The Problem

CAM generates code for a given position of the program zero point ( PZP) relative to the center of rotation machine zero point, ( MRZP). The machine operator may run the code later, on the night shift, at a different location APZP (Actual Part Zero Point). He or she may not be able to place the part exactly where the CAD/ CAM programmer intended it to be. If the operator does not have the access or the ability to make the change, then the job will have to wait for a reposted code to be supplied.

Modern CAD/CAM systems can easily calculate new code if the part is moved. But as previously mentioned, the part will have to be moved to exactly the same position in the CAM system and then the code will have to be recalculated.

The Solution

If the operator doesn t have access to the CAM system, and is unable to match the CAM s part position on the machine, an option on the machine will be needed to compensate for the discrepancy between the two positions. This option is called

Rotary Table Dynamic Fixture Offset (RTDFO).

When the Rotary Table Dynamic Fixture Offset function is activated on the controller, the Program Zero Point (CAM datum) is offset to correspond with the set fixture offset amount, as shown in Figure 2-20. This offset is the distance between the center of rotation ( MRZP) and the