ASPERWIN

VERSION 3.5
USER MANUAL

October 2013
Document UAW-01-V2.11-13EN
Table of contents
LIST OF FIGURES ...................................................................................................................... 12

INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................... 17
Disclaimer .............................................................................................................................. 17
Features ................................................................................................................................. 17
Asper family products .......................................................................................................... 18
Support ................................................................................................................................... 19
Reporting a problem ...................................................................................................................... 19
How to use the manual ......................................................................................................... 19

FILE FORMATS .......................................................................................................................... 20

Input formats ......................................................................................................................... 20
CAD drawings ...................................................................................................................... 20
Cutting plans ........................................................................................................................ 20
Library shapes ..................................................................................................................... 21
Output formats ...................................................................................................................... 21

INSTALLATION .......................................................................................................................... 22
System requirements ............................................................................................................ 22
Installation procedure ........................................................................................................... 22
Registration ........................................................................................................................... 22

TERMINOLOGY .......................................................................................................................... 23
Auxiliary points ............................................................................................................................... 23
Chain ............................................................................................................................................. 23
Chain cut........................................................................................................................................ 23
Common-line cut............................................................................................................................ 24
Cutting plan record ........................................................................................................................ 25
Drilling cycle................................................................................................................................... 25
Entity .............................................................................................................................................. 26
IHS (initial height sensing) ............................................................................................................. 27
Junction ......................................................................................................................................... 27
Kerf compensation ......................................................................................................................... 28
Lead-in and lead-out ...................................................................................................................... 28
Loop ............................................................................................................................................... 29
Marking .......................................................................................................................................... 29
Microjoint ....................................................................................................................................... 29
Multi-head cutting .......................................................................................................................... 30
NC-code (cutting program) ............................................................................................................ 30
Overlap .......................................................................................................................................... 31
Part ................................................................................................................................................ 31
Point tolerance (identity tolerance of points) .................................................................................. 32
Punching ........................................................................................................................................ 32
Section ........................................................................................................................................... 33
 Sheet (semi-product) ..................................................................................................................... 33
Starting point.................................................................................................................................. 33
Surface detection ........................................................................................................................... 33
Synchro points ............................................................................................................................... 33
Template ........................................................................................................................................ 33

BASIC ACTIVITIES .................................................................................................................... 34

Loading data .......................................................................................................................... 34
Manual nesting of parts ........................................................................................................ 35
Ordering ................................................................................................................................. 36
Special activities ................................................................................................................... 36
Modification of starting point................................................................................................ 36
Modification of lead-ins and lead-outs ................................................................................. 36
Change of cutting order ....................................................................................................... 36
Generating and storing cutting plan ................................................................................... 37
Simulation .............................................................................................................................. 37

WORKING WITH PROGRAM ..................................................................................................... 37

Program appearance............................................................................................................. 37
Cutting plan elements .......................................................................................................... 38
Co-ordinate system ............................................................................................................... 39
Menu items ............................................................................................................................. 40

FILE MENU ................................................................................................................................. 40

New (key shortcut: <Ctrl+N>) ............................................................................................... 40
Open (key shortcut: <Ctrl+O>) ............................................................................................. 41
Close ....................................................................................................................................... 42
Rest of sheet .......................................................................................................................... 42
Load ..................................................................................................................................... 43
Save .................................................................................................................................... 43
Save rest to DXF ................................................................................................................. 43
Insert DXF (key shortcut: <Ctrl+D>) .................................................................................... 43
IGES (key shortcut: <Ctrl+I>) ............................................................................................... 44
Insert DC2 (key shortcut: <Ctrl+W>) ................................................................................... 44
Insert DSTV (key shortcut: <Shift+W>) ............................................................................... 44
Insert REZ .............................................................................................................................. 44
Insert ESSI ............................................................................................................................. 45
Insert CNC .............................................................................................................................. 45
Insert PLA .............................................................................................................................. 45
Insert MI .................................................................................................................................. 45
Save (key shortcut: <Ctrl+S>) .............................................................................................. 45
Save as ................................................................................................................................... 46
Generate (key shortcut: <Ctrl+G>) ...................................................................................... 46
Properties (key shortcut: <Alt+Enter>) ............................................................................... 46
Economy file (key shortcut: <Ctrl+E>) ................................................................................ 46
Machine data ....................................................................................................................... 47
Sheet data ........................................................................................................................... 48
Tool data .............................................................................................................................. 48

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 Calculated cutting data ........................................................................................................ 48
Calculated usage data ......................................................................................................... 48
Simulation (key shortcut: <Ctrl+T>) .................................................................................... 49
Print (key shortcut: <Ctrl+P>), Print preview, Printer setup ............................................. 49
Recent files list ...................................................................................................................... 50
Exit Asper ............................................................................................................................... 51

EDIT MENU ................................................................................................................................. 51

Undo (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Z>) ............................................................................................. 51
Redo (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Y>) ............................................................................................. 51
Last action ............................................................................................................................. 52
Cut, copy, paste (key shortcuts: <Ctrl+X>, <Ctrl+C>, <Ctrl+V>) ...................................... 52
Delete (key shortcut: <Del>)................................................................................................. 52
Create copies (key shortcut: <K>) ....................................................................................... 52
Multi head cutting (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Alt+SPACE>) ...................................................... 53
Part properties (key shortcut: <*>) ...................................................................................... 53
Common-line cut (key shortcut: <$>).................................................................................. 53
NC start location.................................................................................................................... 56
NC end location ..................................................................................................................... 56
Transform circular holes ...................................................................................................... 56
Libraries and optional add-ins ............................................................................................. 57

PART NESTING MENU (OPTIONAL) ........................................................................................ 57

New nesting task (key shortcut <Ctrl+Alt+N>) ................................................................... 57

DISPLAY MENU ......................................................................................................................... 66

Zoom window (key shortcut: <F4>) ..................................................................................... 66
All parts (key shortcut: <F5>) .............................................................................................. 66
Complete sheet (key shortcut: <Ctrl+F5>).......................................................................... 67
Single part (key shortcut: <F7>) .......................................................................................... 67
Single chain (key shortcut: <F6>)........................................................................................ 67
Zoom out (key shortcut: <F8>) ............................................................................................ 67
Redraw (key shortcut: <Ctrl+R>) ......................................................................................... 67
Measure distance (key shortcut: <?>)................................................................................. 67
Measure angle C-S-E (key shortcut: <<>) ........................................................................... 68
Measure angle S-C-E (key shortcut: <>>) ........................................................................... 68
Measure line angle (key shortcut: <}>) ............................................................................... 68
Section points (key shortcut: <Q>) ..................................................................................... 69
Part names (key shortcut: <S>) ........................................................................................... 69
Display mode ......................................................................................................................... 70
Examples of different display modes................................................................................... 71
“N” (normal) display mode ............................................................................................................. 71
“T” (tool) display mode ................................................................................................................... 71
“A” (ATHC) display mode ............................................................................................................... 72
“H” (head index) display mode ....................................................................................................... 73
“S” (speed) display mode ............................................................................................................... 73
“W” (power) display mode .............................................................................................................. 74
Manual slowing-down in corners .................................................................................................... 74
Toolbars ................................................................................................................................. 76

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 Status line .............................................................................................................................. 77

POINT MENU .............................................................................................................................. 78

Absolute placement (key shortcut: <:> (colon)) ................................................................ 78
Relative placement (key shortcut: <'> (apostrophe)) ........................................................ 79
Polar placement (key shortcut: <;> (semi-colon)) ............................................................. 80
Projection (key shortcut: <,>) .............................................................................................. 80
Snap (key shortcut: <.>) ....................................................................................................... 80
Displacement (key shortcut: <">) ........................................................................................ 81
Cut start .................................................................................................................................. 81
Drill (key shortcut: <!>) ......................................................................................................... 81
Mark (key shortcut: <#>) ....................................................................................................... 82
Line (key shortcut: <_> (underline)) .................................................................................... 82
Line of mark points (key shortcut: <Ctrl+#>) ..................................................................... 82
Modify sheet shape ............................................................................................................... 83
Surface detection .................................................................................................................. 85
Set detection points ............................................................................................................. 85
Cancel detection points ....................................................................................................... 85
Cancel detection points on selected sections ..................................................................... 85
Synchro points ...................................................................................................................... 85
Set ....................................................................................................................................... 85
Cancel ................................................................................................................................. 85

SELECT MENU ........................................................................................................................... 86

Parts (key shortcut: <F2>) .................................................................................................... 86
Part (key shortcut: <F9>) ...................................................................................................... 86
Chain (key shortcut: <Ctrl+F9>)........................................................................................... 86
Section (key shortcut: <Shift+F9>) ...................................................................................... 86
Entity (key shortcut: <Alt+F9>) ............................................................................................ 87
Rectangular area ................................................................................................................... 87
Window – parts (key shortcut: <F3>) .................................................................................. 87
Window – chains (key shortcut: <Ctrl+F9>) ........................................................................ 87
Window – sections (key shortcut: <Shift+F9>) .................................................................... 87
Advanced selection............................................................................................................... 87
Advanced selection for chains ............................................................................................. 87
Advanced selection for sections .......................................................................................... 88
Invert selection (key shortcut: <Shift+F2>) ........................................................................ 89
Cancel selection (key shortcut: <Ctrl+F2>) ........................................................................ 89

MOVE MENU .............................................................................................................................. 89

Drag (key shortcut: <D>) ...................................................................................................... 90
Move (key shortcut: <P>) ..................................................................................................... 90
Rotate (key shortcut: <O>) ................................................................................................... 90
Mirror (key shortcut: <M>) .................................................................................................... 91
Mirror horizontally (key shortcut: <H>) ............................................................................... 91
Mirror vertically (key shortcut: <V>).................................................................................... 91
Align........................................................................................................................................ 91
To origin (key shortcut: <Ctrl+U>) ....................................................................................... 92

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SECTION MENU ......................................................................................................................... 92
Split (key shortcut: <L>) ....................................................................................................... 92
Split and insert loop (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Shift+L>).......................................................... 93
Merge (key shortcut: <C>) .................................................................................................... 93
Change start-point (key shortcut: <R>) .............................................................................. 93
Change cutting direction (key shortcut: <@>) ................................................................... 94
Copy start point (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Alt+C>) ................................................................... 94
Copy lead-ins/-outs (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Alt+L>) .............................................................. 95
Modify parameters ................................................................................................................ 95
Disable/enable cut ................................................................................................................. 95
Compensation on/off (key shortcut: <[>) ............................................................................ 96
Compensation side (key shortcut: <{>) .............................................................................. 96
Lock tool height..................................................................................................................... 96
Complete section ................................................................................................................. 97
From point ........................................................................................................................... 97
End of section ........................................................................................................................ 97
Priority .................................................................................................................................... 97
Assign tool ............................................................................................................................. 98
Bevel cut ................................................................................................................................ 98
Bevel ATHC expert .............................................................................................................. 100
IHS offset .............................................................................................................................. 100
Milling depth ........................................................................................................................ 100
Simultaneous cuts (key shortcut: <F>) ............................................................................. 100
Head index ........................................................................................................................... 101
Dynamic piercing on/off ..................................................................................................... 101

LEAD-INS/-OUTS MENU.......................................................................................................... 102

Add lead-in (key shortcut: <I> ) ......................................................................................... 102
Add lead-out (key shortcut: <Shift+I>) .............................................................................. 102
Add all .................................................................................................................................. 103
Delete lead-in (key shortcut: <U>) ..................................................................................... 103
Delete lead-out (key shortcut: <Shift+U>) ........................................................................ 103
Delete all ............................................................................................................................... 103
Modify lead-in (key shortcut: <N>) .................................................................................... 103
Modify lead-out (key shortcut: <Shift+N>)........................................................................ 104
Compensate ......................................................................................................................... 104
Loop ...................................................................................................................................... 105

MICROJOINTS MENU .............................................................................................................. 105

Create (key shortcut: <Ctrl+M>)......................................................................................... 106
Create on selection ............................................................................................................. 106
Cancel (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Shift+M>) .............................................................................. 106
Cancel all .............................................................................................................................. 106
Properties (key shortcut: <Shift+M>) ................................................................................ 106

ORDERING MENU ................................................................................................................... 107

Automatic (key shortcut: <A>) ........................................................................................... 107
Manual (key shortcut: <Z>) ................................................................................................ 108

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 Cancel (key shortcut: <W>) ................................................................................................ 108
Break (key shortcut: <Alt+W>) ........................................................................................... 108
Break between parts ........................................................................................................... 108
Cancel all (key shortcut: <Ctrl+A>) ................................................................................... 109
Test (key shortcut: <T>) ..................................................................................................... 109
Chain cut (key shortcut: <%>) ........................................................................................... 109
Create junction (key shortcut: <J>) ................................................................................... 110
Delete junction (key shortcut: <Shift+J>) ......................................................................... 110
Manual common-line cut (key shortcut: <Shift+Z>) ........................................................ 111

SETTINGS................................................................................................................................. 111

PARAMETER SETTINGS......................................................................................................... 112

Lead-ins/-outs (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+N>) ................................................................... 112
Parameters .................................................................................................................................. 112
Minimum circle radius for arc lead-in........................................................................................................ 113
Loop radius.............................................................................................................................................. 113
Straight lead-in length for bevel cut .......................................................................................................... 113
Settings for lead-in start ............................................................................................................... 113
Settings for section end ............................................................................................................... 113
Type ............................................................................................................................................. 113
Dynamic piercing ......................................................................................................................... 114
Technology (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+T>)........................................................................ 114
Cutting data ................................................................................................................................. 115
Machine................................................................................................................................................... 115
Tool change time [s] ................................................................................................................................ 115
Price / [hour] ............................................................................................................................................ 115
Traverse speed [mm/min] ........................................................................................................................ 115
Acceleration [mm/s2] ................................................................................................................................ 116
Sheet data ................................................................................................................................... 116
Sheet type ............................................................................................................................................... 116
Remark.................................................................................................................................................... 116
Material density [kg/m3]............................................................................................................................ 116
Material thickness [mm] ........................................................................................................................... 116
Material unit price .................................................................................................................................... 116
Technology data .......................................................................................................................... 116
Technology tool ....................................................................................................................................... 116
Kerf width [mm]........................................................................................................................................ 116
Cutting speed [mm/min] ........................................................................................................................... 117
Piercing time [s] ....................................................................................................................................... 117
Include acceleration................................................................................................................................. 117
Price/meter .............................................................................................................................................. 117
Data from MSNC INI-file .......................................................................................................................... 117
Z-axis control ............................................................................................................................... 117
Z-axis controlled by control system .......................................................................................................... 118
Z-axis controlled by NC code ................................................................................................................... 118
Nesting (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+U>) .............................................................................. 118
Nesting type ....................................................................................................................... 119
From right ................................................................................................................................................ 120
From top .................................................................................................................................................. 120
Y-axis first................................................................................................................................................ 120
Group one-by-one ................................................................................................................................... 120
Rotate parts ............................................................................................................................................. 120

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 Ignore lead-ins / lead-outs ....................................................................................................................... 120
Improve rectangular position.................................................................................................................... 120
Inside sheet only...................................................................................................................................... 120
Nesting in holes ....................................................................................................................................... 121
NC program (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+R>) ...................................................................... 122
Hole cutting direction / contour cutting direction ....................................................................................... 122
Head start position................................................................................................................................... 122
NC start location ...................................................................................................................................... 123
NC end location ....................................................................................................................................... 123
Kerf compensation performed by ............................................................................................................. 123
Tool head parking .................................................................................................................................... 124
IHS excluded to X - Y [mm]...................................................................................................................... 125
File generation (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+G>) ................................................................. 125
NC-code....................................................................................................................................... 126
Output format .......................................................................................................................................... 126
Setup ....................................................................................................................................................... 126
Relative co-ordinates ............................................................................................................................... 126
Force tool change command ................................................................................................................... 127
Comments ............................................................................................................................................... 127
Multi-tool plans ........................................................................................................................................ 127
Park non-active heads ............................................................................................................................. 127
Use reference point ................................................................................................................................. 127
Generate arcs as poly-lines ..................................................................................................................... 128
Push out plate after finishing zone ........................................................................................................... 128
Generate ...................................................................................................................................... 128
NC-code .................................................................................................................................................. 128
Plan ......................................................................................................................................................... 128
Economy file ............................................................................................................................................ 128
Display calculations immediately ............................................................................................................. 128
Economy file (version 3.1) ....................................................................................................................... 128
Export economy info into UNL file ............................................................................................................ 129
Display directory name in printouts .......................................................................................................... 129
Display original rectangle size of part in printouts .................................................................................... 129
Postprocessors ............................................................................................................................ 129
Name....................................................................................................................................................... 129
Description .............................................................................................................................................. 130
Parameters .............................................................................................................................................. 130
Detect postprocessor plug-in ................................................................................................................... 130
Sheet (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+P>) .................................................................................. 130
Sheet shape ...................................................................................................................... 131
Microjoints (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+D>) ........................................................................ 132
Create during import .......................................................................................................... 132
Transformation of circles (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+I>).................................................. 132
Transformation of circles.............................................................................................................. 134
Ordering (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+E>) ............................................................................ 135
Basic strategy .................................................................................................................... 135
Holes first ..................................................................................................................................... 136
Part at once ................................................................................................................................. 136
Ignore for marking ................................................................................................................................... 136
Automatic chain cut in split corner ........................................................................................................... 136
According to bevel complexity (K-Y-V-I) ...................................................................................... 136
Ignore cutting zones for non-cutting tools .................................................................................... 136
Small parts ................................................................................................................................... 137

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 Other settings – main direction ................................................................................................................ 137
Other settings – complementary direction ................................................................................................ 137
Automatic parameter changes (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+W>) ....................................... 138
In arcs ................................................................................................................................ 138
In corners ........................................................................................................................... 139
Cooling in corner.......................................................................................................................... 139
Path in corner .......................................................................................................................................... 140
Pre-generating tests (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Shift+G>) ....................................................... 141
Starting points (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+A>) .................................................................. 142

PROGRAM SETTINGS ............................................................................................................. 142

Input (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+V>) ................................................................................... 142
Point identity tolerance band........................................................................................................ 143
Ignore duplicate entities ............................................................................................................... 143
Merge entities .............................................................................................................................. 143
Disable placement ....................................................................................................................... 143
Smoothing.................................................................................................................................... 144
Smoothing tolerance [mm] ........................................................................................................... 144
Smoothing angle [°] ..................................................................................................................... 144
DSTV – quantity........................................................................................................................... 144
DSTV – text for writing ................................................................................................................. 144
Units (only for DXF) ..................................................................................................................... 144
Metric ...................................................................................................................................................... 144
Imperial (UK and US)............................................................................................................................... 144
Display dialogue for selection .................................................................................................................. 144
User defined ............................................................................................................................................ 145
Multiplier .................................................................................................................................................. 145
Change sheet size according to setting in imported ................................................................................. 146
DXF – ignore scale in INSERT................................................................................................................. 146
Layers (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+L>) ................................................................................ 146
Read all layers ................................................................................................................... 146
Filters ................................................................................................................................. 147
DXF layers setting ............................................................................................................. 147
DC2/IGES layer number .......................................................................................................................... 148
Display parameters (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+Z>) .......................................................... 148
Colours (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+F>) .............................................................................. 149
View mode ................................................................................................................................... 150
Colour .......................................................................................................................................... 151
Change.................................................................................................................................................... 151
Auxiliary points (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+B>) ................................................................ 152
Miscellaneous (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+O>) .................................................................. 152
Enable to enter point in advance ....................................................................................... 152
Smart object assignment ................................................................................................... 153
Multiple actions interrupt ................................................................................................... 153
Detail is a standard activity ................................................................................................ 153
Enable collision check ....................................................................................................... 153
Change start direction ....................................................................................................... 154
Lead-in change during common-line cut ordering ............................................................. 154
Always create new plan from template.............................................................................. 154
Display dialogue for lead-in / lead-out modification ........................................................... 154

9
 Tools (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+C>) .................................................................................. 154
Sweeping ........................................................................................................................... 155
Dumping of finished parts .................................................................................................. 155
Dump after holes wider than ........................................................................................................ 155
Tool configurations ............................................................................................................ 155
Tool configuration settings ................................................................................................ 158
New configuration ........................................................................................................................ 158
Delete configuration ..................................................................................................................... 158
Rename configuration .................................................................................................................. 158

WINDOW MENU ....................................................................................................................... 158

New window ...................................................................................................................... 158
Cascade ............................................................................................................................ 159
Tile ..................................................................................................................................... 159
Arrange icons .................................................................................................................... 159
Window 1, 2, ... .................................................................................................................. 160

APPENDICES ........................................................................................................................... 161

Plasma bevel cutting tool ................................................................................................... 161
Program parameters for plasma bevel cutting .................................................................. 161
Parameter settings: Asper options configuration .............................................................. 163
Bevel ATHC expert ............................................................................................................ 163
Plan preparation procedure ............................................................................................... 165
Example of plan with bevel cutting ................................................................................... 166
Selection of edge for bevel cut .......................................................................................... 166
Bevel edge properties ....................................................................................................... 167
Plane definition .................................................................................................................. 169
Pre-learning stage ............................................................................................................. 169
Learning stage ................................................................................................................... 170
Adaptive control ................................................................................................................. 171
Simulation ............................................................................................................................ 172
Example source code ........................................................................................................ 173
Example of a simple cutting plan creation.................................................................................... 173

DESIGN CAD 2D VER.6 ........................................................................................................... 174

AUTOCAD RELEASE 12 AND LATER VERSIONS ................................................................ 174

General remarks concerning construction ...................................................................... 175
Loading a part.................................................................................................................... 175
Actions after the file is loaded ........................................................................................... 175
Parts positioning ................................................................................................................ 175
Parts ordering .................................................................................................................... 176
File generation ................................................................................................................... 177
Possible errors and troubleshooting ................................................................................ 177

DRILLING CYCLES .................................................................................................................. 178

G81 - Drilling ........................................................................................................................ 178
G82 – Drilling with dwell ..................................................................................................... 178
G83 – Deep drilling .............................................................................................................. 179

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G84 - Tapping ...................................................................................................................... 179
G85 – Boring with feed retract ........................................................................................... 179
G86 – Boring with spindle stop ......................................................................................... 180
G89 – Boring with dwell and feed retract ......................................................................... 180

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List of figures
Fig. 1 Schematic diagram of Asper interface ............................................................... 18
Fig. 2 Registration window .......................................................................................... 22
Fig. 3 Example of chain cut applied to two squares .................................................... 24
Fig. 4 Parameter for adjusting kerf compensation ....................................................... 24
Fig. 5 Parameter for kerf compensation ...................................................................... 25
Fig. 6 Example of common-line cut ............................................................................. 25
Fig. 7 Illustration of some basic terms used in Asper .................................................. 26
Fig. 8 Example of a junction between two squares ..................................................... 27
Fig. 9 Tool path (red line) for two squares connected by a junction ............................. 27
Fig. 10 Illustration of kerf width compensation ............................................................ 28
Fig. 11 Example of a simple square without and with loops inserted into three corners
................................................................................................................................... 29
Fig. 12 Example of a simple square without and with automatically inserted microjoints
................................................................................................................................... 30
Fig. 13 Example of CNC program ............................................................................... 30
Fig. 14 Example of lead-in and lead-out without overlap ............................................. 31
Fig. 15 Example of lead-in and lead-out with 10 mm overlap ...................................... 31
Fig. 16 Definition of the part ........................................................................................ 32
Fig. 17 Information about current AsperWin version ................................................... 37
Fig. 18 Appearance of Asper ...................................................................................... 38
Fig. 19 Fundamental elements of layout ..................................................................... 39
Fig. 20 Co-ordinate system in Asper ........................................................................... 39
Fig. 21 File menu ........................................................................................................ 40
Fig. 22 Dialogue window for selection of template for a new plan ............................... 41
Fig. 23 Warning message for undefined tool ............................................................... 41
Fig. 24 Dialogue for definition of a new tool ................................................................ 42
Fig. 25 Dialogue displayed when exiting modified plan ............................................... 42
Fig. 26 Dialogue window for loading a rest of a sheet ................................................. 43
Fig. 27 Plan properties ................................................................................................ 46
Fig. 28 Economy report in Asper version 3.2 and higher ............................................. 47
Fig. 29 Economy report in Asper version 3.1 and older ............................................... 49
Fig. 30 Example of print preview ................................................................................. 50
Fig. 31 List of four recently opened plans.................................................................... 50
Fig. 32 Edit menu........................................................................................................ 51
Fig. 33 Dialogue window for entering number of copies .............................................. 53
Fig. 34 Part properties ................................................................................................ 53
Fig. 35 Selection of the first edge for common-line cut ................................................ 54

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Fig. 36 Selection of the second edge for common-line cut .......................................... 54
Fig. 37 Parts joined together with non compensated contours and a dialogue window
regarding next step ..................................................................................................... 55
Fig. 38 Parts joined together ....................................................................................... 55
Fig. 39 Final part with manually ordered sequence ..................................................... 56
Fig. 40 Nesting task definition window ........................................................................ 57
Fig. 41 Management of sheets for nesting task ........................................................... 58
Fig. 42 Nesting task options ........................................................................................ 58
Fig. 43 Nesting task menu .......................................................................................... 59
Fig. 44 Window with parts selected for nesting ........................................................... 59
Fig. 45 Settings for part for nesting ............................................................................. 60
Fig. 46 Items for definition of nesting process ............................................................. 61
Fig. 47 Result of nesting waiting for confirmation ........................................................ 61
Fig. 48 Asper screen after nesting task has been completed ...................................... 61
Fig. 49 Add sheet........................................................................................................ 62
Fig. 50 Selection of parts for nesting ........................................................................... 63
Fig. 51 Setting down of the angles of rotations ........................................................... 64
Fig. 52 Screenshot of nesting task in progress............................................................ 64
Fig. 53 List of parts used in nesting task ..................................................................... 64
Fig. 54 Mass storage of selected part into free place of sheet..................................... 65
Fig. 55 Inserting parts one by one ............................................................................... 65
Fig. 56 Display menu items ......................................................................................... 66
Fig. 57 Measured distance (5 mm in vertical direction) ............................................... 68
Fig. 58 Display of section points ................................................................................. 69
Fig. 59 Part names display switched on ...................................................................... 70
Fig. 60 Part names display switched off ...................................................................... 70
Fig. 61 Display mode .................................................................................................. 70
Fig. 62 Example of “N” (normal) display mode ............................................................ 71
Fig. 63 Example of “T” (tool) display mode.................................................................. 72
Fig. 64 Example of “A” (ATHC) display mode ............................................................. 72
Fig. 65 Example of “H” (head index) display mode ...................................................... 73
Fig. 66 Example of “S” (speed) display mode ............................................................. 73
Fig. 67 Example of “P” (power) display mode ............................................................. 74
Fig. 68 Entity properties .............................................................................................. 75
Fig. 69 Menu items for displaying/hiding toolbars........................................................ 76
Fig. 70 Asper standard toolbar .................................................................................... 76
Fig. 71 Explanation of toolbar upper buttons ............................................................... 77
Fig. 72 Explanation of toolbar lower buttons ............................................................... 77
Fig. 73 Point menu ...................................................................................................... 78
Fig. 74 Input window for absolute co-ordinates ........................................................... 78
Fig. 75 Display of information about auxiliary points.................................................... 79
Fig. 76 Input window for relative co-ordinates ............................................................. 79
Fig. 77 Input window for entering polar co-ordinates ................................................... 80
Fig. 78 Dialogue window for displacement .................................................................. 81

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Fig. 79 Error message for drilling diameter mismatch ................................................. 82
Fig. 80 Outline of a line given by three points ............................................................. 83
Fig. 81 Dialogue window for entering approximate distance between individual marking
points .......................................................................................................................... 83
Fig. 82 Resulting line created from marking points...................................................... 83
Fig. 83 Definition of an arbitrary portion of a sheet ...................................................... 84
Fig. 84 Dialogue window for cutting out the rest of a sheet ......................................... 84
Fig. 85 Final shape of sheet portion prepared for cutting out (grey colour indicates non-
compensated sections) ............................................................................................... 84
Fig. 86 Select menu .................................................................................................... 86
Fig. 87 Advanced selection for chains......................................................................... 88
Fig. 88 Advanced selection for sections ...................................................................... 88
Fig. 89 Move menu ..................................................................................................... 89
Fig. 90. Dialogue window for entering rotation angle ................................................... 90
Fig. 91 Section menu .................................................................................................. 92
Fig. 92 Example of split section and insert loop .......................................................... 93
Fig. 93 Original (default) cutting direction CW ............................................................. 94
Fig. 94 Reversed cutting direction CCW indicated also by different colour .................. 94
Fig. 95 Modification of parameters .............................................................................. 95
Fig. 96 Lock height menu ............................................................................................ 96
Fig. 97 Setting for end of section ................................................................................ 97
Fig. 98 Tool menu ....................................................................................................... 98
Fig. 99 Bevel edge properties ..................................................................................... 99
Fig. 100 Nonparallel cutting example ........................................................................ 100
Fig. 101 Activate cutting head index ......................................................................... 101
Fig. 102 Functions for dynamic piercing .................................................................... 101
Fig. 103 Line properties for dynamic piercing ............................................................ 101
Fig. 104 Spiral properties for dynamic piercing ......................................................... 102
Fig. 105 Lead-in menu .............................................................................................. 102
Fig. 106 Dialogue window with lead-in properties ..................................................... 103
Fig. 107 Lead-in compensation ................................................................................. 104
Fig. 108 An example of a simple square with inserted loop ....................................... 105
Fig. 109 Microjoints menu functions .......................................................................... 105
Fig. 110 Microjoint properties .................................................................................... 106
Fig. 111 Ordering menu ............................................................................................ 107
Fig. 112 Selection of junction placement ................................................................... 110
Fig. 113 Parameter settings ...................................................................................... 111
Fig. 114 Lead-ins and lead-outs................................................................................ 112
Fig. 115 Examples of different settings for lead-in type ............................................. 114
Fig. 116 Settings for spiral dynamic piercing ............................................................. 114
Fig. 117 Technology settings .................................................................................... 115
Fig. 118 Z-axis control dialogue window ................................................................... 117
Fig. 119 Nesting settings .......................................................................................... 119
Fig. 120 Nesting fit types .......................................................................................... 121

14
Fig. 121 Cutting program settings ............................................................................. 122
Fig. 122 NC start location options ............................................................................. 123
Fig. 123 Explanation of excluded border ................................................................... 125
Fig. 124 File generation settings ............................................................................... 125
Fig. 125 Output formats of NC codes ........................................................................ 126
Fig. 126 Setup of ESSI code generation ................................................................... 126
Fig. 127 Dialogue for selection of tools ..................................................................... 127
Fig. 128 Postprocessor settings – ProfiCut example ................................................. 129
Fig. 129 List of detected postprocessors ................................................................... 130
Fig. 130 Sheet shape and dimensions for “Rectangle” sheet shape.......................... 131
Fig. 131 Sheet shape and dimensions for “N-angle profile” sheet shape .................. 131
Fig. 132. Settings for microjoints ............................................................................... 132
Fig. 133 Transformation of circles ............................................................................. 133
Fig. 134. Definition of a drilling cycle ......................................................................... 133
Fig. 135. Dialogue window for definition of a new circle transformation ..................... 134
Fig. 136 Example of circle transformation defined by interval of diameters ............... 134
Fig. 137 Example of circle transformation defined by tolerance of diameters ............ 135
Fig. 138 Ordering settings ......................................................................................... 135
Fig. 139 Other settings.............................................................................................. 137
Fig. 140 Automatic parameter changes..................................................................... 138
Fig. 141 Parameter changes in arcs – ATHC disabled .............................................. 138
Fig. 142 Example of automatic parameter changes for different arcs ........................ 139
Fig. 143 Example of automatic parameter changes for different corners ................... 139
Fig. 144 Parameter changes in corners .................................................................... 140
Fig. 145 Example of a modified corner – loop ........................................................... 140
Fig. 146 Example of a modified corner – angle axis .................................................. 141
Fig. 147 Example of a modified corner – rounded corner with reduced speed .......... 141
Fig. 148 Pre-generating tests .................................................................................... 142
Fig. 149 Starting points ............................................................................................. 142
Fig. 150 Input parameters ......................................................................................... 143
Fig. 151 Dialogue window for selection of DXF units of measure Automatic ............. 145
Fig. 152 Error message generated when importing incorrect DXF drawing ............... 145
Fig. 153 Parameters of layers ................................................................................... 146
Fig. 154 New layer .................................................................................................... 147
Fig. 155 Example of settings for added DXF layers .................................................. 147
Fig. 156 Add new layer for bevel cutting ................................................................... 148
Fig. 157 Display parameters ..................................................................................... 148
Fig. 158 Displayed elements ..................................................................................... 149
Fig. 159 Colours settings – standard view mode ....................................................... 149
Fig. 160 Colours settings – technology view mode ................................................... 150
Fig. 161 Colours settings – relative speed view mode............................................... 150
Fig. 162 Colours settings – activity view mode .......................................................... 150
Fig. 163 Colours settings – ATHC view mode ........................................................... 151

15
Fig. 164 Colours settings – other view mode ............................................................ 151
Fig. 165 Auxiliary points ............................................................................................ 152
Fig. 166 Miscellaneous parameters .......................................................................... 152
Fig. 167 Definition of tools parameters ...................................................................... 154
Fig. 168 Dialogue window for tool configuration ........................................................ 155
Fig. 169 Available tool types for bevel cutting ........................................................... 157
Fig. 170 Window menu ............................................................................................. 158
Fig. 171 Cascade arrangement of opened windows ................................................. 159
Fig. 172 Tile arrangement of opened windows .......................................................... 159
Fig. 173 Arranged icons of opened windows ............................................................. 160
Fig. 174 Example of a list of opened windows .......................................................... 160
Fig. 175 Configuration of tools in Asper program parameters ................................... 162
Fig. 176 Definition of plasma bevel cutting tool properties ........................................ 162
Fig. 177 Material thickness setting in Asper parameters menu ................................. 163
Fig. 178. Parameters for bevel ATHC expert ............................................................ 164
Fig. 179 Bevel ATHC expert item in "Section" menu ................................................. 165
Fig. 180 Modification of plane detection points.......................................................... 166
Fig. 181 Rectangular shape imported to Asper from WSelect ................................... 167
Fig. 182 Asper screenshot with button for definition of bevel edge properties ........... 167
Fig. 183 Specification of bevel edge properties ......................................................... 167
Fig. 184 Bevel edge properties ................................................................................. 168
Fig. 185 Example of rectangular contour with one edge prepared for bevel cutting... 169
Fig. 186 Pre-learning stage, length of the part is 20 mm as specified in Fig. 181 ...... 170
Fig. 187 Learning stage, length of the part is 40 mm as specified in Fig. 184 ........... 171
Fig. 188 Cutting according to learnt voltage, ATHC is enabled ................................. 172
Fig. 189 Screenshot of NCSim .................................................................................. 172

16
Introduction
AsperWin tool (in the manual referred to as Asper), is a software package that belongs
to the CAM (computer aided manufacturing) software family. The main purpose of the
program is to process drawings from some external CAD software and generate CNC
cutting program. Main field of application is 2D cutting of planar sheets.
Asper supports different CNC technologies (e. g. plasma, laser, water jet, oxy-fuel, etc).
Beside this, Asper provides means for preparation of CNC cutting programs for special
technologies like plasma and water-jet bevel cutting, drilling and milling, pipe cutting,
inkjet, etc.
Asper generates direct NC-code, cutting plan record (PLA) and economy file for
nesting efficiency evaluation.

Disclaimer
The manual describes recent version 3.4 of Asper. The software continuously
undergoes development and some features implemented in last recent versions might
differ from description given herein. For comparison of latest versions see page 178.

Features
Asper has been designed to support fast, efficient, and user-friendly generation of
cutting programs. Optionally, Asper is installed with advanced nesting module that
enables to place parts on sheets so that material area is optimally utilised. An important
feature of Asper is the possibility to prepare user-defined templates defining behaviour
of Asper during input file processing.

17
 TEMPLATES
(SETTINGS AND
PARAMETERS)

DRAWING
CUTTING PROGRAM

EXISTING PROGRAM
LIBRARY SHAPE
Asper

ECONOMY REPORT
PLAN DATA FILE

Fig. 1 Schematic diagram of Asper interface

Asper family products

Asper family products are summarised in following table:

Class Program Name Comment

Basic version Asper WSelect Library of standard shapes
Add-on for advanced automatic
Automatic nesting
nesting
Options
Support for plasma, oxy-fuel, and
(based on registration Bevel cutting
water jet bevel cutting
only, no need for
Cutting non-rectangular stripes
additional installation) Non-parallel cutting
using two heads
Multitool Testing version
Library of shapes for air-
AirSelect
conditioning duct systems
Straight cutting into pipes,
PipeSel
combination of joints
Libraries
SolidSel Cutting into domes using rotator
(installation needed)
Supporting module for SolidSel,
cutting into cylindrical and
PipeCut
rectangular pipes, for cylindrical
pipe 2- or 3-axis cutting

Tab. 1. Asper family products

18
Support
To get any technical support, preferably send e-mail message to address:

service@microstep.sk

An alternative way is to send a fax message to number:

+421 907 730 242

Reporting a problem
Any request for support or advice should contain data that enable to identify and trace
particular installation of Asper unambiguously:
 Serial number of the machine
 Version and build information
 Installed libraries or modules
 Language version

In case of problems related to Asper, additional information is needed:

 Detailed description of a problem and circumstances
 PLA file
 CNC file
 Original CAD drawing file
 Photo of final product
Generally, the more detailed information about the problem is provided, the faster and
more competent answer can be sent.

How to use the manual

The manual can be divided into several parts. The first part provides introductory
information about background and usage of Asper. The second part is intended to be
used as a reference manual and contains description of available functions. The last
part describes advanced features, e.g. bevel cutting, etc.
Screenshots presented in the manual include names of functions available at the time
of writing the manual. Particular installations of Asper may use different names.

19
Description of CNC code used in presented examples is beyond the scope of the
manual and can be found in separate document describing implemented codes.

Note: Colours in screenshots presented in the manual have been customised so the
appearance of the screenshots differs from default settings.

File formats

Input formats
Input formats accepted by Asper can be divided into three main groups (see also
scheme in Fig. 1):
1. CAD drawings
2. Existing cutting plans
3. Library shapes

CAD drawings
Formats of drawing files that can be imported and processed by Asper are summarized
in the table Tab. 2 below:

Format name File extension Description

DXF *.DXF AutoCAD open format available in most CAD programs
IGES *.IGS Initial Graphics Exchange description
DC2 *.DC2 DesignCAD file format
DSTV is international format used for communication
DSTV *.NC between design software and CNC Machines. It is
typically used in the fabrication of structural steel.
MI *.DAT Standard format of ME10 program

Tab. 2. Acceptable formats of input CAD drawing files

Cutting plans

Format name File extension Description

REZ *.REZ Old format of cutting programs by MicroStep
CNC *.CNC G-codes and M-codes
ESSI *.ESI International standard format

Tab. 3. Accepted input formats of cutting plans

20
There is many ways of working with Asper, using various types of embedded input format and
creating the output format, but the most widely used procedure consist of usage the formats
(*CNC, *DXF) as the input format and the (*DIN, *ESI, *REZ)

Format *PLA.
Format *PLA is a category itself, because usage of this format is different relative to
importing this format to the Asper. By using button ,,Open", Asper execute importing of
all data and setting from the specific ,,*PLA" file and by using button ,,Insert PLA",
Asper enable only importing of the specific parts and shapes without any parameters,
settings and other data that are included in whole ,,PLA" file.

Library shapes
Depending on installed libraries, it is possible to export parametrised shapes into Asper
from corresponding library interface.

Output formats
Format name File extension Description
CNC code *.CNC G-codes and M-codes
*.DIN Standard used NC code
*.ESSI Standard used NC code
*REZ Standard used NC code
Asper plan *.PLA Asper native program data file – plan
*.CAL Auxiliary file containing calculations for economy
file
*.DBF DBase file for economy report
*.EKO Economy file (Asper 3.1 style)
Plan backup *.PLB Asper program data backup file of a plan
*.RST Asper program data for rest of sheet
Tab. 4. Asper output file formats

21
Installation

System requirements
Asper program can be used on any personal computer running under operating system
Windows XP, Vista, and 7. Recommended graphical resolution is 1024 × 768 pixels
or better.

Installation procedure
To install the Asper, run “Setup.exe” from installation media. During setup, the
installation program prompts for language version for setup procedure. The language
version can be anytime altered to any of available languages using “Select language”
software tool that is automatically installed together with Asper.

Registration
Asper is copy-protected. Therefore, for full functionality it is necessary to enter
appropriate authentication code. The procedure is referred to as registration.
At the first run of the program, an information appears that Asper is not registered
(error message “Configuration file cannot be opened”). A window for entering a
password appears after <OK> button is pressed:

Fig. 2 Registration window

A password can be obtained after contacting technical support department of program

supplier. A password will be generated on basis of so-called “floating code”. Floating
code is a text string that appears in upper line in password window. The supplier will
provide string of characters that should be entered into empty text line. The text is
confirmed by clicking left mouse button on <OK> or pressing <Enter> key and Asper
will be registered.
When an invalid code is entered or <Esc> key is pressed then Asper will run in so-
called demo mode – all operations are allowed but it is impossible to create a cutting

22
program. The floating code changes at every failed try to enter the code. In case when
<Esc> key is pressed without trying to register, the floating code remains unchanged.
It is possible to repeat installation (in case of hard disk data damage or computer
exchange) and ask (e.g. by phone) again for new password.
The window for entering a password can be activated also from the Asper main menu
through items menu: “Help → About Asper → Register”.

Terminology
Prior to start work with the Asper software, it is useful to understand terminology that is
used throughout the document. The terms are ordered alphabetically.

Auxiliary points
Auxiliary points are used especially for selection of various objects of the plan. The
points can be located arbitrarily on the working area or “snapped” to any significant
point in the plan. Selection of significant points can be carried out in program
parameters (see section “Auxiliary points (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+B>)”, page 152).

Chain
Chain is a group of adjacent sections. Any single part consists of one chain describing
the outer contour and of other chains describing inner holes (openings). Chains are
mostly closed, i.e. the first and the last point of a chain are identical. Open chains are
rare and their processing is special. Normally, a chain is identical to a section. It is
possible to split a chain into more sections in order to perform special technological
operations – it is the only reason for distinguishing sections and chains.

Chain cut
Chain cut is a method for cutting more parts without switching the tool (torch) off. The
section where the tool remains on is defined by an auxiliary point.
The method is used in case of short movements with cutting between two parts that
does not collide with any other parts. The movements are performed only through the
waste area of a plan. The program does not check for this so the use of this function is
under the consideration of a user. Then it is recommended to adjust lead-ins and lead-
outs of the neighbouring parts so that they ensure the cutting to be done out of
contours.
The method is especially suitable for thick sheets where piercing takes a long time and
causes excessive wear of torch components.
Some plasma sources have maximum piercing thickness significantly smaller than
maximum cutting thickness. The chain cut enables to eliminate inevitable additional
technological operation like drilling holes for piercing, etc. The first start point is placed
directly onto a sheet edge or into a position where the edge has been already created
by cutting some other part.

23
 Connection for chain cut

Fig. 3 Example of chain cut applied to two squares

Common-line cut
Common-line cut is based enables on to place two defined parts of a cutting plan in
a way that their two selected edges can be cut simultaneously by one cut. The method
is applicable only for cutting technologies that provide equal cutting quality independent
on the side of the tool. Then compensation should not be performed by a control
system but kerf width should be compensated in Asper.
Kerf width compensation can be found in Asper settings for technology.

Fig. 4 Parameter for adjusting kerf compensation

Then compensation must be selected from Asper - not by a control system. This
parameter is located in menu “Settings → NC program”. Program accepts kerf width
from Asper not from iMSNC tool parameters.

24
 Fig. 5 Parameter for kerf compensation

common line

Fig. 6 Example of common-line cut

Cutting plan record

Cutting plan record is information about the quantity, position, and other attributes of
parts that should be cut from a sheet. Asper generates it as an output file with
extension “PLA” that includes all necessary information in addition to an CNC code (file
with corresponding extension e.g. “ESI”, “REZ”, or “CNC”). This file can be later loaded
into Asper and it is possible to modify existing parts layout or their amount with no need
to repeat all operations from the beginning.

Drilling cycle
A drilling cycle is an elementary drilling operation represented by a dedicated
instruction in CNC code. Arguments of drilling cycles include depth, direction of
rotation, time dwell. Asper supports the following drilling cycles: “G81”, “G82”, “G83”,
“G84”, “G85”, “G86”, and “G89”. The drilling cycles are described in detail in section
“Drilling cycles”, page 178.

25
Entity
An entity is a fundamental unit of each drawing. Typical examples of entities are lines,
polylines, circles, and arcs (see Fig. 7).
Entities are described mostly by points. In case of polyline, the points are polyline
intersections; an arc is described by its centre, start and end points. Any drawing
should consist only of mentioned entities. All other entities (e.g. text, mark,
dimensioning, etc.) are ignored.
In case when entities are not implemented in the control system, they have to be
substituted by arcs and lines before loading them into Asper (to “split” them). CAD
programs usually comprise such a function. Actual version of Asper enables even
reading of entities “SPLINE” and “ELLIPSE” by an internal conversion to a series of
short lines.

Tip: Recommended way how to read an ellipse into Asper is to substitute it by arcs already in
stage of drawing. AutoCAD and IntelliCAD programs enable to set function “PELLIPSE” to value
1 (write “PELLIPSE 1” in the command line).

Tip: “ELLIPSE” and “SPLINE” are automatically converted to a series of very short lines when
being read. It is better for optimal program functioning and the cutting itself to let Asper change
series of short lines into longer lines with specified tolerance.

Fig. 7 Illustration of some basic terms used in Asper

26
IHS (initial height sensing)
The IHS abbreviation means initial height sensing and denotes the process of
searching for material before cutting. The process of IHS starts usually in parking
position (head fully up), the head is then moved downwards and the process is
completed when the head stops in the position where the tool remains in cutting height.
The cutting height is specified in tool parameters (for details see “iMSNC Operator
Manual”).

Junction
Junction is a special example of chain cut. The section is split as close as possible to
the connected part. Cutting order is modified so that parts connected via junction are
cut in single step. Transition between the parts is completed without switching off the
tool. After the circumference of the connected part is completed, the tool returns along
the same path in the opposite direction and finishes cutting of the first one. Transitions
are made with kerf compensation enabled to ensure that returning torch does not travel
along the line of cut. Junctions reduce the number of tool starts.

junction

Fig. 8 Example of a junction between two squares

Fig. 9 Tool path (red line) for two squares connected by a junction

27
Kerf compensation
Tool kerf width is never zero and depends strongly on applied tool. When there is no
compensation, kerf width affects part dimensions (outer dimensions of parts tend to be
reduced, inner holes would be bigger).

Part contour

Tool path

Fig. 10 Illustration of kerf width compensation

In most cases this feature is not acceptable and there are only few applications where
accuracy requirements are so low that the lack of compensation can be tolerated. The
compensation means offset of actual tool path with respect to part contour by half of
actual kerf width, offset direction depends on whether the contour is outer or inner. The
kerf compensation is usually handled by machine control system. In some cases the
kerf width compensation can be included directly in generated code.
Actual value of kerf width can be obtained experimentally.

Lead-in and lead-out

At the beginning of cutting, it is necessary to make a hole (pierce) into the sheet first
and only after that it is possible to start movement of a cutting tool along the given
trajectory. Usually, the area in the neighbourhood of piercing point is damaged, which
is not desirable for part contour. Therefore cutting process should be started from a
place out of the part contour (in the waste).
Designers of drawings usually do not add this technological feature into drawings
because it is neither necessary nor desirable. Therefore Asper creates an auxiliary
cutting element positioned out of a contour, which is referred to as a “lead-in”. Similarly,
the cutting tool is lead-out of contour after cutting has been finished in order to run out
from the contour continuously and to provide complete separation of a part from the
sheet. The element is referred to as a “lead-out”.

28
Asper enables manual modification of the way of lead-in and lead-out creation and a
change of the lead-ins and lead-outs. Asper does not create lead-ins and lead-outs for
open chains automatically because there is no exterior and interior area defined for
them and the location of waste area is not clear.
Sometimes it is inevitable to start from sheet edge especially for cutting thick materials.
It is caused by the fact that for example plasma source can usually cut thicker materials
than it can pierce.

Loop
A loop is a curve inserted usually into a corner (a place of intersection of two linear
entities). The loop significantly improves corner cutting quality.

loop

Fig. 11 Example of a simple square without and with loops inserted into three corners

Marking
Marking is a special technological operation when a tool is used to write contours or
characters on a surface of a sheet. The principle is that the tool does not use sufficient
power to penetrate through the sheet.

Microjoint
A microjoint is a special type of section that is skipped during cutting. It connects a part
with waste area to prevent unwanted movements of the part during cutting. In case
when a 3D milling machine is used, the bridge can be cut to a certain depth and the
rest remains connected to the waste.

29
 microjoint

Fig. 12 Example of a simple square without and with automatically inserted microjoints

Multi-head cutting
Multi-head cutting is a special operation mode of a machine that includes more than
one cutting head with the same technology, and each head can be separately
positioned along the machine gantry, i.e. each head has it own Y drive. Multi-head
cutting can be used for parallel cutting when the heads are moving along identical
trajectories with constant offset in Y co-ordinate, or for non-parallel cutting when the
offset between trajectories is variable. In the second case it is important to realize that
cutting speed can be kept exactly only for one head.

NC-code (cutting program)

The result of work with Asper is a file containing NC-code. This is a normal text file
containing instructions for controlling technological device that can be expressed like
“Switch Tool On” or “Move To Position [X, Y]”, etc. Asper preferably supports DIN
format (so called G-codes). On demand it is possible to adapt NC-code format
according to control system requirements or to create a postprocessor (code
generator) for control system of a machine from a different manufacturer. An example
of a simple CNC program and NC code is displayed in Fig. 13.

Fig. 13 Example of CNC program

30
When necessary, NC-code generated by Asper can be later modified. More information
about NC-codes can be found in a user guide for a particular control system.

Overlap
Overlap is a short section of the contour in between the lead-in and lead-out that is cut
by the cutting tool twice. The second pass should minimize the lead-in trace caused by
lagging of the bottom part of the beam behind the tool.

Fig. 14 Example of lead-in and lead-out without overlap

Fig. 15 Example of lead-in and lead-out with 10 mm overlap

Part
Part is a construction element consisting of one closed outer chain. It can also include
other inner closed chains (holes) and inner open chains (arcs or lines). Single CAD file
should contain only drawing of a single part.

31
 Fig. 16 Definition of the part

Point tolerance (identity tolerance of points)

In some cases the lines in input drawings that actually should have common vertex are
separated by a small gap. The gap is usually too small to be noticed on a computer
screen. The program helps to solve these situations by a parameter menu: “Section →
Merge” enabling to join all points where mutual distance is less then this threshold
parameter (see section “Point identity tolerance band”, page 143).
This feature is very useful in cases when closed chains are designed as part contours
and this is the only correct solution. It is necessary to set this tolerance very carefully
because when too big tolerance band is set, the program merges together points that
should normally stay apart. The most suitable solution is to edit the drawing.

Tip: Asper can distinguish open and closed chain by colour, so part colour should be watched.
If the colour is different than expected then it should be immediately fixed up. In reality, Asper
distinguishes compensated and non-compensated chains. However, when all closed chains are
set as compensated and open chains are set as non-compensated, it is not possible to appoint
the inner side of the chain. This way an appearance that Asper distinguishes open and closed
chains by colour is created.

Punching
Punch is a special technological operation when cutting tool, e.g. plasma torch, is used
as a punching tool to mark points on the sheet surface, where the subsequent
operation has to be performed (drilling, cutting a thread, etc.). Note that not every
plasma source enables such an operation. Please contact your plasma source supplier
prior to application of this method.
Marking points can be placed during drawing the part (DesignCAD, entity “PointMark”,
AutoCAD and other CAD programs enable to create DXF outputs, “Point entity”) or
afterwards directly in Asper (menu: “Point → Mark”).
Position of points can be entered before the function “Mark” is activated or marking can
be activated without entering the points. In the latter case, the system asks for the
points and gradually processes them. Press key <Esc> or <Enter> after all points are
entered.
Marking points behave always like separate chains, however it is not allowed to attach
lead-ins and lead-outs to them. It is necessary to use marking points feature only if
CNC control system is also compatible with this method.

32
Section
Section is a group of adjacent entities. The program searches for corresponding
entities and then during processing of drawing it merges them into sections according
to certain rules. Although drawing may be designed so that entities are drawn in a
different order than it seems in picture, Asper looks after their proper linking. Each
section can also contain single lead-in and lead-out.

Sheet (semi-product)
A sheet is usually a rectangular piece of material intended for cutting: a metal sheet for
plasma and flame cutting; metal, wood, plastic, or any other suitable material for laser
cutting. The water jet is even capable to cut glass, ceramics, and other material.

Starting point
Starting point is the first point of a contour in the section; the lead-in and lead-out are
usually attached to this point. Starting point is automatically defined on the very first
entity that belongs to a particular section. Location of starting point can be modified
manually.

Surface detection
Surface detection is a method of scanning sheet surface in order to improve tracking
capability of a cutting head over the sheet. Scanning procedure is based on
measurement of Z co-ordinate of sheet top surface. Depending on the area of interest,
two or three different detection points are needed to calculate parameters of
approximate surface (line or plane). Then, the approximate surface can be used as a
reference for Z-axis height control. When only single detection point is used, the
system assumes constant height.
Typical application of surface detection is the voltage learning stage in case of plasma
bevel cutting.

Synchro points
Synchro points are used to synchronise actual detected position of the sheet and a
cutting plan. The method can be used only for camera. System automatically find
synchro points from NC program and after set starting point and sheet rotation, in case
that is not on perpendicular position to the gantry.

Template
Template is an empty cutting plan that contains no parts but only settings of all
parameters. An installation of Asper includes at least one template named “Normal.cfg”
that can be found in location of file “Asper.exe”. The template is a default template and
keeps the most universal parameter settings. This template is used when a new cutting
plan is created and no specific template is used.

33
The templates are used to fit particular target application of the plan. Some
technologies require to adjust specific parameters in order to tune finely the
technological process.
Asper enables to store settings and pre-defined values of all parameters and apply the
settings for creating cutting plans. Specific configuration can be saved in menu:
“Settings → Save settings into user template”. Subsequently, a dialogue window “Save
as” is displayed for entering template name without extension. The settings can be
modified on-the-fly while using Asper. Any set of settings can be stored into a separate
template. A template file contains user-defined settings (i.e. size of sheet, technology
source type, parts layout method, size and shape of lead-ins and lead-outs, etc.).
Templates are used to customize cutting from various materials with various
thicknesses, and qualitative characteristics that require different parameter settings.
The templates then it can be used for creating a new cutting plan for the given material.
In order to organize templates more efficiently, they can be saved into directories, e.g.
according to material type. Template organization depends exclusively on a user.
Reasonable usage of templates can significantly shorten the time and increase the
efficiency of preparation cutting plans for any particular technology and sheet. Effort
invested into careful preparation is later counter-balanced by sets of pre-prepared
templates ready to use.

Basic activities
This chapter describes the sequence of basic steps illustrating proper use of the
program. More detailed description of commands and parameters description is
available in the following chapters. Simple example of cutting plan creation is
presented in the Appendix.
The normal sequence of creating a new cutting plan consists of following steps:
1. Loading part or parts
2. Nesting of parts (manual or automatic)
3. Ordering (definition of plan processing sequence)
4. Special activities (not obligatory)
5. Cutting plan generation
6. Simulation – testing (recommended but not obligatory)
Typical Asper workflow is designed to provide simplicity of program use. Desired result
can be achieved by using only few actions accessible via menu commands or hot keys,
respectively. Despite the simplicity of usage, the programs offers a high degree of
flexibility by possibility to change many attributes of a cutting plan.

Loading data
The first activity when working with the program is loading data. Format of input data
DXF or LIB
Asper enables to read parts that have been drawn in a CAD program. The format DXF
(AutoCAD), DC2 (DesignCAD) and DSTV formats are supported automatically. Most of
standard CAD programs are able to convert their native format into/from DXF format. It

34
should be kept in mind that one CAD file should always contain only one drawing and
the description of part should not have additional technological add-ins (lead-ins, lead-
out, etc.).
The most frequent error when creating a part is caused by duplicity of some entities
because it is not visible in CAD program. Another common error is the situation when
two endpoints of neighbouring entities are not identical. If their distance is very small it
is not visible. In some cases, for dimensioning purposes normal lines are used, that are
internally represented by line entities. In that case, the program accepts them too and
erroneously they become an active part of drawing.
Asper is able to read parts from CAD programs and also its own output data, especially
cutting plan data (PLA) and the NC code itself. However, trouble-free reading of NC-
code is not guaranteed due to possible changes in this file outside of Asper, which
might be made externally (by user) or due to reading of code created by different
software.
During part file reading the program executes the following functions:
 Detection of mutual planar relations between existing entities
 Merging entities into sections and chains
 Chain cutting direction settings (inner and outer)
 Setting cutting direction of individual chains
After the part is loaded and above-mentioned functions have been completed
successfully, the part is displayed on a computer screen and is automatically placed in
the position determined by the program. The program then tries to place all loaded
parts as efficiently as possible from the left bottom corner. Positioning pattern can be
modified in settings (menu: “Settings → Nesting → From right” or “From top”). It is
possible to change values of various parameters and thus influence the nesting
procedure and processing (see section “Input (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+V>)”, page
142).
Correctness of loaded part can be checked in the window with information about the
number of loaded parts, chains, open and closed contours (menu: “File → Properties”).
The information about the number of open contours is the most important because it
can very often indicate a mistake because normally all chains should be closed. The
program enables to detect the order of entity points (menu: “Display → Section
points”), so it is easy to find possible duplicity or any other error. Asper also determines
the starting point and the type of lead-in and lead-out immediately after loading the
part. After completing the ordering (menu: “Order → Automatic”), the chain index will
be displayed (menu: “Settings → Display”).

Manual nesting of parts

Preliminary placement of parts nesting generated by Asper at the beginning of the work
can be modified using various functions, e.g. moving and rotation of selected part or
group of parts, mirroring in vertical, horizontal or general axes (given by two points),
moving parts closer one to one another, etc. (see menu: “Move”). It is also possible to
copy parts as single parts or as a group.

35
Ordering
Asper evaluates layout of parts automatically. It designs ordering of cutting, computes
parameters of cutting for economical information system and adds technological
information according to parameters setting. The program computes also basic
attributes of a cutting plan such as the cutting trajectory length, time needed for cutting
the parts, etc. When ordering is finished, the whole design of a cutting plan is
essentially completed. When necessary, it is possible to modify the design later.

Special activities
In most cases when program settings meet technology requirements, there is no need
to modify the plan. In practice, there are situations where some modification leads to
higher quality of cutting process.

Modification of starting point

Starting point can be moved into arbitrary point on section. In that case lead-in and
lead-out are moved together with this point but their format is changed according to the
type of new starting point (e.g. sharp edge and round edge cases are different). This
function is extremely important from technological point of view, starting point position
influences thermal distribution and sheet deformation.

Modification of lead-ins and lead-outs

Lead-ins and lead-outs created by the program are not necessarily satisfactory. Layout
of parts is often complicated and the program cannot consider all possible
combinations. It would be time consuming to test whether created lean-in or lead-out
does not go inside another part or whether distance between a piercing point and
a part is big enough. Therefore it is possible to modify them and finalise the layout.

Change of cutting order

The order (sequence) of cutting particular parts is designed by the program in order to
minimize distance between two starting points. There is a rule that all holes have to be
cut before the cutting of outer contour is started. When convenient, this feature can be
switched off.
Designed order does not necessarily meet all user requirements (e.g. due to thermal
deformation of a part of the sheet) and so it can be changed manually using various
functions.

36
Generating and storing cutting plan
After the work has been completed, the layout of parts and other properties of the
drawing are satisfactory, the plan (as a file with extension PLA) and NC-code (file
extension CNC) can be saved to a disk. At the same time, the economical information
file (file extension EKO) can be stored. Generation of different files can be turned off in
program menu (menu: “Parameters → Data generation → File generation”).
Created NC-file is ready to be transferred directly to a machine and run.

Simulation
For verification of generated plan NCSim program can be used. Description of the
program is beyond the scope of this manual, details can be found in dedicated NCSim
documentation.

Working with program

The program is designed as a multi-document application (MDI - Multiple Document
Interface). That means that it is possible to access and edit simultaneously several
plans; each of them displayed in separate window on the screen.

Note: Program Asper is in state of permanent development. This user guide describes
version 3.5.1.3397, release date 20. 09. 2011. Different versions might contain some
new functions and some functions could be removed or slightly changed. The version
number and date of release can be checked in menu: “Help → About Asper”.

Fig. 17 Information about current AsperWin version

Program appearance
Main menu of Asper is displayed on the top line of program window (Fig. 18). The
menu contains items used to run Asper functions.
Below the menu bar, there is a tool bar with icons for most frequently used functions.
The toolbar can be hidden (see section “Toolbars”, page 76).

37
The largest portion of program window represents the working area. A rectangle with
coloured borders inside of it represents a sheet with given size. The sheet size can be
stored into configuration template. The rectangle is used as a reference visual
information for zooming and viewing tool for placing parts on the sheet. Moreover, its
dimensions are used for sheet usage calculations.
On the very bottom of the program window there is a status line. The status line
displays information about the number of auxiliary points, cursor co-ordinates and
miscellaneous information displayed depending on current activity.
The work with particular window items is standardized according to the Windows
operating system.

Menu bar

Tool bar

Sheet border

Working area
Co-ordinates

Status line

Fig. 18 Appearance of Asper

Cutting plan elements

Cutting plans processed in Asper contain several types of elements that are displayed
in different fashion (Fig. 19).

38
 Auxiliary point

Sheet border

Part contour

NC start

Location of IHS Traverse path

Lead-in

Lead-out

NC end

Fig. 19 Fundamental elements of layout

Co-ordinate system
Sheet layout in Asper is displayed as a rectangle (Fig. 20). Asper uses an orthogonal
co-ordinate system that corresponds to the co-ordinate system used in MicroStep CNC
machines. Co-ordinate origin is located in the bottom left corner of a sheet.

Y+

0 X+

Fig. 20 Co-ordinate system in Asper

39
Menu items
The main menu consists of different items and sub-menus that provide access to all
implemented functions of Asper. The functions are described in detail in following
chapters.

File menu
“File” item provides various functions for work with plans and files. It enables loading
parts from CAD programs, other cutting plans, CNC code files and standard file
functions (“Print”, “Preview”, “File properties”, “Exit”, etc.) familiar to Windows users. It
also provides functions for generation of cutting plans and economy files, launching
simulation, etc. (Fig. 21).

Fig. 21 File menu

New (key shortcut: <Ctrl+N>)

“New” item is used for creating a new empty plan. After Asper is started, it
automatically creates an empty plan called “Asper1.pla”. Numbering of empty plans is
incremented according to number of new plans. An empty plan is created according to
the selection of a template. When this operation is performed from program menu, a
dialogue window for selection of available templates is displayed (Fig. 22).
When a new plan is created from toolbar (see Fig. 71) or by using shortcut keys
<Ctrl+N>, Asper automatically loads standard “Normal.cfg” template without asking for
template selection.

40
 Fig. 22 Dialogue window for selection of template for a new plan

Open (key shortcut: <Ctrl+O>)

Previously created and saved cutting plan can be loaded into Asper using “Open”
function. It is then possible to modify the plan, add new parts and CAD files into the
cutting plan and edit it.
When opened cutting plan file contains tool codes that are not defined in the Asper list
of tools, the program suggests to define missing tools:

Fig. 23 Warning message for undefined tool

For definition of new tools, a dialogue from program settings is opened (Fig. 24)with
tool code from the plan that is not defined in Asper.

41
 Fig. 24 Dialogue for definition of a new tool

Detailed description of tool management is presented in section “Tools (key shortcut:

<Alt+Shift+C>)”, page 154.

Close
“Close” command terminates work with current cutting plan. Provided that any changes
have been made, Asper displays a dialogue asking for saving the changes (Fig. 25).
Available options are: <Yes> (save changes), <No> (discard changes), and <Cancel>
(resume exiting).

Fig. 25 Dialogue displayed when exiting modified plan

Rest of sheet
The function is used when the sheet is utilised for cutting only partially. Remaining part
of the sheet can be used later with rectangular cut-off. In order to use the function, it is
necessary to specify a portion of a sheet to be considered as a rest and a portion used
for cutting. To specify the portions of a sheet, it is recommended to use function menu:
“File → Rest of sheet → Modify sheet shape” (see description in “Modify sheet shape”,
page 83).

42
Load
Function “Load” is used to load previously saved rest of sheet in “RST” file format. It
can be used as a sheet for preparation of a new cutting plan. The dialogue window
displayed after running the function enables to browse for a “RST” file and provides a
preview of a rest with dimensions.

Fig. 26 Dialogue window for loading a rest of a sheet

Save
Function “Save” enables to save specified portion of a sheet. The rest is saved into a
“RST” file that is actually a “PLA” file containing only information about working area
dimensions.

Save rest to DXF

The rest of a sheet can be saved also into “DXF” file format.

Insert DXF (key shortcut: <Ctrl+D>)

The function inserts external “DXF” drawing into current cutting plan. It is the most
common way how to create a cutting plan. For troubleshooting information for opening
“DXF” drawings see page 145.

43
IGES (key shortcut: <Ctrl+I>)
The function inserts external “IGES” drawing into current cutting plan.

Insert DC2 (key shortcut: <Ctrl+W>)

The function inserts external “DC2” drawing into current cutting plan.

Insert DSTV (key shortcut: <Shift+W>)

One of the basic functions is inserting CAD drawings describing parts. Basic CAD file
formats compatible with Asper are listed in Tab. 2.

Tip: It is strongly recommended to store single part in one CAD file!

After loading parts, Asper automatically performs the following operations:

 Transformation of any discontinuous entities into continuous chains
 Evaluation of closed or open chains
 Adding of lead-ins and lead-outs wherever it is allowed and possible
 Placement of the part into free place on the sheet using nesting strategy
described in program settings (menu: “Settings → Nesting”).
The work with loaded and processed part is finished by establishing order for individual
section or chain cutting.
The “DXF” format is the most preferred format of supported CAD formats. It is a public
format that is supported by all commonly used CAD programs. Other formats are
supported only to meet individual needs of customers and requirements and the
support of the formats follows only requirements of customers.

Insert REZ
This function enables to insert existing CNC code in “REZ” format into a cutting plan.
Insertion of CNC code is usually not a standard feature of CAM programs. It is only an
option for processing older cutting plans created mostly manually, or it can be used in
cases when there is no CAD equivalent or cutting plan (“PLA” file).
It is important to note that lead-ins and lead-outs are not components of CAD drawings
and they are added by Asper. When Asper is supposed to read a file where due to
presence of lead-ins and lead-outs the part is not closed, it has to be processed in a
special way. Asper is able to handle the situation but it is not guaranteed that the result
is acceptable under all circumstances. Sometimes CNC code is adapted manually by
user. Some changes might be incompatible with Asper. In order to read the file by

44
Asper successfully, such changes have to be revised (extra commands should be
deleted, etc.).
When it is not necessary to use this feature, it is recommended to use only CAD files or
plans and to avoid reading CNC code whenever possible.

Insert ESSI
The function enables to read ESSI code (conforming ESSI international standard) into
the cutting plan. All notes presented for “Insert REZ” item, are valid also for this entry.

Insert CNC
The function enables to read CNC code (conforming DIN international standard) into
the cutting plan. All notes presented for “Insert REZ” item, are valid also for this entry.

Insert PLA
The function inserts existing cutting plan in Asper format into a current one. It is
possible to merge multiple plans in this way and use previously designed cutting plans.
The function different is from function “Open plan” where only single plan is loaded into
a new window. It is possible to use all functions and to manipulate with imported parts,
or to combine different ways of loading parts, etc. Imported .PLA have set the
properties from templates.

Insert MI
The function enables to read ME10 code into the cutting plan. All notes presented for
“Insert REZ” item, are valid also for this entry.

Save (key shortcut: <Ctrl+S>)

Current cutting plan can be saved to any connected and recognized storage device
(e.g. a disk, floppy disk, external drive, or computer network) even before it has been
finished by using the command “Save”.

45
Save as
Current cutting plan can be saved under different name. The way of usage of this
function is common in any Windows programs.

Generate (key shortcut: <Ctrl+G>)

This function differs from previous functions in the way that not only a plan is stored but
all necessary files according to settings, including a plan (Asper “PLA” file), CNC code
and economy file. This is the only way of generating CNC code (see also settings in
menu: “Settings → File generation”).

Properties (key shortcut: <Alt+Enter>)

The function displays a window with significant properties of the current cutting plan
(Fig. 27). The window provides a quick overview of loaded parts and after insertion of
particular part, it enables to perform a basic visual check. The information is important
in case when some of inserted CAD drawings are not correct and it is inevitable to find
and fix open chains, duplicate entities (circles one on another), etc.
Detailed description of the content can be obtained by inspection of an economy file.

Fig. 27 Plan properties

Economy file (key shortcut: <Ctrl+E>)

This function is used for viewing and printing the content of a economy file (see Fig.
28). Auxiliary files necessary for economy files are created during generation of a
cutting plan. In order to generate a report, it is necessary to switch on the option in
menu: “Settings → File generation → Economy file” to generate the economy file
whenever a cutting plan is generated. Otherwise, the information can be incorrectly
displayed or not displayed at all.

46
 machine data

sheet data

tool data

calculated usage data

calculated cutting data

summary

Fig. 28 Economy report in Asper version 3.2 and higher

Economy report provides basic information about a cutting plan, nesting efficiency,
working time, material consumption, etc. The report is used for comprehensive display
of economic information related to technological process, especially sheet usage and
basic calculations regarding quantity, unit price, etc. A report can be then previewed
and printed. Relevancy and usability of the report depend on careful setting of process
data in menu: “Settings → Technology”. Currency entry is set also in the same folder.
Economy report data is divided into five main parts. Generated tables contain following
data (Fig. 28):

Machine data
File name Name of file and path of file location
Machine Machine identification name defined in (menu:
“Settings → Technology → Machine”)
Traverse speed Speed of traverse movement expressed in [mm/min] specified in
(menu: “Settings → Technology → Traverse speed”)
Date Date of file generation inserted automatically
Hour cost Unit cost per hour e.g. [EUR/h] (menu: “Settings → Technology →
Price/hour”)

47
Sheet data
Dimensions Correspond to sheet size (menu: “Settings → Sheet”) and material
thickness (menu: “Settings → Technology → Material thickness”)
Material Text description of sheet (menu: “Settings → Technology → Sheet
type”)
Sheet weight Weight of complete sheet in [kg], based on material density and
calculated volume (menu: “Settings → Technology → Material
density”)
Unit sheet price Unit price of the sheet per kilo (menu: “Settings → Technology →
Price/kg”)
Total sheet price Price of complete sheet calculated as:
Total sheet price = Sheet weight × Unit sheet price

Tool data
Tool Tool type set in (menu: “Settings → Technology → Technology tool”)
Cut price Unit price per 1 m of cutting path (menu: “Settings → Technology →
Price/meter”)
Starting time Sum of piercing time, parking time and time of moving the head from
parking position to cutting height (Settings → Technology → Piercing
time)
Speed Cutting speed of the tool in [mm/min] (menu: “Settings → Technology
→ Cutting speed”)

Calculated cutting data

Cutting time Expresses total cutting time, depends on cutting length and cutting
speed
Traverse time Calculated including traverse length and speed
Starting Specifies number of starts and starting times
Total time Overall sum of all times

Calculated usage data

2
Parts Total area of parts [m ]
2
Waste Resulting waste area [m ] in a plan
2
Sheet Overall sheet area [m ]
Usage Relative usage [%] of sheet (parts area relative to overall area)

In case when generation of economy file of 3.1 version is set (menu: “Settings → File
generation → Economy file (version 3.1)”), the economy file is a simple text file with
“EKO” extension that is easy to be modified afterwards.

48
 Fig. 29 Economy report in Asper version 3.1 and older

Asper generates this file with name that is identical with the name of the cutting plan.
This text file can be printed out or saved together with cutting plan for archiving
purposes and normative processing.

Simulation (key shortcut: <Ctrl+T>)

Command activates NCSim program (CNC code simulator) with current plan. The
simulator is an independent program in Asper and it can be used also separately. In
case when the simulator is activated from Asper after CNC code is generated, Asper
provides a link to the corresponding CNC code (simulator automatically compiles CNC
code to internal format).
NCSim program is described in detail in a separate user guide.

Print (key shortcut: <Ctrl+P>), Print preview,

Printer setup
Asper enables to print cutting plan in selected section of sheet or complete sheet. It is
possible to display only a detail of the cutting plan and print it like a hardcopy from a
window. Only cutting plan portion displayed in current window can be printed out.
Printing is executed in a usual way, it is possible to use key shortcut <Ctrl+P>.

49
 Fig. 30 Example of print preview

The function “Preview” is a standard function supported by Windows operating system.

It enables to preview and verify the look of a printout before real printing (see Fig. 29).
The item “Printer setup” enables to change printer settings or to choose different printer
when working in computer network, etc.

Recent files list

A list of four last recently used cutting plans is displayed in the lower part of “File”
window. It provides a kind of shortcut access to one of the last recent cutting plans
(Fig. 31).

Fig. 31 List of four recently opened plans

50
Exit Asper
This command terminates entire work with program. Asper asks for saving unsaved or
changed documents before exiting in the same ways as in case of menu: “File →
Close” function (Fig. 25).

Edit menu
“Edit” menu is used for standard editing operation as it is usual in most Windows-based
programs. It enables to undo and repeat recent operations, handle block of objects via
clipboard. Moreover, it is used to display of part properties, application of some
instructions and list of installed shape libraries. Standard Asper installation includes at
least WSelect shape library of basic geometric shapes. Other shape libraries are
optional and are described in dedicated documentation.

Fig. 32 Edit menu

Undo (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Z>)

Asper enables to resume the latest activities or functions. The “Undo” function provides
means to fix up some situations, e.g. recover a part deleted by mistake, etc. It is
possible to return backwards in the history of last recent activities and resume them
step-by-step.

Redo (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Y>)

The function allows to resume operations in cases when function “Undo” has been
used before.

51
Last action
The command repeats the last recent action but all needed parameters should be
entered again. If, for instance, a lead-in has been modified (that means invoking “Redo”
action, selection and positioning of current lead-in), the command only runs the
function; selection and positioning of the lead-in should be done manually.
Repeating of a function that needs more auxiliary points requires entering absolute co-
ordinates of the first point and then absolute co-ordinates of the auxiliary point.
Usage of this function is convenient especially in case when a function needs single
auxiliary point (detailed description can be found in “Auxiliary points (key shortcut:
<Alt+Shift+B>)”, page 152). When the function is used in a standard way for the first
time, it is needed only to position cursor over other objects and press corresponding
key shortcut for repeating.
To repeat only last recent command, <Ctrl+Space> can be used.

Cut, copy, paste (key shortcuts: <Ctrl+X>,

<Ctrl+C>, <Ctrl+V>)
The menu comprises also standard functions enabling to copy and move parts within
one plan or between more plans using the clipboard. The functions do not enable to
copy any parts into other programs.

Delete (key shortcut: <Del>)

The function deletes an individual part, or a group of parts. It is also possible to delete
inner holes. More parts can be deleted simultaneously or individually using commands
from menu: “Select”.
The command is useful e.g. in case when two parts differ just in the number of inner
holes. It is not necessary to load two parts; the first part can be simply copied and
holes in the copy deleted. Then it is recommended to rename the second part.
Deletion of holes influences the computation of the parts area and cutting efficiency.
When the hole belongs to the part but it is supposed to be processed using different
technology, “Section → Disable/enable cut” function instead of “Delete” function can be
used.

Create copies (key shortcut: <K>)

The function is intended for copying part or group of parts. For copying a group of parts
commands from menu “Select” should be used. The functions prompts for the number
of copies. The number excludes the original object, when e.g. it is required to prepare 6
identical parts then number of copies should be 5 (1 original + 5 copies).

52
 Fig. 33 Dialogue window for entering number of copies

Multi head cutting (key shortcut:

<Ctrl+Alt+SPACE>)
Simultaneous cutting of identical parts by two or more technological heads placed on
the same gantry. Number of cutting heads must be set in menu “Tools”.

Part properties (key shortcut: <*>)

Fig. 34 Part properties

The function enables to change the name of single part or a group of parts. To rename
multiple parts in a single step, commands from “Select” menu should be used to select
the parts. Part name is used in an economy file.
The dialogue window for the function displays also part area [mm2] and adjustable
attribute for enabling collision check with other parts in a cutting plan.

Common-line cut (key shortcut: <$>)

The command enables to change placement of two defined parts of a cutting plan in
a way that their two selected edges can be cut simultaneously by single cut.
Before activating the function, it is important to check kerf width setting in menu:
“Settings → Technology → Kerf Width”. The parameter value should be equal to actual
tool kerf width.
The function expects selection of two edges to create common-line cut. Compensation
is performed on outside chains of both parts that are connected, and the second part is

53
automatically moved towards first part to create common-line cut. The parts visually
appear as a single part. More parts can be added to the already existing pair by
repeating these steps. The block of parts created this way will be non-compensated.
Compensation is executed automatically in Asper by means of co-ordinates (command
“G41” or “G42” – switch on compensation is not inserted into cutting code before
cutting).
Last step of common cut preparation is definition of cutting order. This is usually done
manually using function menu: “Ordering → Manual common-line cut”, because
automatic ordering might fail. Manual ordering should be performed carefully to prevent
falling down unfinished parts. Overall procedure for creating common-line cut is
illustrated in to.

Fig. 35 Selection of the first edge for common-line cut

Fig. 36 Selection of the second edge for common-line cut

54
Fig. 37 Parts joined together with non compensated contours and a dialogue window
regarding next step

Fig. 38 Parts joined together

55
 Fig. 39 Final part with manually ordered sequence

NC start location
The command is used to define co-ordinates of an auxiliary point where NC program
starts. The location is specified by clicking the mouse button. An alternative way is to
change cutting program settings (menu: “Settings → NC program → NC start
location”).

NC end location
The command is used to define co-ordinates of an auxiliary point where NC program
ends. The location is specified by clicking the mouse button. An alternative way is to
change cutting program parameters (menu: “Settings → NC program → NC end
location”).

Transform circular holes

The function applies transformation of the circular holes on all the parts of the current
cutting plan. Transformation means substitution of all circular holes falling into separate
class given by their size by drilling with a tool with assigned diameter. Substitution table
is defined in Asper settings. For details see “Transformation of circles (key shortcut:
<Alt+Shift+I>)”, page 132.

56
Libraries and optional add-ins
Other items in “Edit” menu serve for running macros and part libraries. The Select
library is a part of standard installation and it contains standard parts. Other libraries
and programs were created for specific applications – e.g. Airsel library (air-
conditioning ductwork) or programs for cutting pipes and rectangular profiles. The add-
ins are often customised for individual customers and they are described in special
user guides. For overview of options see section “Asper family products”, page 18.

Part nesting menu (optional)

The menu includes only single function intended for creating a new nesting task. The
nesting task consists of creation of a new list of parts that should be placed on sheets
and a list of available sheets. An optional part of the program is automatic saving – it is
not included in the standard installation.
First, a configuration file must be created where all new plans are saved, i.e. plans will
adopt all settings of the document. Parameters can be modified directly in the nesting
window as well as in the drawing. A new window is created where user creates lists of
parts and sheets – nesting task window.

New nesting task (key shortcut

<Ctrl+Alt+N>)
The function is used to create optimal placement of parts available for particular plan
automatically. For a new nesting task it is important to select appropriate template that
is used as a basis for newly created plans, template settings will be adopted for the
given document. When reasonable, it is possible to modify the parameters in nesting
task window.

Fig. 40 Nesting task definition window

57
 Fig. 41 Management of sheets for nesting task

The first selection window contains options for placement of parts and interruption of
placement on a sheet.
There are three available options (Fig. 42):
1. Until end
2. Until end with filename confirmation
3. Full sheet

Fig. 42 Nesting task options

Even in the case when “Until end” is selected and sheet is filled, nesting is paused to
confirm plan file name. When the file name is not confirmed (key <Esc>, <Cancel>, or
<Storno>), placement is interrupted. Interrupted task can be used to manual
modification of placement. The last method of placement is suitable when placement of
the parts appears to be not as efficient as required.
“Close when completed” selection causes closing nesting task window after all parts
are placed.

58
 Fig. 43 Nesting task menu

First, parts for nesting preferably in “DXF” format should be loaded from “Insert” menu.
The menu is displayed after clicking the mouse on button.
In the first screen, there is a display of parts selected for nesting on a sheet and
information about the parts (Fig. 42).

Fig. 44 Window with parts selected for nesting

59
 button displays a window where quantity, rotation, part priority and fit type - nesting
strategy can be modified (Fig. 45).
“Placement pattern” provides options of placement the parts on the sheet (Fig. 119):
 According to plan setting
 Speed
 Centre of gravity 1
 Centre of gravity 2
 Grid 1
 Grid 2

Fig. 45 Settings for part for nesting

In the middle part, there is a list of parts and buttons for creation and editing. “Save
counts” button is used to save quantity of parts, “Resume counts” button is used to
resume quantity of parts.
In the bottom part, there is a list of available semi-products and buttons for creation and
modification of the list. Four types of semi-products can be added.
The nesting process can be defined by selecting an option “Confirm nesting”. When
nesting results are acceptable, the completeness of the process is accepted by ”Yes“
button.
“Close when completed” option closes nesting window after the task is completed.
“Generate NC program for unfilled sheets” option generates also partially filled nested
sheets.
The nesting process can be defined by selecting an option “Confirm nesting”. When
nesting results are acceptable, the completeness of the process is accepted by ”Yes“
button.
“Close when completed” option closes nesting window after the task is completed.
“Generate NC program for unfilled sheets” option generates also partially filled nested
sheets.

60
 Fig. 46 Items for definition of nesting process

Fig. 47 Result of nesting waiting for confirmation

Fig. 48 Asper screen after nesting task has been completed

Selected parts are nested (nesting process is launched) after “Run nesting” button is
pressed. Resulting plan can be saved into a target folder on a disk for future usage.
Nesting task window contains mainly of list of parts and sheets. Quantity and type of
objects can be modified by “Add”, “Edit” and “Remove” buttons located in the bottom
part of the lists.
Method of completing the nesting task can be selected in the top window. There are
three options (Fig. 46):
1. Until end
2. Until end with filename confirmation
3. Full sheet
Even when the option “Until end” is selected, nesting is interrupted when the sheet is
full by a request to confirm the file name. In case when filename is not confirmed, (key

61
<Esc> or button <Cancel> is pressed), nesting is interrupted. Parts that are not placed
properly can be moved manually to meet placement criteria. Interruption of nesting is
suitable mainly in cases when user experience allows to gain higher efficiency of
nesting.
Command “Close when completed” closes the task window (Nesting window) after
nesting of all parts is completed.
In the middle part of the window there is a list of parts and buttons for creation and
modification of the list of parts. The button “Store counts” is used for saving the number
of parts; the button “Recall counts” is used for returning the number of parts previously
saved.
Adding a sheet can be executed by a corresponding button below the sheet list. It is
possible to add an empty sheet or an existing plan saved at disk and the parts will be
nested into it. The bottom part of the window includes list of available sheets and
function buttons for creation and modification of the list of sheets. There is an 4 options
to add sheet (Fig. 49):
 Empty sheet, which dimensions and quantity can be specified
 Existing plan, where may be added sheet from already existing nesting plan
(*.PLA)
 DXF, shape of sheet is defined by drawing (*.DXF)
 Rest of sheet, import of shape of sheet generated by Asper by using option: “File
→ Rest of sheet”

Fig. 49 Add sheet

In opened plans, DXF layouts and RST files, part properties like lead-ins/-outs, micro-
joints, etc., can be modified here.

Note: If the nesting task contains parts, which have different thicknesses or consist of
different materials, Asper will automatically assign them to the sheet with correspond
dimensions and thickness from the list of sheets. If this list does not include a sheet
with correspond parameters, Asper will offer an option to automatical adding of new
sheet according to this parameters.

The option “Add sheet automatically” prevents from shortage of sheets even if all the
listed sheets are used. A new empty sheet with same parameters as the latest used
one in the current list is created in such s case.

62
Nesting task can be saved by menu: “File → Save as…”. Then, a simple file containing
list of parts to be nested and list of sheets will be created (*.NTF)
Adding a part or change of requirements on this part (number, fit type) can be changed
by “Edit” button. In case of adding a part selection window appears automatically.
When a file is selected, a part specification window appears (Fig. 50):

Fig. 50 Selection of parts for nesting

It is possible to set required number of parts and the placement pattern here. Most
common placement patterns are – “Centre of gravity” and “Grid”. When “Centre of
gravity” is used, ideal placement of part is searched at the moment of its placement
without any concerns to the other parts. The “Grid” is recommended especially for the
parts with large quantities. Regular part structures are created in that case and the
spaces between them and other spaces are filled afterwards. If “Rotation” is set, it is
possible to change the part rotation step when searching for its ideal placement.

An option “Part rotation” offer to set starting position of particular part. Three option of
starting nesting positions are:
 Original (from file) – starting position of part during the nesting will be default
position, same as in the list of parts.
 Minimal width – in the beginning of nesting Asper will organize specified part
into position with mninimal width.
 Minimal rectangle - in the beginning of nesting Asper will organize specified part
into position with mninimal height.

By using an option “Use enumerated angle rotations” you can set down several angles
for chosen part, that will be used to rotation of this part. Also, this option may defined
rotation angles of several parts at once. During the nesting process, Asper will use
most effective setting of all specified (Fig. 51).

63
 Fig. 51 Setting down of the angles of rotations

Nesting itself is executed by pressing the “Run nesting” button.

A window describing the progress of nesting appears and the nesting process can be
terminated at any time by pressing the <STOP> button. However, response to this
button can be sometimes delayed.

Fig. 52 Screenshot of nesting task in progress

After the nesting is finished or a sheet is filled, the program prompts for confirmation of
the suggested nesting. When nesting is confirmed by is “Yes”, it is imported into the
current plan and the process continues. It is possible to modify manually the nesting
afterwards. Otherwise, nesting is terminated without any changes to the plan.
Parameters of automatic nesting can be changed and the task can be run it again.

Number of
remaining parts

Fig. 53 List of parts used in nesting task

64
Semi-automatic nesting process consist of removing selected parts or adding parts
from list on the left side (Fig. 53). Adding is possible only when number of parts in this
list nonzero. Adding or removing parts from sheet is automatically reflected in number
of parts in list. Adding parts to sheet in semi-automatic mode may be realized in four
ways:
1. Mass storage: Selection of part (displayed as orange edge) and choosing free place
(button F3+left mouse) (Fig. 54).

Fig. 54 Mass storage of selected part into free place of sheet

2. Inserting one by one: Manually selection and moving part. Inappropriate placement
is displayed as change colour of part (red) but the last suitable method of placement ,
which can be used by left-mouse click, remains displayed (Fig. 55)

Fig. 55 Inserting parts one by one

3. Inserting one by one by double click: Part can be added to free place of sheet by
simple double click. This storage of parts (as other all) concerning "Nesting direction"
setting at the upper left side.

65
4. Complete nesting of remaining parts: Switch to the Nesting task window (key
<Ctrl+Tab>), increasing of number of part separately or increasing number of selected
parts by use option "edit, change parameters and settings and repeated automatic
nesting by use button "Run nesting".

Note: If during the nesting was used options "Until end" or "Until end with filename
confirmation", so the *.PLA file (nesting task) was already saved, re-change of amount
of any part will not reflect in the list of parts, as mentioned in previous steps. That
means, if you probably will want to change these amounts, use third option "Full sheet".

Display menu
Display menu is used to display individual parts of the plan, verification measurement
of angles and distances, and various display settings.

Fig. 56 Display menu items

Zoom window (key shortcut: <F4>)

The command enables to zoom-in a detail of working area given by a rectangular
window. The program expects two points (corners of a rectangle to be zoomed-in) to
define a window. The view of detailed area is then enlarged to the entire desktop
working area. Original view can be accomplished by pressing <Esc> or <Break>
instead of entering auxiliary points.

All parts (key shortcut: <F5>)

Viewing all parts placed on the sheet is accessible via “All parts” function. Asper
displays only the rectangular portion of the sheet containing placed parts.

66
Complete sheet (key shortcut: <Ctrl+F5>)
This function displays all parts and the entire sheet.

Single part (key shortcut: <F7>)

The function displays a single part given by one auxiliary point close to the part.

Single chain (key shortcut: <F6>)

The function zooms-in a particular chain. The function prompts for a point to define a
chain. If the point belongs to an outer contour, the resulting view will be identical to the
“Single part” function.

Zoom out (key shortcut: <F8>)

This command returns the zoom factor one step back.

Redraw (key shortcut: <Ctrl+R>)

The command redraws the entire working area, it is helpful in case of incorrect
displaying, e.g. after switching between other running programs using text mode and
graphic mode, etc.

Measure distance (key shortcut: <?>)

The function measures the distance in [mm] between two points. The command
displays diagonal, horizontal (in X-axis direction) and vertical (in Y-axis direction)
distances, and the angle with respect to X-axis. If both points have the same X co-
ordinate, and the distance and difference between the Y co-ordinates are identical, the
difference between the X co-ordinates is zero and the angle is +90° or –90°.

67
 Fig. 57 Measured distance (5 mm in vertical direction)

The measurement procedure is as follows:

1. Select the function “Measure distance” from “Display” menu
2. Specify auxiliary points for distance measurement
3. Measured distance is displayed in dedicated window
The same procedure is used for other available measurements.

Measure angle C-S-E (key shortcut: <<>)

This command enables to measure the angle given by three auxiliary points
(abbreviation C-S-E stands for centre, start, and end).
The result of angle measurement is expressed in degrees and gives two values for
inner angle and outer angle being complement of the inner angle to 360°.

Measure angle S-C-E (key shortcut: <>>)

This command enables to measure the angle given by three auxiliary points
(abbreviation S-C-E stands for start, centre, and end).
The result of angle measurement is expressed in degrees and gives two values for
inner angle and outer angle being complement of the inner angle to 360°.

Measure line angle (key shortcut: <}>)

The command serves for measuring the angle between two lines even in the case
when lines do not have any common point. Each line is defined by two points. It is not
necessary to enter points lying on the lines; arbitrary four points can be entered.
The result of angle measurement is expressed in degrees and gives two values for
inner angle and outer angle being complement of the inner angle to 360°.

68
Section points (key shortcut: <Q>)
This command displays indexes of vertices for given section. Function expects a point
to select a section (Fig. 58). Repeated usage of this command switches off displaying
of indexes of vertices.

Fig. 58 Display of section points

The function helps to check the parts correctness. Normally, a chain consists of a
single section. If the part is correct, indexes should be continuously incrementally
labelled. In case of an open chain, that is a most common error during construction, it
is easy to find the starting point.

Part names (key shortcut: <S>)

Displaying of parts names can be quickly turned on or off by repeated usage of this
function (Fig. 59 and Fig. 60). The feature can be used to provide better orientation
especially in cases when a number of different parts is present in a plan.
Part names are given in imported “DXF” file, or defined in WSelect part library. In
newer versions of WSelect part library, part names can be defined by user.

69
 Fig. 59 Part names display switched on

Fig. 60 Part names display switched off

Display mode
Information about setting of various technology properties for sections and entities,
e. g. compensation, cutting speed, etc., can be displayed in different colours to simplify
identification of distinctive features of a plan.

Fig. 61 Display mode

Normal Displays all cutting paths in standard colour scheme – i.e. cutting paths
are distinguished by colour with regards to their characteristics –
compensated or not, bevel edge, microjoint, lead-ins/-outs, etc.
Tools Displays cutting paths of different applied tools by different colour.
Speed Displays cutting paths by different colours according to their relative
cutting speed (ten different colours, each colour covers the range of
10 %). The mode is suitable when lower speed on certain entities (e.g. in
corners) is applied.
More display modes are available from the toolbar (Tab. 5, page 76).

70
Examples of different display modes
Following examples illustrate different display modes. Each display mode shows basic
shape of a part and additional properties of entities are shown in different colour.
Assignment of colours can be modified by user in Asper settings (see section “Colours
(key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+F>)”, page 149).

“N” (normal) display mode

Normal display mode is the most commonly used mode with contour and lead-in/-out
displayed in different colours.

Fig. 62 Example of “N” (normal) display mode

“T” (tool) display mode

Tool display mode is useful for plans that use different tools for different entities. For
example, when one side of a square is prepared for bevel cutting and remaining three
sides are cut with straight plasma, then the display mode results in a view as displayed
in Fig. 63.

71
 Fig. 63 Example of “T” (tool) display mode

“A” (ATHC) display mode

ATHC display mode enables to distinguish different modes of ATHC. Example in Fig.
64 illustrates a situation for bevel cutting with plasma. Different colours of bevel cut
edge reveal different methods of ATHC (height control according to detected surface,
voltage learning, adaptive height control according to plasma arc voltage.)

Fig. 64 Example of “A” (ATHC) display mode

72
“H” (head index) display mode
Head index display mode is useful for plans prepared for machines (multi-head option)
that have more than one head with the same technology. The example in Fig. 65
illustrates a situation with simultaneous cutting of a square with two heads.

Fig. 65 Example of “H” (head index) display mode

“S” (speed) display mode

Speed display mode can be used e.g. in cases when it is advantageous to modify
technological speed. For example, to improve the quality of cut for waiter jet cutting, it
is reasonable to reduce speed in the corners as illustrated in (Fig. 66)

Fig. 66 Example of “S” (speed) display mode

73
“W” (power) display mode
Power display mode distinguishes different values of relative power. Typical application
is a laser cutting machine where in many cases it is desirable to apply different settings
of laser output power.

Fig. 67 Example of “P” (power) display mode

Switching between display modes is possible also in a simpler and quicker way in the
toolbar – by letter buttons as displayed in Fig. 70.

Manual slowing-down in corners

Manual slowing-down in corners is useful especially for water jet cutting. The purpose
is to enable the water jet to be straightened before approaching the corner and the
result is significant improvement of corner quality. Automatic slowing down can be set
in Asper settings (see section “Automatic parameter changes (key shortcut:
<Alt+Shift+W>)”, page 138).
Manual slowing-down can be performed in several steps:
1. Locate a point on the given entity using mouse cursor
2. Split the entity into two parts (use Asper function menu: “Point → Displacement”
for defining desired distance of the point from the beginning or end of the
contour).
3. Open the menu by right click of the mouse and select menu: “Entity → Split”
item.
4. Mouse cursor should be moved to the created entity part and then right mouse
button should be pressed. The following dialog window is displayed by selecting
an item “Entity → Properties”:

74

It is possible to modify following entity properties:
“Relative speed [%]”
“Relative power [%]”
“Pause before entity [s]”
“Pause after entity [s]”
“Cooling before entity”
“Custom technology speed”
“Custom r.p.m.”
Fig. 68 Entity properties
The parameter enables to use modification of cutting
speed relative to the cutting speed set in tool
parameters (MSNC).
In case of cutting plan for laser technology it is also
possible to set relative source output.
When the option is enabled, Asper inserts into the
cutting program an instruction “G4” for pause (e.g.
instruction “G4 F5.0” means “wait 5 seconds”),
parameter value expresses waiting time in [s] inserted
before selected entity.
When the option is enabled, Asper inserts into the
cutting program an instruction “G4” for pause with,
parameter value expresses waiting time in [s] inserted
after selected entity.
When the option is enabled, Asper inserts into the
cutting program dedicated sequence of instructions
“M5” (“stop tool”) and “M3 D2” (“perform cooling”).
It is possible to set custom technology speed in
[mm/min] for each entity. However, it is recommended
to modify the speed by means of relative speed.
Custom setting of r.p.m. is used mainly for milling
machines or in general for tools where cutting is
executed by a rotating tool that can rotate clockwise or
anti-clockwise). This function distinguishes by colour
assigned to standard direction of rotation (clockwise for
DIN code “M3”) and anti-clockwise rotation (for DIN
75
 code “M4”).
“ATHC mode” The parameter enables to assign one available ATHC
modes:

Toolbars
Asper look can be customised by displaying or hiding toolbars. A toolbar provides
means for fast access to frequently used functions. Description of particular buttons is
available after leaving the mouse cursor on the button area by means of so-called tool-
tips. Most functions can be run also from menu or by corresponding key shortcut.
Functions run by key shortcuts that require auxiliary points enable to use actual mouse
cursor position (for details see section “Miscellaneous (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+O>)”,
page 152).

Fig. 69 Menu items for displaying/hiding toolbars

Default setting of Asper layout can be seen in Fig. 18.

Fig. 70 Asper standard toolbar

Button Function
N Standard view mode
T Tool view mode
A ATHC view mode
H Leading head index view mode
S Technology speed view mode
W Relative power view mode
Tab. 5. Available display modes in the toolbar
More experienced users can use key shortcuts speed-up the work and then it is
advantageous to hide the toolbar and enlarge the working area.
The position of toolbar can be moved also with mouse.
Default configuration of the status line is given in Fig. 71.

76
 Set nesting direction Standard view mode Create new <Ctrl+N>
Set nesting direction Tool view mode Open <Ctrl+O>
Set nesting direction ATHC view mode Save <Ctrl+S>
Set nesting direction Leading head index view mode Generate <Ctrl+G>
Set nesting direction
Technology speed view mode Print <Ctrl+P>
Set nesting direction
Relative power view mode Insert DXF <Ctrl+D>
Set nesting direction
Pressure view mode Undo <Ctrls+Z>
Set nesting direction

Status line
Direction of rotation view mode
Improve rectangular position Replace drilling by gouging
Allow 90 deg rotation Circular pointer
Create copies <K>
Allow nesting into holes Delete objects <Del>
Ignore lead-ins / lead-outs Zoom-in rectangle <F4>
Zoom-out <F8>
Display complete sheet <Ctrl+F5>
Display parts <F5>
Measure distance <?>

Select parts <F2>

Select single part <F9>
Drag <D>
Mirror horizontally <H>
Mirror Vertically <V>
Change start point <R>

The command displays or hides the status line (see Fig. 18).
Add lead-in <I>
Add lead-out <Shift+I>

Fig. 72 Explanation of toolbar lower buttons

Fig. 71 Explanation of toolbar upper buttons
Modify lead-in <N>
Modify lead-out <Shift+N>
Remove lead-in <U>
Remove lead-out <Shift+U>
Automatic ordering <A>
Manual ordering <Z>
Ordering test <T>
Bevel edge properties

77
Dynamic piercing
Point menu
Usage of auxiliary points represents an important aspect of the entire work with Asper.
The reason is that many program functions need to have some reference points to
identify location for function to be completed.
The menu provides functions for handling auxiliary points, i. e. advanced placement
and functions that directly utilise auxiliary points.

Fig. 73 Point menu

Absolute placement (key shortcut: <:>

(colon))
Absolute placement of auxiliary point is given by co-ordinates with respect to the co-
ordinate origin [0, 0] on a sheet. Entered X and Y co-ordinates should be separated by
comma or space (Fig. 74), period (dot) is used as a floating-point separator.

Fig. 74 Input window for absolute co-ordinates

If at least one co-ordinate is not entered, Asper completes corresponding missing co-
ordinate from the latest given point. When no values are entered, Asper accepts
current position of the mouse cursor.
Y co-ordinate can be entered alone by starting typing with comma sign followed by Y
co-ordinate.
Number of auxiliary points is displayed in status line (Fig. 75). Auxiliary points can be
created using mouse clicks and cancelled in reverse order by <Esc> key.

78
 Fig. 75 Display of information about auxiliary points

Relative placement (key shortcut: <'>

(apostrophe))
Auxiliary point given by relative co-ordinates can be created by using “Relative point”
function.

Fig. 76 Input window for relative co-ordinates

First, the program prompts for entering reference point used as a basis for given
resulting point. It is often convenient to use “Snap” function for entering reference point.
Last recently given auxiliary point can be used as a reference by pressing <Enter>. If
no reference point is entered, after pressing <Enter> current cursor co-ordinates are
accepted.
The program then prompts for entering relative co-ordinates. New auxiliary point will be
created at co-ordinates obtained by sum of entered offsets and co-ordinates of the
reference. Co-ordinates X and Y should be entered separated by comma or space,
period (dot) is used as a floating-point separator.
Empty co-ordinate that has been not entered is substituted by corresponding co-
ordinate of latest auxiliary point. If no point is entered, Asper accepts current position of
the mouse cursor.
Y co-ordinate can be entered alone by starting typing with comma sign.

79
Polar placement (key shortcut: <;> (semi-
colon))
The command is used to create an auxiliary point given by polar co-ordinates. The
position of the point is defined by angle from X-axis and distance (radius) from the
reference co-ordinate. The angle is entered in degrees.

Fig. 77 Input window for entering polar co-ordinates

The program prompts for entering a reference point. It is convenient to enter this point
using the “Snap” function.
Last recently given auxiliary point can be used as a reference by pressing <Enter>. If
no reference point is entered, after pressing <Enter> current cursor co-ordinates are
accepted. Next prompt expects relative co-ordinates. The co-ordinates of the new
auxiliary point are calculated as a sum of user specified co-ordinates and reference
ones.
After that, the program prompts for entering polar co-ordinates. Co-ordinates angle (U)
and radius (R) should be entered separated with comma or space, period (dot) is used
as a floating-point separator.

Projection (key shortcut: <,>)

The command is used to create an auxiliary point as a perpendicular projection of
given point on the nearest entity. Program prompts for auxiliary point defining reference
co-ordinates. It is convenient to give this point as free. Most functions require only free
point; the projection is then computed automatically.

Snap (key shortcut: <.>)

The command can be used also with right mouse button together with <Shift> key. It is
possible to create an auxiliary point in so-called significant location. That means that
mouse cursor “jumps” to the closest significant point (e.g. the chain vertex, centre of
circle, corner, etc.). Co-ordinates of significant points are selectable in menu: “Settings
→ Auxiliary points” (see Fig. 165). When called from the menu, the program prompts
for entering reference point. It is convenient to give this point as free.
During movement of the mouse cursor in the working area, a crosshair skips between
auxiliary points. The program finds significant point closest to current cursor location
and creates there a new auxiliary point.

80
Displacement (key shortcut: <">)
This command enables to create an auxiliary point onto existing entity or section in
defined displacement.
The function is used in two different ways depending on location of reference auxiliary
point:
1. reference auxiliary point located in a place where two neighbouring entities join
2. reference auxiliary point located on a single entity
In the first case, the function expects a reference point. Then it makes a perpendicular
projection to the nearest entity and prompts for the direction of displacement. Available
direction can be changed to other neighbouring entities using <Tab> key. <Enter>
confirms the selected direction; <Esc> cancels the function.
Then the program prompts for entering a distance in [mm]. The function finds a
projection along the section and creates an auxiliary point in defined distance.
In the second case, the function just prompts for reference auxiliary point and
automatically creates auxiliary point in specified distance in direction of tool movement.
The procedure can be illustrated by an example of a square with edge length 100 mm.
When desired projection is in the middle of the edge and the distance is 100 mm, a
new auxiliary point will be created in the middle of adjacent edge in direction of tool
movement. That corresponds the distance 100 mm along the contour.

Fig. 78 Dialogue window for displacement

To create an auxiliary point in the opposite direction the distance should be entered as
a negative number.
Entered distance should be shorter that the distance between the projection and
beginning/end of section.

Cut start
The command places auxiliary points on the beginning of cutting paths. Actually, for
cutting technology, the cut start point represents piercing point. These points can be
replaced by drilling in case material is too thick to be pierced by plasma in a standard
way. The function can be used only for machines with a drilling tool.

Drill (key shortcut: <!>)

The command creates holes for drilling. It is available only where switching between
technological tools is supported and with a defined drilling tool. Program prompts for a

81
diameter of a drilling hole. The diameter value is accepted only provided that
corresponding item is defined in the circle transformation table (explained later in
section “Transformation of circles (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+I>)”, page 132). When
entered value is not defined in the table, an error message is displayed:

Fig. 79 Error message for drilling diameter mismatch

Mark (key shortcut: <#>)

This command creates marking points given by locating auxiliary points in the plan
where marking is desired and pressing <Enter>.

Line (key shortcut: <_> (underline))

The function creates a line by a sequence of auxiliary points. The line is considered to
be an individual part. It is an open chain, no lead-in or lead-out can be added. This kind
of lines can be used for parts with undercuts for folding, etc.
When necessary, the command can be used to create a simple part consisting of only
one type of entity – line (auxiliary points can be absolute, relative, located in grid
corners, etc.). The chain is closed by the function “Snap” applied on the first point of
the sequence.

Line of mark points (key shortcut: <Ctrl+#>)

The command creates a line that consists of mark points only. The program prompts
for approximate distance of individual points that are supposed to create the line. Real
distances are recalculated so that the distances between neighbouring points are
equal.
When creating the line of mark points, the first step is to define points of a line outline
(see example in Fig. 80).

82
 Fig. 80 Outline of a line given by three points
Then approximate distance between marking points should be entered (Fig. 81).

Fig. 81 Dialogue window for entering approximate distance between individual marking
points
Then resulting line composed of marking points with defined span is created (Fig. 82).

Fig. 82 Resulting line created from marking points

Modify sheet shape

The function enables to specify portions of a sheet by piecewise linear segments. The
segments are defined by a sequence of points placed by a mouse. The entering
sequence is completed by pressing <Enter> button (Fig. 83).

83
 Fig. 83 Definition of an arbitrary portion of a sheet
When entering of points is completed, it is possible to prepare cutting out the rest of a
sheet.

Fig. 84 Dialogue window for cutting out the rest of a sheet

Fig. 85 Final shape of sheet portion prepared for cutting out (grey colour indicates non-
compensated sections)

84
Surface detection
The function provides means to manage detection points used for surface detection.

Set detection points

Detection points can be set for selected entities in the plan by means of auxiliary
points, the points can be defined in advance, or after running the function. The function
can be applied provided that a selection of entities is made (menu: Select). The
number of points is given by a user.

Cancel detection points

Already set detection points can be removed individually for selected entities by
selection of the points.

Cancel detection points on selected sections

The function is used to remove all detection points defined for selected entities.

Synchro points
The function is used to define synchro points for synchronization of the orientation of a
cutting program with synchronization holes.

Set
Synchro points are set by selection of an entity and points that are intended for being
used as synchro points. It is possible to define the points in a standard way used in
Asper.

Cancel
Defined synchro points can be cancelled by using the function.

85
Select menu
Asper can work with parts in two different ways. Either the current part, or a group of
parts (block) is processed. A group of parts can be selected in several ways using
commands from menu: “Select”.

Fig. 86 Select menu

Parts (key shortcut: <F2>)

This command selects all parts present in the plan. If some parts have been selected
prior to calling the command, the selection will be cancelled.

Part (key shortcut: <F9>)

This command selects only single part. Repeated use of the command cancels
previous selection.

Chain (key shortcut: <Ctrl+F9>)

The command selects a chain defined by a single auxiliary point. Repeated use of this
command cancels previous selection.

Section (key shortcut: <Shift+F9>)

The command selects a section. Repeated use of this command cancels previous
selection.

86
Entity (key shortcut: <Alt+F9>)
The command selects an entity. Repeated use of this command cancels previous
selection.

Rectangular area

Window – parts (key shortcut: <F3>)

The command selects all parts within a rectangle defined by two auxiliary points. The
function is finished without change of selection by pressing <Esc> or <Break> instead
of entering both rectangular points. Repeated use of this command cancels previous
selection.

Window – chains (key shortcut: <Ctrl+F9>)

The command selects all chains within a rectangle defined by two auxiliary points.
Repeated use of this command cancels the previous selection.

Window – sections (key shortcut: <Shift+F9>)

The command selects all sections within a rectangle defined by two auxiliary points.

Advanced selection
The functions are used to select several objects according to selected criteria. It is
advantageous to use these functions in case when it is intended to carry out an
operation with large number of sections or chains that fulfil the same criteria. All
sections or chains fulfilling the selected criteria will be selected/unselected by pressing
<OK> button.

Advanced selection for chains

For advanced selection of chains there are several criteria for selection that filter only
chains with specific properties (Fig. 87):

87
Action
Maximum length [mm]
Contour / hole
Open / closed
Maximum rectangle size [mm]
Area less than [mm2]
Area greater than [mm2]
Available options are: “Select”, “Cancel selection”,
and “Invert selection”.
Definition of maximum chain length for selection
Available options are: “Outer contours only”,
“Holes”, and “Any”
Available options are: “Open”, “Closed”, and “Any”
Dimensions of sides of a rectangle entered in form
of a product: A × B
Selection of chains given by area size
Selection of chains given by area size

Fig. 87 Advanced selection for chains

Advanced selection for sections

Sections can be selected by application of one or both of criteria (Fig. 88):

Action Available options are: “Select”, “Cancel selection”,

and “Invert selection”.
Tool Selection of sections according to applied tool
available from list of tools (menu: “Settings →
Tools”).

Fig. 88 Advanced selection for sections

88
Invert selection (key shortcut: <Shift+F2>)
The function inverts the selection for all objects in the plan.

Cancel selection (key shortcut: <Ctrl+F2>)

The command completely cancels any previously made selection.

Move menu
Asper offers various functions for parts or part group manipulation. Most of them can
be found in menu: “Move” (Fig. 89).

Fig. 89 Move menu

Generally, moving functions operate in following fashion:

 If no chains are selected then points in their neighbourhood should be defined.
The points can be entered in advance, or the function prompts for them. When it
is necessary to enter more points, the second way is more transparent as the
called function announces desired number of points and their function in proper
order. If entire part should be moved, that is the most common case, a point
defining part outer contour chain should be entered. When a reference point is
located close to a hole, outer contour chain is not moved, only the hole or other
chains inside it are moved.
 If some chains are already selected, it is not necessary to enter points to define
them. The difference between this and previous case is that only selected objects
are moved. That means that if only outer contour is selected, the holes remain in
the same position. Usage of function “Select” provides more flexibility because it
is more likely required to move entire part. Moreover, it is possible to work with
chains in the same manner like with a group. The function leaves selection of
parts unchanged and thus it is possible to call another moving function for the
same group afterwards.
In case when the collision control is active (menu: “Settings → Miscellaneous →
Enable collision check”) a position correction test of all the moved parts is run. When
the program detects a collision (i.e. any two parts get closer to each other than a
minimum distance defined for nesting), the program displays a message.

89
Drag (key shortcut: <D>)
This command enables to change the position of a part. The part is selected with an
auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part using left mouse button.
Selected part is displayed in different colour and can be moved using cursor keys or
mouse. It is possible to rotate the part using <+> and <-> keys. For more precise
positioning, <+> and <-> can be used simultaneously with the <Ctrl> key. The angle of
rotation can be specified exactly by pressing the <Backspace> key (Fig. 90).

Fig. 90. Dialogue window for entering rotation angle

New position of the part is defined by entering the second auxiliary point. New position
depends on given co-ordinates and the program does not check for collisions of parts.
When original part position should be preserved, then <Esc> or <Break> should be
pressed instead of entering the second point. When the function finds selected parts, it
handles them as a group.
Another possibility is to finish positioning by pressing <Enter> key. In such case Asper
tries to drag the part or a group of parts in defined direction closer to the other parts or
to the sides of the sheet.

Move (key shortcut: <P>)

A part can be positioned more precisely using this command. The part is selected by
an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part using left mouse
button. The program then prompts for entering the moving vector. The vector is given
by two auxiliary points (start, end). New position depends on given co-ordinates, the
program does not check for part collision. When original part position should be
preserved then <Esc> or <Break> should be pressed instead of entering the second
point. When the function finds selected parts, it handles them as a group.

Rotate (key shortcut: <O>)

The command enables to rotate precisely a part or group of parts. The part is selected
by an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part using left mouse
button. The program then prompts for entering rotation midpoint and rotation angle.
The angle is given either by two auxiliary points (start, end) or directly by a numerical
value after pressing the <Backspace> key (Fig. 90). The new position depends on
given co-ordinates, program does not check for part collision. When original part
position should be preserved then <Esc> or <Break> should be pressed instead of
entering the second point. When the function finds selected parts, it handles them as a
group.

90
Mirror (key shortcut: <M>)
This command is used to change the position of a part by mirroring around general
axes. The part is selected by an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to
the part using left mouse button. Then two points should be entered defining the mirror
axis. New position depends on given co-ordinates, program does not check for part
collision. When original part position should be preserved then <Esc> or <Break>
should be pressed instead of entering the second point. If the function finds selected
parts, it handles them as a group. In order to maintain technological requirements, the
program automatically changes cutting direction and lead-ins / lead-outs of the section
(clockwise or counter-clockwise).

Mirror horizontally (key shortcut: <H>)

The command is used to change the position of a part by mirroring around axis parallel
to X-axis. The part is selected by an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click
close to the part using left mouse button. When original part position should be
preserved then <Esc> or <Break> should be pressed instead of entering the second
point. The program does not check for part collision. If the function finds selected parts,
it handles them as a group.
In order to maintain technological requirements the program automatically changes
cutting direction of the section and lead-ins / -outs.

Mirror vertically (key shortcut: <V>)

The command is used to change the position of a part by mirroring around axis parallel
to Y-axis. The part should be selected by an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to
click close to the part using left mouse button. When original part position should be
preserved then <Esc> or <Break> should be pressed instead of entering the second
point. The program does not check for part collision. When the function finds selected
parts, it handles them as a group.
In order to maintain technological requirements the program automatically changes
cutting direction of the section and lead-ins / -outs.

Align
Alignment is started by selection of a reference part. The function then needs selection
of a part to be aligned. The part is aligned so that its edge is aligned with the other part
in given direction. Available directions are “Left”, “Right”, “Up”, “Down”. The second co-
ordinate is changed in order to keep the distance between parts corresponding to
settings (menu: “Settings → Nesting → Nesting gap”). The command ignores part
edges.

91
To origin (key shortcut: <Ctrl+U>)
The command enables to arrange one part or selected group in cutting plan according
to current nesting parameters (menu: “Settings → Nesting”). The command can be
used to re-organise parts in cutting plan after some parts have been deleted.

Section menu
Section menu is used to perform operations, especially modification of properties, on
selected sections. Functions available in the menu are listed in Fig. 91.

Fig. 91 Section menu

Split (key shortcut: <L>)

The command is used when a section should be split into two sections. Location of the
split point is given by an auxiliary point. The function calculates perpendicular
projection onto nearest section and adds lead-ins and lead-outs according to
predefined parameters. It is convenient to create more sections on a single chain e.g.
in case when cut part suffers from significant thermal deformations. The first section
should be designed so that the cut part remains connected to the sheet in the places
where the strongest thermal stress exists. Next sections can be cut later when the part
cools down. In the meantime it is even possible to cut other parts.
Thermal deformations are more visible at long and narrow parts. A typical example is a
long and narrow rectangle. Underestimation of the thermal deformation leads to “sabre
effect” when the rectangle is twisted along the loosened edge.

92
Split and insert loop (key shortcut:
<Ctrl+Shift+L>)
The command is used when a section should be split into two sections. Location of a
split is given by an auxiliary point. The function connects both new sections by a curve
referred to as a loop (Fig. 92).
The function can be advantageously employed especially for cutting part corners from
thick materials. The loop guarantees cutting of following entity continuously without
stopping the tool. This feature contributes to sharp and vertical cutting edges. The
same effect can be achieved by combination of the functions from the “Section” and
“Lead-ins/-outs” menus. The size of the loop can be changed by the function “Lead-
ins/-outs → Change lead-in”. In case when a loop in the joint point of two sections is
created (the chain has been already split), the function “Loop” from “Lead-ins/-outs”
menu can be used.

Fig. 92 Example of split section and insert loop

Merge (key shortcut: <C>)

The command merges two neighbouring sections of a chain into a single section.

Change start-point (key shortcut: <R>)

The function is used to define location of the start point by an auxiliary point. The
function changes lead-ins and lead-outs according to the parameter settings. In most
cases it is more comfortable to place the auxiliary point using the “Snap” function (see
page 80).
This feature enables to increase the speed and efficiency of work as most chains
consist just of one section (by pointing to a desired point on a chain contour, the
starting point is directly changed).

93
The same effect can be achieved by using the function menu: “Section → Split” and
menu: “Section → Merge”.

Change cutting direction (key shortcut: <@>)

The command reverses cutting direction of a section given by an auxiliary point. The
function is mostly used for open chains, because in such case the program cannot find
automatically the proper direction. Desired direction is mostly given by technological
requirements.
In order to maintain technological requirements the program automatically changes
lead-ins and lead-outs.

Fig. 93 Original (default) cutting direction CW

Fig. 94 Reversed cutting direction CCW indicated also by different colour

Copy start point (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Alt+C>)

The command copies the position of a starting point of single-section chain from one
part to other parts. This command is used to copy starting points of the identical chains

94
– usually created as copies. Any attempt to copy starting point to different chains may
lead to unexpected results.
The first step is to selects all chains subjected to change of starting points. Then the
program prompts to specify the original chain (the source of starting point position) by
an auxiliary point.

Copy lead-ins/-outs (key shortcut:

<Ctrl+Alt+L>)
The command copies lead-ins and lead-outs of a single-section chain from one part to
other parts.
The first step is to select all destination chains for changing lead-ins and lead-outs and
then the program prompts to select an auxiliary point of the original chain (the source of
lead-ins or lead-outs position).

Modify parameters
The commands in this menu (Fig. 95) are used to modify crucial sections – arcs
(mostly parts of small circular holes) or corners. It is recommended to cut these
sections with modified parameters to improve the quality of cutting. The change of
parameters can be done in two ways:
1. Selection of different parameter setting (similarly to the case of choosing a
different tool in Asper)
2. Setting the relative value of these parameters directly by using one of the
functions in “Modify parameters” menu for a corner or arc (in case only one or
two parameters are to be changed – usually speed and ATHC). Function
“Modify all“ applies changes according to the automatic parameter settings.
The windows for parameter settings are the same as the windows for
automatic change settings in menu: “Settings → Automatic parameter
changes” (page 137).

Fig. 95 Modification of parameters

Disable/enable cut
This command is used to select sections and disable or enable cutting. The section
marked as “disabled cut” is not included into cutting ordering. Subsequent application
of the functions enables and disables cut.

95
For example, sometimes it is required to create a rectangle with a circular hole so that
one edge has been or will be created with other technology. It is recommended to
create entire shape first, and then to split outer contour into two parts, and disable cut
for one part. This provides correct information about holes and their appropriate
compensation, and the lead-ins will be created on the correct side.

Compensation on/off (key shortcut: <[>)

The command changes kerf compensation attribute of the closest section given by an
auxiliary point. Compensated and non-compensated section can be toggled on and off
by consecutive application of the function.
The function is typically employed for open chains where Asper cannot find kerf
compensation side automatically and therefore compensation should be set manually
(see also section “Compensation side (key shortcut: <{>)”).

Compensation side (key shortcut: <{>)

The command changes the side of compensation for the closest section given by an
auxiliary point. The function is employed mainly for open chains where program cannot
find compensation side automatically and compensation should be set manually (see
also section “Compensation on/off (key shortcut: <[>)”).

Lock tool height

The command disables adaptive tool height control for the closest section given by an
auxiliary point. The change of tool height control can be done for the whole section at
once, or it can be changed just in a portion of the section given by points.

Fig. 96 Lock height menu

This feature has been modified when compared to the previous versions: the parts with
ATHC disabled are not displayed by a cross but they can be viewed in a special display
mode (“ATHC view mode” button in the toolbar) with coloured display of entities with
enabled/disabled ATHC.
The purpose of the function is to disable ATHC in cases when e.g. performance of
automatic parameter changes (see section “Automatic parameter changes (key
shortcut: <Alt+Shift+W>)”, page 137) is not satisfactory, or it is more convenient to
disable ATHC manually when reasonable (corners, small circular holes, etc.)

96
Complete section
The command disables/enables ATHC for complete section. The section is identified
by an auxiliary point.

From point
This option is used to define a segment on a section with disabled/enabled ATHC. The
segment is defined by a start point and end of a section.

End of section
The command is designed preferably for laser cutting but it can used also for other
technologies. It enables to modify cutting parameters settings in a defined distance
from the end of cutting. It is usually used for sections without any lead-outs. When the
section contains also a lead-out, its length is included into the overall distance before
end.
Item “Relative power“ can also be used with technologies that contrary to laser do not
allow changes in the cutting technology power. Setting this value to 0 disables cutting;
this can be often used instead of a microjoint.

Fig. 97 Setting for end of section

Priority
This function can influence automatic ordering of cutting. The standard priority value is
given by the tool assigned to the section under consideration. If necessary, any section
can have its own priority setting. The rule for priority is: the greater is the number, the
higher is the priority and more advanced position in the cutting ordering with respect to
the limits for the ordering parameter settings.

97
Assign tool
The command is used for selection of a tool from the list of available tools when more
tools are used for cutting.

Fig. 98 Tool menu

Cuts performed with different tools can be distinguished by a different colour if “Display
→ Mode → Tools” function is used. Colour assignment to particular tools can be
customised in “Settings → Colours”.

Bevel cut
The command is used for definition of bevel cutting for a given section. The command
can be used only with non-zero material thickness set in technological parameters
(menu: “Settings → Technology → Material Thickness”). The section is defined by an
auxiliary point. The function finds the nearest section and displays a dialogue window
“Bevel edge properties” (Fig. 99).

98
 Fig. 99 Bevel edge properties

Required data for the “Bevel edge properties” window are angles and direction of tool
slope, method of torch sloping prior to bevel cutting and when necessary also a height
of vertically cut section.
Angle of torch slope is entered into the first window as a positive number with respect
to vertical axis and it is given in degrees. Direction of torch slope is entered into the
second window by selection from graphical menu (slope is expressed with respect to
the bottom edge of cutting material). The height of vertical cutting section is entered
into the third window (maximum height equals to the material thickness). The slope
with respect to vertical axis is given in degrees. Positive direction of the angle is always
assumed to the left with respect to tool movement direction.
Available methods of torch sloping prior to slanted cutting are as follows:
 Straight piercing with rotation during first part of lead-in
 Straight piercing and in place rotation
 Straight piercing and first part of lead-in parallel to section start
 Bevelled piercing with rotation completed in advance
Entered values are confirmed by <OK> button. Then, the selected edge will be
displayed as follows:
 Edge loaded from part source file (e.g. in “DXF” format) is displayed in colour
assigned to vertical edges. Section plan represents part margin.
 Full yellow line expresses the edge on the upper side of the part
 Dashed yellow line is assigned to edge on bottom side of the part
If the size of vertical part of cut is zero, only original edge representing part margin is
displayed. On the opposite side of the sheet the edge is displayed as a yellow line.
Sign of slope angle determines what line will be located on the top and bottom side of
metal sheet, and if it is inner or outer chain of the part. As there are various parameter
settings applied in praxis for vertical and scarf cutting, it is possible to set a tool for
vertical and scarf cutting respectively in the window. The tools can also represent in
Asper various parameter settings.

99
Bevel ATHC expert
Bevel ATHC expert parameters define behaviour of Asper in case of automatic setting
of bevel cutting sections. It is located in “Menu → Parameters settings → Bevel ATHC
expert” (Fig. 176). This parameter automatically activates settings adjusted in Bevel
ATHC parameters.

IHS offset
This command is used to place location of IHS measurement independently from
starting point of cutting. It is usually used in cases when induction and capacitive
sensors are used for IHS measurement. Then the situation becomes complicated
because these devices behave differently above a non-cut sheet than in the space
where a part of sheet is already missing. Therefore it is possible to change location of
IHS to ensure that it is done above the non-cut part of the sheet. The IHS point is
usually placed inside of the part and out of the holes. Offset of IHS point is carried out
by selection of section and placement the cursor by mouse.

Milling depth
Using Asper for the milling tool program allows to set milling depth for particular
section. The default value of the milling depth is the material thickness.

Simultaneous cuts (key shortcut: <F>)

“Simultaneous cuts” is function which allows to cut very long piece with non-parallel
sides in “X” direction (Fig. 100) by two heads. The function saves time and the process
is exposed to lower less risk of heat deformations. The angle between the non-parallel
sides being a measure of divergence of sides should be as small as possible,
otherwise cutting speeds in “X” direction will be different for the heads. This might
cause noticeable and undesirable difference of cutting quality. An ideal case is when
the sheet is positioned on the bed so that the contour is symmetrical with respect to
axis parallel to “X” axis.

Fig. 100 Nonparallel cutting example

100
Head index
Used in two or more heads cutting machines with same technology with separate Y
drive. Using this function can be assigned to selected parts or selected contour
different cutting head.

Fig. 101 Activate cutting head index

Dynamic piercing on/off

Dynamic piercing is a specially designed piercing process where the head does not
stop above the piercing place but it moves in various ways. This feature is especially
used when piercing thick materials in case of water-jet or gas cutting. Dynamic piercing
can significantly reduce duration of piercing process.

Fig. 102 Functions for dynamic piercing

Asper supports two possible types of dynamic piercing:

1. Movement there and back along a line with defined length and number of cycles
(see Fig. 103)
2. Movement along gradually growing semi-circles (spiral, see Fig. 104)
The same result can be reached in a different way – making the lead-in longer and
setting shorter piercing time parameter so that the lead-in movement starts before the
material is pierced. The use of dynamic piercing function is recommended only in
cases where simpler methods of piercing process shortening cannot be used.

Fig. 103 Line properties for dynamic piercing

101
 Fig. 104 Spiral properties for dynamic piercing

Lead-ins/-outs menu

Fig. 105 Lead-in menu

Add lead-in (key shortcut: <I> )

The command adds a new lead-in to a section defined by an auxiliary point. A lead-in is
added to the section according to actual settings (menu: “Settings → Lead-ins and
lead-outs”). If the auxiliary point is located in the place with already existing lead-in, the
function adds another lead-in.
The program calculates lead-in size and shape depending on situation in the lead-in
area. The program does not solve the problem of possible collision with other parts.

Add lead-out (key shortcut: <Shift+I>)

The command adds a new lead-out to a section defined by an auxiliary point. A lead-
out is added to the section according to actual settings (menu: “Settings → Lead-ins
and lead-outs”). If the auxiliary point is located in a place with already existing lead-out,
the function adds another lead-out.
The program calculates lead-out size and shape depending on situation in the lead-out
area. The program does not solve the problem of possible collision with other parts.

102
Add all
The command is used to create complete set of lead-ins and lead-outs according to
settings for all sections that have no lead-ins or lead-outs and can be created
automatically. It does not create lead-ins or lead-outs at the ends of open chains,
because it is not clear what is the part side and what is the waste.
The program calculates lead-in/lead-out size and shape based on situation in the target
area. The program does not solve the problem of possible collision with other parts.

Delete lead-in (key shortcut: <U>)

The command deletes a lead-in defined by an auxiliary point. If the lead-in consists of
more components, the function will delete the first component according to cutting
direction.

Delete lead-out (key shortcut: <Shift+U>)

The command deletes a lead-out defined by an auxiliary point. If the lead-out consists
of more components, the function will delete the last component according to cutting
direction.

Delete all
The command deletes all lead-ins and lead-outs in a plan.

Modify lead-in (key shortcut: <N>)

This command enables to modify selected lead-in manually. Provided that parameter
“Display dialogue for lead-in / lead-out modification” in “Settings → Miscellaneous” is
set, then a dialogue window is displayed (Fig. 106). The window contains information
about actual settings of currently selected lead-in or lead-out.

Fig. 106 Dialogue window with lead-in properties

103
Lead-in can be changed by mouse movement, in case of arc by <+> and <–> keys on
numerical keyboard or by the mouse scroll. In comparison with other commands this
activity does not finish by pressing <Esc> key. The management is done by an
auxiliary window. The lead-in will stop reacting to the mouse movement and it can be
changed by changing values in the auxiliary window.
The program does not control a lead-in created by user therefore when a lead-in
interferes with another part, the program understands it as a user’s intention.

Tip: If you want to keep a smooth line between lead-in and contour during manual change of
lead-in, set the angle in auxiliary window to 0. Similarly you can change the length of lead-in, or
in case of arch its diameter, to the required value.

Modify lead-out (key shortcut: <Shift+N>)

This command enables to modify selected lead-out manually and its use is the same
as the one of “Change lead-in”.
These functions (add, change, delete) used to be the same for lead-ins and lead-outs
in the previous versions of Asper. In this version they are separated as e.g. lead-in
might overlap the lead-out in case of a small circular hole and it was not possible to
define the one user wanted to modify.

Compensate
The command is used to change lead-in or lead-out compensation. Lead-ins and lead-
outs are usually compensated in the same way as the section they belong to.
In some situations it is better to start compensation just after lead-in. Typical example
can be a line lead-in in very small circle hole (assuming that the lead-in starting point is
in the middle of the hole).

Fig. 107 Lead-in compensation

In such case there is not enough space for the compensation therefore first move
(lead-in) goes directly from circle midpoint towards the hole, its length is equal to hole
radius minus kerf value (tool radius).

104
Loop
The command is used to create a loop at a junction of two sections. Loops enable to
achieve sharper corners.

Inserted loop

Fig. 108 An example of a simple square with inserted loop

In places where cutting direction abruptly changes, a significant undercutting of thick

materials occurs. It is possible to eliminate this effect, corners need not be cut not
directly, but in following way:
1. Continue cutting in original trend also after leaving the contour
2. Create an arc in sufficient distance from the point of departure in order to align
cutting direction with the first entity after the corner
3. Continue cutting until the contour after the corner is reached.
The function simplifies cutting of lead-ins and lead-outs. The same effect can be
achieved by combination of functions from menu: “Section” and menu: “Lead-ins/-outs”.
Loop size can be modified by function menu: “Lead-ins/-outs → Modify”.

Microjoints menu
Functions in the menu are used to manage microjoints in current plan (Fig. 109).

Fig. 109 Microjoints menu functions

105
Create (key shortcut: <Ctrl+M>)
The command creates a microjoint. Centre of a microjoint is defined by an auxiliary
point. Microjoint length and other parameters are set in actual parameters setting in
menu: “Settings → Microjoints”.

Create on selection
The command creates microjoints on all selected sections. Microjoint length and all the
other parameters are set in actual parameters setting in menu: “Settings →
Microjoints”.

Cancel (key shortcut: <Ctrl+Shift+M>)

The command deletes a microjoint defined by an auxiliary point, or when the key
shortcut has been used, by location of mouse cursor.

Cancel all
The command deletes all selected microjoints.

Properties (key shortcut: <Shift+M>)

The command enables changes the properties of a single microjoint or more
microjoints at once. It modifies properties only of selected microjoints. If no microjoint is
selected the function is applied to a microjoint defined by an auxiliary point.

Fig. 110 Microjoint properties

106
Keep complete Retains microjoint complete. Parameter “Keep complete
microjoint mirrojoint” is meaningless and is automatically
deactivated.
Depth It is used only for the milling technology. The parameter
defines depth of microjoint created by milling.
Length Definition of the microjoint length in [mm].
Cut at the end Microjoints are cut at the end of the program.

Ordering menu
Beside file generation, setting of cutting order is the only “obligatory” activity. Asper
offers several possibilities; the simplest is to use automatic ordering method. After
ordering is completed, the cutting plan is ready to be generated.

Fig. 111 Ordering menu

Automatic (key shortcut: <A>)

The command is used for automatic ordering settings.
This function is normally used as preferable ordering action and in most cases it is
sufficient. Manual ordering should be used only in case of special ordering
requirements; e.g. for minimization of thermal deformation of the material. Ordering
algorithm properties are adjustable in menu: “Settings → Nesting”. After completed
ordering, every starting point is enumerated by an index.

Tip: Automatical ordering does not create a completely new cutting order but it
connects existing partial orders. This is very useful in case of special cutting order
requirements in a part of cutting plan. When copying a part or a group of parts also
cutting order in this group is copied. If there is a special cutting order requirement to a
part, it is useful to set this order manually immediately after the part is loaded into
Asper and to copy it afterwards.

107
Manual (key shortcut: <Z>)
The command enables to set the cutting order manually.
First section in ordering is selected by using first auxiliary point, and then other sections
should be selected so that they are correspondingly ordered. <Esc> key can be used to
resume the last ordering index.
The function is terminated when ordering is complete, or anytime the <Enter> key is
pressed.
It is possible to create several local orderings, e.g. to specify an order for inner holes of
a single part, copy the part and then finish definition of a global ordering. Finally, local
orderings are merged into a global ordering. The function is continuously checking
whether a new index meets rules defined in parameters setting. If not, then such an
index is not allowed to be added into global order.
The function does not run when the order is already complete. To perform re-ordering
procedure, the original ordering for the section should be modified or deleted.

Cancel (key shortcut: <W>)

Specified portion of complete ordering can be cancelled by selection of the first and the
last section of the portion. Both sections should be in the same sequence.
Complete ordering can be cancelled using “Cancel All” function.

Break (key shortcut: <Alt+W>)

This command is used to break the cutting order. The ordering is broken following a
section given by an auxiliary point.

Break between parts

This function cancels the ordering of cutting after every section where the next section
belongs to a different part than the previous section.

Tip: The function was designed mainly for the situation where it is necessary to order
the sections manually, but the ordering of holes inside these holes can be made using
the automatic ordering. In this case, first make the complete ordering automatically and
then use the function “Break between parts”. Then all parts will have their sections
ordered. It is then possible to connect complete parts using automatic ordering.

108
Cancel all (key shortcut: <Ctrl+A>)
The function cancels complete or individual orderings of cutting. To cancel only a part
of ordering, or to split ordering into two parts, function “Cancel” can be used. In case
when ordering being cancelled contains transfers without turning off the technology
(chain cutting), there is also an option to cancel these transfers.

Test (key shortcut: <T>)

The command checks correctness of actually defined ordering, whether none of rules
defined in settings have been violated.
A section violating some rules is highlighted by a different colour. In addition, functions
for zoom change are enabled to visualize the problematic place that is often not visible
in current view.
This test is performed automatically also prior to code generation.

Chain cut (key shortcut: <%>)

The command enables to cut more parts without switching the tool off. The section
where the tool remains on is defined by an auxiliary point.
It is convenient to use this command for short movements by cutting between two parts
which do collide with other parts, but only through the waste. The program does not
check the collision, so usage of this function should be considered by the user. In that
case it is recommended to modify lead-ins and lead-outs of neighbouring parts so that
cutting is done away from part contours.
The method is especially suitable for thick sheets where piercing takes a long time and
causes excessive wear of tool components.
Some plasma sources have maximum piercing thickness significantly smaller than
maximum cutting thickness. Chain cut enables to eliminate inevitable additional
technological operation (like drilling holes for piercing, etc). The first starting point is
placed directly onto the sheet edge or into the position, where the edge has been
already created by cutting previous part.
It is important to realise that plasma cutting process needs to have “technological
pauses” to prevent overheating of the torch. Therefore it is better to create a cutting
program that involves more plasma starts than to create a program with single start
that needs user interrupts.
The chain-cutting feature is automatically cancelled after any reordering due to safety
reasons.

109
Create junction (key shortcut: <J>)
The function creates a junction between two parts. Placement of the junction is given
by the cursor. During cursor movement, Asper automatically suggests location of the
junction as illustrated (Fig. 112).

Fig. 112 Selection of junction placement

The junction enables to cut two or more parts with single tool start. During the creation
of a junction the part being connected to another part is distinguished by different (by
default yellow) colour. In case of simple circumference, the original lead-in and lead-out
on the connected part are automatically cancelled to cut in single step.

Delete junction (key shortcut: <Shift+J>)

The function cancels existing junction between two parts. The parts are selected by the
cursor. Sometimes it is necessary to modify lead-ins and/or lead-outs.

110
Manual common-line cut (key shortcut:
<Shift+Z>)
After defining parts and their edges cut by common cut, Asper splits the chains into
individual sections. The command then enables to define cutting order of the sections
manually. The ordering is then defined by consequent clicking on the sections. Ordered
section is colour-highlighted. After clicking on the last section, the function ends
automatically and on the cutting plan is displayed with corresponding paths.

Settings
All Asper settings are available from menu: “Settings”. The settings are divided into two
groups:
1. Plan (document) settings
2. Program settings
Plan settings influence current cutting plan, i.e. document in the active window in the
foreground. All settings are staved together with part layout into a file with extension
“PLA”. There is an option to use templates (or configuration files) where all parameters
can be pre-set (“CFG” files).
Program settings influence all documents. The settings are stored into Windows
registry database system. That means that all individual settings are stored separately
for each user.

Fig. 113 Parameter settings

111
Parameter settings

Lead-ins/-outs (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+N>)

These parameters influence automatic creation of lead-ins and lead-outs. Manual
modifications are possible in dedicated menu or using shortcuts. The parameters of
lead-ins and lead-outs should be set so that they match corresponding technological
requirements and the need for manual change of parameters is minimised. Modification
of parameters does not influence already existing lead-ins and lead-outs.

Fig. 114 Lead-ins and lead-outs

Parameters
It is possible to set properties separately for lead-ins and lead-outs in outer contours
and holes, microjoints, and overlaps. They are created and modified also during
operations of file insertion, parts mirroring and section change.
Length of lead-outs in holes should be short enough to prevent falling down of already
cut pieces. Otherwise, the tool keeps working and THC is trying to follow the falling
material which often results in tool collision. In practice, the length of lead-outs in holes
is usually a compromise between several controversial requirements.

112
Minimum circle radius for arc lead-in
The parameter defines the threshold for setting the shape of lead-in e.g. in circular
holes. In that case, circles with radius less than parameter value have linear lead-in
perpendicular to the contour, and circles with greater radius have arc lead-in. The
threshold value should respect distinctive properties of particular technology.

Loop radius
The item enables to set the size of the circular loop by means of setting the loop radius.

Straight lead-in length for bevel cut

Insertion of straight cut portion to the lead-in start is used in situations when plasma
bevel cutting is applied on thicker metal sheets. Then, the first part is cut with azimuth
axis already properly rotated but the torch remains straight. The benefit of this
approach is reduced risk of plasma arc ignition.

Settings for lead-in start

Settings in this part are useful especially for laser cutting. It is possible to set the scale
of speed and power for defined length of lead-in start and so to define the performance
of the first part of the lead-in.

Settings for section end

Settings similar to lead-in start can be applied also for end part of a section. There is
also a possibility to lock height of Z-axis, i.e. to use fixed position of Z-axis instead of
ATHC-based control.

Type
For contours and holes it is possible to set appropriate type of lead-in: “arc” or “line”,
and “line and arc”. In case when “line and arc” is set, Asper selects the proper type of
lead-in according to the actual contour shape.
When lead-in or lead-out type is set to “line or arc”, Asper automatically selects the
most suitable type of lead-in or lead-out.
A line-type lead-in is created in a corner where it is possible to create a straight line
lead-in, or in case when the lead-in is created on a straight line. This type is the most
preferred type.
An arc-type lead-in tangentially connected to the contour is created on arc or on an
insufficiently acute angle where a straight lead-in would be too close to the contour.
Described selection is not valid for microjoints and neighbouring sections where line-
type lead-ins and lead-outs are created automatically perpendicularly onto them.
Despite the fact that the microjoint is defined as a section with disabled cutting, lead-ins
and lead-outs are necessary also for them due to special attribute of the microjoint – it
is possible to cut the microjoint automatically after cutting of the whole plan is
completed.

113
 Fig. 115 Examples of different settings for lead-in type
Angles of connection of lead-ins and lead-outs to contours can be defined according to
settings in “Type” subsection. Connecting angles of the lead-ins are set for the case of
an acute angle in the item marked as “< 150°” (usually there is no reason to use a
value different than 0° – direct lead-in). Item “> 150°” defines connecting angle of a line
lead-in in case of a plane or in an obtuse angle. Value of 150° is used as the boundary
between the obtuse and acute angle.

Dynamic piercing
In the part “Dynamic piercing” it is possible to set the parameters of dynamic piercing
for cases when this method of piercing is automatically applied during insertion of
parts. The dynamic piercing is described in part “Dynamic piercing on/off”, page 101.
Screenshot in Fig. 115 displays parameters for dynamic piercing – line case. When
spiral dynamic piercing is used, different parameters are displayed:

Fig. 116 Settings for spiral dynamic piercing

Technology (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+T>)

Parameters in this window are used as a base for economy files. Provided that given
parameters are correct for the technology, it is possible to get more accurate
information in economy files.
Price calculation in economy files is based on three cost-related parameters:
 cost of 1 hour of machine operation
 cost of 1 meter of cut
 cost of 1 kg of sheet material
The resulting cost in the print-out is the sum of these three entries. All relevant data are
evaluated for each part separately. Part material cost includes also percentage ratio
part of the waste. If a part weighs 1 kg and utilisation of the material is 50 %, part
material cost corresponds to 2 kg of the material.

114
 Fig. 117 Technology settings

Cutting data
For time calculations based on given speeds it is important to realize that it is only an
estimate because the tool is not moved all the time with a constant speed.
Estimate of times can be made more accurate when all times needed for technological
operations are included in time calculations. These times are more difficult to estimate
because they depend on many other factors.
Inaccuracies of time estimation due to variable (speed) can be reduced by setting
correct values of machine acceleration.

Machine
User-entered machine name used for identification in economy files.

Tool change time [s]

Used to improve accuracy of time statistics by including time duration of tool change
process.

Price / [hour]
Cost of 1 hour of machine operation.

Traverse speed [mm/min]

Information about traverse speed of a machine improve accuracy of time statistics by
including time duration of tool change process.

115
Acceleration [mm/s2]
Machine acceleration is used for further refinement of time estimates by assuming
more realistic data of motion trajectory.

Sheet data
Sheet data are used to provide a summary of sheet information used later in final
economy report.

Sheet type
User-entered sheet type used for identification of material sheet type used later in
economy report.

Remark
The item is used to enter any user remark used later in economy report.

Material density [kg/m3]

Material density is used in economy files for calculation of sheet weight based on
geometrical dimensions.

Material thickness [mm]

Material thickness together with sheet dimensions are used in economy files for
calculation of sheet volume and subsequently of a sheet price.

Material unit price

The parameter is used in economy files to calculate a price of material.

Technology data
Technology data are used in economy files to refine description of a technological
process.

Technology tool
Setting of technology tool is important especially for the machines that enable to use
several technologies. Particular tool is selected from the list of available tools.

Kerf width [mm]

Definition of tool beam thickness according to tool parameters in MSNC control
software. Nonzero kerf width means that in cutting process some material is removed
and this removal is accepted in calculations.

116
Cutting speed [mm/min]
Actual value of cutting speed is one of the most important technological parameters
and it is used for time calculations.

Piercing time [s]

Time calculations are more accurate when piercing time (tool parameter) is
appropriately set. It is important especially for cutting plans with many piercing points.

Include acceleration
The setting enables to include in time calculations also actual machine acceleration
rate parameter that is given by a dedicated parameter.

Price/meter
The item is used for entering unit price for 1 m of cutting path.

Data from MSNC INI-file

The function enables to specify location and name of corresponding tool parameters
used by iMSNC software and thus some items in “Technology” folder are filled
automatically and match actual tool parameter settings.

Z-axis control
The window consists of a table describing Z-axis control for defined technological tools.
For standard Z-axis control for most cutting technologies Asper generates CNC
instructions in form of instructions: “Head up” and “Head down”. In cases when 3D Z-
axis should not use such commands (e.g. drilling tool, 3D milling), it is recommended to
set Z-axis control parameters separately for each tool. In such cases the correct
material thickness must be set. Z-axis control parameters can be set by clicking
required line of the following dialog window:

Fig. 118 Z-axis control dialogue window

117
Z-axis controlled by control system
The selection causes that complete control of Z-axis is managed by control system
according to tool parameter settings. If the option is selected, Asper generates
a standard command for head parking and the height is defined by the control system.

Z-axis controlled by NC code

The table includes following parameters:

Milling layer thickness [mm]

If this value is smaller than material thickness, NC code for every section to be
machined by this tool is multiply. The head moves down in each pass until it reaches
the value of defined material thickness. This parameter is used for milling. In case
milling is not used, option “No milling” must be selected.

Parking height [mm]

Parking height is the height, in which the head moves after the end of cutting or to
starting point of a next cut.

Height for “Head down” [mm]

The parameter defines a target height where the head moves downwards from the
parking height after technological operation is completed and moves to the next
machining location. The speed of this vertical movement is set by parameter
“Downward speed”.

Downward/upward speed [mm]

Definition of speed in [mm/min] used to move the tool down towards the material or to
move up from the material.

Z-axis zero position

Asper defines zero point for CNC program generation. The zero point can be set to the
bottom or top side of material.
The parameter is needed only when Z-axis is controlled by co-ordinates
It should be noted that these parameters are stored together with a configuration file
and their correct values might differ from each other according to type of material and
material thickness. It is recommended to create an individual configuration file using
an appropriate name for each material combination and material thickness.

Nesting (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+U>)

“Nesting” folder contains settings used for automatic placement of parts on a sheet.

118
 Fig. 119 Nesting settings

Nesting type
Parameters in this window describe options of automatic nesting of a part on a sheet
with respect to already placed parts on the sheet.
Nesting sequence is defined by combination of items:
 From right
 From top
 Y-axis first
That gives altogether eight possible nesting sequences (for definition of the co-ordinate
system see Chyba! Nenašiel sa žiaden zdroj odkazov.):

Comment From right From top Y-axis first

From bottom left corner upwards in
1. Y-axis direction – columns move to
the right in X-axis
✘ ✘ ✔
From bottom left corner to the right
2. in X-axis direction – rows move
upwards in Y-axis direction
✘ ✘ ✘
From top left corner downwards in
3. Y-axis direction – columns move to
the right in X-axis direction
✘ ✔ ✔
From top left corner to the right in X-
4. axis direction – rows move
downwards in Y-axis direction
✘ ✔ ✘
From bottom right corner upwards in
5. Y-axis direction – columns move to
the left in X-axis direction
✔ ✘ ✔

119
 From bottom right corner to the left
6. in X-axis direction – rows move
upwards in Y-axis direction
✔ ✘ ✘
From top right corner downwards in
7. Y-axis direction – columns move to
the left in X-axis direction
✔ ✔ ✔
From top right corner to the left in X-
8. axis direction – rows move
downwards in Y-axis direction
✔ ✔ ✘

Current nesting sequence is displayed by an animated red arrow in the top part of
“Nesting” dialog window.

From right
Parts placement in X-direction is started from the right side of the sheet.

From top
Parts placement in Y-direction is started from the top side of the sheet.

Y-axis first
Parts placement is started vertically.

Group one-by-one
This option is selected for placing a group of parts (e.g. air conditioning parts). When
this option is active, Asper tries to place parts of each group one by one. If this option is
not active, the program places all parts at once while respecting their original layout.
This feature is applicable also for parts imported from other input formats.

Rotate parts
The setting allows to rotate parts during nesting. A part can be rotated in 90 degree
steps.

Ignore lead-ins / lead-outs

This function must be set prior to any nesting process. The setting ignores already
existing lead-ins and/or lead-outs during nesting. Nesting gap represents the distance
between the contours i.e. the distance between two neighbouring sides of cut parts
ignoring the length of existing lead-ins and lead-outs.

Improve rectangular position

The command moves loaded part towards neighbouring part and increases nesting
efficiency.

Inside sheet only

This feature does not allow placement of parts out of the sheet during automatic
nesting. It can be used only provided if the installation of Asper includes Automatic
nesting option.

120
Nesting in holes
The setting enables automatic nesting of parts into holes in other parts. In case when
the installation of Asper includes Automatic nesting option, it is necessary to set the
value for this function „Rectangle division“ to sufficiently large value N. Then nested
parts are not represented by a single rectangle but by a N × N array of rectangles. With
increasing number of rectangle division, the nesting speed is significantly decreased.
Nesting efficiency also is decreased when compared to the case where N = 1.

Minimal length of cutting zone

A sheet can be divided into cutting zones. These zones are treated as autonomous
sheets and nesting is performed first for the zones. After all parts are finished, the
cutting zones are cut off.

Rectangle division

The parameter defines resolution for nesting in holes. The meaning of the parameter is
explained above.

Nesting gap [mm]

The parameter specifies minimum distance between outline rectangles of neighbouring

parts. The gap is defined by components X (first value) and Y (second value). Minimum
recommended and technologically accepted value for plasma cutting of sheets with
thickness up to 50 mm is 10 mm. Asper respects nesting gap values even when “Move
→ Align” function is used.

Borders [mm]

The parameter defines minimum clearance between a part edge and sheet border. The
clearance is defined by components in X- and Y-directions.

Fit type

Fit type defines nesting strategy for automatic nesting task. Fit type setting is used as
predefined nesting strategy for parts that have their nesting strategy set to “According
to plan settings” (see Fig. 120).

`
Fig. 120 Nesting fit types

121
NC program (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+R>)
The folder “NC program” contains settings that directly influence contents of generated
cutting plan.

Fig. 121 Cutting program settings

Hole cutting direction / contour cutting direction

Available options are:
 CCW (counter clockwise)
 CW (clockwise)
Depending on technology used, cutting direction has a significant influence on cutting
quality. For instance, plasma cutting technology swirls plasma gas into a spiral and the
result is that the right side of cut is better. In such case, inner holes should be cut in
clockwise direction and contours in opposite way. This rule depends on technology and
Asper enables to change cutting directions for inner holes and outer contours
separately.

Head start position

It is possible to set initial head position, i.e. whether at the beginning of a technological
process the head is in “parking position” or in close to the sheet. Proper setting
depends on particular technology and control system.

122
Down

The setting is used in situations when at the beginning it is reasonable to force parking
of a head by inserting “M21” (“Head up”) command.

Up

The option “Up” is commonly used for plasma and oxy-fuel technologies.

NC start location
By default, Asper generates the NC-code so that program start is placed in the bottom
left corner of the sheet. Sometimes it is required to move a program start point to
different location. For example, when a single circle can be cut with an already marked
centre. Generally, it is more difficult to find a precise corresponding program start at the
contour of a circle than to use its centre.
Options for NC start locations are displayed in Fig. 122.

Fig. 122 NC start location options

Asper enables also to set the point by entering co-ordinates.
An alternative way to set the point is to use the function from menu: “Point → Cut
Start”. It is also possible to set the starting point on one of the corners of the sheet.
When the dimensions of the sheet are changed, the starting points are also moved.

NC end location
Machine tool can be positioned also after finishing of work. Asper offers the following
options:
 None – The tool position remains unchanged.
 Return – The tool returns back to program start position.
 Further – The tool is positioned to a new start point suitable for next start. This
feature is useful when the cutting plan is designed not to fill entire sheet, but
parts are arranged in “columns” or “rows”. The program positions the tool into
new starting place, there is no need to move it manually. Next start position is set
also taking into account settings in menu: “Settings → Nesting → Nesting Style”.
 XY – The end position of NC program is given directly by absolute co-ordinates.
Co-ordinates entry is accessible only when option “NC end location” is set to
“XY”.

Kerf compensation performed by

The item enables to specify how the kerf compensation is performed. There are three
options:

123
Control system

Normally, kerf compensation is performed by the machine control system. Kerf width is
set in tool parameters and control system modifies cutting path in order to keep proper
part dimension. Asper only inserts corresponding NC commands for the start, end, and
side of compensation. When the kerf width is changed, it is sufficient to modify just the
tool parameter, NC program remains unchanged.

Asper

In some cases, kerf compensation can be performed by Asper. Then it is important to

set correct value in “Settings → Technology → Kerf width [mm]”. The compensation is
implemented by modification of motion path in NC program. Anytime the kerf width
value is revised, NC program should be generated again.

No compensation

In special cases it is possible to switch off generation of additional commands into NC-
code (option “No compensation”).

Tool head parking

When cutting is finished, the control system usually moves the cutting tool to a safe
position to prevent a collision with material. Parking is a time-consuming operation and
it can be switched off when reasonable. There are several options defining head
behaviour.

Parking

The item defines head behaviour after cutting is finished. It is important to understand
that it is always a risk to select any other option than “Always full”. Another viable
option is to select „Limited – distance dependent“ option for all movements or for
movements shorter than given distance. In limited parking the head is not lifted to
maximum (parking) height, but only of the given height.
Available parking options:
 Always full: The head is always lifted into standard parking position
 Never: After cutting is finished, the remains in cutting height
 Full - distance dependent: The head performs full parking after travelling the
distance in XY plane given by “Distance [mm]” parameter.
 Limited – distance dependent: The head performs limited parking after
travelling the distance in XY plane given by “Distance [mm]” parameter.
 Always limited: The head is never parked, it is moved in cutting height.

Distance [mm]

The parameter specifies the distance for application of “Full – distance dependent” or
“Limited – distance dependent” parking.

124
IHS excluded to X - Y [mm]
The parameter is used to define a border (Fig. 123) where prevent IHS is not allowed
to be performed. It can be applied e.g. for capacitive height sensor where
measurements close to the edge of a metal sheet are not sufficiently accurate More,
generally, it is possible to exclude specific part of the sheet where height measurement
is not reliable. When starting point is located in the excluded border, the program
includes instruction for moving the head into permitted area, completing IHS and slow
returning back to the starting point.

Fig. 123 Explanation of excluded border

File generation (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+G>)

The parameters are applied in the process of creation new cutting programs.

Fig. 124 File generation settings

125
NC-code

Output format
The setting is used to define output format of a NC code (cutting program). Standard
setting is “DIN” format (G-codes and M-codes). Available options of output format are
displayed in Fig. 125.

Fig. 125 Output formats of NC codes

Setup
When ESSI format is used as the output format, it is possible to define additional
settings for the NC code as illustrated in Fig. 126. Beside other, it is possible to specify
filename extension (ESI, ESS, or MPG), and end code (“63”, “99”, or “0 +0 +0 98”).

Fig. 126 Setup of ESSI code generation

Relative co-ordinates
The item defines usage of co-ordinate arguments in NC program. By default, when the
item is not active (not selected), generated NC-code uses absolute co-ordinates with
respect to starting point of the program.
When relative addressing method is set, co-ordinates refer to the end point of the
previous entity.

126
Force tool change command
When the parameter is active, Asper always inserts a command for tool selection “M6”
(set tool) followed by a tool code at the beginning of NC-code even in the case when
the program uses only one cutting tool.

Comments
The function switches on/off generation of comments accompanying each generated
NC-command.

Multi-tool plans
When a plan uses several different tools, it is possible to generate the program for all
applied tools, or only for selected tools.

All tools The program is generated with all tools used in the plan with
corresponding “M6” instructions (change/set tool).
Selected tools During generation of a program, Asper prompts for manual
selection of tools from the list (Fig. 127) and only portions
relevant to selected tools are generated.

Fig. 127 Dialogue for selection of tools

Park non-active heads

The parameter is used when variable number of heads is used in the program. If this
option is active, any change of activity of heads results in generation of a command
that moves inactive heads to the side of the working area.

Use reference point

When enabled, Asper inserts into the program a command for motion into selected
reference point. The reference points are set in MSNC so it is recommended to make
sure that the locations of the reference points are conveniently set.

Actual No command for motion into reference points is generated.

G54 Move to the reference point No. 1
G55 Move to the reference point No. 2
G56 Move to the reference point No. 3
G57 Move to the reference point No. 4
G58 Move to the reference point No. 5
G59 Move to the reference point No. 6

127
Generate arcs as poly-lines
Some more complex types of arcs are not supported by Asper so they can be
generated as a series of short lines.

Arc-to-poly-line tolerance [mm]

The parameter is used to set the accuracy of poly-line approximation of arcs. The lower
the tolerance, the more linear segments are used to approximate an arc.

Push out plate after finishing zone

An auxiliary function implemented in DS machine type. After a zone is finished, the
sheet is pushed forward. Waste material falls off the cutting table and the sheet is
pulled back into working position.

Generate
The folder contains items that define actions related to generation of output files. It is
possible to select what files are generated simultaneously during file generation.

NC-code
The item is set by default to generate NC file. In the demo mode the size of generated
NC plan is limited.

Plan
The item is used to set automatic generation of “PLA” file (native Asper format). “PLA”
file can be generated manually using command menu: “File → Save”.

Economy file
The item defines whether also data files utilised for economy files are prepared during
plan generation. Details about economy files can be found in section “Economy file
(key shortcut: <Ctrl+E>)”, page 46.

Display calculations immediately

The item enables to set immediate print preview of an economy file after generation of
the plan is completed. When the setting is not active, economy file can be displayed on
computer screen later.

Economy file (version 3.1)

Setting of the item enables to generate “old-fashioned” format of economy files, instead
of report form, a simpler text file is generated similarly to Asper version 3.1.

Note: NC-code for bevel cutting can be generated only in DIN format. Other formats do not
support this function.

128
Export economy info into UNL file
The item causes that data for economy files are exported also into “UNL” file format.
When the setting is active, during generation of files a dialogue window opens for
entering file name and target path for the “UNL” file.

Display directory name in printouts

Setting the item active extends information about parts in economy file printout by
including directory information to the part name.

Display original rectangle size of part in printouts

Setting the item active puts information outline rectangle size for each part in economy
file printout.

Postprocessors
In standard Asper installations, postprocessors are located in “..\Bin\PostP” and
corresponding language files with error messages are located also on Asper path
“..\Bin\Texts\PPName\Language\PPName.ini”. In practice, the term “PPName.exe”
refers to a particular postprocessor and the term should be replaced by the name of
particular postprocessor. The term “Language” refers to particular language folder.
Inclusion of a postprocessor with specification of its command line arguments is
performed by starting detection of postprocessor plug-ins (button “Detect
postprocessor plug-in”, see Fig. 124) and enabling particular postprocessor from the
list of detected postprocessors.

Fig. 128 Postprocessor settings – ProfiCut example

Postprocessor properties are accessible by selection of a particular postprocessor from
the list of detected postprocessors and pressing <Edit> button. Then a window with
postprocessor properties is displayed (Fig. 128).

Name
Name of particular postprocessor program (Fig. 128).

129
Description
Brief text description of a postprocessor function (Fig. 128).

Parameters
In standard Asper installations, postprocessors are located in “..\Bin\PostP” and
corresponding language files with error messages are located also on Asper path
“..\Bin\Texts\PPName\Language\PPName.ini”. In practice, the term “PPName.exe”
refers to a particular postprocessor and the term should be replaced by the name of
particular postprocessor. The term “Language” refers to particular language folder.
Behaviour of particular postprocessor is defined by its command line switches and
parameter values. Postprocessor purpose is briefly explained in accompanying
description of individual switches.

Detect postprocessor plug-in

The function automatically detects all available postprocessors for particular Asper
installation and enables to select postprocessors from the list (Fig. 129).

Fig. 129 List of detected postprocessors

Sheet (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+P>)

The folder enables to define size of displayed sheet by entering X and Y dimension in
[mm]. A sheet is used as a space for placing parts. Sheet dimensions are used for
nesting and economy calculations. Nesting efficiency is then calculated from total parts
area and the sheet area.

130
 Fig. 130 Sheet shape and dimensions for “Rectangle” sheet shape

Sheet shape
Default sheet shape is a “Rectangle”. Other shapes are available only for Asper
installations with dedicated postprocessors, e.g. “RotProf” or “ProfiCut”. An example is
an installation for profile cutting where “N-angle profile” is available (Fig. 131).

Fig. 131 Sheet shape and dimensions for “N-angle profile” sheet shape

131
Necessary sheet dimensions are entered in “Description” and “Value” columns.

Microjoints (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+D>)

The folder is used to set microjoint placement parameters. Similarly as in case of lead-
ins, parameter change refers only to newly created microjoints not to already existing
microjoints.

Fig. 132. Settings for microjoints

Span [mm] Distance between microjoints

Microjoint length [mm] Length of microjoints
Keep complete The setting causes that only complete microjoints with
full length are applied. When the option is not selected,
it is possible to place microjoints also in corners where
normally it is not possible to keep fully defined size.
Thickness of rest [mm] The thickness that is retained under the microjoint, the
parameter is applicable only for 3D milling where it is
possible to remove the material in layers.

Create during import

Active option “Create during import” creates microjoints automatically during part
import. Microjoints are created according to set parameters with pre-set span between
the microjoints.

Transformation of circles (key shortcut:

<Alt+Shift+I>)
Transformation of circular holes is used in cases when a hole is supposed to be
processed in some special way. Transformation parameters define a class of holes to
be transformed and the way of processing classified holes.

132
Circular holes are very common shapes found in cutting programs and unlike other
types of holes they can be processed in several different ways:
 Cutting the holes using available tools
 Drilling the holes provided that the machine is equipped with a drilling head
 Marking the holes by punching provided that it is supported by technology of the
particular machine.
 A special option is cutting the holes with extended radius

Fig. 133 Transformation of circles

Fig. 134. Definition of a drilling cycle

133
 Fig. 135. Dialogue window for definition of a new circle transformation

Circle transformation is applied to defined range of diameters for circles that are not cut
in a standard way by the program, but are processed by some other way.
Diameters range can be defined in two ways:
1. Interval of the type “from-to”,
2. Diameter ± tolerance.
It is also possible to define specific DXF layer in order to apply the transformation more
selectively.

Transformation of circles
The first method filters all circular holes with diameter falling into the specified interval.
The setting of diameter interval for 5 mm hole is illustrated in Fig. 136:

Fig. 136 Example of circle transformation defined by interval of diameters

The second method filters all circular holes with diameter matching the specified
diameter with given tolerance.

134
 Fig. 137 Example of circle transformation defined by tolerance of diameters

When holes in a single part are supposed to be processed by different ways, it is

possible to limit execution of the transformation only for circles given in “DXF” in a
specified layer.
For more complicated situations (e.g. cutting threads, holes with large diameter) it is
possible to use pre-drilling. Then a hole is processed by two subsequent drilling
operations that can have different parameters. In this case Asper sets an especially
higher priority for pre-drilling to ensure a correct sequence of operations.
The original circle can be preserved even after applying the transformation. In that case
the priority is also set so that the circle is cut out first and then finely finished by a drill.

Ordering (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+E>)

The folder contains definition of settings for automatic ordering in menu: “Ordering →
Automatic”.

Fig. 138 Ordering settings

Basic strategy
The most important setting is the selection of basic ordering strategy. It is possible to
select from two choices.

135
From border Sections are ordered so that according to possibilities cutting
is performed from one sheet edge to the other. The direction
is selected by the user.
Closest point Asper searches in all sections available for ordering for the
section with starting point located closest to an ideal point. An
ideal point can be e.g. the end of the current cutting ordering
(then the transfer can be as short as possible), or a point
placed in a given distance from the centre of the last recent
section of the ordering. This option is used for laser cutting to
prevent the tool staying too long in one part of the sheet that
could lower cutting quality.

There are some additional conditions for both strategies which can be set:

Holes first
The choice ensures that each outer contour is placed into cutting order only after all its
inner holes are ordered. Usually there is no need to turn off this function.

Part at once
The choice prefers cutting of complete parts (e.g. for a given part, the machine cuts a
hole, then outer contour, and proceeds to the next part).
The function enables to ignore sections to be processed by a marking tool. Usually, the
marking tool has a higher ordering priority for ordering and so all markings are made
first and then individual parts are cut.

Ignore for marking

The function further modifies the order of operations in case when the option “Part at
once” is active so that complete marking is carried out prior to processing the parts
one-by-one.

Automatic chain cut in split corner

The option enables to turn on-off

According to bevel complexity (K-Y-V-I)

Asper orders all the cuts with respect to complexity of technological operation. The
order of operations is given so that “K” cut is the first followed by “Y” cut and then by
“V” cut.

Ignore cutting zones for non-cutting tools

This function allows to ignore cutting zones for non-cutting tools like e.g. InkJet writer.
This type of tool operates throughout whole sheets - not within smaller cutting zones.

136
Small parts
The setting defines how Asper handles parts that are considered to be small and
should be treated in special way. Parts that are considered to be small are identified by
their size (outline side in [mm]).
There are three options to handle small parts:

Standard way Asper calculates cutting path according to minimum travel

distance criterion
Small parts first Small parts are cut first
Small parts last Small parts are cut last

Fig. 139 Other settings

Other settings – main direction

Left to right Sort from right
Right to left Sort from left
Top to bottom Sort from bottom
Bottom to top Sort from top

Other settings – complementary direction

Top to bottom Sort from top to bottom
Bottom to top Sort from bottom to top
Arbitrary Arbitrary sort

137
Automatic parameter changes (key shortcut:
<Alt+Shift+W>)
The folder comprises settings for automatic parameter changes that are applied during
importing parts into a cutting plan.

Fig. 140 Automatic parameter changes

It is often necessary to modify some cutting parameters of some part of a section to

achieve maximum cutting quality. Common examples of candidates for parameter
modifications are arcs with small radius (mainly circular holes) and corners.
Asper enables to define automatic modifications of some parameters for arcs and
corners separately.

In arcs
Automatic modifications in arcs assume definition of behaviour for different corner
angles. New definition is entered by using <New> function, properties can be modified
by <Edit> function (Fig. 140).

Fig. 141 Parameter changes in arcs – ATHC disabled

138
It is then possible to modify relative values of most significant technological parameters
and assign them for arcs with radii less or equal to parameter value (Fig. 141).
Modification of parameters is then performed automatically during loading of a part for
all arcs matching selection criteria.

Fig. 142 Example of automatic parameter changes for different arcs

In case of arcs with radii matching several settings (for example an arc with 5 mm
radius for settings in Fig. 142), only modifications defined for nearest radius greater
than the arc radius are applied.

In corners
Parameter modifications for corners can be defined for different angles of corners. The
angle of the corner represents the change of path direction in the corner. During import
the setting is applied to all corners matching angle criteria. Angle parameter means that
modifications for all corners with angle greater or equal than specified value.
Corner parameters can be defined for different angles. When corner angles match
several settings, only modifications defined for nearest angle less than the corner angle
are applied.

Cooling in corner
Especially for the optimisation of laser cutting it is possible to enable cooling, pause for
cooling the material, or a change of path shape in corners.

Fig. 143 Example of automatic parameter changes for different corners

139
 Fig. 144 Parameter changes in corners

Path in corner
There are four options how to modify tool path in corners:
1. Standard – corner path remains unchanged.
2. Loop – a loop is inserted in the corner (Fig. 145). Loop radius is defined in
“Settings → Lead-ins and lead-outs → Loop radius”.
3. Angle axis – corner path is modified by inserting a short linear path in direction
of angle axis (Fig. 146). Length of the path is given by parameter.
4. Rounded – corner path is modified by inserting an arc with specified radius
(Fig. 147). Arc radius is given by parameter.

Fig. 145 Example of a modified corner – loop

140
 Fig. 146 Example of a modified corner – angle axis

Fig. 147 Example of a modified corner – rounded corner with reduced speed

Pre-generating tests (key shortcut:

<Ctrl+Shift+G>)
Pre-generating tests are used in case when it is desirable to check for collision so that
also lead-ins and lead-outs are taken under consideration. It is possible to specify
minimum gaps between the end points of leads in a way that should be obvious from
Fig. 148.

141
 Fig. 148 Pre-generating tests

Starting points (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+A>)

The folder contains items for setting starting points of a cutting plan. It is possible to set
preferred corner of placement of the starting point for a part.

Fig. 149 Starting points

Program settings

Input (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+V>)

These parameters are used for automatic processing of inserted files.

142
 Fig. 150 Input parameters
Change of any parameter value in this folder affects subsequent loading of a file. It has
no influence on already loaded data. Therefore, files already loaded with incorrect
parameters should be closed, parameters should be appropriately modified and then
files can be loaded again.

Point identity tolerance band

During file insertion Asper tests whether processed entities properly join each. The
parameter defines maximum tolerance band in [mm] for two points that should be
identical. Too small value for this parameter results in a state when some entities might
remain disconnected and open chains are created. Too big value can join together
some smaller objects that are intended to stay separated. The colour of inserted parts
helps to identify open chains that are usually displayed in different colour then closed
chains. Occurrence of an open chain in unexpected place should be fixed.

Ignore duplicate entities

If two identical entities appear in one inserted file, the program automatically ignores
one of them. In case of partial coverage of lines, line ends are automatically modified
so that they will touch without overlapping.

Merge entities
The item enables to join entities drawn with imprecision smaller than defined “point
identity tolerance band” automatically.

Disable placement
The setting is used to preserve part co-ordinates as they are defined in the entry. Asper
does not place the part onto a sheet and does not check for collision with other parts.

143
Smoothing
When input file includes contours split into many short lines, it is convenient to replace
these short lines with a smaller number of longer lines. The approximation is performed
with respect to accuracy settings given by “Smoothing tolerance [mm]”.
It is recommended to use smoothing to improve cutting quality and speed-up
processing contours composed of small lines.

Smoothing tolerance [mm]

The parameter is used to specify smoothing accuracy, i.e. permitted deviation of
smoothed entity from a reference entity.

Smoothing angle [°]

The parameter is used to specify smoothing accuracy in angle, i.e. permitted deviation
of smoothed entity from a reference entity.

DSTV – quantity
This function is used to set required number of parts imported from a DSTV file.

DSTV – text for writing

The function imports from a DSTV file also texts to be written by a tool suitable for
writing vector characters (e.g. Arcwriter or Inkjet writer).

Units (only for DXF)

This function defines a unit of measure for imported “DXF” drawings – metric [mm] or
imperial [inch]. It is also possible to set a custom scale.

Metric
Metric units are default for Asper, also all internal calculations are performed in metric
units.

Imperial (UK and US)

Depending on CAD drawing, also imperial units can be used. Then multiplier value is
fixed to 25.4 mm per inch.

Display dialogue for selection

The option enables to display a dialogue window that offers a selection from three
alternatives. The window is displayed after selection of a “DXF” file for import into
Asper.

144
 Fig. 151 Dialogue window for selection of DXF units of measure Automatic

User defined
User defined units require entering correct conversion rate between user units and
millimetres.

Multiplier
“Multiplier” defines conversion rate of units used in original “DXF” drawing for user
defined units of measure.
When imported “DXF” file contains any errors, a warning message is displayed. The
most common error is existence of open chains detected during drawing import. Then a
message is displayed (see Fig. 152) and further action should be selected:

Continue import Ignore results of detection and continue

Select unclosed outer contours
Select all contours
Cancel import
After the drawing is imported, unclosed outer
contours are selected and prepared for further
manual processing.
After the drawing is imported, all contours are
selected
Importing is discarded and no drawing is imported

Fig. 152 Error message generated when importing incorrect DXF drawing

145
Change sheet size according to setting in imported
If the part is loaded (group of parts) is greater than the current sheet, adjust the size
sheet.

DXF – ignore scale in INSERT

DXF The scale may be indicated, for example 2:1, i.e. all dimensions are displayed
scaled. Sometimes this is unintentional and the result is that also part dimensions do
not match the dimensions specified in the drawing. In such cases it is possible to
ignore the scale.

Layers (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+L>)

The folder is intended for definition of actions to be performed during import of a “DXF”
drawing. It is possible to customize behaviour for different layers of imported drawing.

Fig. 153 Parameters of layers

Read all layers

This function is applicable for processing drawings in formats supporting multiple
layers. It is possible to load entities from all layers, or to customize specific ways of
processing entities in different layers.

146
Filters
Asper enables to handle layers in imported “DXF” drawings by filters applied on layers
organized into groups. Filters can be selected to be applied only provided that “Read all
layers” option is disabled. A layer group is a user defined group of layers with that
should be processed in certain way.
The functions used for definition of “DXF” layer groups are <Rename>, <New>,
<Delete>. For definition of a new filter, a dialogue window is displayed (Fig. 154):

Fig. 154 New layer

The same dialogue window is displayed also for renaming the layer.
Properties of individual layers are set in “DXF layers setting” item. Each layer group is
defined by a list of layers assigned to the group and each layer has separate settings
(Fig. 155).

DXF layers setting

The list of all layers defined as a source for loading entities in case that reading of all
layers is disabled. Properties of individual layers are defined when new layer setting is
created, or existing setting is modified. Available settings for a layer are displayed in
Fig. 156.

Fig. 155 Example of settings for added DXF layers

147
 Fig. 156 Add new layer for bevel cutting

DC2/IGES layer number

The parameter is used for processing drawings in DC2/IGES format and specifies the
number of. When “Read all layers” option is disabled, all entities in other layers are
ignored.

Display parameters (key shortcut:

<Alt+Shift+Z>)
Parameters of this window are used for settings of displaying various objects. The
settings have no influence on the plan data. If for example, displaying names of parts is
disabled, names of parts remain but are not displayed. Displaying can be disabled e.g.
in cases when objects make orientation in the plan difficult, or displayed information is
useless in some situation.

Fig. 157 Display parameters

148
Cutting direction

Part name
Point to snap
Move
Section index

Moving direction

Fig. 158 Displayed elements

Colours (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+F>)

The folder enables to customize colours and line types for all elements that can be
present in a cutting plan. The colours can be customized for different view modes.

Fig. 159 Colours settings – standard view mode

149
View mode

Fig. 160 Colours settings – technology view mode

Fig. 161 Colours settings – relative speed view mode

Fig. 162 Colours settings – activity view mode

150
 Fig. 163 Colours settings – ATHC view mode

Fig. 164 Colours settings – other view mode

Colour
Parameter settings in this window does not effect data; they are used only for
displaying. The colours are set by default to ensure correct display also in graphic
modes with smaller number of colours.
The colours are ordered according to priority. Each object can be in more states and a
state is represented by corresponding colour. When the object is moved, its colour is
changed according to the new status. The colour is returned back to previous one after
finishing this operation, or it changes with respect to eventual new status of object
resulting from the operation.
Line style

Change
The button opens a standard dialogue window for selection from available standard
system colours. Reset to default colours

151
Auxiliary points (key shortcut:
<Alt+Shift+B>)
Auxiliary points aid more precise positioning of a pointer, usually a cursor. The settings
are used for function menu: “Point → Snap”.
The points can be assigned to significant points present in a plan. Available significant
points that can be used as auxiliary points are listed in screenshot in Fig. 165.

Fig. 165 Auxiliary points

Miscellaneous (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+O>)

Miscellaneous settings comprise various parameters used to define behaviour of Asper
in different situations.

Fig. 166 Miscellaneous parameters

Enable to enter point in advance

The option enables to enter auxiliary points first and then apply a corresponding
function.

152
Smart object assignment
Smart object assignment enables to significantly speed up the work in Asper. It is
closely related to the way of running functions.
There are three ways how to run functions that need single auxiliary point:
1. From menu
2. From toolbar
3. Using key shortcut
In the first two methods, mouse movement is be performed first and then co-ordinates
for auxiliary points should be defined.
If the function is run using a key shortcut, required co-ordinates are determined from
the mouse cursor position and there is no need to enter an auxiliary point.
This logic is acceptable for most cases because the invoked function calculates the
perpendicular projection onto the nearest entity and the given point is related to that
entity automatically.
When some co-ordinates are defined explicitly, then the auxiliary point can be entered
in advance, or the function can be run from the menu.
Smart object assignment works only for functions that need exactly one auxiliary point.
Other functions need all auxiliary points to be entered.
Some commands work with the selected group or block of objects and then there is no
need for an auxiliary point.

Multiple actions interrupt

When a new function is run and some other function has been already launched, it is
possible to cancel the new function or terminate currently executed function.
If a call of new function occurs during the run of current one, it is possible to ignore it or
to abort current function

Detail is a standard activity

Functions that change current display can be run simultaneously without interrupting
current activity, or they are handled in standard way.
It is possible to call functions, which change current display, either without interrupting
of current activity or in the standard way.

Enable collision check

It is possible to enable/disable checking for mutual collision when objects in the plan
are moved. In particular it is determined rather if this control should be applied after the
creation of lead-ins with destination.

153
Change start direction
Moving the starting point for a simple closed contour.

Lead-in change during common-line cut ordering

When common cuts are ordered, new lead-ins and lead-outs are created. In case this
function is active, ordering of a section that will be moved will be stopped until user
does not confirm direction of new lead-in and lead-out.

Always create new plan from template

All new planes are open from created templates.

Display dialogue for lead-in / lead-out modification

The setting has influence on a way of modification of lead-ins and lead-outs. For more
information see also description of menu item “Modify lead-in (key shortcut: <N>)”,
page 103.

Tools (key shortcut: <Alt+Shift+C>)

The window contains definitions of tools. These tools can be assigned to the individual
sections of a plan for processing.

Fig. 167 Definition of tools parameters

154
Sweeping
Sweeping is an auxiliary function available for machines with brush. The brush is used
for automatic cleaning of sheet surface from chips after preceding drilling operation.

Dumping of finished parts

Dumping of finished parts is an auxiliary function for removing finished parts. The
function is applicable for machines with conveyor.

Dump after holes wider than

Parts that are narrower than specified margin need not to be dumped, they fall to the
bottom of the table.

Tool configurations
Configuration of tools is an essential procedure for preparation of plans for more
complicated machines.

Fig. 168 Dialogue window for tool configuration

155
Tool code Identification code for tool used for “M6” instruction (change/set
tool). Even in case of plans with single tool it is possible to force
generation of the instruction. The code should match
configuration of tools in MSNC.
Tool name User-defined name of the tool
Ordering priority Numerical value used for automatic ordering. Higher value
means higher priority level. It is used in multi-tool plans to
define an order of technological operations. For example,
drilling and tapping should performed prior to cutting.
Program index The value is used for synchro points in cases when the NC
program should be generated separately for different machines.
Rotator type Selection of rotator type in order to generate appropriate
instruction that respect individual features of each available
bevel cutting tool (see Fig. 169).
OFFSET_3T For triple torch technology. Offset between the middle torch and
side torches.
Variable bevel Bevel cutting with variable bevel angle. In this case it is
supported assumed that the machine uses an inductive sensor.
Allows bevel cutting Bevel cutting with standard THC is cutting without detection
with standard THC points or arc voltage learning. The cutting height is controlled
according to an inductive sensor.
Bevel cut starting Optimal starting direction for lead-in. It is used for water jet
direction rotator. For plasma the recommended value is 20°.
Diameter of IHS Diameter of IHS probe for MicroStep machines is 20 mm.
probe
Number of heads The parameter is used to define number of heads for machines
that comprise more than one head with the same technology for
multi-head cutting.
Variable spacing The parameter is used for multi-head cutting. It is applicable
only for machines with independent Y-drives for all heads with
the same technology.
Minimum torch gap Minimal distance between two technological heads following
from geometrical relations.
Enable tool parking Self explanatory
Cutting tool Self explanatory
Change direction Self explanatory
when mirrored
Marking points Tool is able to make marking points.
supported
Use traverse speed Used traverse speed for work.
for work
Change outer Change outer contour starting point when position is rotating or
contour startpoint mirrored
when position
changes
Change inner hole Change inner hole starting point when position is rotating or
startpoint when mirrored.
position changes
Enable limited Enable limited parking

156
parking
Disable tool turn off The parameter defines behaviour of the tool during traverse
(drilling, milling) movements between technological operations. Typical
examples when the tool should not be turned off is drilling.
Then, it is neither necessary nor desirable to turn off the
spindle.
Quality hole support Applicable only for True Hole technology (Hypertherm) and
Contour Cut (Kjellberg) plasma cutting tools
Disable ATHC for Disable high control mode ATHC in loop.
created loops

Fig. 169 Available tool types for bevel cutting

Technology Plasma Plasma Plasma Plasma Oxyfuel Oxyfuel Driller Waterjet Waterjet Laser Laser Laser Laser Inkjet
Large Medium Small
Straight Bevel Marking Punching Straight Triple Straight Bevel Marking
contours contours contours
Tool code T110 / T210 /
T311 T411 T12 T12 T%d15 T14 T14 T117 T217 T317 T417 T18
T111 T211
Ordering
10 10 20 20 10 10 20 10 20 10 10 10 10 30
priority
Program
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
index
Rotator type Oxy triple-
Plasma Waterjet
No No No No torch No No No No No No No
rotator V3 rotator
head
Variable
bevel No No No No No No No No Yes No No No No No
supported
Bevel
cutting
20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 270 20 20 20 20 20
starting
direction
Diameter of
20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20
IHS probe
Number of
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
heads
Variable
spacing ✔
Enable tool
parking ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Cutting tool
✔ ✔ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✘
Change
direction
when ✔ ✔ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✘
mirrored
Marking
points
supported
✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘
Use
traverse
speed for ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘
work
Change
outside
contour
startpoint
when
✘ ✔ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘
position
changes
Change
inner hole
startpoint
when ✘ ✔ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘
position
changes

157
Enable
limited
parking
✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✘ ✘
Disable tool
turn off ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✔ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘
Disable
ATHC for
created ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘ ✘
loops

Tab. 6. Summary of tool codes and other recommended tool settings

Tool configuration settings

New configuration
New configuration is used for definition of a new tool configuration

Delete configuration
The function is used to delete selected configuration.

Rename configuration
The function is used to change name of selected configuration.

Window menu
Asper enables simultaneous work with more plans. Each plan has its own window; in
addition, one plan can be opened in several windows. The menu “Window” is used for
different options of work with the windows.

Fig. 170 Window menu

New window
The command opens a new window for the current document (NC plan).
The same document can be displayed in more windows for viewing different details of
the same data. Possible document changes are applied and displayed in all its
windows.

158
Cascade
The command displays opened windows in a cascade style enabling to switch between
the windows using a mouse.

Fig. 171 Cascade arrangement of opened windows

Tile
The command displays open windows so that program working area is filled with
equally sized windows without mutual overlapping.

Fig. 172 Tile arrangement of opened windows

Arrange icons
The command arranges icons of minimised windows on the bottom of the main
window. If some windows are not minimised, they can cover some icons.

159
 Fig. 173 Arranged icons of opened windows

Window 1, 2, ...
The command is used to select active window from all opened windows (Fig. 174).

Fig. 174 Example of a list of opened windows

160
Appendices

Plasma bevel cutting tool

Program parameters for plasma bevel cutting

The first setting that should be performed or checked, is a configuration of tools in
Asper program parameters. The settings are global for Asper installation and are valid
for all cutting plans.
In menu: “Settings → Tools” there is an example of list of tools configured for particular
copy of Asper. Tools definition is based on actual machine type and configuration. Tool
codes examples for common and fine plasma tool are summarised in Tab. 7.

Basic tool Tool codes for Comment

code groups
T10 Common plasma tool
T110 Straight cutting with plasma
T210 Bevel cutting with plasma
T310 Plasma marking
T410 Plasma punching
T11 Fine plasma tool (high definition plasma)
T111 Straight cutting with plasma
T211 Bevel cutting with plasma
T311 Plasma writing
T411 Plasma marking

Tab. 7. Example of tool codes

Plasma bevel cutting tool can be defined in “Parameters → Tools” menu as depicted in
Fig. 175. Tool code for “M6” instruction is composed of a code for parameter group “2”
and a code for fine plasma cutting tool “11”, so the resulting code for plasma bevel
cutting tool is “T211”.

Note: In practice, assignment of codes for groups can be different depending on

configuration of particular machine.

161
 Fig. 175 Configuration of tools in Asper program parameters
Properties of plasma bevel cutting tool are accessible from the list of available tools
using “Edit” button. A new window that contains more detailed description of the tool
properties is displayed (Fig. 176). When no plasma bevel cutting tool is defined, it
should be created using “New” button. It is important to set rotator type as given in Fig.
176.

Fig. 176 Definition of plasma bevel cutting tool properties

162
Parameter settings: Asper options configuration
For bevel cutting it is important also to adjust some parameters in Asper configuration
(template). An important parameter for bevel cutting is material thickness. The
thickness information is used for calculation of motion trajectory for A- and B-axes und
thus resulting tool path. For different thicknesses it is possible to prepare more different
configurations as described in AsperWin User’s Manual. The material thickness is set
in “Parameters → Technology” menu (Fig. 177).

Fig. 177 Material thickness setting in Asper parameters menu

Generally, it is recommended to check all parameter settings if they enable to meet

quality requirements for plasma bevel cutting.
Next parameters used for plasma bevel cutting can be modified in “Parameters →
Bevel ATHC expert” (Fig. 178). ATHC stands for automatic tool height control.

Bevel ATHC expert

Bevel ATHC expert parameters define behaviour of Asper in case of automatic setting
of bevel cutting sections.
The menu comprises three parameters for classification of sections:

Square size for plane detection Size of a side of square that is applied for
[mm] classification of parts when Bevel ATHC expert is
used. Parts or sections with size smaller than the
parameter are considered to be suitable for
cutting according to detected plane.
For bigger parts or sections, the accuracy is
improved by application of arc voltage learning.

163
 Plane detection is used as a priori information for
learning mode. Learning mode is then applied on
basis of parameters listed below.
Pre-learn cut length Length of cutting, tool height is controlled on basis
[mm] of measured plane. The section is used to provide
some delay for plasma arc voltage measurement
so that at the start of measurement, the arc is
already stable. The length excludes lead-in.
Learn cut length Length of section for learning, i.e. the tool height
[mm] is controlled on basis of measured plane and
plasma arc voltage is measured. The tool cuts
with specified bevel and measured plasma arc
voltage value is then used as a reference for
ATHC.

In order to increase accuracy of cutting surface contours for undercuts, it is possible to

define parameters for automatic substitution of plain bevel cut into Y-cut with defined
upright section.
The system also enables to define different parameter groups for different situations,
the situations differ on current thickness of a metal sheet. For example, different
parameter groups can use different cutting speeds because the thickness of the edge
for overcutting is different for the edge where undercutting has been already
completed, generally less or equal to original sheet thickness. The settings are
available in “Technologies”.
“Run automatically on import” setting enables automatic run of Bevel ATHC expert
algorithm for situations where CAD drawing already includes specification of bevel.

Fig. 178. Parameters for bevel ATHC expert

164
Plan preparation procedure
The procedure assumes correct settings of parameters. The input drawing can be
either prepared in external CAD software or by parametrisation of a ready-made library
part from WSelect. When an input “DXF” drawing includes information about bevel
angle by means of using separate layers for upper and lower contour, it is possible to
apply “Bevel ATHC expert” algorithm immediately during import (Fig. 178).
The procedure comprises at least following steps:
 Definition of edges for bevel cutting and adjustment of parameters
 Selection of plane detection points
 Ordering of cutting
 Generation of a cutting plan
Basically, there are two possible ways of preparation cutting plans for plasma bevel
cutting:
1. Automatic
2. Manual
Automatic preparation assumes that bevel angles are defined in imported drawing
(“Bevel ATHC expert” algorithm is applied during import), or they are specified
manually via bevel edge properties (see Fig. 182). When plan layout is prepared then
“Bevel ATHC expert” algorithm can be launched (Fig. 179):

Fig. 179 Bevel ATHC expert item in "Section" menu

The algorithm uses settings of parameters defined in menu: “Settings → Bevel ATHC
expert” (Fig. 178). The result is that cutting plan is automatically modified by insertion
of instructions for plane detection and learning mode.
Manual preparation differs in the fact that there is no need to launch “Bevel ATHC
expert” algorithm and all settings for bevel cutting can be performed manually.
In practice, it is possible to use a combination of both ways.
Plane detection points are inserted automatically depending on the shape of a part.
Points for plane detection can be modified from menu: “Point → Surface detection”
menu (Fig. 180). The function is enabled only when corresponding section is selected.

165
Then it is possible to define new detection points by clicking the mouse pointer on
particular locations.

Detection
points

Fig. 180 Modification of plane detection points

Example of plan with bevel cutting

The example is a rectangular shape with one side cut with bevel cut. The shape is a
standard shape selected from WSelect library, the library is a standard component of
Asper installation.

Selection of edge for bevel cut

After the shape is imported to Asper, the rectangle should be split into two sections.
Split function is accessible from function menu: “Section → Split”. Asper automatically
adds corresponding lead-ins and lead-outs. The first section (three sides) will be cut
using straight cutting, and remaining side will be cut using bevel cutting. The resulting
shape is depicted in Fig. 181.

166
 Bevel cut

Straight cut

Fig. 181 Rectangular shape imported to Asper from WSelect

Bevel edge properties

Next, bevel edge properties should be adjusted. The properties are accessible from
menu: “Section → Scarf cut” menu or using toolbar button as shown in Fig. 182.

Fig. 182 Asper screenshot with button for definition of bevel edge properties

Fig. 183 Specification of bevel edge properties

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Definition of bevel angle comprises several parameters as demonstrated in Fig. 184.
Meaning of geometric parameters Alpha1 [deg], Alpha2 [deg], Tn [mm], and Tp [mm] is
obvious from the picture. For Alpha1 and Alpha2 it is possible to define starting and
final angle.
Selection of the tool for bevel cutting can be used to apply one of implemented bevel
cutting tools. The selection is reasonable only provided the machine has several bevel
cutting tools.
An important factor for plasma bevel cutting is behaviour during piercing and lead-in.
This behaviour significantly influences final quality of cutting. There are four options
available for piercing:
1. Upright piercing with rotation during first part of lead-in
2. Upright piercing and in place rotation
3. Bevelled piercing with rotation prepared before
The most commonly used method is the method 1.

Fig. 184 Bevel edge properties

In the example, 25 degrees bevel cut is adjusted as can be seen in Fig. 184.
Selection “Use learn mode” enables or disables learning mode. Whenever possible, it
is recommended to use the learning mode to achieve higher cutting quality and
accuracy. When learn mode is enabled, it is possible to define length of section that
precedes learning “Length before learn start” and length of learning section “Learn
length”. The length parameters are expressed in [mm]. Manual setting of the
parameters in Bevel edge properties window overrides values set in menu: “Settings →
Bevel ATHC expert” (Fig. 178). The exact meaning of the length parameters will be
illustrated in an example below.

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Plane definition
Learning mode operates on basis of a plane that is measured prior cutting. Number
and location of detection points is automatically determined by Asper according to
geometrical criteria. Depending on particular situation, possible number of points is 1,
2, or 3. For example, for a contour with shape approaching single line, it is sufficient to
define the “plane” using only two points.

Detection
points

Fig. 185 Example of rectangular contour with one edge prepared for bevel cutting

After specification of bevel edge properties, the properties of individual entities that are
parts of bevel cut line are as given in following pictures. The line comprises following
entities:
 Lead-in (composed of one or more parts)
 Cutting according measured plane – pre-learning stage (Fig. 186)
 Cutting according measured plane – learning stage (Fig. 187)
 Cutting with ATHC enabled on basis of learnt arc voltage (Fig. 188)
 Lead-out

Pre-learning stage
In the first section of actual cutting, cutting head moves according to previously
measured plane. “Learning mode status” in this section is set to none (Fig. 186).
Length of the section is given by parameters of bevel edge (“Length before learn start”
parameter, see Fig. 184). The section is used mainly as in intermediate section for
settlement of measured plasma arc voltage signal.

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 Fig. 186 Pre-learning stage, length of the part is 20 mm as specified in Fig. 184

Learning stage
Then there is a section where cutting head is still controlled according to measured
plane but plasma arc voltage is measured and processed to be used later as a
reference for ATHC. “Learning mode status” is set to active (Fig. 187), i.e. learning
process is in progress. Length of learning section is defined by “Learn length”
parameter (Fig. 184).

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 Fig. 187 Learning stage, length of the part is 40 mm as specified in Fig. 184

Adaptive control
Remaining part of bevel cut edge is cut according to plasma arc voltage measured
during learning mode and “Learning mode status” is set to applied (Fig. 188). Torch-to-
material distance is controlled adaptively.

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 Fig. 188 Cutting according to learnt voltage, ATHC is enabled

Simulation
Especially in the beginning of preparation of cutting plans for plasma bevel cutting it is
useful to use simulation to understand better behaviour of the machine. Source code
that corresponds to presented example is listed below.

Fig. 189 Screenshot of NCSim

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Example source code
The source code corresponds to assumed example of simple bevel cutting plan.
"SHEET_DIM 3000 1500 4500000 10.00 4500000 -
G90 (* ABSOLUTE *)
"PART Stvorec0 0 80000
M94 D1(* BEGIN SURFACE DETECTION *)
G94 X406.36 Y150.00 (* DETECT ONE POINT *)
G94 X406.36 Y205.00 (* DETECT ONE POINT *)
M94 (*END OF SURFACE DETECTION*)
G0 X406.36 Y226.095 (* LINE *)
G41 (* COMPENSATION LEFT *)
M28 (* TANG CTRL ON *)
M38 L0.00 L0.00 (* AZIMUT LIMITS *)
M29 A-20.00 (* SET CHAMFER *)
M37 (* AZIMUT NOW *)
M20 D2 (*HEAD DOWN *)
M3 (* TOOL ON *)
G1 Y214.00 (* LINE *)
M33 (* TANG NEXT *)
G1 Y210.00 (* LINE *)
G1 Y190.00 (* LINE *)
M90 K11 L0 (*LEARN MODE ON*)
M22 D11 (*LEARN MODE - START LEARNING*)
G1 Y150.00 (* LINE *)
M23 D11 (*LEARN MODE OFF*)
M22 D10 (*3D OFF*)
G1 Y10.00 (* LINE *)
M27 (* TANG CTRL OFF *)
G1 Y6.00 (* LINE *)
M5 (* TOOL OFF *)
M21 (* PARK *)
G40 (* COMPENSATION OFF *)
M32 (* PARK ROTATOR *)
G0 X418.00 Y10.00 (* LINE *)
G41 (* COMPENSATION LEFT *)
M20 (*HEAD DOWN *)
M3 (* TOOL ON *)
G1 X410.00 (* LINE *)
G1 X10.00 (* LINE *)
G1 Y210.00 (* LINE *)
G1 X410.00 (* LINE *)
G1 X414.00 (* LINE *)
M5 (* TOOL OFF *)
M21 (* PARK *)
G40 (* COMPENSATION OFF *)

Example of a simple cutting plan creation

This example demonstrates a procedure of creating simple cutting plan. Search for
explanation in this manual in case of some uncertainty or directly in program (using
Help F1).

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Assume a simple part defined as a square with edges in co-ordinates 10, 10 and 90, 90
with a simple circular hole, midpoint 50, 50 and radius 25 (all values are in [mm]).
Creation of a part in CAD program
This chapter contains a simple way of creating parts drawing in CAD program (Design
CAD and AutoCAD). Demonstrated method is not the only one and there might be
minor differences for various versions of described products. In case of any
uncertainties user should consult his CAD program manual.

Design CAD 2D ver.6

When a part is designed in Design CAD, it is necessary to have set generation of text
files with extension DC2 that are understood by Asper. The option can be set in
“Options → Parameters → Miscellaneous options → Save drawing file as binary file” by
setting option to “No”. There is also less comfortable possibility to convert binary file
into text file later via program DCFiles supplied with Design CAD.
Common rectangle can be drawn by four lines, comfortable way is to use command
“Box” from “Draw” menu. The program prompts for two opposed points defining the
rectangle. The simplest way of entering a point is its definition using absolute co-
ordinates (menu “Points → PointXY”). After coordinates of both points are entered,
requested rectangle is created.
When more complex parts lines are designed from adjoined lines, it is useful to use
“Combine” command that unites the lines into single line resulting in faster creation of
strings in Asper.
A circle can be created via “Circle → Circle4” command. The command defines a circle
by a centre point and radius (numeric value).
All entities can be displayed in detail by “Display → Zoom” command using zoom factor
0 (zero). “Files → Save” is used to create file with selected name. Help for particular
operation is accessible through <F1> key during work with menu. The program is
terminated via “Files → Exit” item.

AutoCAD release 12 and later

versions
After program launch and selecting New drawing item, the program prompts for a
drawing name. A rectangle can be created using command “DRAW-RECTANGLE”,
the program expects two points of a rectangle diagonal. Entered points are confirmed
by pressing <Enter>.
A circle can be created by using command “DRAW-CIRCLE” and subsequently
entered centre point co-ordinates and circle radius or diameter.
All entities can be displayed in detail by using “ZOOM” command with All option.
A file of entities can be created using “File → Save As” command. “DXF” file required
for Asper can be generated using output file SAVE in AutoCAD format (e.g. AutoCAD
2000 DXF) and file name should be entered.

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Help for all operations is displayed in the bottom bar.
The program is closed using <Quit> command requiring subsequent confirmation.

General remarks concerning construction

It is recommended to specify circular hole as a single entity and not as e.g. two
semicircles because Asper can process it in a special way (see “Parameters of lead-ins
in circular holes”)
It does not matter where a part drawn in CAD is placed. Only relative dimensions with
respect to drawn part should be kept. In other words, location of a part in a CAD has no
influence to its location in Asper.

Loading a part
After starting the program, go to the menu (using mouse or key <Enter>), find the item
“File” using arrows and corresponding type of CAD file (“Insert DXF” or “Insert DC2”).
After double click on file name or pressing “Enter” the file is displayed on the screen in
which user selects the file created by him. After the file was loaded, the part will be
displayed on desktop. The program automatically designs lead-ins and lead-outs to this
part (if it is enabled in corresponding parameters setting).

Actions after the file is loaded

Press <F5> for detailed view of a part, it corresponds to menu command “Display →
Parts”. To verify the parts correctness, press <Alt> simultaneously with <Enter>, or
from menu: “File → Properties”. There is information displayed in window, where the
number of chains is 2, open chain is 0 and number of closed chains is 2. Number of
parts must be 1.
Now we know, that the part was loaded (or inserted) correctly, we can load another file
or copy the same one. Loaded parts are placed onto sheet so that they are not
overlapping. We can even copy already loaded part (menu “Edit → Copy”). If loaded or
copied parts don’t fit into sheet anymore, they are placed further out of working area.
User can change the position and place them afterward or delete them as well.

Parts positioning
In case that we have already loaded all needed parts, it is necessary to place them the
way to minimise area and in the same time to fulfil other technological requirements.
Commands for this purpose are in the menu “Move” (“Drag”, “Move”, “Rotate”, “Mirror”
and “Align”). Don’t be surprised when your part will appear after mirroring the same
way as before. It might be caused by the symmetry of given part.
Distance between two parts and any other distance can be found using a function from
menu: “Display → Distance”. Two auxiliary points are needed to be entered. The menu:

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“Point” describes possibilities of entering points. You can also use the left or right
mouse button.

Parts ordering

When parts layout is satisfactory, the ordering can be launched (menu: “Ordering →
Automatic” or shortcut key <A>). The next step might be the output file generation.
If user is not satisfied with the ordering design, it can be redesigned in an interactive
way.
In case that user is not satisfied with starting points (Asper puts them automatically on
the beginning of the first found entity in a chain), they can be changed using menu:
“Section → Change start point”. The function will prompt for entering a point closed to a
chain (in case of calling equivalent shortcut key <R>, it takes directly the mouse cursor
position). Asper finds the point nearest to entered point and moves the starting point
there. When there were lead-ins or lead-outs in the place of the starting point, Asper
recalculates them in the new point.
It is an ideal solution for a rectangle, when the starting point lies on one of its edges.
When using “Snap” function for catching the rectangle edge (corner), make sure to
move cursor into space out of rectangle, where “prolonged“ diagonal is.
If you are not satisfied with lead-ins or lead-outs, change their settings according to
your requirements. There is more option to work with them, to change them or to delete
them.
Note: If it is desirable to change lead-ins and lead-outs in entire cutting plan, proceed
as following:
1. In menu “Lead-in → Delete All”.
2. In menu “Settings → Lead-ins, Lead-outs” set your new desired values.
3. In menu “Lead-in → Add all”.
If you are not satisfied with the cutting order of individual chains, choose menu:
“Ordering”. The order of chain cutting can be changed in an interactive way. In
considered case we want to cut just single part (outer rectangle with one circular hole);
there is only one available solution: hole is the first and rectangle (as a contour) the
second.
You may find the situation where the end of a chain and the beginning of next chain are
close to each other, moving line between them does not cross any other part or chain
(i.e. they are both outer contour chains). In that case, you can use so called “Chain cut”
from menu “Order” and select first chain. After cutting this one, the cutter (torch etc.)
will be not switched off and lifted up. The line movement between those two chains will
be performed with cutting speed and the cutter will simply go on with cutting after
reaching second chain. You can prolong spare parts lifetime this way, because the
piercing phase of cutting (which we can avoid this way) is the most damaging moment
for nozzle or shield cup of any torch. The information about this technological feature is
automatically stored into cutting plan and remains there even after eventual parts
moving. The moving trajectory between those chains is displayed in a different way as
well.

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File generation
When entire design of a cutting plan is finished, output files can be generated. Allowed
output files will be generated and the whole cutting plan will be finished (see also NC
program parameters settings and file generation enabling or disabling).
In most situations it is recommended to generate files with the kerf width compensation
performed by machine control system. Such a cutting plan is usable also for different
sheet thicknesses. It is also recommended to save always cutting plan record (files with
PLA extension) due to a good chance to reuse them later.
Some potential errors in NC code can be revealed using NC-simulation program is
used to test validity and correctness of particular code prior cutting on the machine. In
case of different values of kerf compensation in the simulation program and cutting
machine, simulate it with kerf width set to 0. Description of the simulation program can
be found in its manual.

Possible errors and troubleshooting

In some cases Asper does not recognise properly the number of parts or their shape. It
happens especially in cases when during parts construction in CAD some errors have
been made.
To minimize potential problems in processing of drawings, it is recommended to put
any single part into a single file. For Asper it can be confusing when drawings contain
more parts with identical name (at the beginning).
It is recommended to check the correctness of parts loaded into Asper using the info
window (see “Properties (key shortcut: <Alt+Enter>)”, page 46). It is important to check
if the number of chains and parts (open and closed) detected by the program matches
expected numbers.
It happens that parts are dimensioned, not by dedicated dimension lines, but by line
and arc entities. Asper includes the entities into calculations, so they have to be
deleted prior to next steps.
One of common construction errors is the situation where endpoints of two adjacent
entities are not perfectly identical. If the distance between them is small, it is not
necessary to revise the drawing, it is sufficient to modify slightly the value of “Point
identity tolerance band” parameter in the menu: “Settings → Input”. To prevent this
situation, for construction of points of corresponding entities, “Point capture” function
should be used instead of setting the coordinates by position (either numerically or
using a mouse).
It happens, that two neighbouring entities overlap partially (example: line 0, 0-20, 0 and
line 10, 0-30, 0), which is not visible on the screen. Than the program does not
recognises closed chain (usually we need to see closed chain). Open chain is
displayed in a different colour than the closed chain. For this chain use function
“Section points” which places the ordering number on all entity beginnings.
It can happen that extra entity (for instance line 10, 0-20, 0) which is lying directly on
desired entity (line 0, 0-50, 0) is loaded. In the display it will be seen as that the closed
chain containing the desired entity (0-50) has a section of a different colour made of
opened chain (10-20).
If the wrong entity was drawn before normal chain, it will not be seen onto screen. The
program will recognise extra (open) chain. It depends on situation whether the chain

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will belong to part or it will be an independent part. In case of it being an independent
part, it is enough to catch the part we want to cut and move it aside on the screen. The
wrong part (extra part) will remain on original place. The situation is a little more
complicated in the second case when the wrong chain belongs to a normal part (than
both are moved together). If the wrong one is hidden under the hole, it is enough to
move the hole. When there are too many holes (it would take to much time moving all
the holes), or the chain is under contour chain (it is moving with the whole part), run
“Analysis” and switch on display moving trajectories (ordering indexes of chains).
Single trajectory should be attached to single chain normally.

Drilling cycles

G81 - Drilling
G81 – Drilling
Parameters Z Drilling depth [mm]

Z G81

F, S -FF, S
Comment Feed F [mm/rev] and spindle rotation speed S [rpm] are set in tool
parameters
Example G81 Z30 (Simple drill cycle with 30 mm depth)

G82 – Drilling with dwell

G82 – Drilling with dwell
Parameters Z Drilling depth [mm]

Z G82
PT Dwell time in the
hole [s]
F, S -FF, S
PT
Comment Feed F [mm/rev] and spindle rotation speed S [rpm] are set in tool
parameters
Example G82 Z30 PT5 (Drilling cycle with 30 mm depth and 5 s dwell after
drilling)

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G83 – Deep drilling
G83 – Deep drilling (peck drilling)
Parameters Z Drilling depth [mm]

PZ Drill step [mm] Z

H PZ

F, S -FF, S FF/F, S G83

Comment Feed F [mm/rev] and spindle rotation speed S [rpm] are set in tool
parameters.
Correction for retract step H [mm] is set in servo in parameter
KorekStep
Example G82 Z30 PZ5 (Drilling with depth 30 mm performed in 5 mm steps)

G84 - Tapping
G84 – Tapping (making threads)
Parameters Z Drilling depth [mm]

Z G84

F, S -F, -S
Comment Feed F [mm/rev] and spindle rotation speed S [rpm] are set in tool
parameters
Example G84 Z30 (Tapping with depth 30 mm)

G85 – Boring with feed retract

G85 – Boring with feed retract
Parameters Z Drilling depth [mm]

Z G85

F, S -F, S
Comment Feed F [mm/rev] and spindle rotation speed S [rpm] are set in tool
parameters
Example G85 Z30 (Boring depth 30 mm with slow return)

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G86 – Boring with spindle stop
G86 – Boring with spindle stop
Parameters Z Drilling depth [mm]

Z G86

F, S -FF, S=0

Comment Feed F [mm/rev] and spindle rotation speed S [rpm] are set in tool
parameters
Example G86 Z30 (Boring depth 30 mm with spindle turning switched off when
returning)

G89 – Boring with dwell and feed retract

G89 – Boring with dwell and feed retract
Parameters Z Drilling depth [mm]

Z G89
PT Time dwell in the
hole [s]
F, S -F, S
PT
Comment Feed F [mm/rev] and spindle rotation speed S [rpm] are set in tool
parameters
Example G89 Z30 PT5 (Boring depth 30 mm with spindle kept turning and 5 s
dwell)

180