Difference between revisions of "VTube-LASER v2.7"

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==Revision 2.7==
 
==Revision 2.7==
−
Release Date: Not Released
+
Release Date: February 11, 2017
  
 
* Back to [[VTube-LASER]]
 
* Back to [[VTube-LASER]]
Line 14: Line 14:
 
</td>
 
</td>
 
<td width=300>
 
<td width=300>
−
[[image:vtube-laser_1.89_mainscreen.png|300px]]
+
[[image:vtube-laser_v2.7_screenshot.png|400px]]
 
</td>
 
</td>
 
</tr>
 
</tr>
 
</table>
 
</table>
  
−
__NOTOC__
+
__TOC__
  
−
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW - BLM VGP 3D Bender Communications==
+
=BUILD 103 - February 11, 2017=
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW: IMPORT BENDTECH v6 BTTX Files==
 +
 
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
VTube can now import BENDTECH BTTX files.<br><br>
 +
The following information is imported from a BTTX file:<br><br>
 +
 
 +
* Part number
 +
* Date entered
 +
* XYZ centerline data (including bend radii)
 +
* Diameter
 +
* Wall thickness
 +
* Default radius
 +
* Linear units (Inches or Millimeters)
 +
 
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube_v2.8_bendtech_bttxfiles.png|400px]]
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW: IMPORT ALPINE and CSM M4 MBF Files==
 +
 
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
VTube can now import MBF files from Alpine and CSM bender files.<br><br>
 +
The following information is imported from an MBF file:<br><br>
 +
 
 +
* Part number
 +
* Diameter
 +
* XYZ centerline data (including bend radii) - if it is in the file
 +
* YBC data
 +
 
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube_2.7_b103_newMBFimports.png|400px]]
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] FIX: REPORT PRINT PREVIEW==
 +
 
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
Build 102 would sometimes print reports with blank pages. This has been resolved in this build (103).
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube_2.7_b103_printpreview.png|400px]]
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] ENHANCEMENT: New French, Chinese, German, English UI Files==
 +
 
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
This build includes updated French, Chinese, German, and English user interface files.
 +
<br><br>
 +
[[image:vtube-laser_v2.7_chinese_ui.png|400px]]
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:language translation icon.png|300px]]
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
=BUILD 102 - January 30, 2017=
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW: Shortcut Keys Window and New Shortcut Keys==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
This new window displays all the shortcut keys in a popup window.<br><br>
 +
'''New''' shortcut keys include:
 +
* '''Ctrl-F1''' - Display the Shortcut Key Window<br><br>
 +
* '''Ctrl-B ''' - Perform a quick project backup (see below)<br><br>
 +
* '''Ctrl-T ''' - Toggle TRANSPARENCY of parametric tube models<br><br>
 +
* '''Ctrl-R ''' - Recalculate the current alignment between master and measured tubes<br><br>
 +
* '''Ctrl-Z ''' - Undo the previous change.<br><br>
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:laser_v2.7_shortcutkeyslist_alone.png|250px]]
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW: Ctrl-B Shortcut Key for Quick Backup of VTube Project Files==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
Now you can press '''CTRL-B''' to create a backup for insurance against failures or changes-of-mind during an experiment.<br><br>
 +
'''CTRL-B''' saves a copy of the current setup of the VTube project as a backup file.<br><br>
 +
It creates a backup of the current setup without having to consider where it's saved or what to name it.<br><br>
 +
The backup files are always stored in the "C:\Users\Public\Documents\VTube" folder, and are given date-time stamps in the filenames.<br><br>
 +
For example, this backup file:<br>
 +
'''vtube_backup_ 20170116_19_38_45.vtp''' <br>
 +
...was created on January 16, 2017 at 7:38:45 pm.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
</td>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
[[image:hotkey_ctl_b_backup.png|600px]]<br><br>
 +
</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW: Removed the Cut Plane Button in Measure Process==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
The Cut Plane button in Measure Process became redundant in version 2.6 because the feature is more easily started with the Cut Plane icon at the bottom of the Navigation Pane. So we removed the button from that menu.
 +
<br><br>
 +
To start the Cut Plane control, click on the icon at the bottom of the Navigation Pane. The icon is a toggle. You can press it to load and close the control.<br><br>
 +
[[image:vtube-laser_2v2.7_arrow_no cut plane in measure process.png|400px]]
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube-laser_v2.7_arrow_to_cut plane iconenu.png|400px]]<br>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW: "Inspection Data" - Additions and Changes==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
===NEW 1 - Moved the Alignment Dropdown Box===
 +
The alignment type '''dropdown box''' is moved out of a Alignment Setup sub-menu and onto the main Inspection Data menu to make changing alignments much easier.<br><br>
 +
===NEW 2 - Press Ctrl-R to Recalculate the Alignment===
 +
Now you can press '''Ctrl-R''' anywhere in the VTube-LASER window to recalculate the current alignment.<br><br>
 +
 
 +
===NEW 3 - NEW Best Fit Alignment 3===
 +
There is a new '''Best Fit Alignment 3''' algorithm that performs additional tests compared to previous alignments. Even though it performs additional tests, it can also run faster than previous alignments based on some new optimizations.<br><br>
 +
===FIX - Best Fit Alignment 2===
 +
Also - a debug to the Best Fit Alignment 2 algorithm is included in this version. The debug prevents alignment 2 from choosing less than the best alignment during its iteration.<br><br>
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube-laser_v2.7_InspectionData_Menu.png|400px]]<br>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW: Reverse Calc from MIL-D-9898C Absolute Bender Data to Centerline XYZ Data==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
"Reverse Calc" is our term for calculating new centerline XYZ data from LRA data.<br><br>
 +
'''MIL-D-9898C''' bender data can now be converted by VTube-STEP and VTube-LASER in the new '''ABSOLUTE LRA''' grid section of the Part Data menu.<br><br>
 +
===Read More About How To Import MIL-D-9898C Data Into VTube===
 +
See [[VTube Reverse Calc from MIL-D-9898C Absolute Bender Data to Centerline XYZ Data]] for information about this bender data specification.
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube_mil-d_conversion.png|500px]]<br>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW: Reverse Calc from Springback Compensated LRA Data==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
There may be situations where you are required to send centerline XYZ data to a bender for setup - but you want to include springback compensation before you send that data.<br><br>
 +
This feature will allow you combine the springback compensation into the master centerline XYZ and master LRA. When you send the XYZ data to the bender, it will be compensated.<br><br>
 +
This features responds to the Undo command (in the toolbar) - so you can undo the calculation immediately after.
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube-v2.7_reversecalc_springback_compensated_lra.png|500px]]<br>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW - VTube-STEP Straight Snap-to-Axis Transformation==
 +
 
 +
<table>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
Snap any of the tube straights to any of the major axes in VTube-STEP mode.
 +
<br>
 +
<br>
 +
 
 +
</td>
 +
 
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube-step_v2.7_snap2axis_example.png|600px]]
 +
</td>
 +
 
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW: "Calculate New Cut Length?" Dialog after Reverse Calc Incremental LRAs==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
VTube will now ask you if you want to calculate a new Cut Length in Part Setup if you perform a Reverse Calc on the Incremental LRA or Springback Compensated LRA data.<br><br>
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube-v2.7_calc_new_cutlength_from_reversecalc.png|500px]]<br>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW - STRING CENTERLINE Measurement Feature for the US Navy==
 +
 
 +
<table>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
 
 +
This String Centerline feature was added at the request of the US Navy.<br><br>
 +
The String Centerline feature allows them to measure pipe routes inside ships by running strings of any thickness through the ship. Because VTube-LASER can use leapfrog, it can measure a string of any length.<br><br>
 +
<br>
 +
[[image:ball of string.png]]
 +
 
 +
</td>
 +
 
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:ussubmarine.png|400px]]<br><br>
 +
[[image:vtube-laser uniscan string centerline.png|400px]]<br><br>
 +
</td>
 +
 
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 
 +
<br><br>
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] SEVERAL NEW Bender Communication Protocols Added==
 +
 
 +
===NEW: BLM VGP 3D Bender Communications===
  
 
<table>
 
<table>
 
<tr>
 
<tr>
 
<td width=300>
 
<td width=300>
−
BLM bender communications are now built into VTube-LASER.
+
We've embedded [[Benderlink for BLM]] bender communications inside VTube-LASER.
 
<br><br>
 
<br><br>
 
* This protocol uses communications through a standard Ethernet connection.<br><br>
 
* This protocol uses communications through a standard Ethernet connection.<br><br>
Line 39: Line 291:
 
</table>
 
</table>
  
−
=Other Changes=
+
===NEW: SOCO Bender Communications===
 +
 
 
<table>
 
<table>
 
<tr>
 
<tr>
−
<td width=200>
+
<td width=300>
 +
A new SOCO-specific bender communications protocol is now built into VTube-LASER.
 +
<br><br>
 +
* This protocol uses communications through a standard Ethernet connection.<br><br>
 +
* The protocol can send XYZ data for building new parts, or modify YBC data in the Execution File page when the bender is running in Auto mode.<br><br>
 +
* See [[VTube Communication for SOCO]] for details.
 +
</td>
  
−
These language files were updated:
+
<td>
 +
[[image:SOCO Logo with Bender.png|250px]]<br>
 +
</td>
  
−
* Chinese
+
</tr>
−
* German
+
</table>
−
* Japanese
+
 
 +
===NEW: CRIPPA Bender Communications (for legacy CRIPPA benders with Siemens Sinumerik controls)===
 +
 
 +
<table>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
A new CRIPPA MPF bender communications protocol is now built into VTube-LASER for older CRIPPA benders that do not have Supravision Network communications capabilities.
 +
<br><br>
 +
* This protocol uses communications through a standard Ethernet connection.<br><br>
 +
* The protocol reads and writes CRIPPA MPF files.<br><br>
 +
* It can build CRIPPA MPF files without the use of existing templates.<br><br>
 +
* It can recall and correct EXISTING CRIPPA MPF files for bender corrections.<br><br>
 +
* See [[VTube Communication for CRIPPA MPF]] for details.<br><br>
 +
* See also [[CRIPPA]]
 
</td>
 
</td>
 +
 
<td>
 
<td>
−
[[image:vtube-laser_v2.6_dcp_japanese.png|200px|right]]
+
[[image:crippa bender with siemens control.png|400px]]
 
</td>
 
</td>
 +
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 +
===NEW: HVAC OMS Benders Communications===
 +
 +
<table>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
VTube can now export new data to HVAC Machinery's OMS benders using a direct network connection.<br><br>
 +
The data included is the LRA converted to YBC, and the radius level data.
 +
</td>
 +
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:hvac oms bender.png|400px]]
 +
</td>
 +
 
</tr>
 
</tr>
 
</table>
 
</table>
Line 58: Line 350:
 
<br><br>
 
<br><br>
  
 +
===ENHANCED: Eaton Leonard Premier, EL2000, and Velog Bender Setup===
  
−
=Debug v2.6 Build 126=
+
<table>
−
*Build 125 did not use DCP for the OUT DIAMETER measure processes. (DCP always worked in the Tube Measure - Cylinder process worked.) This is corrected in Build 126.
+
<tr>
 +
<td width=300 valign="top">
 +
VTube-LASER will now allow for the setup of all standard bender and setup data for a Premier, EL2000, or Velog control.<br><br>
 +
The Eaton Leonard values are never lost because this data is now stored inside each VTube-LASER project file. <br><br>
 +
Press the new "'''Additional Bender Data'''" button at the top of the Bender Setup screen, and VTube will now load the new Eaton Leonard Setup window shown (see the second image).<br><br>
 +
 
 +
====YBC Velocity, Function, Stop, and C Last Included====
 +
This data includes all the part setup data and all the data that is included in each YBC row, including these data columns:<br><br>
  
 +
* Y
 +
* Y Velocity
 +
* Y Function
 +
* Y Stop
 +
* B
 +
* B Velocity
 +
* B Function
 +
* B Stop
 +
* C
 +
* C Velocity
 +
* C Function
 +
* C Stop
 +
* C Last
 
<br><br>
 
<br><br>
 +
Click on the image on the right so see a close-up of this screen.<br><br><br>
  
−
=Debug v2.6 Build 127=
+
====YBC Data Automatically Synchronized with Blue Column LRA Data in the Parent Window====
−
*We fixed the Cut Plane measure dialog so that it changes point numbers when you move to the next point.
+
The YBC data in this new Eaton Leonard Setup window is always synchronized with the blue columns in the parent VTube Bender Setup window.<br><br>
−
*VTube automatically switches the new cut plane to ACTIVE - but didn't update the checkbox in the model menu on the right with a check. This has been corrected.
+
Change the data in either window, and the corresponding data in the other window will automatically change.<br><br>
 +
 
 +
====Use Either Inches or Millimeters====
 +
The screen allows you to switch between Inches and Millimeters and back again with the press of a single button.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
* See [[Eaton Leonard]]
 +
<br>
 +
<br>
 +
 
 +
</td>
 +
 
 +
<td valign="top">
 +
[[image:vtube-laser_bendersetup_eatonleonard_button.png|600px]]<br><br>
 +
[[image:vtube-laser_eatonleonard_setupwindow.png|600px]]<br><br>
 +
[[image:vtube-laser_bendersetup_eatonleonard_synchronized.png|600px]]<br><br>
 +
</td>
 +
 
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
  
 
<br><br>
 
<br><br>
  
−
=Changes v2.6 Build 130=
+
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] ENHANCED - Import the Tube Centerline TeZet XLS Data File==
−
*We changed the report template engine so that it can handle extra spaces in tag fields.
+
−
*We added the "Stay On Top" checkbox option to the Report window.  This value is saved in the persistent configuration file.
+
  
 +
<table>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
In order to help with migration from TeZet to VTube-LASER, customers asked us to enhanced the Excel XLS file import in VTube-STEP (included in VTube-LASER) to handle TeZet file data better.
 
<br><br>
 
<br><br>
 +
* The import automatically discovers the XYZ row with no data in order to set the point count.<br><br>
 +
* The import lets you set the part number from the XLS data.<br><br>
 +
* The import lets you set the diameter from the XLS data.<br><br>
 +
* The import lets you set the wall thickness from the XLS data.<br><br>
 +
* The import automatically sets the default radius value in the Part Setup menu.<br><br>
 +
</td>
 +
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube-step_v2.7_import_XLS_TubeCenterline.png|450px]]<br>
 +
</td>
 +
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] ENHANCED - Path Manager Checkbox - Offer to Add New Paths==
 +
 +
<table>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
A new checkbox in the Path Manager allows you to control if VTube offers to add new paths detected.<br><br>
 +
Some customers find the repeated offer by VTube annoying. This will allow you to turn this feature on and off.
 +
</td>
 +
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube_v2.7_pathmanager_OfferAddNewPath.png|450px]]<br>
 +
</td>
 +
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW - Probed Points Now Automatically IGNORE Cut Planes==
 +
 +
<table>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
As of this version, VTube-LASER will '''ignore cut planes''' when in tactile probe mode.<br><br>
 +
After observing how customers use the cut plane, we've concluded that it is best to let probed points be measured anywhere - even beyond the cut planes.<br><br>
 +
Now cut planes are used exclusively for the LASER scanner only. If the LASER scanner is active, then active cut planes are also used.
 +
 +
 +
* See [[VTube-LASER Cut Planes]]
 +
* See the tutorial on [[DCP - Diameter Cut Planes]]
 +
 +
<br>
 +
<br>
 +
 +
</td>
 +
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:faro_ballprobes.png|300px]]
 +
[[image:vtube-laser_v2.7_cutplane_ignored.png|300px]]
 +
</td>
 +
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 +
<br><br>
 +
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW - Part Setup Popup Menu: "Set Date/Time to Now" Feature==
 +
 +
<table>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
The Part Setup popup menu lets you set the Date/Time stamp for the project file to the current date and time.
 +
<br>
 +
<br>
 +
 +
</td>
 +
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube_2.7_SetDateTimeToNow.png|500px]]
 +
</td>
 +
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] NEW: Improved License Control Tools==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=1000>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
We improved license management by giving messages in the status bar at the bottom of screen that report on license health.<br><br>
 +
The message always include the source of licensing - like local USB or Network License Manager.<br><br>
 +
The message will include specific information about any problems with the license in advance of VTube asking you to take some sort of retry or close action.<br><br>
 +
#If you see "'''License OK'''", then there are no problems communicating with the VTube USB hardware key or NLM server.<br><br>
 +
#If problems occur, then you will see "'''License Warning'''" followed by a description of the problem for one minute.<br><br>
 +
#Then you will be allowed to retry accessing the hardware key from inside a dialog box that asks you to '''RETRY''' for another minute.<br><br>
 +
#If VTube cannot verify the health of the license, then it will ask to shut down - but it will always automatically create a '''BACKUP''' file of the project (see the hot key backup feature above) before closing.
 +
</td>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
[[image:vtube_v2.7_license_health_indicator.png]]<br><br>
 +
[[image:vtube_v2.7_license_health_indicator_extended_notes.png|600px]]<br><br>
 +
</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] ENHANCED: Scanner and Ball Probe Measurement Sound Changes==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
===DIFFERENT Sound from Each Other===
 +
The scanner measure and ball probe measure sounds are now different from each other. You will know when VTube is taking points by ball probe or points by scanner by hearing to the unique sounds associated with those two kinds of measuring.<br><br>
 +
 +
===NEW Softer Sounds===
 +
The scanning sound is now softer than the previous sound - and is also a repeating sound that works better with sound systems that turn off and then back on when not being used.<br><br>
 +
The point measure sound is also softer - but it continues to be a single soft pop.<br><br>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
[[image:sound.png]]
 +
</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] ENHANCED: Loaded Project Filename Automatically Moves to Top of Recent List==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
VTube Project files loaded are now always moved to the top of the Recent Projects list - '''even if they are already in the list.'''<br><br>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
</td>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
[[image:vtube recent project move to top.png|450px]]
 +
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] ENHANCED: Tube Shape Averaging from LRA Data  in the Hybrid Feature in Tube Data Storage==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
We found and fixed a problem with ROTATION data averaging when creating a hybrid tube from LRA bender data.<br><br>
 +
In previous versions, VTube could have problems with rotations that approach and pass from positive regions into negative regions (Either at 0 degrees or 180 degrees).<br><br>
 +
===About This Feature===
 +
This feature allows you to measure a part multiple times, then average the results.<br><br>
 +
Unlike averaging measured centerline XYZ data, using the LRA method of averaging tube data to derive a hybrid tube allows VTube to be immune to tube orientation changes between measures.
 +
<td>
 +
</td>
 +
<td>
 +
[[image:vtube-laser-2.2_hybridtube_logo.png|450px]]<br><br>
 +
[[image:vtube-laser_tubedatastorage_hybridpart_feature_closeup.png|450px]]<br><br>
 +
[[image:vtube-laser_tubedatastorage_hybridpart_feature.png|450px]]
 +
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] VERIFIED: VTube is Compatible with SOLIDWORKS 2017==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
VTube is verified as compatible for building directly to SOLIDWORKS 2017.<br><br>
 +
[[image:solidworks2017-launch-logo.png|300px]]
 +
<td width=300>
 +
</td>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
[[image:vtube-v2.7_solidworks2017.png|500px]]
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 +
==[[image:Check.jpg|25px]] ENHANCED: Network License Manager Setup Change - No Receive Port Necessary==
 +
<table cellpadding=10 width=900>
 +
<tr valign=top>
 +
<td width=300>
 +
Only one port is now required for connection to the Network License Manager.<br><br>
 +
We've remove the VTube Receive port number value.  See the configuration text on the right from the "vtube local settings.cfg" file.
 +
<td width=300>
 +
</td>
 +
<td width=400>
 +
<code>[HARDWARE KEY]</code><br>
 +
<code>Enable Network=0</code><br>
 +
<code>License Type=Laser</code><br>
 +
<code>NLM IP Address=127.0.0.1</code><br>
 +
<code>Network Timeout=10</code><br>
 +
<code>Send To NLM Port=17502</code><br>
 +
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<br><br>
 +
 +
==Other Changes==
 +
*This version of VTube works with a new version 9 of the Network License Manager that has a redesigned user interface and a new communications engine.<br><br>
 +
* New splitter bars are added between the menus and the viewport.<br><br>
 +
* VTube can now properly save and load DATES and TIMES in the project file regardless of the Windows locale settings. Previous versions could not handle non US standard dates and times in the project file.<br><br>
 +
* We made a major optimization by reducing the amount of memory required to run VTube. This optimization also makes VTube run faster.
 +
 +
<br><br><br><br>
  
 
=Other Pages=
 
=Other Pages=
Line 82: Line 609:
 
* See also [[VTube-STEP Revisions]]
 
* See also [[VTube-STEP Revisions]]
 
* See [http://www.advancedtubular.com/customers/vtube VTube-LASER Customer Support Page] to download the latest version.
 
* See [http://www.advancedtubular.com/customers/vtube VTube-LASER Customer Support Page] to download the latest version.
 +
* See [[VTube-LASER Cut Planes]]
 
* See the tutorial on [[DCP - Diameter Cut Planes]]
 
* See the tutorial on [[DCP - Diameter Cut Planes]]
 
* See [[How to Measure Tubes Attached to an Evaporator]] with the DCP Feature
 
* See [[How to Measure Tubes Attached to an Evaporator]] with the DCP Feature

Latest revision as of 01:36, 15 February 2017

Vtube-laser logo 1.96.png


Revision 2.7

Release Date: February 11, 2017


Vtube-laser v2.7 screenshot.png

Contents


BUILD 103 - February 11, 2017

Check.jpg NEW: IMPORT BENDTECH v6 BTTX Files

VTube can now import BENDTECH BTTX files.

The following information is imported from a BTTX file:

  • Part number
  • Date entered
  • XYZ centerline data (including bend radii)
  • Diameter
  • Wall thickness
  • Default radius
  • Linear units (Inches or Millimeters)



Vtube v2.8 bendtech bttxfiles.png



Check.jpg NEW: IMPORT ALPINE and CSM M4 MBF Files

VTube can now import MBF files from Alpine and CSM bender files.

The following information is imported from an MBF file:

  • Part number
  • Diameter
  • XYZ centerline data (including bend radii) - if it is in the file
  • YBC data



Vtube 2.7 b103 newMBFimports.png



Check.jpg FIX: REPORT PRINT PREVIEW

Build 102 would sometimes print reports with blank pages. This has been resolved in this build (103).

Vtube 2.7 b103 printpreview.png



Check.jpg ENHANCEMENT: New French, Chinese, German, English UI Files

This build includes updated French, Chinese, German, and English user interface files.

Vtube-laser v2.7 chinese ui.png

Language translation icon.png



BUILD 102 - January 30, 2017

Check.jpg NEW: Shortcut Keys Window and New Shortcut Keys

This new window displays all the shortcut keys in a popup window.

New shortcut keys include:

  • Ctrl-F1 - Display the Shortcut Key Window

  • Ctrl-B - Perform a quick project backup (see below)

  • Ctrl-T - Toggle TRANSPARENCY of parametric tube models

  • Ctrl-R - Recalculate the current alignment between master and measured tubes

  • Ctrl-Z - Undo the previous change.

Laser v2.7 shortcutkeyslist alone.png



Check.jpg NEW: Ctrl-B Shortcut Key for Quick Backup of VTube Project Files

Now you can press CTRL-B to create a backup for insurance against failures or changes-of-mind during an experiment.

CTRL-B saves a copy of the current setup of the VTube project as a backup file.

It creates a backup of the current setup without having to consider where it's saved or what to name it.

The backup files are always stored in the "C:\Users\Public\Documents\VTube" folder, and are given date-time stamps in the filenames.

For example, this backup file:
vtube_backup_ 20170116_19_38_45.vtp
...was created on January 16, 2017 at 7:38:45 pm.



Hotkey ctl b backup.png




Check.jpg NEW: Removed the Cut Plane Button in Measure Process

The Cut Plane button in Measure Process became redundant in version 2.6 because the feature is more easily started with the Cut Plane icon at the bottom of the Navigation Pane. So we removed the button from that menu.

To start the Cut Plane control, click on the icon at the bottom of the Navigation Pane. The icon is a toggle. You can press it to load and close the control.

Vtube-laser 2v2.7 arrow no cut plane in measure process.png

Vtube-laser v2.7 arrow to cut plane iconenu.png



Check.jpg NEW: "Inspection Data" - Additions and Changes

NEW 1 - Moved the Alignment Dropdown Box

The alignment type dropdown box is moved out of a Alignment Setup sub-menu and onto the main Inspection Data menu to make changing alignments much easier.

NEW 2 - Press Ctrl-R to Recalculate the Alignment

Now you can press Ctrl-R anywhere in the VTube-LASER window to recalculate the current alignment.

NEW 3 - NEW Best Fit Alignment 3

There is a new Best Fit Alignment 3 algorithm that performs additional tests compared to previous alignments. Even though it performs additional tests, it can also run faster than previous alignments based on some new optimizations.

FIX - Best Fit Alignment 2

Also - a debug to the Best Fit Alignment 2 algorithm is included in this version. The debug prevents alignment 2 from choosing less than the best alignment during its iteration.

Vtube-laser v2.7 InspectionData Menu.png



Check.jpg NEW: Reverse Calc from MIL-D-9898C Absolute Bender Data to Centerline XYZ Data

"Reverse Calc" is our term for calculating new centerline XYZ data from LRA data.

MIL-D-9898C bender data can now be converted by VTube-STEP and VTube-LASER in the new ABSOLUTE LRA grid section of the Part Data menu.

Read More About How To Import MIL-D-9898C Data Into VTube

See VTube Reverse Calc from MIL-D-9898C Absolute Bender Data to Centerline XYZ Data for information about this bender data specification.

Vtube mil-d conversion.png



Check.jpg NEW: Reverse Calc from Springback Compensated LRA Data

There may be situations where you are required to send centerline XYZ data to a bender for setup - but you want to include springback compensation before you send that data.

This feature will allow you combine the springback compensation into the master centerline XYZ and master LRA. When you send the XYZ data to the bender, it will be compensated.

This features responds to the Undo command (in the toolbar) - so you can undo the calculation immediately after.

Vtube-v2.7 reversecalc springback compensated lra.png



Check.jpg NEW - VTube-STEP Straight Snap-to-Axis Transformation

Snap any of the tube straights to any of the major axes in VTube-STEP mode.

Vtube-step v2.7 snap2axis example.png



Check.jpg NEW: "Calculate New Cut Length?" Dialog after Reverse Calc Incremental LRAs

VTube will now ask you if you want to calculate a new Cut Length in Part Setup if you perform a Reverse Calc on the Incremental LRA or Springback Compensated LRA data.

Vtube-v2.7 calc new cutlength from reversecalc.png



Check.jpg NEW - STRING CENTERLINE Measurement Feature for the US Navy

This String Centerline feature was added at the request of the US Navy.

The String Centerline feature allows them to measure pipe routes inside ships by running strings of any thickness through the ship. Because VTube-LASER can use leapfrog, it can measure a string of any length.


Ball of string.png

Ussubmarine.png

Vtube-laser uniscan string centerline.png



Check.jpg SEVERAL NEW Bender Communication Protocols Added

NEW: BLM VGP 3D Bender Communications

We've embedded Benderlink for BLM bender communications inside VTube-LASER.

  • This protocol uses communications through a standard Ethernet connection.

  • The protocol modifies YBC data inside BLM data files.

Blm e-bend76.jpg

NEW: SOCO Bender Communications

A new SOCO-specific bender communications protocol is now built into VTube-LASER.

  • This protocol uses communications through a standard Ethernet connection.

  • The protocol can send XYZ data for building new parts, or modify YBC data in the Execution File page when the bender is running in Auto mode.

  • See VTube Communication for SOCO for details.

SOCO Logo with Bender.png

NEW: CRIPPA Bender Communications (for legacy CRIPPA benders with Siemens Sinumerik controls)

A new CRIPPA MPF bender communications protocol is now built into VTube-LASER for older CRIPPA benders that do not have Supravision Network communications capabilities.

  • This protocol uses communications through a standard Ethernet connection.

  • The protocol reads and writes CRIPPA MPF files.

  • It can build CRIPPA MPF files without the use of existing templates.

  • It can recall and correct EXISTING CRIPPA MPF files for bender corrections.

  • See VTube Communication for CRIPPA MPF for details.

  • See also CRIPPA

Crippa bender with siemens control.png

NEW: HVAC OMS Benders Communications

VTube can now export new data to HVAC Machinery's OMS benders using a direct network connection.

The data included is the LRA converted to YBC, and the radius level data.

Hvac oms bender.png



ENHANCED: Eaton Leonard Premier, EL2000, and Velog Bender Setup

VTube-LASER will now allow for the setup of all standard bender and setup data for a Premier, EL2000, or Velog control.

The Eaton Leonard values are never lost because this data is now stored inside each VTube-LASER project file.

Press the new "Additional Bender Data" button at the top of the Bender Setup screen, and VTube will now load the new Eaton Leonard Setup window shown (see the second image).

YBC Velocity, Function, Stop, and C Last Included

This data includes all the part setup data and all the data that is included in each YBC row, including these data columns:

  • Y
  • Y Velocity
  • Y Function
  • Y Stop
  • B
  • B Velocity
  • B Function
  • B Stop
  • C
  • C Velocity
  • C Function
  • C Stop
  • C Last



Click on the image on the right so see a close-up of this screen.


YBC Data Automatically Synchronized with Blue Column LRA Data in the Parent Window

The YBC data in this new Eaton Leonard Setup window is always synchronized with the blue columns in the parent VTube Bender Setup window.

Change the data in either window, and the corresponding data in the other window will automatically change.

Use Either Inches or Millimeters

The screen allows you to switch between Inches and Millimeters and back again with the press of a single button.




Vtube-laser bendersetup eatonleonard button.png

Vtube-laser eatonleonard setupwindow.png

Vtube-laser bendersetup eatonleonard synchronized.png



Check.jpg ENHANCED - Import the Tube Centerline TeZet XLS Data File

In order to help with migration from TeZet to VTube-LASER, customers asked us to enhanced the Excel XLS file import in VTube-STEP (included in VTube-LASER) to handle TeZet file data better.

  • The import automatically discovers the XYZ row with no data in order to set the point count.

  • The import lets you set the part number from the XLS data.

  • The import lets you set the diameter from the XLS data.

  • The import lets you set the wall thickness from the XLS data.

  • The import automatically sets the default radius value in the Part Setup menu.

Vtube-step v2.7 import XLS TubeCenterline.png



Check.jpg ENHANCED - Path Manager Checkbox - Offer to Add New Paths

A new checkbox in the Path Manager allows you to control if VTube offers to add new paths detected.

Some customers find the repeated offer by VTube annoying. This will allow you to turn this feature on and off.

Vtube v2.7 pathmanager OfferAddNewPath.png



Check.jpg NEW - Probed Points Now Automatically IGNORE Cut Planes

As of this version, VTube-LASER will ignore cut planes when in tactile probe mode.

After observing how customers use the cut plane, we've concluded that it is best to let probed points be measured anywhere - even beyond the cut planes.

Now cut planes are used exclusively for the LASER scanner only. If the LASER scanner is active, then active cut planes are also used.




Faro ballprobes.png Vtube-laser v2.7 cutplane ignored.png



Check.jpg NEW - Part Setup Popup Menu: "Set Date/Time to Now" Feature

The Part Setup popup menu lets you set the Date/Time stamp for the project file to the current date and time.

Vtube 2.7 SetDateTimeToNow.png



Check.jpg NEW: Improved License Control Tools

We improved license management by giving messages in the status bar at the bottom of screen that report on license health.

The message always include the source of licensing - like local USB or Network License Manager.

The message will include specific information about any problems with the license in advance of VTube asking you to take some sort of retry or close action.

  1. If you see "License OK", then there are no problems communicating with the VTube USB hardware key or NLM server.

  2. If problems occur, then you will see "License Warning" followed by a description of the problem for one minute.

  3. Then you will be allowed to retry accessing the hardware key from inside a dialog box that asks you to RETRY for another minute.

  4. If VTube cannot verify the health of the license, then it will ask to shut down - but it will always automatically create a BACKUP file of the project (see the hot key backup feature above) before closing.

Vtube v2.7 license health indicator.png

Vtube v2.7 license health indicator extended notes.png



Check.jpg ENHANCED: Scanner and Ball Probe Measurement Sound Changes

DIFFERENT Sound from Each Other

The scanner measure and ball probe measure sounds are now different from each other. You will know when VTube is taking points by ball probe or points by scanner by hearing to the unique sounds associated with those two kinds of measuring.

NEW Softer Sounds

The scanning sound is now softer than the previous sound - and is also a repeating sound that works better with sound systems that turn off and then back on when not being used.

The point measure sound is also softer - but it continues to be a single soft pop.

Sound.png



Check.jpg ENHANCED: Loaded Project Filename Automatically Moves to Top of Recent List

VTube Project files loaded are now always moved to the top of the Recent Projects list - even if they are already in the list.

Vtube recent project move to top.png



Check.jpg ENHANCED: Tube Shape Averaging from LRA Data in the Hybrid Feature in Tube Data Storage

We found and fixed a problem with ROTATION data averaging when creating a hybrid tube from LRA bender data.

In previous versions, VTube could have problems with rotations that approach and pass from positive regions into negative regions (Either at 0 degrees or 180 degrees).

About This Feature

This feature allows you to measure a part multiple times, then average the results.

Unlike averaging measured centerline XYZ data, using the LRA method of averaging tube data to derive a hybrid tube allows VTube to be immune to tube orientation changes between measures.

Vtube-laser-2.2 hybridtube logo.png

Vtube-laser tubedatastorage hybridpart feature closeup.png

Vtube-laser tubedatastorage hybridpart feature.png



Check.jpg VERIFIED: VTube is Compatible with SOLIDWORKS 2017

VTube is verified as compatible for building directly to SOLIDWORKS 2017.

Solidworks2017-launch-logo.png

Vtube-v2.7 solidworks2017.png



Check.jpg ENHANCED: Network License Manager Setup Change - No Receive Port Necessary

Only one port is now required for connection to the Network License Manager.

We've remove the VTube Receive port number value. See the configuration text on the right from the "vtube local settings.cfg" file.

[HARDWARE KEY]
Enable Network=0
License Type=Laser
NLM IP Address=127.0.0.1
Network Timeout=10
Send To NLM Port=17502



Other Changes

  • This version of VTube works with a new version 9 of the Network License Manager that has a redesigned user interface and a new communications engine.

  • New splitter bars are added between the menus and the viewport.

  • VTube can now properly save and load DATES and TIMES in the project file regardless of the Windows locale settings. Previous versions could not handle non US standard dates and times in the project file.

  • We made a major optimization by reducing the amount of memory required to run VTube. This optimization also makes VTube run faster.





Other Pages

Retrieved from "http://www.advancedtubular.wiki/index.php?title=VTube-LASER_v2.7&oldid=32996"