Output Sustain in Seconds

This is a LOW LEVEL variable in CNC Bender that allows you to set the sustain time for the output module that keeps the bender running.

The default value is 10 seconds. But in some cases, it may be necessary to set this value higher if other processes require too much CPU time to service this output module within 10 seconds. This may be the situation when building a very large process list in CNC Bender Lite software while the bender is running.

Advanced Optimization Ideas

Be sure all axes are tuned properly.

Use I2T HMI software for setting PID values so that motion is smooth and yet precise. Check to be sure that the in-position tolerance (in I2T HMI software) is set high enough. If this value is set too low, then an axis may take too long to come into position. For example, it is best to keep the bend axis at about 1 degree. (We find that 1 degree is accurate enough for the process.) Setting the value lower will only rob time add time to the cycle.

Be sure all axes and actuators are travelling at maximum sustainable speed.

This requires monitoring the output voltages of the axis controllers. (Use the I2T HMI software to monitor output voltages.) When running at speed 10, is the voltage at 80-90% of the maximum?

See also Bend Program Optimization

--Mcone 10:32, 20 July 2006 (EDT)