Tool Length Correction

In rotating head machines (table-head or head-head), the length of the tool determines how much the tool tip is moved with each rotation. In fact, the length of the tool should be added to the B vector (the tool essentially extends that vector).

In rotating head machines, GPP2 automatically adjusts the B vector length to include the tool and holder length with each tool change. Usually, no handling is required from the GPP developer.

In some cases, the calculated tool length is not accurate (for instance, if the tool was sharpened and is shorter than its nominal value). In such cases, the user wishes to enter the accurate (measured) length during the GPP2 interaction.

For that reason, the calculated tool length value may be overridden by the EX2 program during the TOOL CHANGE block, through the use of the TOOL_TOTAL_LENGTH system variable.

  • GPP2 first calculates the total length and sets the variable before going into the TOOL CHANGE block execution.

  • Then, the EX2 program has a chance to modify the value inside the block.

  • Only after the TOOL CHANGE block is processed, GPP2 uses the value of the variable to set the machine geometry.

Recall that all this is only relevant in machines without head RTCP. If the machine has head RTCP, then it does the correction itself (for the spindle and the tool alike).

Some functionality may be dependent on the product package. Contact your Reseller if you require a license.