Selection to Incremental in CNC Simulator Pro

Introduction

The "Selection to Incremental" feature in CNC Simulator Pro allows users to convert absolute coordinate values in a selected section of G-code to incremental coordinates. This function is particularly useful for operations where you need to reference the previous position rather than an absolute coordinate system, providing more flexibility in your programming.

How to Use the Selection to Incremental Feature

Step 1: Select the Code

- Open your CNC program in the CNC Simulator Pro editor.
 - Highlight the section of the G-code that you want to convert from absolute to incremental coordinates.



Step 2: Access the Selection to Incremental Function

- With the section of code highlighted, go to the Edit menu at the top of the CNC Simulator Pro window.
 - From the dropdown menu, click on Selection to Incremental.


A computer screen shot of a program Description automatically generated


Step 3: Review the Converted Code

After selecting Selection to Incremental, the software will automatically convert the selected absolute coordinates to incremental ones. This means that each coordinate will now be based on the previous point rather than a fixed point in space.


Example:

Before Conversion:

G00 X-23.224 Y0 Z2
G01 Z-20.000 F500 M08
 G03 X15.176 I19.2 J0

After Conversion:

G00 X-23.224 Y0 Z2
G91 (Switch to incremental mode)
G01 Z-22.000 F500 M08
 G03 X38.400 I19.200 J0.000


Step 4: Save and Use

- After the conversion, save your program. You can now run the CNC simulation with the new incremental coordinates, which can be particularly useful for repetitive or looping operations.


Important Note:
 When converting to incremental coordinates, ensure that the first block in the selected code contains all three coordinate values (X, Y, and Z). This is crucial for the simulator to correctly calculate the incremental values based on the initial position. Missing any of these coordinates will result in an alarm.

Benefits of Using Incremental Coordinates

- Flexibility: Incremental coordinates are often easier to adjust during program execution, particularly when small modifications are needed.
- Precision: Allows for precise control over movements relative to the last position.
 - Versatility: Ideal for complex tool paths where referencing the last position is more practical than absolute coordinates.