Part Options 251
Automatic Plate Alignment (APA)
The Automatic Plate Align (APA) feature is a fully automated function to detect the edges of a
rectangular plate and calculate the degree of skew for aligning a part program to the plate. Both five
point and three point align sequences are available for use
Five Point Align
This feature uses a five point reference scheme for skew and plate size calculations. When
executed, the controller commands motion of the sensor around the plate searching for the edges at
five specific reference points. After the five reference points have been detected, the control will
position the torch in the proper location to start the part program with the calculated skew.
Set Up/ Notes:
1) The Auto Plate Align Sensor(s) must first be assigned in I/O setups. The logic state(s) must be
set so that the input is active when over the plate.
2) The predetermined motion path will move to the outward edges of the plate in five locations and
is executed at a fast peed until the Sensor switches to an off state indicating the edge of the
plate. For accuracy, motion will then reverse until the sensor is then activated again. Please
refer to Sensing Sequence below.
3) The Manual Options “User Defined” Manual Offset value will be used if a X/Y tool offset is
required to compensate for the distance between the master torch and the APA Sensor.
4) Scrap clearance, if required, would be entered at the align screen. Additionally, Corner to Align
with on the align screen will set the start corner location of the program.
5) If your machine requires “Homing”, the Homing function should be performed at some point prior
to operation.
6) Sensor radius should be programmed to the “sensing” radius of the sensor. If dual sensors are
used the radius applies to both sensors.
7) For dual sensors, the distance between the first and second sensor should be programmed in
tool offset #11.
Typical Sensing Sequence
1) Motion will move at high traverse
speed or 650ipm / 1600mm/m
(whichever is slower).
2) Motion will move back onto the plate
at medium traverse speed.
3) Motion will move off the plate at slow
traverse speed. Edge of the plate will
detected and recorded.
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