Asper

WinASPER
CAM
Cutting plan creation system for CNC cutting tables
User guide
Version 3.2.2 for Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, ME, XP
MicroStep 2005
1.
Introduction ...................................................................................................................1-1
1.1.
2.
Basic terms.............................................................................................................................1-1
Basic activities ..............................................................................................................2-1

2.1.
File loading.............................................................................................................................2-1
2.2.
Manual nesting of parts on the sheet...................................................................................2-2
2.3.
Cutting order selection .........................................................................................................2-2
2.4.
Special activities ....................................................................................................................2-3
2.4.1.
Change of starting point.................................................................................................................2-3
2.4.2.
Change of lead-ins .........................................................................................................................2-3
2.4.3.
Change of cutting order .................................................................................................................2-3
2.5.
3.
Generating and storing of a cutting plan ............................................................................2-3
Working with program ..................................................................................................3-1

3.1.
Program appearance.............................................................................................................3-1
3.2.
First run of program (installation) ......................................................................................3-2
3.3.
Asper templates .....................................................................................................................3-2
4.
Menu items ....................................................................................................................4-1

4.1.
File menu................................................................................................................................4-1
4.1.1.
New ...............................................................................................................................................4-1
4.1.2.
Open ..............................................................................................................................................4-1
4.1.3.
Close ..............................................................................................................................................4-1
4.1.4.
Insert DXF, IGES, DC2, DSTV, MI..............................................................................................4-2
4.1.5.
Insert REZ .....................................................................................................................................4-2
4.1.6.
Insert ESSI.....................................................................................................................................4-3
4.1.7.
Insert CNC.....................................................................................................................................4-3
4.1.8.
Insert PLA .....................................................................................................................................4-3
4.1.9.
Load sheet with defects .................................................................................................................4-3
4.1.10.
Save ...............................................................................................................................................4-3
4.1.11.
Save as ...........................................................................................................................................4-3
4.1.12.
Generate.........................................................................................................................................4-3
4.1.13.
Properties.......................................................................................................................................4-4
4.1.14.
Economy file..................................................................................................................................4-5
4.1.15.
Simulation......................................................................................................................................4-6
4.1.16.
Print, Print preview, Printer setup..................................................................................................4-7
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4.1.17.
Recent files list ..............................................................................................................................4-7
4.1.18.
Exit ................................................................................................................................................4-7
4.2.
Edit menu...............................................................................................................................4-8
4.2.1.
Undo ..............................................................................................................................................4-8
4.2.2.
Last action .....................................................................................................................................4-8
4.2.3.
Delete, Copy, Insert .......................................................................................................................4-8
4.2.4.
Delete.............................................................................................................................................4-9
4.2.5.
Create copies..................................................................................................................................4-9
4.2.6.
Part properties................................................................................................................................4-9
4.2.7.
Common cut ................................................................................................................................4-10
4.2.8.
NC start........................................................................................................................................4-10
4.2.9.
NC end.........................................................................................................................................4-10
4.2.10.
Transform circle holes .................................................................................................................4-10
4.2.11.
Libraries and optional add-ins .....................................................................................................4-10
4.3.
Nesting menu .......................................................................................................................4-11
4.4.
Show menu...........................................................................................................................4-14
4.4.1.
Windows......................................................................................................................................4-14
4.4.2.
All parts .......................................................................................................................................4-15
4.4.3.
All................................................................................................................................................4-15
4.4.4.
Part...............................................................................................................................................4-15
4.4.5.
Chain............................................................................................................................................4-15
4.4.6.
Zoom undo...................................................................................................................................4-15
4.4.7.
Redraw.........................................................................................................................................4-15
4.4.8.
Distance .......................................................................................................................................4-16
4.4.9.
Angle CSE ...................................................................................................................................4-16
4.4.10.
Angle SCE ...................................................................................................................................4-16
4.4.11.
Line Angle ...................................................................................................................................4-16
4.4.12.
Section points ..............................................................................................................................4-16
4.4.13.
Part name .....................................................................................................................................4-17
4.4.14.
Mode............................................................................................................................................4-17
4.4.15.
Toolbars.......................................................................................................................................4-19
4.4.16.
Status bar .....................................................................................................................................4-19
4.5.
Point menu ...........................................................................................................................4-20
4.5.1.
Absolute.......................................................................................................................................4-20
4.5.2.
Relative........................................................................................................................................4-20
4.5.3.
Polar.............................................................................................................................................4-21
4.5.4.
Projection.....................................................................................................................................4-21
4.5.5.
Snap .............................................................................................................................................4-21
4.5.6.
Displacement ...............................................................................................................................4-22
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4.5.7.
Cut start .......................................................................................................................................4-22
4.5.8.
Drill .............................................................................................................................................4-22
4.5.9.
Mark ............................................................................................................................................4-23
4.5.10.
Line..............................................................................................................................................4-23
4.5.11.
Line of mark points......................................................................................................................4-23
4.6.
Select menu ..........................................................................................................................4-24
4.6.1.
Parts .............................................................................................................................................4-24
4.6.2.
Part...............................................................................................................................................4-24
4.6.3.
Chain............................................................................................................................................4-24
4.6.4.
Section .........................................................................................................................................4-24
4.6.5.
Entity ...........................................................................................................................................4-25
4.6.6.
Window parts............................................................................................................................4-25
4.6.7.
Window chains .........................................................................................................................4-25
4.6.8.
Window sections.......................................................................................................................4-25
4.6.9.
Advanced selection......................................................................................................................4-25
4.6.10.
Invert selection ............................................................................................................................4-26
4.6.11.
Selection cancel ...........................................................................................................................4-26
4.7.
Move menu...........................................................................................................................4-26
4.7.1.
Drag .............................................................................................................................................4-27
4.7.2.
Move............................................................................................................................................4-28
4.7.3.
Rotate...........................................................................................................................................4-28
4.7.4.
Mirror ..........................................................................................................................................4-28
4.7.5.
Mirror horizontal .........................................................................................................................4-29
4.7.6.
Mirror vertical..............................................................................................................................4-29
4.7.7.
Align ............................................................................................................................................4-29
4.7.8.
To origin ......................................................................................................................................4-29
4.7.9.
Split .............................................................................................................................................4-30
4.7.10.
Split section and insert loop.........................................................................................................4-30
4.7.11.
Merge...........................................................................................................................................4-31
4.7.12.
Change start point........................................................................................................................4-31
4.7.13.
Direction change..........................................................................................................................4-31
4.7.14.
Copy start to selected...................................................................................................................4-32
4.7.15.
Copy leads to selected .................................................................................................................4-32
4.7.16.
Change parameters ......................................................................................................................4-32
4.7.17.
No cut ..........................................................................................................................................4-32
4.7.18.
Compensate .................................................................................................................................4-33
4.7.19.
Side of compensation...................................................................................................................4-33
4.7.20.
Lock height..................................................................................................................................4-33
4.7.21.
End of section ..............................................................................................................................4-34
4.7.22.
Priority.........................................................................................................................................4-34
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4.7.23.
Tool .............................................................................................................................................4-34
4.7.24.
Scarf cut.......................................................................................................................................4-35
4.7.25.
IHS Offset....................................................................................................................................4-36
4.7.26.
Milling depth ...............................................................................................................................4-36
4.7.27.
Change direction of rotation ........................................................................................................4-36
4.7.28.
Dynamic piercing On/Off ............................................................................................................4-36
4.8.
Lead-in menu.......................................................................................................................4-37
4.8.1.
Add lead-in ..................................................................................................................................4-37
4.8.2.
Add lead-out ................................................................................................................................4-37
4.8.3.
Add all .........................................................................................................................................4-37
4.8.4.
Delete lead-in...............................................................................................................................4-38
4.8.5.
Delete lead-out.............................................................................................................................4-38
4.8.6.
Delete all......................................................................................................................................4-38
4.8.7.
Change lead-in.............................................................................................................................4-38
4.8.8.
Change lead-out...........................................................................................................................4-39
4.8.9.
Compensate .................................................................................................................................4-39
4.8.10.
Loop.............................................................................................................................................4-40
4.9.
Bridges..................................................................................................................................4-40
4.9.1.
Create...........................................................................................................................................4-41
4.9.2.
Create on selected........................................................................................................................4-41
4.9.3.
Cancel ..........................................................................................................................................4-41
4.9.4.
Cancel all .....................................................................................................................................4-41
4.9.5.
Properties.....................................................................................................................................4-41
4.10.
Order ................................................................................................................................4-42
4.10.1.
Automatical .................................................................................................................................4-42
4.10.2.
Manual.........................................................................................................................................4-42
4.10.3.
Cancel ..........................................................................................................................................4-43
4.10.4.
Break............................................................................................................................................4-43
4.10.5.
Break between parts.....................................................................................................................4-43
4.10.6.
Cancel all .....................................................................................................................................4-43
4.10.7.
Test ..............................................................................................................................................4-44
4.10.8.
Chain cut......................................................................................................................................4-44
4.10.9.
Create junction.............................................................................................................................4-45
4.10.10.
Delete junction.........................................................................................................................4-46
4.10.11.
Manual common cut ................................................................................................................4-46
4.11.
Parameter Settings - Options .........................................................................................4-46
4.11.1.
Lead-ins and Lead-outs................................................................................................................4-47
4.11.2.
Technology ..................................................................................................................................4-49
4.11.3.
Nesting.........................................................................................................................................4-52
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1-4
4.11.4.
Cutting Program ..........................................................................................................................4-54
4.11.5.
File Generation ............................................................................................................................4-57
4.11.6.
Sheet ............................................................................................................................................4-58
4.11.7.
Bridges.........................................................................................................................................4-59
4.11.8.
Transformation of circles.............................................................................................................4-59
4.11.9.
Ordering.......................................................................................................................................4-61
4.11.10.
Slowing down ..........................................................................................................................4-62
4.11.11.
Input parameters ......................................................................................................................4-64
4.11.12.
Display Parameters ..................................................................................................................4-66
4.11.13.
Colours ....................................................................................................................................4-67
4.11.14.
Auxiliary points .......................................................................................................................4-68
4.11.15.
Miscellaneous Parameters .......................................................................................................4-68
4.11.16.
Tools ........................................................................................................................................4-69
4.12.
Window.............................................................................................................................4-70
4.12.1.
New Window...............................................................................................................................4-70
4.12.2.
Cascade........................................................................................................................................4-70
4.12.3.
Title .............................................................................................................................................4-70
4.12.4.
Arrange icons...............................................................................................................................4-70
4.12.5.
Window 1, 2, ... ...........................................................................................................................4-70
5.
Appendices .....................................................................................................................5-1
5.1.
Smart object assignment.......................................................................................................5-1
5.2.
Example of a simple cutting plan creation..........................................................................5-1
5.2.1.
Creation of a part in CAD program ...............................................................................................5-1
5.2.2.
Design CAD 2D ver.6 ...................................................................................................................5-2
5.2.3.
AutoCAD release 12 and later versions.........................................................................................5-2
5.2.4.
General remarks concerning construction .....................................................................................5-2
5.3.
Loading a part .......................................................................................................................5-3
5.3.1.
Actions after the file is loaded .......................................................................................................5-3
5.3.2.
Parts positioning ............................................................................................................................5-3
5.3.3.
Parts ordering.................................................................................................................................5-3
5.3.4.
File Generation ..............................................................................................................................5-4
5.4.
Possible parts construction errors and troubleshooting ....................................................5-5
MicroStep
1-5
1. Introduction
1.
Introduction
This manual describes program ASPER that enables generating NC code for technological
tables with CNC control system dedicated mostly for planar material division (plasma, flame, laser,
water-jet cutting). The main purpose of the program is to make easier conversion from technical
drawings into cutting plan (NC-code) and cutting of the part itself from a half-product.
Asper is a program which enables processing of the drawings created in various CAD
programs (AutoCAD, DesignCAD, etc.). It accepts many technological (flame) cutting parameters and
enables user to create cutting plan from supplied construction drawings very quickly, while it still keeps
property editing possibilities according to the users requirements. Program Asper was formerly
developed with focus on plasma cutting technology; however, new features supporting other cutting
technologies e.g. water-jet or laser cutting have been added recently.
Asper generates direct NC-code, cutting plan record (PLA) and economy file for nesting
efficiency evaluation; the printer output is available as well.
1.1.
Basic terms
Prior to start work with the program, basic terms will be explained that are used throughout the
document.
Half-product (Sheet)
In most cases, a sheet is a rectangle shaped piece of material chosen for cutting (a metal
sheet or plate for plasma and flame cutting; metal, wood, plastic, or other for laser cutting; the water-jet
is even capable to cut glass and ceramics).
Entity
Entity is a basic structural unit of each drawing. Entities might be lines, polylines, circles,
and arcs. Entities are described mostly by points. In case of polyline, those points are the polyline
vertices; an arc is described by its centre, starting and ending points. The drawing must consist only of
mentioned entities. All other entities (e.g. text, mark, dimensioning etc.) are ignored. In case when
entities that are not known to the control system are used, those have to be substituted by arcs and
lines before loading them into Asper (to break them). CAD programs usually have such a function.
The actual version of Asper enables even reading of entities SPLINE and ELLIPSE by an internal
conversion to a series of small lines, which is new compared to the previous versions.
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1-1
1. Introduction
Tip: The best way to read an ellipse into Asper is to substitute it by arcs already by drawing. Programs
AutoCAD and IntelliCAD enable to set function PELLIPSE to value 1 (write PELLIPSE 1 in command
line).
Tip: ELLIPSE and SPLINE are automatically converted to a series of very short lines when
being read. It is better for optimal program functioning and the cutting itself to let Asper change series
of short lines into longer lines with a chosen tolerance. (See Chapter 4.11.11 )
Section
Section is a group of adjacent entities. The program searches for corresponding entities and
then merges them into sections according to certain rules during drawing processing. Although drawing
may be designed so that entities are drawn in a different order than it seems in picture, ASPER looks
after their proper linking. Each section can also contain single lead-in and lead-out (explained later).
Chain
Chain is a group of adjacent sections. Any single part (described later) consists of one chain
describing the outer contour and of other chains describing holes (openings). Chains are mostly
closed, i.e. the first and the last chain points are identical. Open chains are rarer and their processing
is special. Normally, the chain is equal to the section. It is possible to split a chain into more sections in
order to perform special technological operations it is the only reason for existence of both sections
and chains.
Part
Part is a construction element consisting of one closed outer chain. It can also include other
inner closed chains (holes) and inner open chains (arcs or lines) as well. One CAD file should contain
MicroStep
1-2
1. Introduction
Fig.1
Illustration of basic terms used in ASPER
Lead-in and lead-out

At the beginning of (flame) cutting, it is necessary to make a hole into the sheet first (punch
over or pierce) and only after that it is possible to start positioning of a cutting tool along the given
trajectory. Usually, the area in the neighborhood of this point is damaged, which is not desirable for
part contour. Therefore cutting should be started from a place out of the part contour (in the waste).
This does not have to be applied for laser cutting and piercing by fluctuating laser.
Designers of drawings usually do not add this technological feature into drawings because it
is neither necessary nor desirable. Therefore Asper looks after that and creates a cutting element
positioned out of a contour, which is referred to as a lead-in. Similarly, the cutting tool is lead out of
contour after cutting has been finished in order to run out from the contour continuously and to provide
safe part dividing out of the sheet. The element is referred to as a lead-out.
Asper enables modification of the way of lead-in and lead-out creation and a change of the
lead-ins and lead-outs in a manual mode. Asper does not create lead-ins and lead-outs for open
chains automatically because there is no exterior and interior area defined for them and it is not clear
where the location of waste area is.
Sometimes it is inevitable to start from sheet edge especially for cutting too thick materials.
It is caused by the fact that plasma source can usually cut thicker materials than it can pierce.
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1-3
1. Introduction
Starting point
Starting point is the first point in the section; the lead-in and lead-out are usually attached to
this point. Starting point is automatically defined on the very first found entity that belongs to a
particular section. It is possible to change it and to modify the cutting trajectory.
Point tolerance (Tolerance in equality of points)

Sometimes it happens that lines that should have common vertex are in reality separated
by a small gap which is usually too small to be noticed on computer screen. The program helps to
solve these situations by a variable enabling to join all points where mutual distance is less then this
threshold variable. This feature is very important in cases when closed chains are designed as part
contours, which is the only correct solution. On the other hand, when too big value of this variable is
set, the program glues together points which should normally stay apart. Therefore it is necessary to
set this tolerance very carefully. A more suitable solution is to redraw the drawing.
Tip: Asper can distinguish open and closed chain by colour, so part colour should be
watched. If the colour is different than expected then it should be immediately fixed up. In reality Asper
distinguishes compensated and non-compensated chains. However, when all closed chains are set as
compensated and open chains are set as non-compensated, it is not possible to appoint the inner side
of the chain. This way an appearance that Asper distinguishes open and closed chains by colour is
created.
Marking
Marking is a special technological operation when cutting tool, e.g. plasma torch, is used as
a marker for selecting points on the sheet surface, where the subsequent operation has to be
performed (drilling, making a thread for screw etc.). Note that not every plasma source enables such
an operation. Please contact your plasma source supplier before an application of this method.
Marking points can be put during drawing the picture (DesignCAD, PointMark entity,
AutoCAD, other CAD programs able to create DXF outputs, Point entity) or afterwards directly in Asper
(menu Edit Marking).
Position of points can be entered before the function Marking is activated or Marking can be
activated without entering the points. In the latter case, the system asks for the points and gradually
processes them. Press key ESC or Enter when all points are entered.
Marking points behave always like individual chains; however, it is not allowed to attach
lead-ins and lead-outs to them. It is necessary to use marking points feature only if CNC control
system is also compatible with this method.
MicroStep
1-4
1. Introduction
Kerf compensation
The kerf width depends strongly on the tool but it is never zero. For air plasma sources it
ranges in the interval <0.53.5> mm and it naturally affects dimensions of part (dimensions of a cutting
part are changed by half of the kerf width, a hole would be bigger). This is, of course, an unacceptable
feature and there are only very few applications where requirements are so low that it does not matter.
The kerf compensation is an important property of every correct part design and it is mostly an attribute
of control system. Naturally, operator must know the type of material and make sure that a correct
value of kerf width is entered into the system.
NC-code (cutting plan)

The result of work with Asper is a file with NC-code. This is a normal text file containing
instructions for controlling technological device like SWITCH TOOL ON or MOVE TO POSITION X,
Y etc. Asper supports mainly DIN format (so called G code). It is possible to accommodate NC-code
format according to control system requirements or to create postprocessor (code generator) for
control system of a machine from a different manufacturer.
A user can change NC-code after it is generated and thus achieve special features, if
program Asper CAD-CAM does not allow them. You can find more information about NC-codes in
a user guide for a particular control system.
Cutting plan record

Cutting plan record is a group of information about the quantity, position, and attributes of
parts that should be cut from a sheet. Asper generates it as an output file with extension PLA that
includes all necessary information in addition to an NC-code (file with corresponding extension e.g.
ESI, REZ or CNC). User can read this file later and quickly change existing parts layout or their amount
without need of repeating all work from the beginning.
MicroStep
1-5
2. Basic activities
2.
Basic activities
This chapter describes the sequence of basic steps, which have to be done in order to use
the program properly. More detailed description of commands and parameters description is available
in the following chapters. Simple example of cutting plan creation is presented in the Appendix.
The normal sequence consists of following steps:
1. Loading part or parts, copying onto sheet
2. Manual nesting of parts
3. Cutting order selection
4. Special activities (not obligatory)
5. Cutting plan generation, storing into disc
6. Simulation testing (not obligatory)
The Asper philosophy is based on simplicity of program use. User can achieve the result by
using a few actions accessible via menu commands or hot keys, respectively. Despite the simplicity of
usage, there is a possibility to change many attributes of cutting plan in manual mode.
2.1.
File loading
First activity when working with the program is loading data from CAD files.
Asper enables to read parts that have been drawn in a CAD program. The format DXF
(AutoCAD), DC2 (DesignCAD) and DSTV are supported automatically. Most of standard CAD
programs are able to convert their own format into/from DXF format. It should be kept in mind that one
CAD file should always contain only one drawing and the description of part should not have
additional technological add-ins (lead-ins, lead-out, etc.).
The most frequent error when creating a part is duplicity of some entities because it is not
visible to user in CAD program. Another common error is the situation when two endpoints of
neighbouring entities are not identical. If their distance is very small, it is not visible. People sometimes
use for dimensioning purposes normal lines, which are internally represented by line entities. In that
case, the program accepts them too and erroneously they become an active part of drawing.
Asper is able to read parts from CAD programs and also its own output data, especially
cutting plan data (PLA) and the NC code itself. However, trouble-free reading of NC-code is not
guaranteed due to possible changes in this file outside of Asper, which might be made
externally (by user) or due to reading of code created by different software.
MicroStep
2-1
2. Basic activities
The program executes the following functions during part file reading:
Detection of mutual relations between existing entities
Merging entities into sections and chains
Chain cutting direction settings (inner and outer)
Setting cutting direction of individual chains
If the part was loaded and above-mentioned functions were completed successfully, the part
is displayed on computer screen in the position determined by the program. The program then tries to
position all the loaded parts as efficiently as possible from the left bottom corner. The way of
positioning might be partly changed in settings (menu Parameters NC program Nesting From
right or From top). User has the possibility to change values of various parameters and thus influence
the nesting procedure and processing (see Chapter Input parameters).
User can check whether the loaded part is correct, the window with information about the
number of loaded parts, chains, open and closed contours can be displayed (menu File Properties).
The information about the number of open contours is the most important because it can very often
indicate a mistake because all chains should be closed normally. The program enables to detect the
order of entity points (function Section points), so it is easy to find possible duplicity or any other error.
Asper also determines the starting point and the type of lead-in and lead-out immediately after loading
the part. When the ordering is done (menu Order Automatical), the chain index will be displayed as
well (menu Parameters Display).
2.2.
Manual nesting of parts on the sheet

It is possible to change preliminary parts nesting generated by Asper at the beginning of the
work. There are various functions for this purpose, e.g. moving and rotation of selected part or group of
parts, mirroring in vertical, horizontal or general axes (given by two points), to move parts closer one to
one another, etc. (see menu Move). It is also possible to copy parts as single parts or as a group.
2.3.
Cutting order selection

Asper can evaluate the parts layout automatically. It designs cutting order, computes
parameters of cutting for economical subsystem and adds additional technological information
according to parameters setting. The program computes also basic attributes of cutting plan such as
the cutting trajectory length, time needed for parts cutting, etc. After this operation the whole design of
a cutting plan is essentially done. The design does not have to be necessarily final; user has a chance
to change it anytime.
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2-2
2. Basic activities
2.4.
Special activities
Special functions are not obligatory. In most cases after setting program parameters so that the
design complies with requirements, the user needs not to change anything after manual nesting of
parts.
2.4.1.
Change of starting point
User can move starting point into arbitrary point on section. In that case lead-in and lead-out
are moved together with this point, but their format is changed according to the type of new starting
point (sharp edge and round edge are different). This function is extremely important from
technological point of view, due to the fact that starting point position influences thermal diffusion and
sheet deformation.
2.4.2.
Change of lead-ins
Lead-ins and lead-outs created by the program do not have to be satisfactory. Layout of
parts is complicated and the program cannot grasp all possible combinations (it would be time
consuming to test whether created lean-in or lead-out does not go inside another part or whether
distance between a piercing point and a part is big enough.) Therefore user can change them and so
finalize the layout.
2.4.3.
Change of cutting order
The order (or sequence) of cutting particular parts is designed by the program in order to
minimize distance between two starting points. There is a rule that all holes have to be cut before the
outer contour is started. This feature can be switched out for engraver version of program.
Designed order does not necessarily meet user requirements (e.g. due to the thermal
deformation of a part of the sheet) and so it can be changed manually by user with a use of various
functions.
2.5.
Generating and storing of a cutting plan

After the work has been finished and the user is satisfied with the layout of parts and other
properties of the drawing, the plan (as a file with extension PLA) and NC-code (as a file with predefined
extension e.g. ESI or REZ) can be stored to the disk. At the same time, the economical information file
(file extension EKO) can be stored. The generation of each file can be turned off in program menu
(menu Parameters Data generation File generation).
Created NC-file is now ready to be transferred directly to the working place and used.
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2-3
3. Working with program
3.
Working with program
Asper program can be used on any computer with operating system Windows 95, 98, Me,
NT, Windows 2000 or XP. Recommended resolution is 1024x768 pixels or better.
Whole program is designed as a multi-document application (Multiple Document Interface).
That means that it is possible to access simultaneously several plans; each of them displayed in
separate window on the screen.
Program Asper is in continuous development. This user guide describes version 3.2.2.1460,
release date 8.12.2005. In case you have a different version it is possible that it contains some new
functions and some functions might be removed or slightly changed. The version number and date of
release can be checked in menu Help About Asper.
3.1.
Program appearance
After the program starts, there is a menu with particular items appearing on the top line of
program window. Below menu bar there is a toolbar with icons for most used functions. The biggest
part of program window belongs to the working area. There is a rectangle inside of it, which represents
sheet with given size. The sheet size can be stored into configuration template (see Chapter: ASPER
templates). The rectangle is used as a zooming and viewing tool for placing parts on the sheet.
Moreover, its dimensions are used for sheet usage calculations.
On the very bottom of program window there is a status line. Status line displays information
about the number of auxiliary points, cursor co-ordinates and other information displayed according to
current activity.
The work with particular window items is standardized according to the Windows operating
system (Windows 95, 98, Me, NT, 2000).
User can create auxiliary points in the working area. These are very important for specific
functions (mirroring, etc.). Their usage is described in the following chapters.
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3.2.
First run of program (installation)
Program ASPER is copy protected!

At the first run of the program an information appears that Asper is not registered (error
message Configuration file cannot be opened. A window for entering a password appears after OK
button is pressed:
The password can be obtained after contacting program supplier. Password will be
generated on basis of so-called floating code. Floating code is a text string appearing in upper line in
password window. Supplier will provide string of characters that should be entered into empty text line.
The text is confirmed by clicking left mouse button on OK or pressing ENTER key and Asper will be
registered.
When a wrong code is entered or ESC key is pressed then Asper will run in DEMO mode
all operations are allowed but it is impossible to create a cutting program. The floating code changes at
every failed try to enter the code. In case ESC key is pressed (without trying to register) the floating
code does not change.
It is possible to repeat installation (in case of hard disk data damage or computer exchange)
and ask (e.g. by phone) again for new password.
The window for entering a password can be activated also from the Asper main menu
through items Menu - Help - About Asper - Register.
3.3.
Asper templates
Asper stores pre-defined values of all parameters and creates cutting plan using these
parameters. The settings can be continuously modified while using Asper.
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It is possible to create a specific parameter setting and save it to a template. Template is
a file on a disc containing information about user-defined setting (i.e. size of sheet, plasma source
type, parts layout method, size of lead-ins and lead-outs, etc.).
User can achieve different program behaviour by creating empty plans with various
templates. In order to save a specific configuration, following must be done: menu Parameters >
Stores parameters into new template. Subsequently a window Save as is displayed where template
name without extension is entered. A template named normal.cfg and saved at file Asper.exe is
special and its function is to keep the most universal parameter settings. This template is used when a
new cutting plan is being created without a specific template being entered.
Templates are used mostly for cutting of various materials with various thicknesses,
qualitative characteristics that require different parameter settings (e.g. size of lead-ins and lead-outs,
distance between parts). In such case a template for every material type is saved and the template can
be used for creating a new cutting plan for the given material.
In order to organize templates more
efficiently, they can be saved into directories according to e.g. material type. Template organization
depends exclusively on a user. Asper has no limitations in this area.
It is necessary to realize that a template is a cutting plan without parts, but it contains some
predefined parameter values. After a new cutting plan is created, these values are copied into the new
plan which uses and saves them onwards. Only parameter values are saved in the cutting plan, there
is no information about the template used. So if a template is modified later, there is no change in the
cutting plan from an earlier date.
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4. Menu items
4.
Menu items
The main menu consists of the following items and sub-menus:
4.1.
File menu
File item provides various functions for work with plans. Loading parts from CAD programs,
other cutting plans, NC-code files and standard file functions (Print, Preview, File Properties, Exit, etc.)
are located in this window.
4.1.1.
New
Key shortcut: CTRL+N
User can create a new empty cutting plan by using command New. While the program
starts Asper creates an empty plan called Asper1. Empty plan is created according to the standard
template described in the file Normal.cfg. By using shortcut keys Ctrl+N, it is possible to make another
new plan (according to standard configuration). Cutting plan according to different template can be
created via menu command File New. Only in this case Asper offers template window to choose one
of the templates.
4.1.2.
Open
Key shortcut: CTRL+O
Previously created cutting plan can be chosen using Open command. Of course, it is
possible to add new parts and CAD files into this cutting plan and to edit it in all the ways available.
4.1.3.
Close
The command Close terminates the work with current cutting plan. In case some changes
have been made, Asper asks for saving them.
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4. Menu items
4.1.4.
Insert DXF, IGES, DC2, DSTV, MI
One of the most important functions is inserting DXF, IGES or DC2 files describing parts.
Basic CAD file formats, which are compatible with Asper, are as follows:
DXF (AutoCAD and also standard output from many other CAD programs)
IGES
DC2 (text output format from CAD program DesignCAD)
DSTV
MI (format of Me10 program)
It is again strongly recommended to store single part in one CAD file!
After loading parts, Asper automatically performs the following operations:
Lining up discontinuous entities (if any) into continuous chains
Evaluation of closed or open chains
Adding of lead-ins and lead-outs wherever it is allowed and possible
Moving the part into free place on the sheet using nesting strategy described in program settings,
(menu Parameters > NC program > Nesting)
The work with such part is finished by establishing order of individual section or chain
cutting.
The dxf format is the most supported one from the above-mentioned list as it is a public
format supported by all commonly used CAD programs. Other formats are more or less supported
because of individual customers needs and requirements and the support of the formats develops only
according to the customers requirements.
4.1.5.
Insert REZ
This function enables to read NC-code in REZ format into a cutting plan. Inserting NC-code
is not a standard feature of CAD-CAM programs. It is only an alternative for processing older cutting
plans, created mostly manually or in cases when there is no CAD equivalent for it or cutting plan (PLA
file).
It is important to be aware that lead-ins and lead-outs are not a component of a CAD
drawing and they are added by Asper. When Asper is supposed to read a file where the part due to
presence of lead-ins and lead-outs is not closed (it happens quite often), it has to be processed in a
special way. Asper is able to handle the situation but it is not guaranteed that the result will work under
all circumstances. Sometimes NC-code is adapted manually by user. Some changes might be
incompatible with Asper. In order to read the file by Asper successfully, such changes have to be
revised (extra command has to be deleted etc.).
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4. Menu items
We can say that if using this feature is not necessary, it is recommended to use CAD files or
plans. It is better to avoid reading NC-code whenever it is possible.
4.1.6.
Insert ESSI
The function enables to read ESSI code (conforming ESSI standard) into the cutting plan.
All notes presented in Insert REZ item, are valid also for this entry.
4.1.7.
Insert CNC
The function enables to read CNC code (conforming DIN standard) into the cutting plan. All
notes presented in Insert REZ item, are valid also for this entry.
4.1.8.
Insert PLA
Command inserts existing cutting plan into a current one. User can merge more plans in this
way and use previously designed cutting plans. This feature makes the function different from function
Open Plan where only one plan is to be loaded into a new window. Of course, there is always a
possibility to use all functions and to manipulate with parts, to load a new one, etc.
4.1.9.
Load sheet with defects
The special functions enable to load file describing sheet that contains defects. A defect is
a point or a rectangular area with bad material quality, which makes it unsuitable for placing a part.
Asper automatically skips the points or rectangular areas during part nesting. This function is optional
and it is not included in the standard installation.
4.1.10.
Save
Key shortcut: CTRL+S

User can save current cutting plan (to a disc, floppy disc or computer network) even before
it has been finished by using the command Save.
4.1.11.
Save as
User can save current cutting plan (to a disc, etc.) under different name. The way of usage
of this function is standardized (Windows 95).
4.1.12.
Generate
Key shortcut: CTRL+G
This command differs from previous ones the way that there is stored not only a plan but all
necessary files chosen in settings, namely a plan, NC-code and economy file. Besides, it is the only
way of generating NC-code (see also settings in menu Options File Generation).
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4. Menu items
4.1.13.
Properties
Key shortcut: Alt+Enter
The Window displays selected properties of the current cutting plan.
This information serves mostly to get a quick overview of loaded parts or to perform a basic
visual check after particular part insertion. This information is important in the case that some of
inserted CAD drawings are not correct and it is inevitable to find and fix open chains, etc. This
information can also help to find duplicate entities (circles one on another, etc.).
Detailed description of the content can be obtained by generation of an economy file.
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4. Menu items
4.1.14.
Economy file
Key shortcut: CTRL+E
This command can be used for viewing the content of previously created economy file. Help
files containing information to display are created at cutting plan generation. Therefore it is necessary
to switch on the economy file creation when generating a cutting plan and to generate the plan more
often. Otherwise the information might be wrongly displayed or not displayed at all.
Economy file provides basic information about cutting plan, nesting efficiency, working time, material
consumption, etc.
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4. Menu items
In case generation of economy file of 3.1 version is set, the economy file is a simple text file easy to be
modified afterwards.
Asper generates this file with name identical with the cutting plan. This text file can be printed out or
saved together with cutting plan for archiving purposes and normative processing.
4.1.15.
Simulation
Key shortcut: CTRL+T
Command activates the program NC-code simulator. Simulator is an independent program

in Asper and it can be used as such. In case simulator is activated from Asper after NC-code
generation, Asper provides a link to the corresponding NC-code (simulator automatically compiles NCcode to internal format).
Simulator is described in detail in an independent part of this User guide.
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4. Menu items
4.1.16.
Print, Print preview, Printer setup
Asper enables to print cutting plan in selected section of sheet (or whole sheet); i.e. it is
possible to display only a detail of cutting plan and print it like a hardcopy from a window. Only cutting
plan in current window can be printed out. Printing is executed in a usual way.
The function Preview is a standard command supported by Windows operating system. It
enables to watch and check the look of a printout before real printing.
The item Printer setup enables to change printer settings or to choose different printer when
working in network, etc.
4.1.17.
Recent files list
List of four last recently used cutting plans is displayed in the lower part of File window. It
provides a kind of shortcut access to one of the last recent cutting plans.
4.1.18.
Exit
This command terminates entire work with program.

Asper asks for saving unsaved or changed documents before exiting.
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4. Menu items
4.2.
Edit menu
4.2.1.
Undo
Key shortcut: CTRL+Z or ALT-BACKSPACE
Asper enables to undo the latest activities/functions. The Undo function provides means for
example to fix up a part deleted by mistake, etc. User can go backwards in the history of last activities
and undo them step-by-step.
4.2.2.
Last action
Key shortcut: CTRL+Y or Space
This command can be used to repeat last activity. Command calls up action, but it will not
enter all needed parameters, user must give them. If for instance user has changed the lead-in (that
means the action call-up, selecting current lead-in, its position changing), command will call up only the
function; user must select lead-in and its new position.
In case user wants to call up a function, which needs more auxiliary points, user enters
absolute co-ordinates of the first point and then enters absolute co-ordinates of the auxiliary point.
The use of this function is especially convenient in case of function, which needs single
auxiliary point (detailed description in Options Auxiliary points). User can first time call the function in
a standard way and next he needs only to position cursor over other objects and press key shortcut for
repeating.
If you need to repeat the last but one command, press Ctrl+Space.
4.2.3.
Delete, Copy, Insert
Key shortcut: Ctrl+X, Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V

Standard functions enabling to copy and move parts within one plan or between more
plans. It is not possible to use these functions to copy parts into other programs.
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4. Menu items
4.2.4.
Delete
Key shortcut: Del
The command deletes parts or chains (holes).

More parts can be deleted at once or individually using commands from Select menu. The
command is efficient e.g. in case when two parts differ in the number of holes. It is not necessary to
load two parts; the first part can be simply copied and holes in that copy deleted. It is wise to rename
the second part as well.
Deletion of holes influences the computation of the parts area and cutting efficiency. If the
hole belongs to the part but it was or it will be made using different technology, No cutting function
instead of Delete function can be used.
4.2.5.
Create copies
Key shortcut: K
The command is intended for copying part or group of parts. For copying a group of parts
commands from menu Select should be used.
4.2.6.
Part properties
Key shortcut: * (Shift+8)
The name of single part or a group of parts can be changed by using this command. For
renaming more parts at once, commands from Select menu should be used. Part name is used for bill
in an economy file. A part area [mm2] and adjustable attribute for collision control with other parts in a
cutting plan is displayed in the window for submitting the name.
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4. Menu items
4.2.7.
Common cut
Command enables to place two defined parts of a cutting plan in a way that their two selected
edges can be cut simultaneously by one cut.
Before activating the function, user must check kerf width setting in Menu Options
Technology Kerf Width. The parameter value should be equal with an assumed kerf width applied
for cutting.
After the function is selected, user with a mouse selects two edges that will create common
cut. Compensation will be performed on outside chains of both parts, that are about to be connected
and second part is moved towards first part to create common cut. The parts visually appear as one
part. More parts can be added to the already existing pair by repeating these steps. The block of parts
created this way will be non-compensated. Compensation is executed automatically in Asper
(command G41 or G42 switch on compensation is not inserted into cutting code before cutting).
Last step of common cut creation is cutting order definition. This is usually done manually
using function Order Manual common cut, because automatic ordering was made for single parts
especially.
4.2.8.
NC start
Command is intended for defining co-ordinates of an auxiliary point where cutting starts.
The same can be achieved in Cutting Program Parameters.
4.2.9.
NC end
Command is intended for defining co-ordinates of au auxiliary point where cutting ends. The
same can be achieved in Cutting Program Parameters.
4.2.10.
Transform circle holes
The function applies the circular holes transformation table (see later in this User guide) on
all the parts of the current cutting plan.
4.2.11.
Libraries and optional add-ins
Other items in Edit menu serve for running macros and part libraries. The SELECT library is
a standard installation part and it contains standard parts. Other libraries and programs were created
for the users needs e.g. AIRSEL library (air-conditioning pipes) or programs for pipe cutting and
rectangular profiles. These add-ins are often created just according to an order of a certain customer
and they are described in special user guides.
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4. Menu items
4.3.
Nesting menu
The menu includes only one option creating a new nesting task. The nesting task is to
make a new list of parts that must be placed on sheets and a list of available sheets. An optional part
of the program is automatic saving it is not included in the standard installation. At first
a configuration file must be created where all new plans will be saved, i.e. plans will adopt all
parameters of the document. Parameters can be modified directly in the nesting window as well as in
the drawing. A new window is created where user creates lists of parts and sheets nesting task
window.
Nesting task window contains mainly of list of parts and sheets. There are add / edit and
remove buttons under the lists.
In the top window user selects the end of nesting. There are three options when sheet is
full, when all parts are used, when required number of parts is placed. Even when the option Until
end is selected, nesting is interrupted when the sheet is full by a request to confirm the file name. In
case user does not confirm the name (key ESC or button Cancel), nesting is interrupted. User can
manually move parts that are not placed properly according to his opinion. Interruption of nesting is
suitable mainly in cases when user assumes from experience that certain parts are not nested
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4. Menu items
efficiently enough.
Command Close after finish closes the task window (Nesting window) after all parts are
nested.
In the middle part of the window there is a list of parts and buttons for creating and changing
the list. The button Store counts is used for saving the number of parts; the button Recall counts is
used for returning the number of parts previously saved.
The bottom part of the window includes list of available sheets and buttons for creating and
changing the list. Two types of sheets can be added an empty sheet, which size can be defined or a
partially full sheet that is defined by a name of an already existing file. In this case document
properties are not transferred from nesting task but they stay as they are in the current
document.
Preview window is placed in the right part of the screen. Part properties can be modified there
e.g. modification of lead-ins, bridges, etc.
Nesting task can be saved by Save as option in the File menu. A simple file containing list
of parts to be nested and list of sheets will be created.
Adding a part or change of requirements on this part (number, fit type) can be changed by
Add and Edit buttons. In case of adding a part selection window appears automatically.
After a file is chosen a part specification window appears.
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4. Menu items
It is possible to set required number of parts and the fit type here. Most common fit types
among all the available ones are centre of gravity type and the grid type. When centre of gravity type
is used ideal placement of part is searched at the moment of its placement without any concerns to the
other parts. The grid type is recommended especially for the parts of large numbers. Regular part
structures are created in that case and the spaces between them and other spaces are filled
afterwards. If Rotation is set, it is possible to change the part rotation step when searching for its ideal
placement.
Adding a sheet can be executed by a corresponding button under the sheet list. It is possible to
add an empty sheet or an existing plan saved at disk and the parts will be nested into it.
The option Auto Add Sheet prevents from shortage of sheets even if all the listed sheets are
used. A new empty sheet with same parameters as the latest used one in the current list is created in
such s case.
Nesting itself is executed by pressing the Run! button.

A window describing the run of nesting appears and the nesting process can be terminated at
any time by pressing the STOP! button. However, the reaction to this button can be sometimes
delayed.
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4. Menu items
After the nesting is finished or a sheet is filled the user is prompted if he/she agrees with the
suggested nesting. If the answer is yes, the nesting is imported into the current plan and the process
continues. User can manually change the nesting afterwards. A negative answer terminates the
nesting without any changes to the plan. User can change parameters of automatic nesting and run it
again.
4.4.
Show menu
4.4.1.
Windows
Key shortcut: F4
The command enables to enlarge/zoom-in a detail of working area. The program asks for two
points (rectangle vertices) defining detail. The view of detailed area is then enlarged to the entire
working area. For keeping the original detail, press Escape or Break instead of entering auxiliary
points.
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4. Menu items
4.4.2.
All parts
Key shortcut: F5
Viewing all parts positioned on the sheet is accessible via All parts function. Asper displays
only the portion of the sheet with placed parts.
4.4.3.
All
Key shortcut: Ctrl+F5

This command displays all parts and the entire sheet.
4.4.4.
Part
Key shortcut: F7
This command displays single part. Function will prompt for one auxiliary point defining the
part. The point should be located close to desired part.
4.4.5.
Chain
Key shortcut: F6
The command displays particular chain. The function will prompt for point defining a chain. If
the point belongs to an outer contour, the result will be the same as for View part function.
4.4.6.
Zoom undo
Key shortcut: F8
This command returns the zoom factor to previous one.
4.4.7.
Redraw
Key shortcut: Ctrl+R
The command redraws entire working area, it is helpful in case of incorrect displaying, e.g.
after switching between programs using text mode and graphics mode, etc.
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4. Menu items
4.4.8.
Distance
Key shortcut: ? (question mark)
The function measures the distance between two points. The command displays the distance,
the difference between X-axis, Y-axis, and the angle with respect to X-axis. If both points have the
same X co-ordinate as the distance and difference between the Y co-ordinates will be identical
numbers, the difference between the X co-ordinates will be zero and the angle will be + or 90
degrees.
4.4.9.
Angle CSE
Key shortcut: <

This command enables to measure the angle given by three auxiliary points (middle, start, and
end).
4.4.10.
Angle SCE
Key shortcut: >

This command enables to measure the angle given by three auxiliary points (start, middle, and
end).
4.4.11.
Line Angle
Key shortcut: }
The command serves for measuring the angle between two lines even in the case; lines are
not crossing each other. Each line is defined by two points. It is not necessary to enter points laying on
lines; arbitrary four points can be entered.
4.4.12.
Section points
Key shortcut: Q
This command will display vertices indexes of given section. Function expects a point defining
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4. Menu items
a section. Repeated usage of this command switches off displaying of indexes.
This function helps to check the parts correctness. Normally, a chain consists of single section.
If the part is correct, indices should be incremented continuously. In case of an open chain (which is
mostly caused by an error during construction) it is easy to find the starting point.
4.4.13.
Part name
Key shortcut: S
Displaying of parts names can be quickly turned on or off by using this function.
4.4.14.
Mode
Properties setting, e.g. compensation, cutting speed, etc., of sections and entities should be
apparent on the first sight.
Because of a great number of properties user can select the colour
distinction.
Sub-function Normal displays all cutting paths in standard colour distinction i.e. cutting
paths are distinguished by colour with regards to their characteristics compensated or not, bevel,
bridge, etc.
Sub-function Tools distinguishes cutting paths of particular tools by different colour.
Sub-function Speed distinguishes cutting paths by different colours according to their relative
cutting speed (ten different colours each colour belongs to the range of 10%). The sub-function is
suitable when user wants to set lower speed on certain entities (e.g. in corners). The following must be
done:
Using mouse user locates a point on the given entity, dividing the entity into two parts (Asper
function Point -> Displacement serves for defining desired distance of the point from the beginning or
end of the contour). Right click of the mouse calls up menu where an item Entity -> Divide entity must
be selected. Using cursor of the mouse user moves to the created entity part and then presses right
button of the mouse. The following dialog window is displayed by selecting an item Entity -> Properties:
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4. Menu items
Cutting speed in percentage with regard to the cutting speed set in tool parameters is entered
into the window Relative speed (%). In case of NC plan for laser it is also possible to set relative
source output and air pressure.
Besides that an individual speed (in mm/min) or tool revolutions (in case of milling machine)
can be set for each entity. However, it is recommended to use percentage speed change.
Sub-function Tool rotation is used mainly with milling machines (in general with tools where
cutting is executed by a rotating tool that can rotate clockwise or anti-clockwise). This function
distinguishes by colour standard rotation (clockwise, DIN code M3) and anti-clockwise rotation (DIN
code M4).
Switching between display modes is possible also in a simpler and quicker way in the toolbar
by letter buttons.
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4. Menu items
4.4.15.
Toolbars
Toolbar can be displayed or hidden as a result of execution of this command. Toolbar provides
means for quick call of frequently used commands. Description of particular buttons can be viewed
after staying with mouse cursor upon the button area for a while. Most commands can be called also
from menu or by using a key shortcut. Commands requiring auxiliary points enable in case of key
shortcut usage of actual mouse cursor position for them (for more details see Other options).
More experienced users can use key shortcuts in order to speed up the work. Then it is
advantageous to hide the toolbar and enlarge the working area afterwards.
The position of toolbar is removable with mouse too.
4.4.16.
Status bar
The command displays or hides the status bar.
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4. Menu items
4.5.
Point menu
The work with auxiliary points represents an important aspect of the entire work with Asper.
The reason is that almost every program activity needs to have some points, by which are given
additional information.
4.5.1.
Absolute
Key shortcut: : (colon)
Absolute point is given by co-ordinates with respect to the point with co-ordinates 0,0 on a
sheet. Co-ordinates (X and Y) should be entered separated by comma or space, period (dot) is used
as a floating-point separator.
If at least one co-ordinate is not entered, Asper will use corresponding missing co-ordinate
from latest given point. If there was entered no point at all, Asper accepts current position of mouse
cursor.
Y co-ordinate can be entered alone by starting typing with comma sign.
Number of auxiliary points is displayed in status line. Auxiliary points can be created using
mouse and cancelled with Escape key.
4.5.2.
Relative
Key shortcut: ' (apostrophe)
Auxiliary point given by relative co-ordinates can be created by using function Relative point.
Program will prompt for entering reference point used as a basis for given resulting point. It is
convenient to use Snap function for entering reference point.
Last recently given auxiliary point can be used as a reference by pressing Enter. If no
reference point is entered after pressing Enter, current cursor co-ordinates are accepted.
The program asks for entering relative co-ordinates. New auxiliary point will be created at coordinates obtained by adding entered co-ordinates to the reference one. Co-ordinates (X and Y) should
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4. Menu items
be entered separated by comma or space, period (dot) is used as a floating-point separator.
Empty co-ordinate that has been not entered will be substituted by corresponding co-ordinate
of latest auxiliary point. If there was entered no point at all, Asper accepts current position of mouse
cursor.
Y co-ordinate can be entered alone by starting typing with comma sign.
4.5.3.
Polar
Key shortcut: ; (semi-colon)
The command is used to create an auxiliary point given by polar co-ordinates. (The position
of the point is defined by an angle from X-axis and the distance from the reference co-ordinate. The
angle is given in degrees.)
The program prompts for entering a reference point. It is convenient to enter this point using
the Snap function.
Last recently given auxiliary point can be used as a reference by pressing Enter. If no
reference point is entered after pressing Enter, current cursor co-ordinates are accepted. Next
prompting will be for relative co-ordinates. The co-ordinates of the new auxiliary point will be calculated
as your co-ordinates+reference ones.
After that, the program will prompt for entering polar co-ordinates. Co-ordinates angle (U) and
radius (R) should be entered separated with comma or space, period (dot) is used as a floating-point
separator.
4.5.4.
Projection
Key shortcut: , (comma)
The command should be used when an auxiliary point should be created as a perpendicular
projection of given point on the nearest entity. Program prompts for auxiliary point defining reference
co-ordinates. It is convenient to give this point as free. Most functions require only free point; the
projection is then computed automatically.
4.5.5.
Snap
Key shortcut: . (full stop)
The command can be used also with right mouse button together with Shift key. It is possible
to create an auxiliary point in so-called significant co-ordinates. That means that mouse cursor jumps
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to the closest significant point (e.g. the chain vertex, middle of circle, etc.). Co-ordinates of significant
points are selectable in menu Parameter D Auxiliary points. When called from menu, the program will
prompt for entering reference point. It is convenient to give this point as free. The program will find
significant point closest to this point and creates a new auxiliary point there.
4.5.6.
Displacement
Key shortcut: " (quotation marks)
This command enables to create an auxiliary point in defined displacement onto existing
entity (or section). Function will ask for a reference point. It will make a perpendicular projection to the
nearest entity, asks for the side of displacement. Then the program prompts for entering a distance.
The function finds a projection along the section and creates an auxiliary point in defined distance. The
procedure can be illustrated by an example of a square with the edge length equal to 100 mm. When
desired projection is in the middle of the edge and the distance is 100 mm, a new auxiliary point will be
created in the middle of adjacent edge.
To create auxiliary point in the opposite direction the distance should be entered as
a negative number.
The given distance must be shorter that the distance between the projection and
beginning/end of section.
4.5.7.
Cut start
This command enables to place auxiliary points on the beginning of cutting paths. These
points can be replaced by drilling in case material is too thick to be pierced in a standard way. The
function is suitable for machines equipped with a driller.
4.5.8.
Drill
Key shortcut: ! (exclamation mark)
This command is used to create holes for drilling. The command is available only where
switching between technological tools is supported and with a defined drilling tool. Program
prompts for a drilling hole diameter. Diameter needs so called Transformation of circles (will be
explained later in this User guide) to be defined.
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4.5.9.
Mark
Key shortcut: # (hash)
This command enables to create marking points by locating auxiliary points in the
cutting plan where marking is desired and pressing Enter.
4.5.10.
Line
Key shortcut: _ (underline)
The command is used to create a line by a sequence of auxiliary points. The line has
characteristics of an individual part. It is open (no lead-in or lead-out can be added). This kind of lines
is used in parts with undercuts for folding, etc.
In case of troubles, the command can be used to create a simple part consisting of only one
type of entity line (auxiliary points can be absolute, relative, located on grid corners, etc.). Chain is
closed by the function Snap applied on the first point of the sequence.
4.5.11.
Line of mark points
Key shortcut: _ (underline)
The command creates a line which is not complete but consists of mark points. The user
enters an approximate distance of individual points which are supposed to create the line. The real
distances are recalculated so that the distances between neighbouring points were the same.
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4.6.
Select menu
Asper can work with parts in two different ways. Either the current part or current group of
parts (block) is processed. Group of parts can be selected using commands from Select menu:
4.6.1.
Parts
Key shortcut: F2
This command selects all parts. If some parts were selected prior to calling the command,
their selection will be cancelled.
4.6.2.
Part
Key shortcut: F9
This command selects only one part. Repeated use of the command will cancel the previous
selection.
4.6.3.
Chain
The command selects a chain defined by a single auxiliary point.
4.6.4.
Section
Key shortcut: Shift+F9
The command selects a section. Repeated use of this command will cancel the previous
selection.
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4.6.5.
Entity
Key shortcut: Alt+F9
The command selects an entity. Repeated use of this command will cancel the previous
selection.
4.6.6.
Window parts
Key shortcut: F3
The command selects parts lying within a rectangle defined by two auxiliary points. The
function is finished without change of selection by pressing Escape or Break instead of entering both
rectangular points. Repeated use of this command will cancel the previous selection.
4.6.7.
Window chains
The command selects chains lying within a rectangle defined by two auxiliary points.
Repeated use of this command will cancel the previous selection.
4.6.8.
Window sections
The command selects chains lying within a rectangle defined by two auxiliary points.
4.6.9.
Advanced selection
The functions give an opportunity to select a great number of objects according to the users
criteria at the same time. It is very advantageous to use these functions in case the user intends to do
an operation with large number of sections or chains all fulfilling the same criteria.
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A user can choose any of the criteria according to his/her needs. It is possible to choose
more criteria at the same time. All the sections or chains fulfilling the selected criteria will be
(de)selected after pressing the OK button.
4.6.10.
Invert selection
Inverts the selection in the whole plan.
4.6.11.
Selection cancel
The command cancels selection of all the selected parts.
4.7.
Move menu
Asper offers various functions for parts or part group manipulation. Most of them are in menu
Move.
Moving functions operate according to following philosophy:
If no chains are selected, the points in their neighbourhood must be defined. Points can be
entered in advance, or the function prompts for them after being launched. In case it is necessary to
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enter more points, the second way is more transparent as the called function will announce desired
amount of points, their function and order of assignment. If entire part should be moved, which is the
most common case, a point defining part outer contour chain should be entered. If defining point is
located close to a hole, outer contour chain is not moved, only the hole or other chains inside it are
moved.
If some chains are selected, it is not necessary to enter points to define them. The difference
between this and previous case is that only selected objects are moved. That means that if only outer
contour is selected, the holes remain on the same position. A user gets more freedom using function
Select because it is more likely desired to move with entire part. Moreover, the user can work with
chains in the same manner like with a group. Function leaves selection of parts without change and
thus it is possible to call another moving function for the same group afterwards.
In case the collision control is active a position correction test of all the moved parts is run. If
the program finds a collision (even if two parts get closer to each other than a defined minimum
distance in the nesting), it will prompt the user with a message.
4.7.1.
Drag
Key shortcut: D
This command enables to change the position of desired part. The part should be selected
with auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part using left button of a mouse.
Selected part will be redrawn in different colour. Program then enables to move it with cursor keys or
mouse. It is possible to rotate the part using Plus and Minus keys. For more detailed positioning Plus
a Minus can be used together with the Ctrl key. Angle of rotation can be specified exactly by pressing
the Backspace key.
New position of the part is defined by entering second auxiliary point. The new position
depends on given co-ordinates and the program does not check the collisions of parts.
When an original position of the part should be preserved then Escape or Break should be
pressed instead of entering second point. If the function finds selected parts, it works with them as with
a group.
Another possibility is to finish positioning by pressing ENTER key. In such case Asper tries to
drag the part or a group of parts in defined direction closer to the other parts on the sheet or to its
sides.
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4.7.2.
Move
Key shortcut: P
Position of a part can be changed more precisely using this command. The part should be
selected with an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part using left button of a
mouse. The program then prompts for entering the moving vector. The vector is given by two auxiliary
points (beginning, end). New position depends on given co-ordinates, program does not watch for part
collision. When an original position of the part should be preserved then Escape or Break should be
a group.
4.7.3.
Rotate
Key shortcut: O
This command enables to rotate a part or group of parts more precisely. The part should be
selected with an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click close to the part using left button of a
mouse. The program then prompts for entering rotation midpoint and rotation angle. The angle is given
either by two auxiliary points (the beginning and the end) or by a numerical value after pressing the
Backspace key. The new position depends on given co-ordinates, program does not watch for part
collision. When an original position of the part should be preserved then Escape or Break should be
a group.
4.7.4.
Mirror
Key shortcut: M
This command should be used if the position of a part should be changed by mirroring
around general axes. The part should be selected with an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to
click close to the part using left button of a mouse. Then two points should be entered defining the
mirror axis. The new position depends on given co-ordinates, program does not watch for part collision.
When an original position of the part should be preserved then Escape or Break should be pressed
instead of entering second point. If the function finds selected parts, it works with them as with a group.
In order to maintain technological requirements, the program automatically changes direction
(clockwise or counter-clockwise) of section cutting and lead-ins and lead-outs.
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4.7.5.
Mirror horizontal
Key shortcut: H
The command is used for changing the position of a part by mirroring it around the axis
parallel to X-axis. The part should be selected with an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click
close to the part using left button of a mouse. When an original position of the part should be preserved
then Escape or Break should be pressed instead of entering second point. Program does not watch
for part collision. If the function finds selected parts, it works with them as with a group.
In order to maintain technological requirements the program automatically changes direction
of section cutting and lead-ins and lead-outs.
4.7.6.
Mirror vertical
Key shortcut: V
The command is used for changing the position of a part by mirroring it around the axis
parallel to Y-axis. The part should be selected with an auxiliary point. The simplest method is to click
close to the part using left button of a mouse. When an original position of the part should be preserved
then Escape or Break should be pressed instead of entering second point. Program does not watch
for part collision. If the function finds selected parts, it works with them as with a group.
In order to maintain technological requirements the program automatically changes direction
of section cutting and lead-ins and lead-outs.
4.7.7.
Align
Alignment is started by selection of a template part. The function then expects selection of a
part that should be aligned. The part is aligned so that its edge will be aligned with the other part in
given direction. Second co-ordinate will be changed in order to keep the distance between parts
corresponding to settings. The command ignores part edges.
4.7.8.
To origin
Key shortcut: Ctrl+U

The command enables to insert one of the parts or selected group into cutting plan with
acceptance of current nesting parameters. The command can be used to re-organize parts in cutting
plan after some parts were deleted.
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4.7.9.
Split
Key shortcut: L
The command is used when a section should be split into two sections. Location of a split is
given by an auxiliary point. The function calculates perpendicular projection onto nearest section and
adds lead-ins and lead-outs according to predefined parameters. It is convenient to create more
sections on single chain in case when cut part suffers from significant thermal deformations. First
section should be designed so that the cut part remains connected with the sheet in the places where
the strongest thermal stress exists. Next sections can be cut later when the part cools down (it is even
possible to cut other parts in meantime).
Thermal deformations are more visible at long and narrow parts. A typical example is a long
and narrow rectangle. Underestimation of the thermal deformation leads to sabre effect, the rectangle
is twisted along the loosened edge.
4.7.10.
Split section and insert loop
Key shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+L
The command is used when a section should be split into two sections. Location of a split is
given by an auxiliary point. The function connects both new sections by a curve referred to as a loop. It
can be advantageously employed especially for cutting thick materials in corners of a part. The tie
guarantees cutting of following entity continuously without stopping the tool head. This feature
contributes to sharp and vertical cutting edge. Same effect can be achieved by combination of the
functions from the Section and Lead-in menus. The size of the loop can be changed by the function
Lead-in Change lead-in. In case you would like to create a loop in the meeting point of two sections
(chain has already been broken), use the function Loop from Lead-in menu.
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4.7.11.
Merge
Key shortcut: C
The command merges two neighbouring sections of a chain into one.
4.7.12.
Change start point
Key shortcut: R
The command enables to change the point where two sections join each other. New start
point is given by an auxiliary point. The function will change lead-ins and lead-outs according to the
parameter settings.
This feature enables to increase the speed and efficiency of work as most chains consist just
of one section (by pointing to a desired point on a chain contour, the starting point is directly changed).
The same effect can be achieved by using the function Section Split and Section Merge.
4.7.13.
Direction change
Key shortcut: @
The command reverses cutting direction of nearest section given by an auxiliary point. The
function is mostly used for open chains, because the program cannot find automatically the proper
direction. The desired direction is mostly given by technological requirements.
In order to maintain technological requirements the program automatically changes lead-ins
and lead-outs.
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4.7.14.
Copy start to selected
Key shortcut: Ctrl+Alt+C
The command copies the starting position of a one-section chain of one part to other parts.
This command is used to copy starting points of the same chains usually copies. Attempting to
copy starting point to different chains may have unexpected results.
The user first selects the chains of which starting points (s)he wants to change and then (s)he
is prompted to choose an auxiliary point of the original chain.
4.7.15.
Copy leads to selected
Key shortcut: Ctrl+Alt+L
The command copies the lead-ins and lead-outs of a one-section chain of one part to other
parts.
The user first selects the chains of which lead-ins and lead-outs (s)he wants to change and
then (s)he is prompted to choose an auxiliary point of the original chain.
4.7.16.
Change parameters
The commands in this menu are used to change critical sections arcs (mostly small circular
holes) or corners. It is better to do cutting of these sections with changed parameters to improve the
quality of cutting. The change of parameters can be done in two ways choosing a different variant of
parameter setting (it appears like choosing a different tool in Asper) or setting the relative value of
these parameters directly by using one of the functions in Change parameters menu for a corner or
arc (in case only one or two parameters are to be changed most often speed and adaptivity).
Function Change all applies changes according to the automatic parameter settings. The windows for
parameter settings are the same as the windows for automatic change settings in menu Parameters ->
Automatic parameter changes.
4.7.17.
No cut
This command selects chains which user does not want to cut. The section marked as notcut is not included into cutting order.
Sometimes user wants to create a rectangle with circle hole so that one edge has been
created or will be created with other technology. It is recommended to create entire shape first and
then to split outer contour into two ones, where one of them will not be cut. This will ensure the right
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information about holes and their appropriate compensation and the lead-ins will be created on the
proper side. For example C-like shape with a hole inside is understood by Asper as two independent
parts. Parameters of open chain and hole would have to be set manually but the hole is understood as
an outer contour of the second part. The area and weight will be calculated from the hole parameters
(second part). A part of the chain previously divided into two sections can be also marked as not cut.
4.7.18.
Compensate
Key shortcut: [
The command changes compensation attribute of the closest section given by an auxiliary
point. Compensated and non-compensated section can be toggled on and off by consecutive calling of
the function.
The function is employed mainly for open chains where program cannot find compensation
side automatically and compensation must be set manually (see also Side of compensation).
4.7.19.
Side of compensation
Key shortcut: {
The command changes the side of compensation for the closest section given by an auxiliary
point. The function is employed mainly for open chains where program cannot find compensation side
automatically and compensation must be set manually (see also Compensate).
4.7.20.
Lock height
The command cancels adaptive tool height control for the closest section given by an
auxiliary point. The change of adaptivity might be done for the whole section at once or it can be
changed just in a point of the section. This is a change compared to the previous versions the parts
without adaptivity are not displayed by a cross, however, a special display mode (A button in the
toolbar) with coloured display of entities with/without adaptivity was introduced.
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4.7.21.
End of section
The command is designed especially for laser cutting but it can be of some use also for other
technologies. It enables to change cutting parameters setting in a defined distance from the end of
cutting. Most appropriate is a section without any lead-outs, however, it is not a condition. In case the
section contains also of a lead-out, it is included into the overall cutting length. Item Relative power
can also be used with technologies which compared to laser do not allow changes in the cutting
technology power. Setting this value to 0 causes abortion of cutting; this can be often used instead of a
bridge.
4.7.22.
Priority
This function can influence automatic cutting order. The priority is as a standard given by the
tool for corresponding section. If necessary, any section can have its own priority setting. There is a
rule for priority larger the number, higher the priority and higher position in the cutting order with
respect to the limits for the order parameter settings.
4.7.23.
Tool
The command is used for selection of a tool from a provided set of tools when more tools are
used for cutting.
Cuts performed with different tools can be distinguished by a different colour if Show Mode
Tools function is used. Colours can be assigned to particular tools in Parameters Colours.
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4.7.24.
Scarf cut
The command is used for definition of scarf cutting of a given section. The command can be
used only with non-zero material thickness set in technological parameters (menu Parameters
Technology Material Thickness). The section should be defined by an auxiliary point. The function
finds the nearest section and displays a dialogue window Edge cut properties .
Expected data for the Edge cut properties window are angle and direction of torch slope,
method of torch sloping prior to slanted cutting and when necessary also a height of vertical cutting
section. Angle of torch slope is entered into the first window as a positive number with respect to
vertical axis and it is given in degrees. Direction of torch slope is entered into the second window by
selection from graphical menu (slope is with respect to the bottom edge of cutting material). The height
of vertical cutting section is entered into the third window (maximum height equals to the material
thickness). The slope with respect to vertical axis is given in degrees. Positive direction of the angle is
always understood to the left with respect to tool movement direction.
Available methods of torch sloping prior to slanted cutting are as follows:
vertical piercing, sloping performed during initial part of lead-in
vertical piercing, sloping performed in standstill
vertical piercing, initial part of lead-in parallel to first entity of the section
scarf piercing after sloping has been completed
Entered values should be confirmed by OK button. Then, the selected edge will be displayed
as follows:
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-
Edge loaded from part source file (e.g. in DXF format) is displayed in colour assigned to vertical
edges. Section plan represents part margin.
full yellow line expresses the edge on the upper side of the part
dashed yellow line is assigned to edge on bottom side of the part
If the size of vertical part of cut is zero, only original edge representing part margin is
displayed. On the opposite side of the sheet the edge is displayed as a yellow line. Sign of slope angle
determines what line will be located on the top and bottom side of metal sheet, and if it is inner or outer
chain of the part. As there are various parameter settings applied in praxis for vertical and scarf cutting,
it is possible to set a tool for vertical and scarf cutting respectively in the window. The tools can also
represent in Asper various parameter settings.
4.7.25.
IHS Offset
The IHS abbreviation stands for the process of search for material before cutting which
enables the right positioning of the torch (height) before cutting. This command is usually called in
the starting point of cutting. In case induction and capacitance sensors are used for the search of
material, the situation becomes complicated because these instruments work differently above a noncut sheet than in the space where a part of sheet is already missing. Therefore it is possible to change
IHS in this case to ensure that it is done above the non-cut part of the sheet. The IHS point is usually
placed inside of the part and out of the holes.
4.7.26.
Milling depth
Using Asper for the milling tool program allows a milling depth setting for particular section.
The default value of the milling depth is the material thickness.
4.7.27.
Change direction of rotation
The command is designed only for milling tools. It changes direction of rotation during section
machining. Usually mill rotates in clockwise direction (DIN code M3). Sections with different rotation
directions are distinguished by colour when rotation display mode is selected.
4.7.28.
Dynamic piercing On/Off
Dynamic piercing is a specially designed piercing process where the piercing head does not
stop above the piercing place but it moves in various ways. This feature is especially used when
piercing thick materials in case of water-jet or gas cutting. There are two possible types of dynamic
piercing which can be created in Asper
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movement there and back along a line with defined length and number of repetitions
movement along gradually growing half-circles (coil)

However, the same result can be often reached by a far simpler way prolonging the lead-in
and setting shorter piercing time on the system so that the movement of lead-in would start before the
material is pierced.
The use of dynamic piercing function is recommended only in case simpler
methods of speeding-up piercing cannot be used.
4.8.
Lead-in menu
4.8.1.
Add lead-in
Key shortcut: I
The command is used for adding a new lead-in. Section without a lead-in is defined by an
auxiliary point. A lead-in is added to the section according to actual parameters. If the auxiliary point is
located in place where a lead-in already exists, the function adds another lead-in.
The program calculated lead-in size and shape based on situation in the area where the leadin is located or it should be attached to contour. The program does not solve the problem of possible
collision with other parts.
4.8.2.
Add lead-out
Key shortcut: Shift+I
The command is used for adding a new lead-out. Section without a lead-out is defined by an
auxiliary point. A new lead-out is added to the section according to actual parameters. If the auxiliary
point is located in a place where a lead-out already exists, the function adds another lead-out.
The program calculated lead-in size and shape based on situation in the area where the leadout is located or it should be attached to contour. The program does not solve the problem of possible
4.8.3.
Add all
Use this command to create lead-ins and lead-outs.

The command creates according to parameters all lead-ins and lead-outs for all sections,
which have no lead-ins or lead-outs and which can be done automatically (it will not make lead-ins or
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lead-outs on the ends of open chains, because it is not clear what is the part side and what is the
waste).
The program calculates lead-in size and shape based on situation in the area where the leadin is located or it should be attached to contour. The program does not solve the problem of possible
4.8.4.
Delete lead-in
Key shortcut: U
The command deletes a lead-in. The lead-in to be deleted is defined by an auxiliary point. If
the lead-in consists of more components, the function will delete the first component.
4.8.5.
Delete lead-out
Key shortcut: Shift+U
The command deletes a lead-out. The lead-out to be deleted is defined by an auxiliary point.
If the lead-out consists of more components, the function will delete the last component.
4.8.6.
Delete all
The command deletes all the lead-ins and lead-outs.
4.8.7.
Change lead-in
Key shortcut: N
This command enables to change selected lead-in manually. A dialogue box containing
actual information on currently changed lead-in appears after choosing the lead-in.
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Lead-in can be changed by mouse movement, in case of arc by + and keys on numerical
keyboard or by the mouse scroll. In comparison with other commands this activity does not finish by
pressing ESC key. The management is done by an auxiliary window. The lead-in will stop reacting to
the mouse movement and it can be changed by changing values in the auxiliary window.
The program does not control a lead-in created by user therefore when a lead-in interferes
with another part, the program understands it as a users intention.
Tip: If you want to keep a smooth line between lead-in and contour during manual change
of lead-in, set the angle in auxiliary window to 0. Similarly you can change the length of lead-in, or in
case of arch its diameter, to the required value.
4.8.8.
Change lead-out
Key shortcut: Shift+N
This command enables to change selected lead-out manually and its use is the same as the
one of Change lead-in.
These functions (add, change, delete) used to be the same for lead-ins and lead-outs in the
previous versions of Asper. In this version they are separated as e.g. lead-in might overlap the lead-out
in case of a small circular hole and it was not possible to define the one user wanted to modify.
4.8.9.
Compensate
The command is used to change lead-in or lead-out compensation. Lead-ins and lead-outs
are usually compensated in the same way as the section they belong to.
In some situations it is better to start compensation just after lead-in. Classical example can
be a line lead-in in very small circle hole (assuming that the lead-in starting point is in the middle of the
hole).
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In such case there is not enough space for the compensation therefore first move (lead-in)
goes directly from circle midpoint towards the hole, its length is equal to hole radius minus kerf value
(tool radius.
4.8.10.
Loop
The command is used to create a tie. The tie can be created in the place where two
sections meet each other. In places where cutting direction changes, a significant undercutting of thick
materials occurs. In order to eliminate this feature, it is possible to cut corners not directly, but in
following way:
1. Continue cutting in original trend also after leaving the contour
2. Make an arc in sufficient distance from abandoned point in order to align cutting direction with the
first entity behind the corner
3. Keep going with cutting until the contour behind the corner is reached.
The function makes it easier to cut lead-ins and lead-outs. The same effect can be achieved
by combination of functions from menus Section and Lead-in. Size of tie can be modified by function
Lead-in Change.
4.9.
Bridges
A bridge is a special type of section, which is skipped during cutting. It connects a part with
waste area. The reason for it is to prevent unwanted movements of the part during cutting. In case
when a 3D milling machine is used, the bridge can be cut to a certain extend and the rest stays
connected to the waste.
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4.9.1.
Create
Key shortcut: Ctrl+M
The command creates a bridge. Midpoint of the bridge is defined by an auxiliary point.
Bridge length and other parameters are set in actual parameters setting in menu Parameters ->
Bridges.
4.9.2.
Create on selected
The command creates bridges on all selected sections. The bridge length and all the other
parameters are set in actual parameters setting in Parameters -> Bridges. The parameter Distance is
very important in this case.
4.9.3.
Cancel
Key shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+M
The command deletes a bridge. The bridge is defined by an auxiliary point (or by mouse
cursor if the key shortcut was used).
4.9.4.
Cancel all
The command deletes all the selected bridges.
4.9.5.
Properties
Key shortcut: Shift+M
The command changes the properties of a bridge or more bridges at once. It modifies
properties only of selected bridges. If no bridge is selected the function expects the bridge to be
defined by an auxiliary point.
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4.10.
Order
Setting of order is the only users obligatory activity, of course, except of file generation.
Asper offers more possibilities; the simplest is to use automatic ordering method. The cutting plan is
ready to be generated on disk after accomplishing this task.
4.10.1.
Automatical
Key shortcut: A
The command is used for automatic ordering settings.

This function is normally used as the first ordering action and in most cases it is sufficient.
Manual ordering should be used only in case of special ordering requirements; the most frequent
reason could be minimization of thermal deformation of the material. Ordering algorithm is adjustable
by parameters in menu Parameters Nesting. Every starting point will be indexed after completed
ordering.
Tip: Automatical ordering does not create a completely new cutting order but it connects
existing partial orders. This is very useful in case of special cutting order requirements in a part of
cutting plan. When copying a part or a group of parts also cutting order in this group is copied. If there
is a special cutting order requirement to a part, it is useful to set this order manually immediately after
the part is loaded into Asper and to copy it afterwards.
4.10.2.
Manual
Key shortcut: Z
The command enables to set the order manually.

First section in ordering is selected by using first auxiliary point, and then other sections
should be selected so that they are consequently ordered. ESC key can be used to call off the last
ordering index.
The function finishes when ordering is complete, or anytime the Enter key is pressed.
It is possible to create more (local) orderings, e.g. to specify an order for holes inside of a single part,
copy this part and then finish definition of a global order among parts. At the end of the operation, local
orders are merged into global order. The function is continuously watching whether a new index
satisfies rules defined in parameters setting. If it does not, then such an index is not allowed to be
added into global order.
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The function will not run when the order is already complete. To (re)start ordering
procedure, the order for the section should be changed or deleted.
4.10.3.
Cancel
Key shortcut: W
Ordering for specified fraction of entire ordering can be deleted by selection of the first and
the last section of the portion. Both sections must lie in the same sequence.
For deletion of entire ordering, the Cancel All function should be used.
4.10.4.
Break
Key shortcut: Alt+W
This command should be used to break the cutting order. The section after which the order
should be broken is chosen by an auxiliary point.
4.10.5.
Break between parts
This function will cancel the order of cutting after every section, where the next section
belongs to a different part than the previous.
Tip: The function was designed mainly for the situation, where it is necessary to order the
sections manually, but the order of holes inside these gaps can be made using the automatic order. In
this case the advance should be that first the complete order has to be made automatically and after
use the function Break Between Parts. Then a situation will be created in which all parts will have
their sections ordered. After, it is possible to connect entire parts by the use of automatic ordering
settings.
4.10.6.
Cancel all
Key shortcut: Ctrl+A
Use this option if you want to cancel the entire orders of cutting, or every single order. If you
want to cancel only a part of the order of cutting or to divide it into two parts, use the function Cancel.
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In case that the order which is being cancelled includes conditional transfers, which are being executed
without the turning off of the technology (Transfer by Cutting), the user also has an option to cancel
these transfers.
4.10.7.
Test
Key shortcut: T
The command checks correctness of actually defined order. The function checks whether
none of rules defined in parameters have been violated.
If there is a section violating some rules, it is highlighted using a different colour. In addition,
functions for zoom change are allowed to use in order to visualize the place where the mistake has
been made if it is not visible in that detail.
This test is performed automatically also before code generation.
4.10.8.
Chain cut
Key shortcut: %
The command enables to cut more parts without switching the tool (torch) off. The section
where the tool remains on is defined by an auxiliary point.
It is convenient to use this command in case of short movements by cutting between two
parts which do not go through other parts, but only through the waste (the program does not control
this so the use of this function is under the consideration of the user). In that case the best thing to do
is to adjust the lead-ins and lead-outs of the neighbouring parts so that they would ensure the cutting
be done apart from the contours of the part.
The method is especially appropriate for thick sheets where the piercing takes long time and
causes excessive wear of torch components.
Some plasma sources have maximum piercing thickness significantly smaller than
maximum cutting thickness. Chain cut enables to eliminate inevitable additional technological operation
(like drilling holes for helping pierce through etc). The first start point is placed directly onto the sheet
edge or into the position, where the edge has been created by cutting previous part.
It is important to realise that plasma cutting needs to have technological pauses from time
to time due to overheating of the torch. That is why it is better to create a cutting program, which has to
be started more times rather than one which the user has to interrupt.
The chain-cutting feature is automatically cancelled after any reordering due to safety
reasons.
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4.10.9.
Create junction
Key shortcut: J
Junction is a special example of chain cut. The section is split in the place which is
according to possibilities the closest to the neighbouring part. In this place the order of cutting, is made,
so that it grinds into the neighbouring part which is also split in this place. Transfer between parts is
done without the technology switching off. After it finishes cutting the circumference of the
neighbouring part, it returns on the same path in the opposite direction and finishes cutting the first
one. Transfers are done with the compensation switched on, which ensures that the returning torch
does not move above the line of cut.
This way it is possible to cut out two or more circumferences of parts which are interconnected by
junctions. During the creation of a junction the part which is being connected to another part is
distinguished by yellow colour. The original lead-in and lead-out will be cancelled on the part which is
being connected when it is a simple circumference to ensure the cut-out to be made in one draw.
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4.10.10.
Delete junction
Key shortcut: Shift+J
Function cancels the junction between two parts.
4.10.11.
Manual common cut
Key shortcut: Shift+ Z
After defining parts and their edges cut by common cut, ASPER divides the chains into individual
sections. The command then enables to manually define cutting order of such created sections. The
order is defined by continuous clicking on the sections. In this order the sections will be cut. Ordered
section will be highlighted by a change of its colour. After clicking on the last section, the function will
end automatically and on the cutting plan will show the corresponding transferring paths.
4.11.
Parameter Settings - Options
All parameters are divided into two groups: program parameters and plan (document) parameters.
Plan parameters settings influence current cutting plan, i.e. document in the active window in the
foreground. All parameters are stored together with part layout into a file with extension PLA. There is
an option to use templates (or configuration files) where all parameters can be pre-set (CFG files).
Program parameters settings influence all documents. They are stored into Windows registry
database system. Thanks to this feature, all individual settings can be stored separately for each user.
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4.11.1.
Lead-ins and Lead-outs
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+N
These parameters influence automatic creation of lead-ins and lead-outs. Manual changes are
not restricted in any way. The parameters should be set so that most of lead-ins and lead-outs
correspond to requirements. The need of manual change of parameters is minimised. Change of
parameters does not influence already existing lead-ins and lead-outs.
Lead-ins and lead-outs are created and changed not only by functions in menu Lead-ins, but
also during file insertion, parts mirroring and section change operations.
There is also another requirement for lead-outs in hole: to make them short enough to stop
cutting when the hole is already cut and is starting to fall down. When the lead-out is too long then the
torch keeps working; torch height control is trying to follow the falling material, which results in torch
collision. As a pragmatic result, the length of lead-out in hole must be a compromise between these
controversial requirements.
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Asper enables to set the distances of Lead-ins and Lead-outs separately for contours, holes
and bridges. After, for contour and hole it is possible to set the required type of lead-in arc or line. In
the case of selection of line, arc Asper select the right type of lead-in according to if the lead-in is
created in the corner, where it is possible to create a direct line lead-in which is the most preferred
case, or in case that the lead-in is created on a straight line, arc or on a not big enough acute angle,
where a direct lead-in would be to close to the contour, an arc lead in is created, which is tangentially
connected to the contour. It is not valid for bridges and neighbouring sections. For them line lead-ins
and lead-outs are created automatically vertically onto them. Even that the bridge is defined as a
section which can not be cut, lead-ins and lead-outs are necessary for them too because of the special
attribute of the bridge to be able to cut the bridge automatically after the finish of cutting the whole plan.
Sometimes to achieve a high quality cut with a minimal foot after lead in on the contour, it is
useful to use a so called passage. It is short section of the contour in between the lead-in and leadout, on which the cutting beam passes twice, while the second pass should minimize the creating of
foot after lead-in caused by the under part of the beam falling behind the torch (jet). It is possible to se
the size of the passage and the circular loop. On this screen an important parameter is set minimal
radius of the circular hole with a standard lead-in. All holes with a radius smaller than the one which is
given here are started to be cut in the centre and the lead-in continues perpendicularly to the contour.
It is done to minimize the damage to the contour made by the starting opening.
Mainly for laser cutting the second frame is another frame, in which it is possible to set the
change of speed and performance of the first part of the lead-in.
In the third frame by the above mentioned way are set the types of lead-ins. Pylons found
beside the selection of the type are associated only with the line lead-ins. Connecting angles of the
lead-ins are set for the case of an acute angle (usually there is no point for a different value than 0
direct lead-in) in the pylon marked as < 150. Pylon marked as > 150 defines the connecting angle of
the line lead-in for the case of it being created on a plane or in an obtuse angle. Value of 150 degrees
we set as the boundary between the obtuse and acute angle.
In the part dynamic piercing the user can set the parameters of dynamic piercing, in the case that he
wants to be using it and automatically creating it when inserting parts. The dynamic piercing was
described in the part 4.8.20 Dynamic Piercing (page 4-37).
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4.11.2.
Technology
KeyShortcut: Alt+Shift+T
Parameters in this window are used as a base for the creation of economic files. On the basis
of correctly given parameters for the technology, it is possible to get farther with information from an
economic file to the real outputs.
With the calculations of periods (time) on the basis of given velocities you must realize that it is
only the first estimation because, for example, the torch does not move all the time with a constant
velocity (even if there is the effort to reach it), To the obtained periods it is needed to add the durations
needed for the technological operations and time needed for operations, which are more difficult to
estimate and are dependent on many other factors. The influence of these inaccuracies of estimation
of time because of the use of constant velocity (speed) for the calculation can be lowered by setting
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values of acceleration of the machine when cutting and moving, with their taking into account and
correct setting of other variables, this kind of estimation when combined to an estimation without
accelerations should be a bit more pessimistic.
A new element in economic extracts, which are based on evidences from this table, is the calculation
of price. At this moment it is possible to set three unit costs.
- cost of 1 hour of work of the machine
- cost of 1m of cut
- cost of 1kg of material
The resulting cost in the printed line-up is the sum of these entries. All relevant evidences are
rated for every part separately. To the cost of material of a part is also added a percentage ratio part of
the waste if a part weighs 1kg and loads the material by 50%, it is like the cost of the material listed
for 2kg of the material.
The lower part of the window consists of a table describing Z-axis control for defined
technological tools. Standard axis control for most cutting technologies is simple. Asper generates
instructions in the CNC program, instructions: Head up and Head down. In cases 3D Z-axis that
does not have to react to such commands (e.g. driller, mil with 3D control) is used, it is vital to set Zaxis control parameters for each tool. In such cases the correct material thickness must be set. Zaxis control parameters can be set by a click in the required line of the following dialog window:
The table includes following parameters:

-
Wafer thickness by milling if this value is smaller than material thickness, NC code of
every section machined by this tool will be generated repeatedly, while the head moves
down with each transfer until it reaches the value of defined material thickness. This
parameter is used when cutting technology is a mill. In case a mill is not used, option No
milling must be selected.
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-
Parking height height, in which head moves after the end of cutting or to starting point
of a next cut. If the option Set by RS is selected, ASPER generates a standard
command for head parking and the height is defined by the control system.
Height for Head down height, to which a head descends from parking height by
a quick movement and to which a head ascends from cutting height by a slow
movements. The speed can be set by the following parameter.
Go-down Speed (descend/ascend) speed in mm/min, in which tool moves down into
the material or moves up out of the material.
Zero position - ASPER defines zero point during CNC program generation. It can be the
bottom or upper side of material. The parameter is needed only when Z-axis is controlled
by co-ordinates
It should be stressed that these parameters are stored together with a configuration file while
their required values might differ from each other according to type of material and material thickness.
It is recommended to create an individual configuration file (with an appropriate name) for every
material combination and material thickness.
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4.11.3.
Nesting
Shortcut Key: Alt+Shift+U
Nesting Style
Parameters in this window describe possibilities of automatic nesting of a part on a sheet with
respect to already placed parts on the sheet. There are several nesting options:
From left bottom corner upwards in Y-axis direction moving gradually towards right in X-axis
From left bottom corner towards right in X-axis direction moving gradually upwards in Y-axis
direction
From left upper corner downwards in Y-axis direction moving gradually towards right in X-axis
direction
From left upper corner towards right in X-axis direction moving gradually downwards in Y-axis
direction
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From right bottom corner upwards in Y-axis direction moving gradually towards left in X-axis
direction
From right bottom corner towards left in X-axis direction moving gradually upwards in Y-axis
direction
From right upper corner downwards in Y-axis direction moving gradually towards left in X-axis
direction
From right upper corner towards left in X-axis direction moving gradually downwards in Y-axis
direction
Nesting method is defined by selecting required combinations of items:
From right
From top
Y-axis first
Current nesting method is displayed by a red arrow in the top part of Nesting dialog window.
Nesting of Parts (Group) one-by-one

This option is selected for placing a group of parts (e.g. air conditioning segments). If this option is
active, the program tries to place parts of each group one by one. If this option is not active, the
program places all parts at once respecting their layout. This is true also for parts imported from other
input formats.
Rotation of Parts while Nesting

This command allows parts to rotate while looking for the most optimal position in the cutting plan.
A part can rotate in 90 degrees.
Ignore leads
The command ignores already existing lead-ins during the nesting of the part.
Improve rectangular position
The command moves loaded part towards its neighbour and looks for a more optimal place in the
cutting plan.
Only inside the semi-product

This feature does not allow automatic nesting of parts beside the sheet. It can be used only if the
installation has the modulus of automatic nesting activated.
Nesting into holes (gaps)

Enables automatic nesting of parts into gaps in other parts. In case that the modulus of automatic
nesting is not activated, it is necessary to set the value for this function Rectangle split to a large
enough value. After that parts will not be replaced by one rectangle, but by a series (net) N x N of
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rectangles. With growing degree of the splitting of rectangle, the speed of finding its position is being
lowered. Effectivity also is lower than the one of the modulus of automatic nesting.
Space while nesting

The distance between circumscribed rectangles of neighbouring parts is defined by parameters in X
(first value) and Y (second value) direction. The minimum recommended and technologically accepted
value for plasma cutting of sheets thick up to 50mm is 10mm. The program sets the distance between
parts to this value even when the function move in is used.
Borders
Parameters define minimal margin distance between a part edge and sheet edge in X and Y
directions from sheet edges.
Nesting Strategy
It is useful with automatic nesting through the nesting task. Predefined strategy of position
searching for parts, which have their nesting strategy set according to their plan settings.
4.11.4.
Cutting Program
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+R
Hole / contour direction

Cutting direction has a significant influence on cutting quality. Plasma cutting technology for
instance swirls plasma gas into a spiral, where the right side of cut is better for some physical reason.
That means that holes should be cut in clockwise direction and contours in opposite way. This rule
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depends of course on technology and ASPER enables to change cutting directions for holes and
contours independently.
Required direction cutting direction in case when the angle is not acute
With loading of parts Asper determines the place of lead-in. The perfect place for lead is considered
the Acute angle, in which it is possible to make a direct line lead-in. In the case that a corner like this
does not exist, the starting of cut will be placed where the cut has its required direction in degrees.
Direction to the right is 0 degrees and direction straight up is 90 degrees.
Head start position

It is possible to select initial head position, i.e. whether the head is in park position or in contact
with sheet at the beginning, depending on technology. The option Up is usual setting for plasma and
flame technologies. The setting is dependent also on control system.
Start of Program
ASPER generates the NC-code in the way that program start is in the left bottom corner of
the sheet. Then all parts are cut towards right and top from this point. There for operators are trained to
set a torch to this starting point.
Sometimes it is convenient or inevitable to set a program start point to another location. E.g.
when user wants to cut a single circle with an already marked midpoint, he can position a torch directly
on this place. It would be more difficult to find a precise corresponding program start at the edge of the
circle, midpoint is easier to find.
ASPER enables to select such a point by entering co-ordinates. There is also an option to
set this point by using the function via menu Point D NC Start. It is also possible to set the starting
point on one of the corners of the of the sheet. When the dimensions of the sheet are changed, the
starting points are also moved.
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Head placement when finished

Machine torch should be positioned also after finishing of work. ASPER offers the following
options:
None The torch position remains unchanged.
Return The torch comes back to program start position.
Further The torch is positioned to the new start point, which is suitable for repeated start.
This feature is useful when the cutting plan is designed not to cover entire sheet, but the
column or row of parts and the program is stopped after it. The program positions the torch
into new starting place and an operator does not need to do it manually. Splitting the cutting
plan for entire sheet into more columns or rows is useful when the operator needs to interrupt
program run and check or clean the torch. After torch check-up just Start button should be
pressed and another column or row of parts will be cut. The start position depends also on
Nesting D Nesting Style menu.
XY The end position of NC program is given directly by absolute co-ordinates.
End of program
The co-ordinates of end position can be entered here. These windows are accessible only when
option Move with head to end position is set to XY.
Compensation of kerf with

Normally, the machine control system takes care of kerf compensation. Current kerf width is set
here and control system recalculates the geometry of cutting path in order to keep proper part
dimension. ASPER looks only after inserting particular NC commands for the start of compensation
from the left or right side and the end of compensation.
In special cases it is possible to switch off generation of additional commands into NC-code
(option None).
Parking
When cutting is finished control system usually moves cutting tool to a safe position to
prevent torch material collision. Parking is a time-consuming operation and user can switch it off, if
he finds it useless for a particular situation. However, it is always a risk to select any other option than
Park always. Another option is to switch of the so called limited parking for every movements or
movements shorter than the given distance. In limited parking the head does not rise to the maximal
(parking) height, but only of the given height.
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4.11.5.
File Generation
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+G
Parameters are used with the creation of new files.
For NC-code:
Output format
Type of created NC-file (ESSI, REZ, DIN)
Relative
An addressing method in NC-program. If the item is not active (it is not selected), generated
NC-code will use absolute addressing method with respect to starting point of the program. When
relative addressing method is set every address refers to an end point of the previous entity.
Always generate tool-change

The function always inserts a command for tool selection M06 at the beginning of NC-code
(even in the case when program uses only one cutting tool).
Comments
The function switches on/off generation of commentaries after every generated NC-command.
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Multi-tool plans
If the function is selected and user wants to change a tool, ASPER prompts for manual
entering of required tool during code generation.
Always put up inactive tools

It is used when variable number of heads is used in the program. If this option is active, with
every change of activity of heads an instruction is generated which places the inactive heads to the
edge of the working plane.
For Generation:
NC-code
Generation of NC file; in demo mode it has limited size
NC plan
File .PLA; it is possible to create it also with command File D Save
Economical file
With program generation, data files for system of print arrangements are made
at the same time.
Immediately show calculations

Print arrangement with economic evaluation is shown instantly after the generation of the
program has finished.
Economic file of version 3.1
Instead of print arrangement a simpler text file will be created, like in the version 3.1
Note: NC-code for slanted cuts can be generated only in DIN format. Other formats do not support this
function. Therefore DIN output format must be set for slanted cuts.
4.11.6.
Sheet
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+P
The size of displayed sheet can be defined by using this command. With dimension X and
dimension Y you can define the dimensions of the displayed sheet.
Sheet serves as a space for placing parts. The nesting efficiency is calculated from the sum of parts
area and the sheet area.
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4.11.7.
Bridges
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+D
This window enables to define properties of bridges. Similarly as it is with lead-ins, parameter
change refers only to newly created bridges not to already existing bridges.
Option Created by import creates bridges automatically during part import. Bridges are created
according to set parameters and with set distance between them.
4.11.8.
Transformation of circles
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+I

Circular transformation (hole) is very common in programs and differs from other holes that it
can be processed in three different ways:
-
by cutting it out
by drilling if the machine is equipped with a drill
by marking, in the case that the hole is so small which is impossible to cut out by plasma.
a special option is to cut with an extended radius
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Circle transformation is defined by the spans of the circle diameters, which are not cut
standardly by the program, but instead by one of the three remaining ways are used. Span of
diameters can be defined in to ways am interval of the type from-to, or by diameter +- tolerance. For
holes in one part to be processed by different manners, it is possible to limit the validation of the
executing of the transformation only on the circle given in DXF in a certain level (layer).
Circle transformation can be defined here in case NC program for a machine with a driller is created.
The function defines range of circle diameters that will not be cut but drilled by a selected driller using
a type of drilling cycle and corresponding parameters (depth, time delay, etc.). In practical terms it
means that user can select e.g. a driller no. 8 and drilling cycle G81 for circle holes with diameter 3 mm
+/- 0.1 mm. Then of course a unified numbering of drillers in ASPER and cutting table must be
provided.
A drilling cycle enables to drill holes by a precisely defined method. ASPER supports the
following drilling cycles: G81, G82, G83, G84, G85, G86, and G89. They are described in detail in DIN
cutting code manual.
For more complicated situations (threads, holes with large diameter) it is possible to pree-drill.,
thanks to which the circle is replaced by two drilling openings, which can have totally different
characteristics. In this case Asper sets an especially higher priority to pre-drilling to ensure a correct
progression of operations.
The original circle can be preserved even after the transformation. In that case the priority is
also set so that the circle is cut out first and after finished by a drill.
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4.11.9.
Ordering
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+E
The most important with the automatic order setting is the choice of basic strategy. It is
possible to select from two choices in this version of Asper.
-
Closest point: In this strategy it searches for the section from the sections which at the
given moment are able to be placed into the cutting order for the one whose beginning is
the closest to the ideal point. The ideal point can be the end to the current cutting order
(so that the transfer can be as short as possible), or a point moved by a given distance
from the centre at the moment of the last section of the order. This option is used for laser
cutting; its goal is to prevent the torch to stay to long in one part of the sheet what can
have a consequence of lowering the cut quality.
Gradually from the edge: sections are placed into order so that cutting according to
possibilities would pass from one edge to the other. The direction is selected by the user. .
There are some adding conditions which are valid for both strategies which can be set.
-
choice Holes first ensures, that every contour can be placed into cutting order after all its
holes are ordered, which means that it is processed after them. Usually there is no need
to turn off this function.
choice Entire part ensures, that a began work on a certain part has to be finished first in
order to arrange sections of another part. With this function it is possible to set its
ignorance especially for sections processed by a describing tool. As long as the
describing tool has a higher priority for ordering set at the same time, which is a common
situation, it is possible to reach an order where all the descriptions are made first and then
the individual parts are continued to be cut
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4.11.10.
Slowing down
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+W
It is often necessary to change some cutting parameters of some part of a section to reach a
maximal quality of cut. Most common are arcs of smaller radius (mainly circular holes) and corners.
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Assigned are the arc radius and the percentage settings of velocity, performance and air
pressure, in which the last two at the moment are effective only in the case of laser cutting. Setting of
parameters is than done automatically with the loading of a part for all arcs with a small radius. In the
case that more settings with a radius larger than the radius of the processed arc are defined, of course
only one of them will be applied for that arc the one which is defined for the smallest radius.
Setting of parameter changes in corners is a bit more complicated same as for arcs it is
possible to define various settings for various radii of arcs; it is possible to make settings of sharpness
for corners. The first parameter to be assigned is the angle of the corner, which is actually the change
of direction of this corner. The setting is than applied with the import to all corners, in which the change
of cutting direction is greater or equal to the angle which is set here. More levels of settings are
reached similarly as with holes by assigning settings which are different in the angle of the change of
direction and used for a certain corner will be the settings of the largest given angle, which this angle
fulfils. Besides setting parameter changes also the distance from the corner in which the changes
should be carried out, or how far from the corner the parameters should be changed. Different values
can be set in front and behind the corner.
Mainly for the optimalisation of cutting by laser are spare settings cooling in corner, pause in
corner (cooling of material) or a change of path in corner. When cutting by laser, usually the corners
are chamfered because of greater possible cutting speed. Another possible change of path is the
creation of a loop.
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Program Parameters
4.11.11.
Input parameters
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+V

These parameters are used for processing of inserted files.
The change of any parameter value (in this window) affects next loading (insertion) of a file, it
has no influence on already loaded data. Therefore, files already loaded with wrong parameters should
be closed, parameters should be changed and files can be loaded again.
Points equality tolerance During file insertion the program tests whether processed entities join
each other on their ends. The parameter defines maximum allowed distance between two points
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considered identical. Too small value for this parameter results in a state when some entities might
remain disconnected and more open chains will be created. Too big value for this parameter can glue
together some smaller objects. Recommended value is smaller than required one, but should not be
too small. The colour of inserted parts helps to identify open chains that are usually displayed in
different colour then closed. Occurrence of an open chain in unexpected place should be fixed
immediately.
Ignore duplicate entities If two identical entities appear in one inserted file, the program
automatically ignores one of them. In case of partial coverage of lines, ends of these lines will be
modified so that they will touch without over-covering each other.
As one part If this box is checked, ASPER accepts loaded parts as they are defined in DXF format
(with lead-ins, compensation and its direction). All chains are accepted as equal. The function is
designed for loading of simple and fully prepared parts.
Entities merge Entities drawn with an imprecision smaller than defined point equity tolerance will
be joined.
Dont place ASPER preserves part co-ordinates as they are defined in their entry, it does not
attempt to save the file and does not prevent collision with other parts.
Smooth If input file includes contours disintegrated into many short lines, it is convenient to replace
these cuts with a smaller number of longer lines. Then deviation of a final cut from a model cut is
smaller than given smooth tolerance. It is recommended to use this function to improve cutting quality
and make work with files more efficient.
Smooth tolerance - Allowed deviation of integrated entity from a model entity.
DSTV count This function imports required number of parts from DSTV file.
DSTV text ARCWRITER This function imports from DSTV file also texts written by a tool using
vector characters (e.g. ARCWRITER or Inkjet writer).
Units This function defines a unit of DXF format input data mm or inches. It is also possible to set
a custom scale.
Read all layers - This function enables formats, where entities can be placed in more layers, to load
all entities or only entities selected from defined layers.
Reading only one layer If this check box is enabled, entities in other layers will be ignored.
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DC2/IGES layer number All entities in other layers will be ignored if Read all layers is turned off.
DXF layer name ASPER reads only entities from defined layer, all entities in other layers will be
ignored.
Setting of DXF layers The list of all layers from which entities are being loaded from in case that
load all entities is switched off. There are parameters which are to be assigned to sections created by
entities for a layer from entities of that layer.
4.11.12.
Display Parameters
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+Z
Parameters of this window are used for displaying. Their setting has no influence on the
document data, only on the way of displaying them. If for example the cancel of displaying names of
parts, names of parts remain, but are not displayed. Cancelling the display of individual objects is done
when they start to stand in the way and when they are displayed for no use.
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4.11.13.
Colours
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+F
Parameter settings in this window have no effect on data; they are used only for displaying.
They are set by default to ensure correct display also in graphic modes with smaller number of colours.
Colours are ordered according to priority. Each object can be in more statuses and a status is
represented by corresponding colour. When the object is moved, its colour changes according to new
status. The colour returns back to previous one after finishing this operation, or it changes with respect
to eventual new status of object resulting from the operation.
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4. Menu items
4.11.14.
Auxiliary points
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+B
In this table it is possible to set from which important points of entities should be the point snap
option selected.
4.11.15.
Miscellaneous Parameters
Key shortcut: Alt+Shift+O
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4. Menu items
Enable to enter point in advance
Enables to first enter auxiliary points and then call the function
Smart object assignment

Automatic auxiliary points creation disabling possibility (See appendix)
Multiple actions interrupt

If a call of new function occurs during the run of current one, it is possible to ignore it or to
abort current function
Detail is a standard activity

It is possible to call functions, which change current display, either without interrupting of
current activity or the standard way
Collision control
It is possible to switch on/off collision control during shifting of objects. In particular it is
determined rather if this control should be applied after the creation of lead-ins with destination.
Lead-in change during common cut ordering

When common cuts are ordered, new lead-ins and lead-outs are created. In case this function
is active, ordering of a section that will be moved will be stopped until user does not confirm direction of
new lead-in and lead-out.
Mouse wheel works just like in older versions

In older versions of Asper, the mouse wheel was used only in few functions for example with
manual movement of parts, it was possible to rotate it with the wheel. In current version it is necessary
to press the ALT key at the same time, because the scale adjustment of plane display function (zoom)
is assigned to the mouse wheel.
4.11.16.
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4. Menu items
The window contains definitions of tools. These tools can be allocated to the individual sections for
processing.
4.12.
Window
ASPER enables to work with more NC plans at the same time. Each plan has its own window; in
addition, one NC plan can have more windows. The menu window describes options of work with
them.
4.12.1.
New Window
The command opens a new window for current document (NC plan).
Single document can be displayed in more windows, which contain independent details of the same
data. Possible document changes will be displayed in all its windows.
4.12.2.
Cascade
The command displays open windows in cascade style enabling to skip among windows using a
mouse.
4.12.3.
Title
The command displays open windows without mutual overlapping.
4.12.4.
Arrange icons
The command arranges icons of minimised windows on the bottom of main window. If some of the
window are not minimised, they can cover some of the icons.
4.12.5.
Window 1, 2, ...
Current window can be changed by using this command.
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5. Appendices
5.
Appendices
5.1.
Smart object assignment
Smart object assignment is closely connected with the way of calling functions and it enables to
significantly speed up the work.
There are three ways how to call functions, which need single auxiliary point:
From menu
From toolbar
Using key shortcut
In first two methods, mouse movement should be performed first and then co-ordinates for
auxiliary points must be defined.
If the function is called via a key shortcut, required co-ordinates are derived from the mouse cursor
position and there is no need to enter auxiliary point.
This logic is acceptable for most cases because the called function calculates the perpendicular
projection onto nearest entity and the given point is related to that entity automatically.
If some co-ordinates are defined explicitly then the auxiliary point can be entered in advance or the
function can be called from the menu.
Smart object assignment works only for functions that need exactly one auxiliary point. Other
functions need all auxiliary points to be entered.
Some commands work with the selected group (or block) of objects and then there is no need for
such an auxiliary point.
5.2.
Example of a simple cutting plan creation
This example demonstrates a procedure of creating simple cutting plan. Search for explanation in
this manual in case of some uncertainty or directly in program (using Help F1).
Assume a simple part defined as a square with edges in co-ordinates 10,10 and 90,90 with a simple
circular hole, midpoint 50,50 and radius 25 (all values are in [mm]).
5.2.1.
Creation of a part in CAD program
This chapter contains a simple way of creating parts drawing in CAD program (Design CAD
and AutoCAD). Demonstrated method is not the only one and there might be minor differences for
various versions of described products. In case of any uncertainties user should consult his CAD
program manual.
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5. Appendices
5.2.2.
Design CAD 2D ver.6
When a part is designed in Design CAD, it is necessary to have set generation of text files with
extension DC2 that are understood by ASPER. The option can be set in Options: Parameters D
Miscellaneous options D Save drawing file as binary file by setting option No. There is also less
comfortable possibility to convert binary file into text file later via program DCFiles supplied with Design
CAD.
Common rectangle can be drawn by four lines, comfortable way is to use command Box from
Draw menu. The program prompts for two opposed points defining the rectangle. The simplest way of
entering a point is its definition using absolute co-ordinates (menu Points D PointXY). After
coordinates of both points are entered, requested rectangle is created.
When more complex parts lines are designed from adjoined lines, it is useful to use
Combine command that unites the lines into single line resulting in faster creation of strings in ASPER.
A circle can be created via Circle D Circle4 command. The command defines a circle by a
centre point and radius (numeric value).
All entities can be displayed in detail by Display D Zoom command using zoom factor 0
(zero). Files D Save is used to create file with selected name. Help for particular operation is
accessible through F1 key during work with menu. The program is terminated via Files D Exit item.
5.2.3.
AutoCAD release 12 and later versions
After program launch and selecting New drawing item, the program prompts for a drawing
name. A rectangle can be created using command DRAW-RECTANGLE, the program expects two
points of a rectangle diagonal. Entered points are confirmed by pressing Enter.
A circle can be created by using command DRAW-CIRCLE and subsequently entered centre point coordinates and circle radius or diameter.
All entities can be displayed in detail by using ZOOM command with All option.
A file of entities can be created using FILE - SAVE AS command. DXF file required for ASPER can be
generated using output file SAVE in AutoCAD format (e.g. AutoCAD 2000 DXF) and file name should
be entered.
Help for all operations is displayed in the bottom bar.
The program is closed using QUIT command requiring subsequent confirmation.
5.2.4.
General remarks concerning construction
It is recommended to specify circular hole as a single entity and not as e.g. two semicircles
because ASPER can process it in a special way (see Parameters of lead-ins in circular holes)
It does not matter where a part drawn in CAD is placed. Only relative dimensions with respect to drawn
part should be kept. In other words, location of a part in a CAD has no influence to its location in
ASPER.
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5. Appendices
5.3.
Loading a part
After starting the program, go to the menu (using mouse or key Enter), find the item File using
arrows and corresponding type of CAD file (Insert DXF or Insert DC2). After double click on file name
or pressing Enter the file is displayed on the screen in which user selects the file created by him. After
the file was loaded, the part will be displayed on desktop. The program automatically designs lead-ins
and lead-outs to this part (if it is enabled in corresponding parameters setting).
5.3.1.
Actions after the file is loaded
Press F5 for detailed view of a part, it corresponds to menu command Show D Parts. To verify
the parts correctness, press Alt simultaneously with Enter, or from menu File D Properties. There is
information displayed in window, where the number of chains is 2, open chain is 0 and number of
closed chains is 2. Number of parts must be 1.
Now we know, that the part was loaded (or inserted) correctly, we can load another file or copy the
same one. Loaded parts are placed onto sheet so that they are not overlapping. We can even copy
already loaded part (menu Edit D Copy). If loaded or copied parts dont fit into sheet anymore, they
are placed further out of working area. User can change the position and place them afterward or
delete them as well.
5.3.2.
Parts positioning
In case that we have already loaded all needed parts, it is necessary to place them the way to
minimise area and in the same time to fulfil other technological requirements. Commands for this
purpose are in the menu Move (Drag, Move Rotate, Mirror and Align). Dont be surprised when your
part will appear after mirroring the same way as before. It might be caused by the symmetry of given
part.
Distance between two parts and any other distance can be found using a function from menu Show D
Distance. Two auxiliary points are needed to be entered. The menu Point describes possibilities of
entering points. You can also use the left or right mouse button.
5.3.3.
Parts ordering
If user is satisfied with parts layout, the ordering can be launched (menu Order D Automatically
or shortcut key A). The next step might be the output file generation.
If user is not satisfied with the ordering design, it can be redesigned in an interactive way.
In case that user is not satisfied with starting points (ASPER puts them automatically on the beginning
of the first found entity in a chain), they can be changed using menu Section D Change. The function
will prompt for entering a point closed to a chain (in case of calling equivalent shortcut key R, it takes
directly the mouse cursor position). ASPER finds the point nearest to entered point and moves the
starting point there. When there were lead-ins or lead-outs in the place of the starting point, ASPER
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5. Appendices
recalculates them in the new point.
It is an ideal solution for a rectangle, when the starting point lies on one of its edges. When using
Snap function for catching the rectangle edge (corner), make sure to move cursor into space out of
rectangle, where prolonged diagonal is.
If you are not satisfied with lead-ins or lead-outs, change their settings according to your
requirements. There is more option to work with them, to change them or to delete them.
Note: If you want to change lead-ins and lead-outs in entire cutting plan, proceed as following:
1. In menu Lead-in D Delete All.
2. In menu Options D Lead-ins, Lead-outs set your new desired values.
3. In menu Lead-in D Add all.
If you are not satisfied with the cutting order of individual chains, choose menu Order. You can
change the order of chain cutting in an interactive way as you wish. In considered case we want to cut
just single part (outer rectangle with one circle hole); there is only one available solution: hole is the
first and rectangle (as a contour) the second.
You may find the situation where the end of a chain and the beginning of next chain are close to
each other, moving line between them does not cross any other part or chain (i.e. they are both outer
contour chains). In that case, you can use so called Chain cut from menu Order and select first chain.
After cutting this one, the cutter (torch etc.) will be not switched off and lifted up. The line movement
between those two chains will be performed with cutting speed and the cutter will simply go on with
cutting after reaching second chain. You can prolong spare parts lifetime this way, because the
piercing phase of cutting (which we can avoid this way) is the most damaging moment for nozzle or
shield cup of any torch. The information about this technological feature is automatically stored into
cutting plan and remains there even after eventual parts moving. The moving trajectory between those
chains is displayed in a different way as well.
5.3.4.
File Generation
If you are satisfied now with the entire design of cutting plan, it is time to generate output files.
Allowed output files will be generated and the whole cutting plan will be finished (see also NC program
parameters settings and file generation enabling or disabling).
We always recommend you to generate files with the kerf width compensation calculated in
machine control system (if possible). Such a cutting plan is usable also for different sheet thicknesses.
We also recommend you to save cutting plan record always (files with extension PLA) due to a good
chance to reuse them later.
It is a good idea to check thoroughly NC-code with NC-simulation program, even before you
send NC-code to machine. In case of differences in values of kerf compensation in the simulating
program and cutting machine, simulate it with the width set to 0. Description of the simulating program
can be found in its manual.
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5. Appendices
5.4.
Possible parts construction errors and troubleshooting
It can happen that ASPER might not recognise proper number of parts or their shape, when some
errors during parts construction in CAD were made.
First of all, we recommend you putting a single part into a single file. It is much more confusing
when your drawings consist of more parts, which have the same name (at the beginning).
Check the correctness of parts right after loading using the info window. Make sure that program
have detected the number of chains, parts and cuts (open and closed) you have expected.
It happens that parts are dimensioned, not by entities designed for it, but by line and arc entities.
ASPER will include those to calculations, so they have to be deleted prior to next steps.
One of common construction error is the situation where two adjacent entities endpoints are not
the same. If the distance between them is small, it is not necessary to redraw the picture. You need
only to slightly change the value of Points identity tolerance in the menu Options D Input. For this fault
not to appear, while construction of points of corresponding entities, use the Point capture function
instead of setting of the coordinates by position (numerically or using mouse).
It happens, that two neighbouring entities overlap partially (example: line 0, 0-20, 0 and line 10, 030, 0), which is not visible on the screen. Than the program does not recognises closed chain (usually
we need to see closed chain). Open chain is displayed in a different colour than the closed chain. For
this chain use function Section points which places the ordering number on all entity beginnings.
It can happen that extra entity (for instance line 10, 0-20, 0) which is lying directly on desired entity
(line 0, 0-50, 0) is loaded. In the display it will be seen as that the closed chain containing the desired
entity (0-50) has a section of a different colour made of opened chain (10-20).
If the wrong entity was drawn before normal chain, it will not be seen onto screen. The program will
recognise extra (open) chain. It depends on situation whether the chain will belong to part or it will be
an independent part. In case of it being an independent part, it is enough to catch the part we want to
cut and move it aside on the screen. The wrong part (extra part) will remain on original place. The
situation is a little more complicated in the second case when the wrong chain belongs to a normal part
(than both are moved together). If the wrong one is hidden under the hole, it is enough to move the
hole. When there are too many holes (it would take to much time moving all the holes), or the chain is
under contour chain (it is moving with the whole part), run Analysis and switch on display moving
trajectories (ordering indexes of chains). Single trajectory should be attached to single chain normally.
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WinASPER

Version 3.2.2 for Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, ME, XP

Basic activities ..............................................................................................................2-1

Manual nesting of parts on the sheet...................................................................................2-2

Cutting order selection .........................................................................................................2-2

Special activities ....................................................................................................................2-3

Change of starting point.................................................................................................................2-3

Change of lead-ins .........................................................................................................................2-3

Change of cutting order .................................................................................................................2-3

Generating and storing of a cutting plan ............................................................................2-3

Working with program ..................................................................................................3-1

First run of program (installation) ......................................................................................3-2

Asper templates .....................................................................................................................3-2

Menu items ....................................................................................................................4-1

Insert DXF, IGES, DC2, DSTV, MI..............................................................................................4-2

Insert REZ .....................................................................................................................................4-2

Insert PLA .....................................................................................................................................4-3

Load sheet with defects .................................................................................................................4-3

Print, Print preview, Printer setup..................................................................................................4-7

Recent files list ..............................................................................................................................4-7

Last action .....................................................................................................................................4-8

Delete, Copy, Insert .......................................................................................................................4-8

Common cut ................................................................................................................................4-10

Transform circle holes .................................................................................................................4-10

Libraries and optional add-ins .....................................................................................................4-10

Nesting menu .......................................................................................................................4-11

All parts .......................................................................................................................................4-15

Angle CSE ...................................................................................................................................4-16

Angle SCE ...................................................................................................................................4-16

Line Angle ...................................................................................................................................4-16

Section points ..............................................................................................................................4-16

Part name .....................................................................................................................................4-17

Status bar .....................................................................................................................................4-19

Point menu ...........................................................................................................................4-20

Cut start .......................................................................................................................................4-22

Line of mark points......................................................................................................................4-23

Select menu ..........................................................................................................................4-24

Window chains .........................................................................................................................4-25

Invert selection ............................................................................................................................4-26

Selection cancel ...........................................................................................................................4-26

Mirror horizontal .........................................................................................................................4-29

Split section and insert loop.........................................................................................................4-30

Change start point........................................................................................................................4-31

Copy start to selected...................................................................................................................4-32

Copy leads to selected .................................................................................................................4-32

Change parameters ......................................................................................................................4-32

End of section ..............................................................................................................................4-34

Milling depth ...............................................................................................................................4-36

Change direction of rotation ........................................................................................................4-36

Dynamic piercing On/Off ............................................................................................................4-36

Add lead-in ..................................................................................................................................4-37

Add lead-out ................................................................................................................................4-37

Add all .........................................................................................................................................4-37

Cancel all .....................................................................................................................................4-41

Break between parts.....................................................................................................................4-43

Cancel all .....................................................................................................................................4-43

Manual common cut ................................................................................................................4-46

Parameter Settings - Options .........................................................................................4-46

Lead-ins and Lead-outs................................................................................................................4-47

Cutting Program ..........................................................................................................................4-54

File Generation ............................................................................................................................4-57

Slowing down ..........................................................................................................................4-62

Input parameters ......................................................................................................................4-64