine types with the Mill Plus output option and
tool plane toolpaths. n_saxisx, n_saxisy and n_saxisz are
used with nutating type machine output. The axis offsets are
relative to the machine base matrix (usually the top view).
saxisx
saxisy
saxisz
n_saxisx
n_saxisy
n_saxisz
:0
:0
:0
:0
:0
:0
#The axis offset direction?

26
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Axis Offsets Table/Table
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Axis Offsets Head/Table
27
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Axis Offsets Head/Head
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Axis Offsets
The rotary axis offset for table/table and tilt head/table can have
two interpretations where the program zero point is located
relative to the offset axis. This is a user preference and the
variable must reflect the users preference. The selection is
ignored if the axis have no offset.
r_intersect : 1
#Rotary axis intersect on their center of rotations
#Determines if the zero point shifts relative to zero
#or rotation with axis offset.
n_r_intrsct : 0
#Rotary axis intersection with nutating (normally zero)
28
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Axis Offsets
r_intersect set to 0 directs the
post to calculate output with the
machine coordinate origin at the
part zero (Part/Machine Zero).
The offset distance is from the
Machine Zero to the secondary
axis centerline (Axis Centerline).
The part zero can be set at the
face of the primary axis table.
saxisz
: -100
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Axis Offsets
r_intersect set to 1 directs
the post to calculate output
with the machine coordinate
origin at the secondary axis
centerline (Machine Zero).
The offset distance is from
the Machine Zero to the
origin of the part as drawn
(Part Zero). Coordinates are
relative to the Machine Zero
as the secondary axis turns
the part.
saxisz
: -100
29
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Tolerances
The post is capable of breaking large rotary moves into several
smaller rotary moves based on chordal deviation. The variables
brk_tol (empirical) and brk_tol_m (metric) are used when the
fanning routine is enabled. Fanning is normally enabled for
machine types with rotary motion on the spindle and nutating
type machines. Fanning is usually not used with table/table type
machines. See 'brk_mv_head' to enable/disable.
brk_tol
: .001 #Break up chordal tolerance for 'brk_mv_head'
brk_tol_m : .025 #Break up chordal tolerance for 'brk_mv_head', metric
Note: Arc linearization uses the vtol and vtol_m variables.
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Cut Location Flag
Exclusive to this post is a cut location flag. This allows for
spawning events in the post file based on the flags value. The
retract position and plunge point are generated from the
posts rotary reposition routines.
cutflag
: one #Path location flag, set in post

#Before start - 1
#On start 2
#In path 3
#On end 4
#After end - 5
#Retract position - 6
#Plunge point - 7
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5 Axis Generic Post

Post Feed Options
The post has the option to convert rapid moves to high feedrate.
convert_rpd : 0
#Convert rapid to rapid feed
The high feedrate is taken from question 38. or 1538. in the post.
38. Rapid feedrate? 300.0
1538. Rapid feedrate (metric)? 10000.0
Rotary moves with no linear motion has the option to be output as

Gcode rapid G00 or with the high feedrate.
rot_feed
:0
#Rapid rotary motion only feed options
#0 - convert to G0 rapid
#1 - apply rapid feedrate
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Feed Options
use_fr selects the feedrate output type. The post only has the
option for unit per minute or inverse feedrate. Degree per minute
is not an option because it is normally not compatible with 5 axis
motion.
Programmed feedrate Units per minute as programmed in
Mastercam.
Inverse feedrate All feeds are converted to inverse time.
Inverse feedrate on 5 axis continuous Only 5 axis toolpaths are
output with inverse feedrate.
Inverse feedrate on motion with rotary Linear moves are output
as unit per minute.
use_fr
:2
#0
#1
#2
#3
#Output feedrate
- programmed feedrate
- inverse feedrate
- inverse feedrate on 5 axis continuous
- inverse feedrate on motion with rotary
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5 Axis Generic Post

Post Feed Options
Inverse feed time calculation options allow the post to calculate
the feedrate based on the flute length and to the pivot point on
head/head type machines. The flute length is taken from the
Flute entry in the Define Tool dialog from the Mastercam tool
library.
inv_fd_typ : 0
#0
#1
#2
#3
#Calculate feed location options

inverse feed at tip
min-max on flute length
tip to pivot on tool length
min-max on flute length to pivot on tool length
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Feed Options
Inverse feed at tip Calculations from tool tip
Min-max on flute length Calculation from max length on flute
Tip to pivot on tool length - Calculations from tool tip as ratio to
pivot.
Min-max on flute length to pivot on tool length - Calculation from
max length on flute as ratio to pivot.
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5 Axis Generic Post

Post Feed Options
The feedrate can be calculated or passed to the post as zero.
Zero feed calculations often happen when the length between
positions from the NCI file are extremely small. After rounding to
the output format, these moves are coincident. Zero feedrate in
the NC code is a serious problem. To avoid stopping the machine
tool, the following should be set to apply the default feed values
in zero feedrate cases.
fix_fr
:1
#If feedrate is zero, apply these values
deffeedpm : 1.0 #Default for zero feed in inch/min
deffeedpm_m : 25.0 #Default for zero feed in mm/min
deffrinv : 500.0 #Default for zero feed inverse time
5 Axis Generic Post

'mpgen5x_millplus' Post Setting
String assignments for the MillPlus control's feedrate axis control
address should be set if enabled. The feedrate axis control
variables are used prior to V410 on the MillPlus control to
calculate rotary feeds and are enabled with the 'radius_fr' switch.
radius_fr
:0
#Use axis radius distance
#Mill Plus, Assign feedrate axis address

str_pri_f40 "C40="
str_sec_f40 "B40="
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5 Axis Generic Post

'top_map' Post Settings
This is primarily added to handle the nutating machine types but
can also be used with the standard machine types. When
top_map is active, the toolpaths are output as if a table/table
machine was specified. Code must be added to the post to
handle the machine specific mapping routine. Other post
variables must be set for this output. The following slides are a
guide to these additional variables.
top_map
:1
#Output toolplane toolpaths mapped to top view
5 Axis Generic Post

'top_map' actually switches machine type based on 5 axis
continuous toolpaths or toolplane positioning toolpaths. To
restore the original machine setting, the postblock below is
embedded in the initialization section of the post. Replace the
second argument in the formulas with the global assignments for
rotaxis1, rotdir1, rotaxis2 and rotdir2.
#NOTE: Use of 'top_map' requires the dealer match the
#
above settings below. These must match initial settings!!!
p_nut_restore #Postblock, restores original axis settings
result = updgbl(rotaxis1, vecy) #Zero
result = updgbl(rotdir1, vecx) #Direction
result = updgbl(rotaxis2, vecz) #Zero
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5 Axis Generic Post

The toolplane angle position address is used with the 'top_map'
command for toolplane positioning and mapping on the control.
See the next slide for toolplane rotation angle selections.
#Toolplane mapped to top angle position strings
str_n_a_axis "A5="
str_n_b_axis "B5="
str_n_c_axis "C5="
5 Axis Generic Post

Switching to toolplane positioning toolpaths with 'top_map'
requires that a selection be made for the rotary axis to be used.
Make a selection from the options presented.
top_type
:3
#0
#1
#1
#2
#3
#4
#With 'top_map' select toolplane output

= Post selects map rotation axis
to 4, user selected map rotation axis
= Primary C : X zero, Secondary B
= Primary C : Y zero, Secondary A
= Primary C : -X zero, Secondary B
= Primary C : -Y zero, Secondary A
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5 Axis Generic Post

Post Tool Length
Tool length is most often used with post types - Tilt Head/Table or
Head/Head. How the tool length is obtained can be selected with
the variable use_tlength. Enter 0 to use the value entered in the
variable toollength (See code below). Initialize to 1 and the
length is taken from the Overall entry in the Define Tool dialog
from the Mastercam tool library. Set to 2 prompts the user for the
tool length at each tool change when the post is run.
use_tlength : 0
#Use tool length, read from tool overall length
#0=Use 'toollength' var, 1=Mastercam OAL, 2=Prompt
toollength : 0
#Tool length if not read from overall length
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Tool Length
The tool length with Head/Head machine types can be applied to
the output positions. The options are 0 to add the tool length in
the current tool direction to the output, 1 to add the tool length as
in option 0 and then subtract the length from the Z axis. Enter 2
and the tool length is not added (tool tip programming) but we
have the length for feed and fanning calculations.
shift_z_pvt : 0
#Shift Z by tool length, head/head program to pivot (Z axis only)
#0=Pivot, 1=Pivot-Z, 2=Tool Tip Programming (without zero length)
#Option 2, So we can still take advantage of brk_mv_head feature
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5 Axis Generic Post

Post Tool Length
Option 0 is used when the tool tip is the zero pick up position.
Option 1 is used when the tool pivot is the zero pick up position.
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Tool Length
add_tl_to_lim stands for add tool length to limits. The limits
referred to are the linear limits enabled with the variable
use_stck_typ. This controls if the limits are considered absolute
when retracting for repositioning.
add_tl_to_lim : 0 #Add tool length after intersecting limit, always
#on if limit from stock
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5 Axis Generic Post

Post Linear Limits
Linear stock limits are used by the post during approach and
retract from the part and during a rotary axis reposition triggered
by a rotary axis limit violation. These do not trigger a warning
when violated, they are intended as a safety zone the same as
those defined in Mastercam.
use_stck_typ : 0
#0=Off, 1=Stock def., 2=Limits
up_x_lin_lim : 500.0 #X axis limit in positive direction
up_y_lin_lim : 500.0 #Y axis limit in positive direction
up_z_lin_lim : 500.0 #Z axis limit in positive direction
lw_x_lin_lim : -500.0 #X axis limit in negative direction
lw_y_lin_lim : -500.0 #Y axis limit in negative direction
lw_z_lin_lim : -100.0 #Z axis limit in negative direction
use_stck_typ uses the values from job setup to fill the limit
variables when set to 1. When set to 2, the values are used as
they are set in the post.
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Linear Limits
How do the linear stock limits work? The limits are used to create
a box. This box is then intersected by the tool vector for the
retract move and the tool vector for the approach move. The
vectors are adjusted for the machine type and moves are
generated to follow the extents of the box to reposition the tool.
38
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Linear Limits
clear_stck is used to modify the linear stock limits. This is used
when using the stock size from Job Setup to add an additional
clearance to the stock size.
clear_stck : 0.0
#Add inc. offset to stock definition for transition boundary
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Limit Option
This variable allows the post to retract and reposition the tool on
rapid motion from the NCI file. Normally this is enabled. It would
be disabled when the user is making all retracts and approach
moves in the tool path at rapid traverse. Feed moves are not
expected to be part of a retract or approach by the post.
retract_on_rpd : 1 #This control allows retract on rapids too (don't
assume rapid is safe)
39
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Clamp Option
The variable 'use_clamp' adds the rotary axis clamp Mcodes to
the NC output. These are applied with toolplane positioning and
drill cycles. 5 axis tool paths can not have the rotary axis
clamped because rotary motion is expected.
use_clamp
:0
#Use the automatic clamp Mcode
Find this section in the post to change the strings for the clamp
code.
# Primary axis lock/unlock
spunlock M79 # Unlock Rotary Table
splock M78 # Lock Rotary Table
# Secondary axis lock/unlock
ssunlock M11 # Unlock Rotary Table
sslock M10 # Lock Rotary Table
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Machine Base Option
The machine base option allows the NCI input to be mapped to a
different coordinate system in the NC output. Alter the matrix
settings to a view that is the target output. This is helpful for
machines with left hand coordinate systems or horizontal
machines where the user prefers a setup relative to the machine
tool.
#Machine
matb1
matb2
matb3
matb4
matb5
matb6
matb7
matb8
matb9
base matrix (Base matrix to map positions into)

:1
:0
:0
:0
:1
:0
:0
:0
:1
40
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Machine Base Option
This example shows a horizontal machine setup where the user
prefers a setup relative to the front view in Mastercam. The user
can now program the tool paths with the part relative to the
machine zero (as shown below). The post configuration settings
are relative to this matrix.
matb1
matb2
matb3
matb4
matb5
matb6
matb7
matb8
matb9
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
-1
0
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Rotary Limit Tolerances
The rotary limit tolerances are used in the post to trigger the
revolution counter, find large rotary moves to flip the secondary
axis and determine when limits have been violated requiring
repositioning. Normally, these values do not need adjustment.
The following slides give a more detailed description of each
variable.
As a general rule, large changes in the tool vector directions
should be avoided with 5 axis tool paths to avoid unexpected
repositioning.
41
5 Axis Generic Post

The tolerance settings for wind up determines at what point to
add or subtract from the internal revolution counter. The
comparison is to the raw angle calculations which are in the
range of 0 to 360 degrees. The design is to prevent moves
exceeding this threshold.
#Tolerance settings for wind up
p_tol_ang : 210 #Primary angle move to exceed for direction change
s_tol_ang : 210 #Secondary angle move to exceed for direction change
d_tol_ang : 210 #Dummy angle move to exceed for direction change
5 Axis Generic Post

'p_rsoft_tol' is the primary angle change in degrees to exceed to
trip for tool reposition or adjustment to the secondary axis. For
'rotary limits less than 180 degrees', 'equal or greater than 180
degrees and less than 360 degrees' and 'soft limit at 0-360
degrees' any rotary move exceeding the value makes a call to the
routines to check for limit violations or adjustment to the
secondary axis.
#pri_limtyp = 1, tolerance to validate tripping limit
#
reset the p_frc_adj_sec flag when back to normal range
#pri_limtyp = 2, angle move >= to trigger reposition on primary and
# angle move >= with rev5 or 180 reposition to validate tripping limit
p_rsoft_tol : 45
42
5 Axis Generic Post

The variable 's_soft_tol' is the secondary angle change in degrees
to exceed to trip a tool reposition. This tolerance is only used
with soft limit at 0-360 degrees on the secondary axis.
#sec_limtyp = 2, Angle move >= for reposition
s_soft_tol : 270
5 Axis Generic Post

After a limit has been tripped by either a limit or a large rotary
move, the post attempts to adjust the move within an acceptable
range. If the recalculated rotary move is below the degree value
in 'adj_lim_trp', the limit trip indicators are set off and the
repositioning routine is not called.
adj_lim_trp : 90
#Angle move in p_pri_rot180 to trip reposition
43
5 Axis Generic Post

'p_rsoft_tol3' is the primary angle change in degrees to exceed to
trip for tool reposition or adjustment to the secondary axis. For
'greater than 360 degrees' any rotary move exceeding the value
makes a call to the routines to check for limit violations or
adjustment to the secondary axis.
#pri_limtyp = 3 and sec_limtyp = 3 control values
p_rsoft_tol3 : 90 #Angle move >= with rev5 or 180 reposition
5 Axis Generic Post

Miscellaneous Reals/Integers
The post relies on the miscellaneous reals and integers to
interpret the users intent and control the rotary axis. These are
also used to provide additional functionality.
A major problem for any post is understanding what occurred
through a null toolchange or a retract and approach from one
chain to another. The post can not see if adequate clearance from
the part was programmed in the toolpath or if a collision could
occur by calling the routines to retract and approach in the post.
The post can not determine the optimum starting angles for the
rotary axis to avoid tripping a limit. All these and more can be
controlled with the miscellaneous reals and integers.
44
5 Axis Generic Post

Miscellaneous Integers
# mi2 - Absolute or Incremental positioning at top level
#
0 = absolute
#
1 = incremental
Select absolute or incremental positioning output. Toolchange

positioning is always in absolute mode.
mi2 = 0:
G0 G54 G90 X-.5676 Y7.4665 C182.81 B-25.671 S2139 M3
G43 H1 Z.8198 M8
G1 X-.3588 Y7.4842 Z.7483 C181.73 B-24.288 F6.42
X-.1316 Y7.4968 Z.6799 C180.525 B-22.913
mi2 = 1:
G0 G54
G43 H1
G1 G91
X.2272
G90 X-.5676 Y7.4665 C182.81 B-25.671 S2139 M3

Z.8198 M8
X.2088 Y.0177 Z-.0715 C-1.08 B1.383 F6.42
Y.0126 Z-.0684 C-1.205 B1.375
5 Axis Generic Post

# mi3 - Select G28 or G30 reference point return.
#
0 = G28, 1 = G30
mi3 selects the reference return position. mpgen5x_millplus uses

G74 and the entries in mr3, mr4 and mr5.
45
5 Axis Generic Post

# mi4 - Start initial primary rotary axis bias
#
+/-999 represents start as close to limit as possible
#
0 represents calculate without using bias
#
Any other value represents an angle in degrees to attempt
#
to position near.
#
-999 = Low, 0 = Off/Default, 999 = Hi, Value = Angle bias
A bias is a request to the post to attempt to start the machine

position close to the entered value. The actual value output to the
post is a result of the internal calculations. 999 and -999 are
interpreted as a command to position as close to the limits set in
'pri_limlo' and 'pri_limhi'. 0 indicates that the calculations should
occur without attempting any bias.
5 Axis Generic Post

# mi5 - Start initial secondary rotary axis bias
#
+/-999 represents start as # close to limit as possible
#
0 represents calculate without using bias
#
Any other value represents an angle in degrees to attempt
#
to position near.
#
-999 = Low, 0 = Off/Default, 999 = Hi, Value = Angle bias
The secondary bias functions the same as the primary bias

except it is subordinate to the primary axis in cases of conflict.
999 and -999 are interpreted as a command to position as close to
the limits set in 'sec_limlo' and 'sec_limhi'. 0 indicates that the
calculations should occur without attempting any bias.
46
5 Axis Generic Post

The bias settings are used to control the initial rotary axis
positions at the start of file or a toolchange. Depending on the
machine rotary limits, the user may need to edit 'mi4' and 'mi5'
after posting to remove retracts and approaches because of the
initial rotary calculations. The post does not have logic to look
ahead in the toolpath to determine the optimal start angles. The
'bias_null' variable allows the post to use 'mi4' and 'mi5' to adjust
the angle through a null toolchange (no change in tool number).
bias_null
:1
#mi4 and mi5 bias are applied at null toolchanges
5 Axis Generic Post

# mi6 - Add work shift position for rotation center programming
#
0 = Output relative to work origin (toolplane)
#
1 = Output relative to WCS origin (axis shifts)
Depending on the type of toolpath (5 axis motion or toolplane

positioning), the user may want to select a different work origin
on the machine tool. The part origin must remain a constant with
5 axis motion. With toolplane positioning the user may select a
different origin location and enter the work offset in the control
register. mi6 shifts the output coordinates to the origin selected
in Mastercam for toolplane positioning. 5 axis toolpaths are
always output relative to the Mastercam WCS origin.
47
5 Axis Generic Post

# mi7 - Enable retract to and from linear limits. Disable for
#
internal work to prevent part collisions.
#
0 = Disable, 1 = Enable
mi7 disables the post generated retract and approach from the
part. The moves should be disabled when the user has made
moves in the toolpath to clear the part at a rotary reposition or an
obstacle is present where the retract is occurring. The rotary axis
moves required to stay in the rotary limits are generated.
5 Axis Generic Post

# mi8 - Safe retract/approach at toolchange.
#
The tool retracts/approachs to limits from last path to current
#
path or after/before a toolchange
#
(limits must be enabled, see 'use_stck_typ')
#
0 = Disable all toolchange retract/approach
#
1 = Enable null toolchange retract/approach only
#
2 = Enable toolchange retract/approach only
#
3 = Enable both toolchange retract/approach
#
4 = Enable retract/approach between 5 axis chains (cutpos) in
#
toolpath or sign 1 to 3 negative with toolchange options
mi8 controls when the retract and approach are used relative to
the toolpath toolchanges and 5 axis chains. This is needed
because the post does not know if the user has made the retract
and approach part of the toolpath at toolchanges and the
beginning and end of 5 axis chains with multiple cuts.
48
5 Axis Generic Post

# mi9 - Nutating bias calculation.
#
0 = Calculate angle bias to original vector
#
1 = Bias to positive
#
2 = Bias to negative
The calculations for the nutating machine types can be controlled

by selecting the linear axis direction that is normal to the plane of
the nutated axis. This should be set to avoid erratic rotary axis
moves in the toolpath.
5 Axis Generic Post

# mi10 - Secondary axis control (non-nutating)
#
0 = Continuous secondary (primary controlled)
#
1 = Always stay positive
#
2 = Always stay negative
The secondary axis for the non-nutating machine types can be

controlled by mi10. This value is normally used with head/head
type machines where the secondary axis rotary limits are under
360 degrees. The post controls the travel by temporarily setting
the appropriate limit to 0.
49
5 Axis Generic Post

Miscellaneous Reals
# mr1 - Retract/approach clearance distance at tool reposition
This value is an incremental distance applied to the retract and

approach with the post reposition routine. The retract is at rapid
and the approach is at the plunge feedrate.
5 Axis Generic Post

Miscellaneous Reals
# mr2 - Right angle head toolpath conversion (not with nutating machine).
#
Right angle rotates secondary axis by degrees
#
The head may only be rotated perpendicular to the secondary axis
#
0 = Off, Enter angle for amount of head rotation (RA = +/- 90)
mr2 "rotates" the toolpath on the secondary axis by the entered

value. Any value can be entered but the machine must be setup
with the direction of the tool in the head so it is in the plane
perpendicular to the secondary axis.
50
5 Axis Generic Post

Miscellaneous Reals
mr2 applies the tool length along the direction of the tool. This is
the total distance from the intersection of the tool axis and the
spindle axis to the tool tip. mr10 is used for the length along the
spindle axis. This is temporarily applied to the axis shift 'saxisz'.
5 Axis Generic Post

Miscellaneous Reals
mpgen5x_fanuc for Fanuc controls and table/table configuration
can be setup to use the offset registers on the machine control. It
is not necessary to offset the toolpath (use a tool length or mr10)
when using the control registers. Enable the registers with the
following variables. The offset for the length is stored in the H
register and the shift value is stored in the D register on the
machine.
use_g45
:1
#Use G45 offset with right angle head (RA)
g45_of_add : 30 #Add this number to tool length no. for G45 offset number
T1 M6
G0 G54 G90 Y-.25 C0. B-90. S2139 M3
G45 D31 X.25
G43 H1 Z-1.375 M8
X.1
G1 X0. F6.42
51
5 Axis Generic Post

'mpgen5x_millplus' Miscellaneous Reals
# mr3 - Mill Plus G74 toolchange X axis home position
# mr4 - Mill Plus G74 toolchange Y axis home position
# mr5 - Mill Plus G74 toolchange Z axis home position
Enter the value to be output with the MillPlus G74 home position
in the mpgen5x_millplus post.
5 Axis Generic Post

Miscellaneous Reals
# mr6 - Absolute Safe height in Z for unwinds and toolchanges

#
(limits must be enabled and mi8, see 'use_stck_typ')
#
(set the limits to zero to ignore limits and use this safe height)
#
0 = Off
In addition to the automatic retract and approach, the user may

specify a safe Z level for rotary reposition and toolchanges. The
procedure is ignored when the value is zero. This value is not
checked against the linear limits. Note that the stock limits can
be ignored even though they must be enabled for this option
52
5 Axis Generic Post

Miscellaneous Reals
# mr7 - Axis shift for X axis, See 'shft_misc_r'
#
# mr8 - Axis shift for Y axis, See 'shft_misc_r'
#
# mr9 - Axis shift for Z axis, See 'shft_misc_r'
The axis shift variables can be modified through the

miscellaneous reals as shown. These must be enabled by the
post switch shown below.
shft_misc_r : 0
#Read the axis shifts from the misc. reals
5 Axis Generic Post

Miscellaneous Reals
# mr10 - Nutating distance from work coordinate zero to table zero (Z axis)
#
Non-nutating Z axis shift with RA (See mr2)
mr10 serves double duty to provide entry for incremental shift

from the nutating machine Z offset to the table face.
This accommodates for the distance from the part zero location to
the table offset location.
For Right Angle head support with non-nutating machine types,
the value is used for the length along the machine spindle.
53
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Customization
This section provides guidelines for post customization of the
postblocks.
This post has the sections that contain the calculations encrypted
in the PSB file.
The remainder of the post can be modified but only between the
sections marked as follows:
##### Custom changes allowed below #####
##### Stop custom changes #####
Outside of these areas are postblock calls into the encrypted

section of the post. These calls are critical for proper
calculations.
5 Axis Generic Post

Postblock Customization
Within the areas allowed for modification, the post has many
booleans based on the post selection for 'top_map'. This is the
option for the coordinate mapping scheme on your control.
These sections are not complete in the generic posts.
top_map
:0
#Output toolplane toolpaths mapped to top view
Look for the booleans and select the proper postlines based on
the setting of 'top_map'.
if top_map,
if not(top_map),
54
5 Axis Generic Post

Header Output
Header information can be placed in the postblock 'pheader'. The
post was written with the header information in the postblock
'psof'.
pheader
#Call before start of file

##### Stop custom changes #####
psof
#Start of file for non-zero tool number
5 Axis Generic Post

Toolchange Output
This post has been designed to use one common postblock for
toolchange output. This is called for both SOF and toolchanges.
p_goto_strt_tl #Make the tool start up at toolchange
pfd_shft_inc
psign_ang_out
Regular toolchanges call 'ptlchg' prior to the call to 'p_goto_strt_tl'.

ptlchg
#Tool change

pbld, n, "M01", e
55
5 Axis Generic Post

Null Toolchange Output
Null toolchange output occurs in 'ptlchg0' and 'p_goto_strt_ntl'
postblocks. The calls to the postblocks are in this order.
ptlchg0
#Call from NCI null tool change (tool number repeats)

p_goto_strt_ntl #Make the tool start up at null toolchange
5 Axis Generic Post

End of Tool Output
The post uses a common postblock for the end of a tool path and the
end of the file output.
pretract
#End of tool path, toolchange
pretract_mov
sav_absinc = absinc
coolant = zero
The end of file postblock, 'peof', is called to write the NC code for
the program end. This postblock calls 'pretract'.
peof
#End of file for non-zero tool
toolchng = one
!gcode #to see that this is the EOF in pretract
pretract
56
5 Axis Generic Post

Motion Output
The postblocks for motion output are grouped starting with
'prapidout'. The variables may be reordered but 'xout', 'yout', 'zout',
'p_out' and 's_out' should be used for positioning output. These
variables output absolute or incremental based on the 'absinc'
variable.
prapidout
#Output to NC of linear movement - rapid
plinout
#Output to NC of linear movement - feed
pcirout
#Output to NC of circular interpolation
5 Axis Generic Post

Motion Output, Special Routines
These postblocks are for specific motion output. 'ppos_cax_lin' is
called for toolplane toolpaths with rotary positioning. It's purpose is
to output the rotary moves before the linear axis motion.
'p_safe_z' is called when the miscellaneous real 6 (mr6) has been set
to a non-zero value and the routine enabled by setting mi8 and
'use_stck_typ' on. The call to 'p_goto_pos' calls back to 'pncoutput'
to call the motion output.
ppos_cax_lin
#Position the rotary axis before move - rapid
p_safe_z
#Safe Z retract move with reposition, see mr6
if safe_z_ret,
[
gcode = zero
za = safe_z_ret
p_goto_pos
]
57
5 Axis Generic Post

Canned Drill Cycles Output
The postblocks for canned drill cycles output are grouped starting
with 'pdrlcommonb'.
pdrlcommonb
#Canned Drill Cycle common call, before
.
.
pdrill
#Canned Drill Cycle
pdrlcommonb
5 Axis Generic Post

Canned Text Output
The postblocks for canned text output are grouped starting with
'pcan'.
pcan
#Canned text - before output call
pcan1
#Canned text - with move
pcan2
#Canned text - after output call
pcant_out
#Canned text - build the string for output
58
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Overrides
Postblocks have been provided to afford some control over the post
calculations. These are exposed to allow some flexibility with out
having to make custom PSB files.
plin0
pfd_shft_ovrd #Overide prior to shift and feed calculation
if cutflag = 7,
[
!fr_pos
fr_pos = plunge_feed
]
ppln_mtch_ovrd #Overide plane match, can drill is off if planes don't match
if plane_no = zero,
[
5 Axis Generic Post

Post Error Messages
Post Error Messages
Strings for error messages can be changed for language conversion.
Find this section in the post.
# -------------------------------------------------------------------------# Error messages
# -------------------------------------------------------------------------#One time message
#Calculation
scalcerr "ERROR-POST CALCULATION ERROR"
scalcerr1 "ERROR-PRIMARY AND SECONDARY PLANES ARE COINCIDENT"
scalcerr2 "ERROR-SPINDLE CAN NOT BE ALIGNED TO AXIS, SEE 'spind_align'"
scalcerr3 "ERROR-SETUP FOR PRIMARY OR SECONDARY AXIS IS ILLEGAL"
sratioerr "ERROR-THE CALCULATED BREAK IS OUTSIDE THE MOVES"
59
5 Axis Generic Post

Typical Machine Types
The following slides present some typical machine types and the
basic settings required in MPGEN5X.
Our thanks to Glenn Stephens of CAD/CAM Consulting Services

for allowing us to use his documentation.
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table on Trunion Table
60
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table on Trunion Table
pang_output : 0 #Angle output options, primary
sang_output : 0 #Angle output options, secondary
str_pri_axis "C"
str_sec_axis "A"
str_dum_axis "B"
mtype
: 0 #Machine type (Define base and rotation plane below)
rotdir2 = vecy #Direction
pri_limlo : -9999
pri_limhi : 9999
pri_intlo : -9999
pri_inthi : 9999
sec_limlo : -90
sec_limhi : 90
sec_intlo : -90
sec_inthi : 90
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table on Trunion Table (Fadal)
61
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table on Trunion Table (Fadal)
str_pri_axis "A"
str_sec_axis "A"
str_dum_axis "C"
mtype
rotdir2 = -vecx #Direction
pri_limlo : -9999
pri_limhi : 9999
pri_intlo : -9999
pri_inthi : 9999
sec_limlo : 0
sec_limhi : 110
sec_intlo : 0
sec_inthi : 90
5 Axis Generic Post

Tilting Head on Tilting Head
62
5 Axis Generic Post

Tilting Head on Tilting Head
str_pri_axis "B"
str_sec_axis "A"
str_dum_axis "C"
mtype
rotdir2 = -vecy #Direction
use_tlength : 1 #Use tool length, read from tool overall length
toollength : 100 #Tool length if not read from overall length
shift_z_pvt : 1 #Shift Z by tool length, head/head program to pivot (Z axis only)
pri_limlo : -120
pri_limhi : 120
pri_intlo : -120
pri_inthi : 120
sec_limlo : -90
sec_limhi : 30
sec_intlo : -90
sec_inthi : 30
5 Axis Generic Post

Tilting Head on Tilting Head (Gantry)
63
5 Axis Generic Post

Tilting Head on Tilting Head (Gantry)
str_pri_axis "C"
str_sec_axis "A"
str_dum_axis "B"
mtype
rotaxis1 = -vecy #Zero
rotdir2 = -vecy #Direction
pri_limlo : -5
pri_limhi : 365
pri_intlo : 0
pri_inthi : 360
sec_limlo : -135
sec_limhi : 135
sec_intlo : -135
sec_inthi : 135
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table/Tilting Head
64
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table/Tilting Head
str_pri_axis "A"
str_sec_axis "B"
str_dum_axis "C"
mtype
rotaxis2 = -vecx #Zero
rotdir2 = vecz #Direction
pri_limlo : -9999
pri_limhi : 9999
pri_intlo : -9999
pri_inthi : 9999
sec_limlo : -5
sec_limhi : 180
sec_intlo : 0
sec_inthi : 180
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table/Tilting Head (Cincinnati)
65
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table/Tilting Head (Cincinnati)
str_pri_axis "B"
str_sec_axis "A"
str_dum_axis "C"
mtype
pri_limlo : -9999
pri_limhi : 9999
pri_intlo : -9999
pri_inthi : 9999
sec_limlo : -30
sec_limhi : 120
sec_intlo : -30
sec_inthi : 120
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table on Rotary Table (Nutating)
66
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table/Rotary Table (Nutating)
Note: These setting reflect a Deckel Maho Gildemeister machine
tool with the ISO MillPlus control. The 'mpgen5x_millplus' generic
5 axis post should be modified in this case.
top_map : 0 #Output toolplane toolpaths mapped to top view
str_pri_axis "C"
str_sec_axis "B"
str_dum_axis "A"
str_n_a_axis "A5="
str_n_b_axis "B5="
str_n_c_axis "C5="
mtype
p_nut_restore #Postblock, restores original axis settings
result = updgbl(rotaxis1, vecy) #Zero
result = updgbl(rotaxis2, vecz) #Zero
5 Axis Generic Post

Rotary Table/Rotary Table (Nutating)
nut_ang_pri : -45 #Nutating head secondary axis angle from machine Z positive
saxisx
: 0 #The axis offset direction?
saxisy
saxisz
n_saxisx : 0 #The axis offset direction?
n_saxisy : 0 #The axis offset direction?
n_saxisz : 6.1027 #The axis offset direction?
top_type : 3 #With 'top_map' select the top toolplane output
pri_limlo : -9999
pri_limhi : 9999
pri_intlo : -9999
pri_inthi : 9999
sec_limlo : -9999
sec_limhi : 9999
sec_intlo : -9999
sec_inthi : 9999
67
5 Axis Generic Post

Generic 5 Axis Post Policy
The generic 5 axis posts are supplied to the dealer and end user
at no charge. The Post Department will make bug fixes (as
determined by CNC Software) at no charge. Requests to the Post
Department to configure the post for specific machine tools or to
add support for 5 axis machine tools outside the design
parameters of this post are subject to a charge. The standard
post quoting procedure should be followed in these cases.
5 Axis Generic Post

5-axis and complex post training
End of Presentation
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5-axis post training