Rockwell Automation 8520 9/PC CNC Tool Path Graphics Programming Manual - Manual (Page 14)

14 9/PC CNC Tool Path Graphics Programming Manual
Publication 8520-PM097A-EN-P - September 2001
In Tool Path Graphics, the coordinate system is a box, but it is a transparent box. With no
rotation, only movement in the Horizontal and 3rd axis will be seen. Once the coordinate
system is rotated, movement along the Vertical axis will also be seen.
Figure 4 shows a plot with both Alpha and Beta angles equal to 45 degrees. Notice the
diamond in the center of the plot.
Figure 4
Original Plot of Coordinate System
When you plot the same part program with a 30-degree Alpha angle, the center no longer
lines up to form a diamond. Rotating the coordinate system changed the view of the object to
show a different angle.
EXAMPLE
Imagine holding a box in front of you at eye level. Initially, the only
visible side is the front. If you rotate the box counterclockwise, the left
side is now visible. Now consider a rotating Alpha angle. This illustration
has the same effect as if you changed the Alpha angle from 0 degrees to a
positive value of 45 degrees. With the box at eye level, you are now able
to see both the front and left sides. Rotating the box again to bring the
front, top edge closer to you gives you the perspective of a positive Beta
angle. Now, in addition to the front and left sides, the top of the box can
be seen. See Figure 3 for details.