TABLE OF CONTENTS In many control manuals, the block skip function is also called the block delete function. The expression block delete offers rather a misleading description, since no program blocks will actually be deleted but only skipped during program processing. For this good reason, the more accurate description of the function is the block skip function, a term used in the handbook. This function is a standard feature of virtually all CNC controls. Its main purpose is to offer the programmer some additional flexibility in designing a program for no more than two conflicting possibilities. In the absence of a block skip function, the only alternative is to develop two individual part programs, each covering one unique possibility.
To understand the idea of two conflicting possibilities, consider this programming application. The assignment is to write a program for a facing cut. The problem is that the blank material for parts delivered to the CNC machine is not consistent in size. Some blanks are slightly smaller in size and can be faced with a single cut. Others are larger and will require two facing cuts. This is not an uncommon occurrence in CNC shops and is not always handled efficiently. Making two inefficient programs is always an option, but a single program that covers both options is a better choice - but only if the block skip function is used in such a program.
This challenge illustrates a situation, where two conflicting options are required...
