Shape 2000

SHAPE 2000
Operating Manual
X
Shape 2000
ADMINISTRATION
Copyright
National and international copyright laws and other intellectual property laws and treaties protect this SHAPE
SOFTWARE. All title and copy rights to the SHAPE SOFTWARE (including but not limited to any images,
photographs, text, etc incorporated into the SHAPE SOFTWARE), the accompanying printed materials, and any
copies of the SHAPE SOFTWARE is owned by FARLEY LASER LAB Pty Ltd.
License
Use of this SHAPE SOFTWARE must be licensed, the SHAPE SOFTWARE is not sold. A valid End User License
Agreement (EULA) grants you one of the two following rights:
Non-network use
Use the original or a copy of the SHAPE SOFTWARE on a single computer, and use respectively the copy or
original of the SHAPE SOFTWARE solely for backup or archival purposes, or for exclusive use on either one home
or portable computer.
Network use
Use a copy of the SHAPE SOFTWARE on a storage device, such as a network server, used only to install or run
the SHAPE SOFTWARE on your computers over an internal network. However, you must have a dedicated license
for each separate computer or terminal on which the SHAPE SOFTWARE is installed or run from the storage
device. A network license for the SHAPE SOFTWARE may not be shared or used concurrently on different
computer networks.
An EULA does not authorise you to copy the printed materials accompanying the SHAPE SOFTWARE.
Liability
To the maximum extent permitted by law, in no event shall FARLEY LASER LAB Pty Ltd or its suppliers be liable
for any special, incidental, indirect, or consequential damages whatsoever. This includes, without limitation,
damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or any other pecuniary
Shape User Manual loss, arising out of the use of or inability to use the SHAPE SOFTWARE, even if FARLEY
LASER LAB Pty Ltd has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Because some states and jurisdictions
do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages, the above limitation may
not apply to you.
Contact details
HG-Farley Laserlab Co. Pty. Ltd.
47 51 Export Drive
Brooklyn, Melbourne
Victoria 3012
AUSTRALIA
www.farleylaserlab.com.au
Sales Service Engineering
Direct: 61 3 9931 9442 Direct: 61 3 9931 9400 Direct: 61 3 9931 9300

sales@farleylaserlab.com.au service@farleylaserlab.com.au engineering@farleylaserlab.com.au
Shape 2000
SHAPE2000_O1 Farley Laserlab c urrent revision: 2006
Shape 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................................................1-1
Machine instruction codes .......................................................................................................................................1-2
G codes..................................................................................................................................................................1-2
M codes..................................................................................................................................................................1-3
T codes ..................................................................................................................................................................1-4
F codes ..................................................................................................................................................................1-5
2. INSTALL SHAPE 2000............................................................................................................................................2-1
Insert installation CD.................................................................................................................................................2-1
Find the serial Number........................................................................................................................................2-1
Select Install..........................................................................................................................................................2-2
Upgrade procedure ...................................................................................................................................................2-3
Backup existing folders/files ...............................................................................................................................2-3
Uninstall existing Shape software......................................................................................................................2-5
Relaunch installation CD.....................................................................................................................................2-6
Installation...................................................................................................................................................................2-7
Install Shape..........................................................................................................................................................2-7
Setup DAO ............................................................................................................................................................2-9
Run Shape 2000.................................................................................................................................................2-11
Move backed up folders/files into the Shape 2000 directory............................................................................2-12
Install Dongle...........................................................................................................................................................2-13
3. SCREEN OVERVIEW ..............................................................................................................................................3-1
Menu dropdowns & corresponding icon displays.................................................................................................3-2
File ..........................................................................................................................................................................3-2
Settings ..................................................................................................................................................................3-3
Figure.....................................................................................................................................................................3-4
Nest ........................................................................................................................................................................3-6
Geometry...............................................................................................................................................................3-7
View........................................................................................................................................................................3-8
Autonesting............................................................................................................................................................3-9
Graphic display........................................................................................................................................................3-10
4. ICON OVERVIEW .....................................................................................................................................................4-1
Mouse and cursor conventions ...............................................................................................................................4-2
F (Figure)....................................................................................................................................................................4-3
Basic icon functions ..................................................................................................................................................4-4
New Figure ............................................................................................................................................................4-4
New Contour.........................................................................................................................................................4-5
Draw Line...............................................................................................................................................................4-6
Draw Rectangle ....................................................................................................................................................4-7
Draw Circle............................................................................................................................................................4-8
Draw Spline...........................................................................................................................................................4-9
Trace Geometry..................................................................................................................................................4-12
Reflect Part..........................................................................................................................................................4-14
Draw Arc ..............................................................................................................................................................4-15
Draw Camber......................................................................................................................................................4-17
Shape 2000
Shape 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
F (Figure) ..................................................................................................................................................................4-19
Modify Figure icon functions ..................................................................................................................................4-19
Append Line ........................................................................................................................................................4-19
Append Arc..........................................................................................................................................................4-20
Delete Segment..................................................................................................................................................4-21
Insert Line............................................................................................................................................................4-22
Insert Arc..............................................................................................................................................................4-23
Add Leadin..........................................................................................................................................................4-25
Leadin Corner.....................................................................................................................................................4-26
Leadin Mid Add...................................................................................................................................................4-28
Leadin Param......................................................................................................................................................4-30
Delete Leadin......................................................................................................................................................4-31
Join Segment......................................................................................................................................................4-32
Split Segment......................................................................................................................................................4-33
Reverse Direction...............................................................................................................................................4-34
Stitch Segment Cut............................................................................................................................................4-35
Delete Stitch........................................................................................................................................................4-36
F (Figure)..................................................................................................................................................................4-37
Hole Notch icon functions ......................................................................................................................................4-37
Single Hole ..........................................................................................................................................................4-37
Round Slot...........................................................................................................................................................4-39
Square Corner....................................................................................................................................................4-40
Round Corner......................................................................................................................................................4-42
Arc Corner ...........................................................................................................................................................4-43
Square Slot..........................................................................................................................................................4-44
Alter Leadin.........................................................................................................................................................4-45
Chamfer Corner..................................................................................................................................................4-46
Rect Notch...........................................................................................................................................................4-47
Vee Notch............................................................................................................................................................4-48
Linear Array.........................................................................................................................................................4-49
Circular Array ......................................................................................................................................................4-51
Loop Corner........................................................................................................................................................4-53
Delete Corner......................................................................................................................................................4-54
F (Figure)..................................................................................................................................................................4-55
Drill Dimension icon functions ...............................................................................................................................4-55
Drill Point..............................................................................................................................................................4-55
Rectangular Array ..............................................................................................................................................4-56
Linear Dim ...........................................................................................................................................................4-58
X-Y Dim................................................................................................................................................................4-59
Angle Dim ............................................................................................................................................................4-60
Circular Array ......................................................................................................................................................4-61
Move Drill.............................................................................................................................................................4-62
Radius Dim ..........................................................................................................................................................4-63
Diameter Dim ......................................................................................................................................................4-64
Delete Dim ...........................................................................................................................................................4-65
ReOrder Drills .....................................................................................................................................................4-66
Drill Operations ...................................................................................................................................................4-67
How to apply more than one set of operating parameters to a drill point..................................................4-68
DeleteAll Dim ......................................................................................................................................................4-69
Drill CutTool.........................................................................................................................................................4-70
How to apply drill dimensions to a drill tool....................................................................................................4-71
Grinding Tools.....................................................................................................................................................4-72
Shape 2000
Shape 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
F (Figure)..................................................................................................................................................................4-76
Text icon functions ..................................................................................................................................................4-76
Add Text ...............................................................................................................................................................4-76
Delete Text ..........................................................................................................................................................4-77
Move Text ............................................................................................................................................................4-78
Copy Text ............................................................................................................................................................4-80
Text Param..........................................................................................................................................................4-81
Text Param..........................................................................................................................................................4-82
Dot Marker...........................................................................................................................................................4-83
Dot Marker................................................................................................................................................................4-84
F (Figure)..................................................................................................................................................................4-85
Misc icon functions ..................................................................................................................................................4-85
Delete Figure.......................................................................................................................................................4-85
N (Nest).....................................................................................................................................................................4-86
Basic icon functions ................................................................................................................................................4-87
Add Figure...........................................................................................................................................................4-87
Basic icons ..........................................................................................................................................................4-87
Add Nest..............................................................................................................................................................4-89
Copy Fig...............................................................................................................................................................4-90
Move Fig..............................................................................................................................................................4-91
Fast Move ............................................................................................................................................................4-93
Split Fig................................................................................................................................................................4-95
Combine Fig........................................................................................................................................................4-96
Rect. Array...........................................................................................................................................................4-97
Rings Array..........................................................................................................................................................4-99
Circular Array ................................................................................................................................................... 4-101
Restore Fig....................................................................................................................................................... 4-102
ReOrder Fig...................................................................................................................................................... 4-103
Auto ReOrder Fig............................................................................................................................................ 4-104
Alter Traverse................................................................................................................................................... 4-105
Parts Parameters............................................................................................................................................. 4-106
Nest Report...................................................................................................................................................... 4-107
View Parts......................................................................................................................................................... 4-107
Cut Simulation.................................................................................................................................................. 4-108
Change Sheet.................................................................................................................................................. 4-109
N (Nest).................................................................................................................................................................. 4-110
Miscellaneous icon functions.............................................................................................................................. 4-110
Scale Fig........................................................................................................................................................... 4-110
Expand Fig....................................................................................................................................................... 4-111
Flip Fig. ............................................................................................................................................................. 4-112
Bridge Cut......................................................................................................................................................... 4-113
Delete Bridge................................................................................................................................................... 4-114
Common Cut.................................................................................................................................................... 4-115
Delete ComCut................................................................................................................................................ 4-116
Delete Fig......................................................................................................................................................... 4-117
G (Geometry) ........................................................................................................................................................ 4-118
Basic icon functions ............................................................................................................................................. 4-119
Open .g file....................................................................................................................................................... 4-119
Undo Geom ...................................................................................................................................................... 4-120
DeleteAll Geom................................................................................................................................................ 4-120
Delete Fig. delete a figure........................................................................................................................... 4-121
G (Geometry) ........................................................................................................................................................ 4-122
Create points ......................................................................................................................................................... 4-122
Cursor Position point at cursor position.................................................................................................... 4-122
Intersection point at an intersection .......................................................................................................... 4-123
Circle Center center point of a circle......................................................................................................... 4-124
Line DistPoint point on a line at a distance to a point............................................................................ 4-125
Delete Point...................................................................................................................................................... 4-126
Shape 2000
Shape 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
G (Geometry) ........................................................................................................................................................ 4-127

Create lines ........................................................................................................................................................... 4-127
Two Points line through two points ........................................................................................................... 4-127
Pt Tangent line through a point tangent to a circle................................................................................. 4-128
Pt AngXaxis line through a point at an angle to X axis .......................................................................... 4-129
Pt Parallel line through a point parallel to a line...................................................................................... 4-130
Pt Perp line through a point perpendicular to a line............................................................................... 4-131
Pt AngYaxis line through a point at an angle to Y axis .......................................................................... 4-132
Pt Angline line through a point at an angle to a line............................................................................... 4-133
Pt Gradient line through a point at a given radius .................................................................................. 4-134
Offset Line line offset from a line............................................................................................................... 4-135
Bisect 2Lines line bisecting two lines........................................................................................................ 4-136
Median Pts line at median between two points ....................................................................................... 4-137
Tang 2Circles line tangent to two circles.................................................................................................. 4-138
Tang Angle line tangent to a circle at a given angle.............................................................................. 4-139
Delete Line....................................................................................................................................................... 4-140
G (Geometry) ........................................................................................................................................................ 4-141
Create circles ........................................................................................................................................................ 4-141
Center Radius circle using center and radius.......................................................................................... 4-141
Three Points circle passing through three points.................................................................................... 4-142
Radius TwoPoint circle with given radius, through two pts................................................................... 4-144
Tangent 3Lines circle tangent to three lines............................................................................................ 4-145
Rad Tang2Lines circle tangent to 2 lines with given radius .................................................................. 4-146
Tangent RadiusPt circle through a pt & tangent to a line...................................................................... 4-147
Tangent 2Points circle through 2 pts & tangent to a line....................................................................... 4-148
Tangent 2OutC circle tangent to two outside circles.............................................................................. 4-149
Tangent 2IncC circle tangent to two inside circles ................................................................................. 4-150
Tangent OutInC circle tangent to inside & outside circles..................................................................... 4-151
Tangent LineC circle of given size tangent to existing circle & line..................................................... 4-152
Tangent PointC circle tangent to an outside circle, through a point & of a given radius .................. 4-153
Tangent PointInC - circle tangent to an inside circle, through a point & of given radius ..................... 4-154
Define Arc......................................................................................................................................................... 4-155
Delete Circle..................................................................................................................................................... 4-156
Zoom tools ............................................................................................................................................................. 4-157
Zoom Extent..................................................................................................................................................... 4-157
Zoom Pan ......................................................................................................................................................... 4-158
Zoom In............................................................................................................................................................. 4-159
Zoom Out.......................................................................................................................................................... 4-160
Zoom Reset...................................................................................................................................................... 4-160
Open files............................................................................................................................................................... 4-161
Recent .a........................................................................................................................................................... 4-161
Open .a ............................................................................................................................................................. 4-162
Open .g ............................................................................................................................................................. 4-163
Open .n ............................................................................................................................................................. 4-163
Open .dxf .......................................................................................................................................................... 4-164
Save files ............................................................................................................................................................... 4-165
Save to an .a file.............................................................................................................................................. 4-166
Save to a .g file................................................................................................................................................ 4-167
Save to an .n file.............................................................................................................................................. 4-167
Save to a .dxf file............................................................................................................................................. 4-168
Other icons ............................................................................................................................................................ 4-169
Plot Parts (print a hardcopy) .......................................................................................................................... 4-169
Show Ruler (use to measure distances on screen)................................................................................... 4-170
Shape 2000
Shape 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Material and tools ................................................................................................................................................. 4-171

Clear Sheet (start a new workspace)........................................................................................................... 4-171
How to change sheet details after initial setup........................................................................................... 4-172
Step Segments ................................................................................................................................................ 4-173
Set Tool (setup tool operating parameters)................................................................................................ 4-174
Area Weight (calculate area and weight) .................................................................................................... 4-175
Step Tools (change tool parameters for a contour)................................................................................... 4-176
Replace Tool (change tool parameters for a range of figures)................................................................ 4-177
Machine Selection (change machine).......................................................................................................... 4-178
Number of Torches (state number of operational torches)....................................................................... 4-179
Shape 2000
Shape 2000 INTRODUCTION 1
1. INTRODUCTION
FARLEY numerical controlled plate working (cutting, marking, drilling) machines require specific commands to
control the tools. These commands are called NC (Numerical Control) code. The two main groups of code are the
internationally standardised G code and the machine manufacturers proper M code.
To cut a part out of a plate, a series of these NC codes, called an NC program, is loaded into the machine.
An NC program can be manually loaded into the machine using the operator panel, or the ready to use NC
program is loaded from a disk or a remote computer.
An NC program can be manually made/written from a hard copy drawing. If the drawing is on a computer file, the
NC program can be put together by a software package. Shape 2000 is such a package.
Shape 2000 utilises CAD techniques to draw any two dimensional part on the screen. The graphics minimise
potential programming errors by allowing the operator to examine the finished product on screen before committing
it to manufacture. After all the relevant data have been entered (machine, tools, plate, nesting) Shape 2000 can
then draw an NC program.
The Shape 2000 package is divided into main menus that provide input for further detailed choices or screen
prompts to enter the data needed. The main menus are:
1. File menu
Open/create a part file, or to save a part file together with the geometry, nesting and estimation information
for later use.
2. Settings menu
Enter data regarding plate, tools, machine, and to change directory.
3. Figure menu
Define the cut path constructed from lines, rectangles, arcs and circles.
4. Geometry menu
This is a background tool to define geometrically complex components. Sections of the geometry drawing can
be traced to become part of the figure.
5. Nest menu
Position (nest) parts onto a plate/sheet in a way that minimises scrap and maximises machine utilisation.
Shape 2000 1-1

SHAPE2000_01 Farley Laserlab c urrent revision: 2006
INTRODUCTION
Machine instruction codes

The controller is designed to recognise and carry out a particular set of machine instructions. The instructions are
grouped in categories:
G codes movement functions .
M codes auxiliary functions
T codes tool selection
F codes speed functions
G codes are functions that instruct the machine how to move the cutting head from point
G codes to point on a plate. Each function consists of the letter G and a number. The number
following the code letter identifies the actual instruction. Most G codes require additional
information and may include co-ordinates, angles, scale factors and other parameters.
Additional information known as an argument may also be included with some G codes.
The G code complies with international standards.
Start each program with a G90 (absolute programming) or G91 (incremental

programming) so that control is set to the mode you require, not the mode set by the last
program.
Code Description
G0 Causes a rapid traverse. The cutter is driven at maximum speed to the next
coordinate regardless of the set feedrate value. No cutting occurs.
G1 Causes straight line motion with cutting.
G2 Causes clockwise circular motion with cutting.
G3 Causes anticlockwise circular motion with cutting.
G4 This is the dwell function. A code example is G4X2.5 where 2.5 is the delay time
in seconds.
G7 Sends text to an external serial port.
G32 Bevel angle change command, or Inkjet marker rotation angle change command.
G34 Plate rotation selection. Is set to 0 on start up.
G35 Selects continuous mode.
G38 Selects the scale factor. Is set to 100% on start up.
G39 Selects rotation. Is set to 0 on start up.
G40 Cancels kerf compensation.
G41 Specifies left hand kerf compensation with respect to direction of cut.
G42 Specifies right hand kerf compensation with respect to direction of cut.
G48 Plate position preset.
G49 Plate position preset cancel.
G50 Component position pres et (absolute).
G51 Component position preset cancel.
G52 Sets machine zero (home) point.
G53 Sets work piece zero point.
G67 Starts a subroutine operation.
G68 Ends a subroutine operation.
G69 Calls up a subroutine for operation.
G70 Sets imperial dimensions in inches.
G71 Sets metric dimensions in millimeters.
G82 Drilling, or taping cycle combination command, is used by spindle drill.
G90 Sets control to absolute mode.
G91 Sets control to incremental mode.
Shape 2000 1-2

INTRODUCTION
Perform auxiliary functions that control operations associated with the cutting tool and the
M codes execution of part programs. The M code is Farley specific.
Code Description
M00 Program halts and waits until the CYCLE START button is pressed.
M01 Optional stop.
If the OPTIONAL STOP lamp light is on, the program halts and waits until the
CYCLE START button is pressed.
If the OPTIONAL STOP lamp is off, the M01 is ignored.
M02 Should be at end of every program, resets the machine and sets program start
(=rewind).
M03 Spindle on clockwise, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M04 Spindle on anticlockwise, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M05 Spindle off (stop), used by Fabricator and Hercules
M07 Internal coolant on, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M08 External coolant on, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M09 Coolant off, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M10 Clamp foot (foot down), used by Fabricator and Hercules
M11 Unclamp foot (foot up), used by Fabricator and Hercules
M12 Partial foot unclamp, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M14 Inkjet flush
M15 Inkjet data transfer and orientation completed
M16 Inkjet trigger
M19 Position spindle to tool change angle, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M20 Cancel Spindle orientation, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M32 Band clamp box 2 to top of band
M41 Plate wash, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M42 Band clamp box 2 to bottom of band (mirror clamp)
M51 Torch box 1 auto select
M59 Deselect all boxes
M60 Select triple oxy center and left torches
M61 Select triple oxy center and right torches
Shape 2000 1-3

INTRODUCTION
M codes Code Description

M62 Select triple oxy left, center and right torches
M63 All torches of the triple oxy off
M64 Triple oxy head enable
M65 Triple oxy head disable
M67 AVC on.
M68 AVC off
M69 Start auto box spacing (and de-select all boxes)
M77 Start cutting / marking (all machines)
M78 Plasma prestart
M79 End of cutting / marking (all machines)
M83 Gear change to low, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M84 Gear change to high, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M85 Advance automatic tool changer, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M86 Return automatic tool changer, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M87 Open pull stud, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M88 Close pull stud, used by Fabricator and Hercules
M92 Clamp box 2 to beam
T codes Perform the tool selection function.
Code Description
T0 Zero offset reference point (laser spot)
T1 First plasma torch
T2 Powder marker
T3 Spot drill marker
T4 Oxy torch
T5 Waterjet
T6 Scriber/router/engraver or pen marker
T7 Plasma marker
T9 Inkjet
T11 Alternate (second) plasma torch
T23 Spot drill and tap
T25 Second waterjet
T61 T80 Spindle drill tool, from up to 20 position carousel.
Shape 2000 1-4

INTRODUCTION
Speed function codes.

F codes
The F codes specify the speed at which the machine is to move. If the machine is not
given an F code with value, it will move at the system default speed (except after a G0
command). Therefore, an F code must be place in, or before the first G1, G2 or G3 block.
The following instruction translated is to move 200 units in the Y+ direction at 700
units/minute feedrate.
F700.0
G1Y200
In metric units, it will move 200mm at 700 mm/minute. If imperial units were specified, the
cutter will move 200 inches at 700 inches/minute.
Shape 2000 1-5

Shape 2000 INSTALL SHAPE 2
2. INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Operating Instruction
Insert installation CD
Tip Close down open programs.
Step Action
Insert Dongle 1. Insert the Dongle hardware device supplied with the Shape 2000 installation
disk, into the appropriate port, i.e. USB or parallel. The computer will not
respond, but it puts the hardware in place for later setup.
Insert the 2. Insert the Farley Shape 2000 installation CD into the drive.
installation CD
Result
Find the serial 3. Select Browse CD contents to view Files Currently on the CD.
Number
3.1 Open file sn.

Result
sn notepad will open displaying the Shape 2000 for dongle number
and S/N: number.
3.2 Note the S/N: number.

Tip The serial number is required later in the process. Write the
number down and key it in its entirety, e.g.
731-170706-41603
3.3 Close the windows to return to the installation start up page.
Shape 2000 2-1

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Insert installation CD
Step Action
Select Install 4. Select Install shape .
shape
If the following appears then
Confirm File Deletion dialogue box DO NOT respond before finding
out the implications of your
selection.
go directly to the Upgrade
Procedure to proceed.
This message indicates there
is a version of Shape already
loaded on your computer,
either an authorised version
or Shape Demo.
It is essential that you DO

NOT confirm the file deletion,
as all existing files created by
the current version of Shape
will be overwritten, for
example nest files that you
may have adjusted over time
will be replaced with Farley
default settings. You must
also backup working files, i.e.
.a, .g, .n, .dxf etc.
Welcome to Shape 2000 Setup go to the Installation instruction

window to continue.
Shape 2000 2-2

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Upgrade procedure
Step Action
Click Cancel 1. Click Cancel to exit this dialogue box.
Important
If this dialogue box has appeared as a result of clicking the Install shape
icon, then cancel it and follow this instruction to make all preparations
required to uninstall the existing version of Shape.
Tip There is no need to Exit the start up window. The following

actions can be performed with it open.
Warning! 2. Retain essential folders/files created using your existing version of Shape by
Backup existing backing them up. Copy and move the folders/files out of the directory and
folders/files temporarily hold them somewhere else on your computer.
Important
The folders to consider are below. If you do not back them up, data you
have created over time will be overwritten and files lost when Shape 2000
is installed.
nests Copy the folder.
Sgeom Copy the folder.
Spart Copy the folder.
sdxf Copy the folder.
SCONFIG Only two files from this folder are required. Open and
copy the following:
Shape 2000 2-3

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Upgrade procedure
Step Action
Backup existing 2. Continued
folders/files
2.1 Locate your existing Shape program folder. If the default
was not changed during installation, it will be on your C:/
drive.
2.2 Open.
2.3 Highlight folder (e.g. Spart, Sgeom, nests, sdxf).
2.4 Copy.
2.5 Paste into the temporary folder you created, for example the desktop.
2.6 Repeat to move all required folders.
2.7 Open SCONFIG , copy autonest and parameter files and paste into
temporary holding folder.
2.8 Close the Shape folder to return to the installation window.
Shape 2000 2-4

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Upgrade procedure
Step Action
Uninstall existing 3. Click Install shape .
Shape software
Result
3.1 Click OK.
Result
3.2 Click Yes .
Shape 2000 2-5

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Upgrade procedure
Step Action
Uninstall existing 3. Continued
Shape software Result
wait while the Setup Status select Yes, I want to restart my

Uninstalling procedure computer now .
reaches 100%. click Finish.
The computer will automatically shutdown and restart. You are

now ready to proceed to install Shape 2000.
Relaunch 4. Relaunch the Shape 2000 installation CD to re-load the start up window.
installation CD
4.1 Click Install shape .

Tip Access your CD drive to find the Shape icon, as shown above, or
simply eject the installation disk from the drive and re-insert it. The
start up window will automatically load on screen.
Next step Go to the Installation instruction.
Shape 2000 2-6

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Installation
Step Action
Install Shape 1. Respond to the following sequence of dialogue boxes starting at the Welcome to
Shape 2000 Setup window.
1.1 Click Next>
Result: License Agreement
Read the License Agreement Read this next page

Click Yes Click Next>
Shape 2000 2-7

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Installation
Step Action
Install Shape 1. Continued
Result: User Information Result: Choose Destination
Key in your user information, Click Next>

including the software serial
number. (C: drive is the default. Use
Browse to select a new
Click Next> destination drive/folder then
click Next>)
(a warning prompt will alert you if
the serial number is incorrect.
Confirm the number. Try again).
Result: Setup Type Result: Select Program Folder
Select Setup Type option. Click Next>

Click Next> (to accept default setting)
(to accept default setting)
Result: Setup Status Result: DAO Setup
Wait. Click Next>
Shape 2000 2-8

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Installation
Step Action
Setup DAO 1. Continued
Result: Select Components
Click Next> Click Next>

(to accept default settings) (to accept default settings)
Result: Setup Needs The Next Disk
Click OK
Ignore Setup Needs The Next Disk . This prompt applies to earlier
versions of Shape and is not applicable to Shape 2000.
Result: Copying Jet files
Wait.
Shape 2000 2-9

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Installation
Step Action
Setup DAO 1. Continued
Result: Data Access Objects (DAO) successfully installed
Click OK
Result: Shape 2000 setup
select Yes, I want to restart my computer now

Click Finish.
2. Log back on to your computer.
Result:
The Shape icon automatically appears on your desktop and is added to

your computer Program list.
Shape 2000 2-10

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Installation
Step Action
Run Shape 2000 3. Click the Shape desktop icon to test run the program.
When then
the program opens the installation has been successful.
go to Move backed up folders/files into the
Shape 2000 directory.
Tip
When upgrading the software from a
past version to Shape 2000, the system
will recognise your existing Dongle
and the program will open.
go to Install the Dongle software

instruction.
Shape cannot run if the Dongle is not

installed. If the Dongle supplied with
the installation disk has not been
plugged in, insert it into the
appropriate port now, i.e. USB or
parallel. The computer will not visibly
respond, but it puts the hardware in
place ready to proceed.
Shape 2000 2-11

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Move backed up folders/files into the Shape 2000 directory
If you have upgraded to Shape 2000, move backed up files (saved for safe keeping before uninstalling the previous
version of Shape), into the appropriate folders in the Shape 2000 directory, so they can be accessed using the new
software.
1. Drag each backed up folder progressively into the Shape 2000 directory, and respond Yes to Confirm Folder
Replace .
Result
Note
If you have upgraded to Shape 2000 the Dongle software remains active from the previous version of Shape.
Therefore, the installation process is complete.
If the program cannot find the Dongle
Go to Install Dongle .
2. Drag the backed up autonest and parameter files into the Shape 2000 SCONFIG folder and respond to the
replace prompt.
Shape 2000 2-12

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Install Dongle
Step Action
Exit prompt 1. Click OK to exit prompt.
Check Dongle 2. Ensure the Dongle is plugged into the port (USB or parallel). If not, do it now.
Open SuperPro 3. Go to the Shape program:

driver installer
3.1 Click Microsoft start.
3.2 Click Programs .
3.3 Highlight the Shape program icon and drag to reveal the options.
3.4 Highlight SuperPro driver installer .
Result
Shape 2000 2-13

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Install Dongle
Step Action
Access SuperPro 3. Continued
driver installer
3.5 Click SuperPro driver installer .
Result: Preparing to install Result: Confirm Upgrade
Wait. Click Continue>
Result: Welcome Result: License Agreement
Click Next> Read.

Click I accept the terms in the
license agreement
Result: License Agreement Result: Destination Folder
Read. Respond.
Click Next> Click Next>
Shape 2000 2-14

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Install Dongle
Step Action
Access SuperPro 3. Continued
driver installer
Result: Setup Type Result: Ready to Install
Click Next> Click Install

(to accept default setting)
Result: Installing SuperPro Result: Install Wizard Completed
Wait. Click Finish
Run Shape 2000 4. Click the Shape desktop icon to test run the program.
When then
the program opens the installation has been successful.
Shape 2000 2-15

Shape 2000 SCREEN OVERVIEW 3
3. SCREEN OVERVIEW
The window heading shows the current file, displayed in the following format:
filename/PLATESIZE/(unit of measurement) / material
The units of measurement are set to inches or mm on installation of the software. If a job requires a different
unit of measurement, it can be changed via the Settings>Units menu. This does not change the machine
default setting, just the work in progress.
Shape 2000 3-1

SHAPE2000 01 Farley Laserlab c urrent revision: 2006
SCREEN OVERVIEW
Menu dropdowns & corresponding icon displays
This manual focuses on accessing Shape 2000 functions via the icon displays. Therefore, how to use each
function is explained in the Menu Overview section. Open your Shape program and use this section to navigate the
screen to familiarise yourself with the location of the menu/icon functions.
File
Open Recent.a Open an existing file from the File dropdown. Alternatively,
Open.a use the icons permanently displayed on the main menu bar.
Open.n
Open.g
Open.dxf
Save Save.a Save a file via the File dropdown. Alternatively, use the icon
Save.n permanently displayed on the main menu bar.
Save.g
Save.e
Save.dxf
DXF Batch Input Explanation to be provide in version 2 of this manual.
File Units Transfer Explanation to be provide in version 2 of this manual.
Units Batch Transfer Explanation to be provide in version 2 of this manual.
Exit Close the current Shape program. The system shuts down
immediately, without providing a Save prompt. Therefore, if
you exit without saving, all work subsequent to the last save
will be lost.
Shape 2000 3-2

SCREEN OVERVIEW
Menu dropdowns & icon displays
Settings
Clear/Set Same as Clear Sheet icon.
Show Segment Sequence Same as Step Segments icon.
Set Tool Parameters Same as Set Tool icon.
Area Weight Same as Area Weight icon.
Tool Rate Same as Step Tools icon.
Replace Tool Same as Replace Tool icon.
Machine Selection Same as Machine Selection icon.
Number of Torches Same as Number of Torches icon.
Units Imperial Highlight the required option to setup the unit of measurement.
Metric
Save .a File in DB On Select On , when you want the Save Part Info box to activate
Off when in Save .a mode. All information input into the box is saved
into the database, which becomes relevant when using the
Autonesting feature.
Shape 2000 3-3

SCREEN OVERVIEW
Figure
New Figure
Refer to Icon Overview>F>Basic.
New Contour
Drill Point Create Drill Point
Rect. Array of Drill Points
Cir. Array of Drill Points
Move Drill Point
Recorder Drill Points
Change Drill Operations
Change Drill Parameter
Draw Line
Draw Rectangle
Draw Circle
Draw Spline
Trace Geometry
Hole(s) Single hole
Round End Slot
Square End Slot
Linear Array of Holes
Circular Array of Holes
Alter Leadin Length Angle
Reflect
Arc/Circle Refer to Icon Overview>F>Basic.
Camber
Notch Square Corner Notch
Round Corner
Arc Corner
Chamfer Corner
Refer to Icon Overview>F>Hole Notch.
Rectangular Notch
V Notch
Loop Corner
Delete Corner
Modify Append a Segment
Append a Arc Segment
Delete a Segment
Insert a Line Segment
Insert a Arc Segment
Join Contours
Split Contour
Add a Leadin
Add a Leadin at Corner
Add a Leadin on a Segment
Change Leadin Parameter
Delete a Leadin
Reverse Contour Direction
Stitch Cut
Delete Stitch
Shape 2000 3-4

SCREEN OVERVIEW
Figure
Write Text Add New Text

Delete Text
Move Text
Copy Text
Change Text Parameters
Dimensions Linear Dimension
X Y Linear Dimension
Radius Dimension
Diameter Dimension Refer to Icon Overview>F>Drill Dimensions .
Angular Dimension
Erase Dimension
Erase all Dimension
Auto Leadin/out
Grinding Tools Refer to Icon Overview>F>Drill Dimensions .
Shape 2000 3-5

SCREEN OVERVIEW
Nest
Add Figure
Add Nest
Copy Figure
Move Figure
Fast Move Figure
Split Figure
Combine Figures
Rectangular Array
Rings Array
Circular Array
Restore Figure
ReOrder Figure
Auto Reorder
Alter Traverse Path
Auto Holes ReOrder
Change Part Parameters
Print Nest Report
View Parts Data
Cut Path Simulation
Change Sheet Size
Nest Miscellaneous Scale Figure
Expand/Shrink a Figure
Flip Figure
Add Bridge Cut
Delete Bridge
Common Cut
Delete Common Cut
Delete Figure Refer to Icon Overview>N>Miscellaneous .
Shape 2000 3-6

SCREEN OVERVIEW
Geometry
Define Point Cursor Position

Intersection
Center of a Circle
On Line Distance to a Point
Define Line Through 2 Points .

Point Tangential to a Circle
Point at an Angle to X-Axis
Point Parallel to a Line
Point Perpendicular to a Line
Point at an Angle to Y-Axis
Point at Angle to a Line
Point at a given Gradient
Offset from a Line
Bisecting Two Lines
Median between Two Points
Tangential to Two Circles
Tangential to Cir. Given Angle
Define Circle Center Radius
Passing Through Three Points
Radius Through 2 Points
Tangential to 3 Lines
Radius Tangent to 2 Lines
Radius Tangential to Line Point
2 Points Tangential to a Line
Tangential to 2 Outside Circles
Tangential to 2 Inside Circles
Tangential to inner outside Circle
Tangent to a Circle a Line
Tangent to a Outside Cir. Pt. Rad.
Tangent to a Inner Cir. Pt. Rad.
Define Arc
Delete Delete a Point Refer to Icon Overview>G>Define Point.
Delete a Line Refer to Icon Overview>G>Define Line .
Delete a Circle or Arc Refer to Icon Overview>G>Define Circle .
Delete All Geometry
Undo Last Action
Shape 2000 3-7

SCREEN OVERVIEW
View
Main Toolbar
Settings Toolbar
Status Bar Provides a status overview of functions
Figure in use.
Nest
Geometry
Shape 2000 3-8

SCREEN OVERVIEW
Autonesting
Parts Management
Autonesting training presentation
A comprehensive section on how
to use the Autonesting feature is
currently under development.
Meanwhile, please go to Shape>
Help> Contents> Autonesting topic
for an introductory Powerpoint
training presentation.
Pattern Management
AutoNesting/Run
Shape 2000 3-9

SCREEN OVERVIEW
Graphic display
Graphics
window &
message
display
Graphics window
The graphics window provides the workspace where the figure of the part(s) or nest layout is
displayed.
The dimensions of the work space, must be determined as part of the job set up, i.e. set the width
(X) and length (Y) dimensions in accordance with the plate to be used (use the Clear Sheet icon).
This makes the workspace within the graphics window proportional and to scale of the actual
workpiece.
Colours are used to show the tool paths, with each tool number having its own colour. Eg:
green cut path

red geometry
yellow text for the plate marker
blue drill point
white direction arrows, figure number, tracing.
Message display
This area is very important, especially when you feel lost. Located at the bottom of the screen, the
message display area is divided into three parts.
From left to right:
1. the currently selected command name.

2. a message prompting the required action.
3. the current cursor coordinate position on the X,Y axes.
Tip If a function is not responding, it could be because the previous function has
not been exited. Use Esc to clear the current command and start again.
Shape 2000 3-10

Operating Manual ICON OVERVIEW 4
4. ICON OVERVIEW
Shape 2000 4-1

ICON OVERVIEW
Mouse and cursor conventions
(right click)
(left click)
About the mouse
This manual presumes a conventional right hand mouse as the standard. When using the mouse, you will notice a
different outcome between using the right and left click action.
Right click to release the cursor (and the command being executed) into the actual position of the cursor on the
workspace. As you move the mouse, refer to the X,Y coordinate values in the message display to
assist in cursor placement. This method is for more freehand placement. When precision is required,
use the left click function.
Left click when absolute accuracy is required. This action snaps the cursor to the nearest existing point or
allows you to setup new points at specified X,Y coordinates. After you left click the mouse, press V
or I at the keyboard to activate the Input Cursor Position box. Use this to input the coordinate value
on the X,Y axes.
About the cursor
There are two cursor types.
Arrow cursor The arrow cursor indicates there is no activity. It remains visible in both the menu/icon display
(pointer) areas and the graphics window until used to point and select a command.
Result
Immediately, the command is confirmed as active in the message display area, along with a
corresponding prompt designed to alert you to the next action.
Tip Move the arrow cursor into the graphics window, and when a command is active, the
cursor changes to a white cross, indicating an action is required in order to complete
the command.
When the cross cursor is visible in the graphics window, an action is required. Refer to the
Cross cursor +
message display for a prompt.
Shape 2000 4-2

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Use the Figure module to create combinations of lines and arcs to draw the tool path. The complete tool
path to manufacture a part is called a figure. A figure consists of figure lines, which can be defined by using
construction methods available in the Geometry mode.
Figure lines are constructed in F mode. On screen, figure lines show the tool path in the colour of the
active tool number, e.g. green = plasma. Each figure is allocated a number, displayed at the start point of
the first contour that makes up the figure.
Construction lines, created in G mode, are shown in red. These are used as guide lines to aid in the
construction of the tool path.
The following terminology is used to indicate the levels or grouping of the figure components:
1. Segment
A figure drawn in Shape 2000 may consist of a number of straight lines or arcs that are constructed
between points. The figure line between any two points is known as a segment.
2. Contours
Are made up of one or more segments. The contour shows the tool cut path. At the start point of the
contour the tool will lower and start cutting. At the end of the contour, the cut will finish and the tool
will be raised. Therefore, each contour can have its own tool and feedrate in the NC code.
3. Figures
Are made up of one or more contours. This enables a complete figure that is made of a number of
separate contours to be copied, rotated, nested, etc. Each complete figure is allocated a number,
which is displayed at the start point of the first contour that makes up the figure.
Shape 2000 4-3

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Basic icon functions
New Figure
Basic icons
Figures are made up of one or more contours. This enables a complete
figure that is made of a number of separate contours to be copied, rotated,
nested, etc. Each complete figure is allocated a number, which is displayed
at the start point of the first contour that makes up the figure.
This icon allows the definition of a new figure start point. Any number of
figure start points may be generated on the workspace, each will have a
different figure number.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the New Figure icon.
Result
The Start point of new figure? prompt appears in the message
display.
3. Position the figure point.
Method 1
For precision placement, press V or I at the keyboard to input
X, Y coordinates.
Method 2
Use the mouse for freehand placement (refer to the X,Y
coordinate values in the message display to assist with
placement). Right click the mouse to release the point into
position.
Method 3
Set up guidelines using the Geometry functions. Right click the
mouse to release the point at the specific grid position.
Result
The new figure point is drawn in the colour of the active tool
number.
4. Press Esc to exit the function.
Shape 2000 4-4

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
New Contour
Contours are made up of one or more segments. The contour shows the
Basic icons
tool cut path. At the start point of the contour the tool will lower and start
cutting. At the end of the contour, the cut will finish and the tool will be
raised. Therefore, each contour can have its own tool and feedrate in the
NC code.
Segment
A figure drawn in Shape 2000 may consist of a number of straight lines or
arcs that are constructed between points. The figure line between any two
points is known as a segment.
The start point of any contour has to be specified before a new tool path
can be defined.
The figure point must be created first, as described in the New Figure Help
topic, then contour point/s can be created.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the New Contour icon.
Result
The Start point of new contour? prompt appears in the
message display.
3. Position the contour point.
Method 1
X, Y coordinates.
Method 2
position.
Method 3
Result
The new contour point is drawn in the colour of the active tool
number.
Shape 2000 4-5

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Draw Line
Basic icons Draw a figure line from the start point to a new end point.
To see the cutting direction of the line, use F7 to toggle the arrows on/off.
Tip If nothing happens, it could be because F Lock on the

keyboard is off. Press to turn the function on and try again.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Create the figure or contour point. This is recognised by the

system as the active start point.
3. Click the Draw Line icon.
Result
The End point of line? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Position the new point (which will be the end of the line).
Method 1
X, Y coordinates.
Method 2
position.
Method 3
Result
The line is drawn in the colour of the active tool number, from
the figure start point to the end point. The end point becomes
the new start point for the next line.
Tip The End point of line? prompt remains in the

message display, indicating the function is still
active. This allows you to continue creating new end
points, simultaneously creating lines, in one action.
Shape 2000 4-6

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Draw Rectangle
Basic icons Create a rectangle, complete with its own figure number.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Draw Rectangle icon.
Result
The Prompt Input box appears.
3. Input the width along the X axis and length along the Y axis.
4. Click OK.
Result
The Start point? prompt appears in the message display.
5. Position the rectangle at the required start point:
Method 1
X, Y coordinates.
Method 2
placement). Right click the mouse to release the rectangle into
position.
Result
The rectangle is drawn in the colour of the active tool number.
Tip The Start point? prompt remains in the message
display indicating the function is still active. Continue
to create identical rectangles (with new figure
numbers) by releasing them at new start positions.
Shape 2000 4-7

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Draw Circle
Basic icons Specify the radius and the circle center. The system will draw the circle
with its own figure number.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Draw Circle icon.
Result
The Input Parameter box appears.
3. Input the radius of the circle.
4. Click OK.
Result
The Position circle center? prompt appears in the message
display.
5. Position the circle center at the required start point:
Method 1
X, Y coordinates.
Method 2
placement). Right click the mouse to release the circle into
position.
Result
The circle is drawn in the colour of the active tool number.
Tip The Position circle center? prompt remains in the
message display indicating the function is still active.
Continue to create identical circles (with new figure
numbers) by releasing them at new start positions.
Shape 2000 4-8

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Draw Spline
Basic icons Draw a flowing curve passing through a defined number of points.
Operation
1. Click G to enter Geometry mode.

2. Define the points through which the spline is to be drawn.
Tip The points should be on increasing X (horizontal)

dimensions and two consecutive points should have
different Y (vertical) dimensions.
2.1 Click the Cursor Position icon.
Result
The Point position? prompt appears in the message
display.
2.2 Position the points:
Method 1
For precision placement, press V or I at the keyboard to
input X, Y coordinates.
Method 2
placement). Right click the mouse to release the points
into position.
Result
Red geometry points are created.
The Point position? prompt remains in the message

display indicating the function is still active. Continue to
create the points.
2.3 Press Esc to exit the function.
3. Click F.
4. Click the Draw Spline icon.
Result
The Input Spline Parameter box appears.
Shape 2000 4-9

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Draw Spline
Basic icons Operation
5. Input parameter values. Accept defaults or change values.
Accuracy
This figure indicates the trade off between the time
needed to get the perfect curve and the quality of
the real curve, which consists of arcs and lines. A
higher number will attempt a better curve, but
require more computer processing time. Practical
values lie between 10 and 100. The default of 30 is
considered the best compromise.
6. Click OK.
Result
The Position point 1? prompt appears in the message
display.
7. Place the cursor at the first point and left click the mouse to
confirm the position.
Result
The Position point 2? prompt appears in the message box.
7.1 Repeat to position all points in the required sequence.
Shape 2000 4-10

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Draw Spline
8. Press Esc to exit the function and automatically draw the line
through the points.
Result
Troubleshooting
The system will draw a spline through the defined
points. If an error message is produced, repeat this
procedure with changed values/ parameters.
Shape 2000 4-11

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Trace Geometry
Basic icons
This tool allows you to trace geometry lines already created as part of
constructing the drawing, to create a new figure. This is a particularly
useful when drawing complex figures.
Operation
1. Create the geometry construction lines.
Example
2. Create geometry points to pick out the shape you wish to

trace. Select the type of point from the G> Define Point icon
panel. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the
intersection.
3. Click F.
4. Create a new figure.
4.1 Click the New Figure icon.

4.2 Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the start point
of the new figure.
5. Click the Trace Geometry icon.
Result
Which segment? prompt appears in the message display.
6. Left click the cursor somewhere on the segment.
Result
Last point? prompt appears in the message display.
Shape 2000 4-12

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Trace Geometry

7. Left click the point at the end of the selected segment.
Result
A tool path is created along the segment. The Which segment?
prompt remains in the message display indicating the function
is still active. Continue to select segments until the required
figure is created.
Tip Use F4 to toggle the geometry lines on/off, or

delete using the DeleteAll Geom icon.
Shape 2000 4-13

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Reflect Part
Basic icons Reflect (add a mirror image) of a contour/figure, open or closed, over a
specified line (not over a curve).
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Reflect Part icon.
Result
The Which Contour? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse on the figure or contour point.
Result
The Reflection in which line? prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Position the cursor somewhere on the edge to be mirrored,

and left click to confirm.
Result
The original image will be mirrored on the selected edge.
Figure 1 represents the original part. Figure 2 represents

what the part looks like with this function applied.
The new contour/figure will have the same type of kerf and
contour sequence as the original image.
Shape 2000 4-14

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Draw Arc
Basic icons Draw an arc. A figure must already exist as the system recognises the last
figure drawn as the start of the arc. You must define the end point and the
radius.
Operation
1. Click F. This instruction presumes the new figure/s have

already been created.
Example
2. Click the Draw Arc icon.
Result
End point of arc? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the end point
position.
Result
Approx center? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the center position.
Result
Shape 2000 4-15

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Draw Arc
Basic icons
Operation
5. Click OK to accept the system generated radius, or change.
approx center x x end pt of arc
start of arc
Shape 2000 4-16

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Draw Camber
Basic icons
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Draw Camber icon.
Result
3. Enter the number of points and click OK.
Result
The Position point 1? prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Determine the point position:
Method 1
X, Y coordinates.
Method 2
position.
Result
The Position point 2? prompt appears in the message box.
4.1 Repeat to position all points.
Shape 2000 4-17

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Draw Camber
Basic icons
Operation
Result
When the last point of the sequence is clicked into position,
the line will automatically draw through the points.
Tip When starting a new (blank) worksheet, the camber

function is not available. If you click the icon, a
prompt box will appear alerting you that THERE ARE
NO FIGURES . Simply create a figure, then proceed to
draw the camber. Figure 1 can be deleted if not
required.
Shape 2000 4-18

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Modify Figure icon functions
Use to perform a number of operations on an existing figure. For example; add and delete sections of the part,
show the direction of the cutter, reverse the cut direction, join two contours, split a contour, add, delete and change
leadins.
Append Line
Modify Figure
icons Use to add a line to the end of a figure.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Append Line icon.
Result
Select a start point! prompt appears in the message display.
Method 1
X, Y coordinates. Click OK.
Method 2
Use the mouse for freehand placement. Click the figure point
to create the start point.
Result
End of line! prompt appears in the message box.
4. Determine the point position using your preferred method.
Result
The system will construct the line from the figure point to the
new end.
Tip The End of line! prompt remains in the message

display indicating the function is still active. Continue
to append the new line if required.
Shape 2000 4-19

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Append Arc
Modify Figure
icons Use to add an arc to the end of a figure.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Append Arc icon.
Result
Select a start point? prompt appears in the message display.
Method 1
Method 2
Use the mouse for freehand placement. Click the figure/
contour point to create the start point.
Result
End point of arc! prompt appears in the message box.
4. Determine the point position.
Method 1
Method 2
Use the mouse for freehand placement. Right click to release
the point into position.
Result
5. Enter the radius of the arc, positive for anti-clockwise, negative

for clockwise. Click OK.
Result
The system will construct the arc.
Shape 2000 4-20

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Delete Segment
Modify Figure
icons Delete a segment of any figure on screen.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Delete Segment icon.
Result
The Select a segment! prompt appears in the message display
3. Left click the mouse anywhere on the segment to be deleted.
Result
The segment will highlight in white.
Tip Look at the message display. If required, you can

use the mouse to scroll through the segments.
LH button=backward
Click the left mouse to move the highlight to the
previous segment. Repeat to continue process.
RH button=forward
Click the right mouse to move the highlight forward to
the next segment. Repeat to continue process.
4. Press the Delete key when the required segment is highlighted.
Result
The system removes the selected segment from the screen
and automatically highlights the next segment, allowing you to
continue deleting. Use the mouse to skip forward or backward.
Tip If a contour is split by removing a segment, a new

contour start point is given to the loose end.
Shape 2000 4-21

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Insert Line
Modify Figure Inserts a line at the start of a figure/contour, and moves the point from its
icons original position to the end of the added line, therefore creating a new start
point (the figure number will jump from the original position to the new
position).
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Insert Line icon.
Result
Select a start point! prompt appears in the message display.
3. Click to select the figure/contour point.

Result
New start of line! prompt appears in the message box.
Method 1
Method 2
Result
The system will construct the line, and move the figure
point (and figure number) or contour point to the new start
position.
Tip The New start of line ! prompt remains in the message

box indicating the function is still active. Continue to
insert a line from the last point created.
Shape 2000 4-22

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Insert Arc
Inserts an arc at the start of a figure/contour, and moves the point from its
Modify Figure original position to the end of the added arc, therefore creating a new start
icons point (the figure number will jump from the original position to the new
position).
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Insert Arc icon.
Result
Select a start point? prompt appears in the message display.
Method 1
Method 2
Use the mouse for freehand placement. Click the figure/ or
contour point to create the start point.
Result
Start point of arc! prompt appears in the message box.
Method 1
Method 2
Result
A red point is created, to show the start position. Also, the
Approx center of arc! prompt appears in the message box.
5. Determine the center of the arc by using Method 1 or Method 2.
Result
Shape 2000 4-23

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Insert Arc
Modify Figure Operation

icons
6. Enter the radius of the arc, positive for anti-clockwise, negative
for clockwise. Click OK.
Result
The system will construct the arc, and move the figure point
(and figure number) or contour point to the new start position.
Shape 2000 4-24

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Add Leadin
Modify Figure Use to draw a leadin onto a figure. The leadin can either be inserted at a
icons corner, a selected point, or snapped to a grid intersection.
Tip For smart placing, add leadin after having viewed the
nesting.
Setup leadin parameters via the Leadin Param icon.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Add Leadin icon.
Result
Move to a point? prompt appears in the message display.
Method 1
For precision placem ent, press V or I at the keyboard to input
Method 2
Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the figure point.
Result
Beginning of leadin! prompt appears in the message box.
4. Use Method 1 or Method 2 to position the point.
Result
The system will construct the leadin and move the figure point
(and figure number) to the start of the leadin.
Shape 2000 4-25

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Leadin Corner
Use to draw one of four predefined leadin types at a corner of a contour or

Modify Figure figure.
icons
nesting.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Leadin Corner icon.
Result
Move to a corner! prompt appears in the message display.
3. Position the cursor at the required corner of the figure and left
click the mouse to snap the cursor to the point.
Result
Tip If nothing selected, a line leadin will be placed

in default.
Line leadin
A straight line leadin, with or without a line leadout.
Arc leadin
An arc (curved) leadin, with or without an arc leadout.
Rampdown + line leadin

A straight line leadin, with a line leadout and a plasma
rampdown.
Rampdown + arc leadin

An arc (curved) leadin, with an arc leadout and a plasma
rampdown.
Shape 2000 4-26

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Leadin Corner

icons
4. Highlight the leadin type from the list selection.
5. Click OK.
Result
The system will construct the leadin.
Shape 2000 4-27

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Leadin Mid Add
Modify Figure Use to draw one of six predefined types of leadin on a segment.
icons
nesting.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Leadin Mid Add icon.
Result
Move to start location? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Position the cursor anywhere on the segment, other than near

a corner.
Result
Tip If nothing selected, a line leadin will be placed

in default.
Line leadin
A straight line leadin, with or without a line leadout.
Arc leadin
An arc (curved) leadin, with or without an arc leadout.
Nipple + line leadin

A straight line leadin with a nipple, with or without a line
leadout.
Nipple + arc leadin

An arc (curved) leadin with a nipple, with or without an arc
leadout.
Rampdown + line leadin

A straight line leadin, with a line leadout and a plasma
rampdown.
Rampdown + arc leadin

An arc (curved) leadin, with an arc leadout and a plasma
rampdown.
Shape 2000 4-28

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Leadin Mid Add

icons
4. Highlight the leadin type from the list selection.
5. Click OK.
Result
The system will construct the leadin.
Shape 2000 4-29

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Leadin Param
Modify Figure Use to change the default leadin/leadout parameters.

icons
A leadin should be at least 10 mm or twice the kerf width to allow for
sufficient stabilisation of the cutting and kerf correction. A leadin is to be
kept separate from a cut line, else the kerf correction will take place while
cutting the part.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Leadin Param icon.
Result
3. Input the parameters as required.
4. Click OK.
Result
The leadin parameters will apply until changed.
Shape 2000 4-30

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Delete Leadin
Modify Figure icons Use to delete a selected leadin.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Delete Leadin icon.
Result
Select a leadin! prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click on the leadin point
Result
4. Click Yes to confirm.
Result
The leadin is removed. The Select a leadin! prompt remains in
the message display indicating the function is still active,
allowing you to continue to delete a leadin.
Shape 2000 4-31

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Join Segment
Modify Figure icons Join two separate contours, which originate from the same figure.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Join Segment icon.
Result
Move to first contour! prom pt appears in the message display.
3 Left click somewhere on the contour.
Result
The selected contour will highlight. Move to second contour!
prompt appears.
4. Left click somewhere on the contour.
Result
As you click, the first highlighted contour joins to the
second. All superfluous contour points are removed. Any
pierce point between the contours will disappear. The Move
to first contour! prompt re-appears, indicating the function is
still active. Repeat as required.
Shape 2000 4-32

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Split Segment
Modify Figure icons Position a point on any contour on the screen, to split it, therefore creating
two new contours.
Tip Apply different tool and cutting data for each contour by using
the Step Tools function.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Split Segment icon.
Result
Move to first contour! prompt appears in the message display.
3 Click the mouse at the splitting point to place the contour point.
left click to snap the cursor to a corner.

right click to release the point anywhere on the segment.
Result
The function remains active. Continue to create splitting
points, as required.
Shape 2000 4-33

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Reverse Direction
Modify Figure Reverse the cut direction of a contour, it does not include reversal of
icons leadin/out.
Tip When the cut direction is reversed, the kerf compensation

(left/right) is not reversed. Check kerf compensations before
cutting.
Reversal for one contour in a split contour closed loop

results in opposite cut directions.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Press F7 to display the direction arrows.
Tip If nothing happens, it could be because F Lock on

the keyboard is off. Press F Lock to turn the function
on and try again.
3. Click the Reverse Direction icon.
Result
Move to start of a contour! prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Left click the figure/contour point
Result
The direction of the arrows reverse. The Move to start of a
contour! prompt remains in the message display indicating
the function is still active. If you continue to left click the
arrows will keep reversing.
Shape 2000 4-34

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Stitch Segment Cut
Modify Figure Stitch cutting is mainly used when the whole plate must be kept together
icons for transport or further processing.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Stitch Segment Cut icon.
Result
3 Input the required parameters into the box. Click OK.
Result
The white cross cursor on screen indicates the system is
waiting for an action (a prompt does not appear in the
message display for this function).
4. Right click the mouse at the required location on the

segment to create the stitch cut.
Shape 2000 4-35

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Delete Stitch
Modify Figure Delete stitch cut/s.

icons
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Delete Stitch icon.
Result
Select a stitch! prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the stitch.
Result
The stitch is deleted.
Shape 2000 4-36

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Hole Notch icon functions
The Hole Notch icon group provides the tools for common variations on the rectangular shape and a range of
methods to draw different types of internal holes, with leadins and cut paths defined automatically. Change to the
Geometry menu to draw more complex figures and to meet mathematical demands.
Tip Set up leadin parameters to define the length and angle of the leadin, which is used in all future internal
holes. A leadin should be at least 10 mm or twice the kerf width to allow for sufficient stabilisation of the
cutting and kerf correction. A leadin is to be kept separate from a cut line, else the kerf correction will take
place while cutting the part.
Single Hole
Hole Notch icons Draw a circular hole with a specified radius and center point position.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Single Hole icon.
Result
3. Input the radius of the hole and click OK.
Result
Position hole center? prompt appears in the message display.
Shape 2000 4-37

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Single Hole
Hole Notch icons Operation
Method 1
Method 2
Use the mouse for freehand placement. Right click the mouse
to release the point (circle center) into position.
Result
The system constructs the hole with leadin. The function
remains active allowing you to replicate the hole in subsequent
positions on the workspace.
Shape 2000 4-38

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Round Slot
Hole Notch icons Draw a round end slot of a specified length, width and center position.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Round Slot icon.
Result
3. Input the X and Y dimension and click OK.
Result
Position of center? prompt appears in the message display.
Method 1
Method 2
Result
The system constructs the slot with leadin. The function
remains active allowing you to replicate the shape in
subsequent positions on the workspace.
Shape 2000 4-39

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Square Corner
Hole Notch icons Cut a 90 degree notch out of a 90 degree corner of a part.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Square Corner icon.
Result
Which corner? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Position the cursor on the corner of the figure that is to have

the notch added. Left click the mouse to select.
Result
Approx corner prompt appears in the message display.
4. Click at the approximate position of the inside of the corner,

i.e. position the cursor somewhere on the segment and click
the mouse to select.
Result
One side of the nominated corner will highlight in white, the

other in red.
5. Input the length and depth of the cut. Click OK.
Result
The system will cut the notch out of the corner. The Which
corner? prompt remains in the message display indicating the
function is still active. Repeat the steps to cut subsequent
square corner notches.
Shape 2000 4-40

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Square Corner
Hole Notch icons Troubleshooting
1. If the Corner not possible dialogue box appears, click OK. The Which corner?
message is still active allowing you to try again.
2. To undo the command, for example if the wrong dimensions were entered, go
to the Hole Notch icon panel and select Delete Corner . The message display
asks for the 1st point of corner/notch? Position the cursor on the corner, left click
the mouse to confirm the position. The message display asks for the 2nd point of
corner/notch? Position the cursor on the second corner, left click the mouse.
Look at the screen. The lines turn white so you can see the result of the
command. The Delete Corner? dialogue box appears. Click OK and the corner
will be restored, ready to apply the Square Corner command with the correct
proportions.
3. To exit the function at anytime, press Esc.
Shape 2000 4-41

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Round Corner
Hole Notch icons Round off any corner with a chosen radius.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Round Corner icon.
Result
3. Enter the required radius of the corner. Click OK.
Result
4. Position the cursor on the corner and left click the mouse to
select.
Result
5. Move the cursor to the approximate position of the radius

center, and left click to select.
Result
The system will round the corner. The Which corner? prompt
remains in the message display indicating the function is still
active. Repeat the steps to round subsequent corners.
Shape 2000 4-42

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Arc Corner
Hole Notch icons Draw an inward arc of specified radius to a corner of an existing figure.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Arc Corner icon.
Result
3. Enter the required radius of the corner. Click OK.
Result
select.
Result
The arc corner is created.
5. Move the cursor to the approximate position of the radius

center, and left click to select.
Result
The system will arc the corner. The Which corner? prompt
remains in the message display indicating the function is still
active. Repeat the steps to arc subsequent corners.
Shape 2000 4-43

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Square Slot
Hole Notch icons Use to draw a rectangular internal hole with a specified length, width and
center.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Square Slot icon.
Result
3. Input the X and Y dimension and click OK.
Result
Method 1
Method 2
Result
The system constructs the slot with leadin. The function
remains active allowing you to replicate the shape in
subsequent positions on the workspace.
Shape 2000 4-44

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Alter Leadin
Hole Notch icons Defines the length and the angle of the leadin, which is used in all future
internal holes.
Tip A leadin should be at least 10 mm or twice the kerf width to

allow for sufficient stabilisation of the cutting and kerf
correction. A leadin is to be kept separate from a cut line, else
the kerf correction will take place while cutting the part.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Alter Leadin icon.
Result
3. Input the parameters as required.
4. Click OK.
Result
From now on all internal holes have the new leadin length
and angle.
Shape 2000 4-45

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Chamfer Corner
Hole Notch icons Add a chamfer of a specified size to the corner of a part.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Chamfer Corner icon.
Result
select.
Result
One side of the nominated corner will highlight in white, the

other in red.
4. Click OK.
Result
The system will create the chamfer corner. The Which corner?
prompt remains in the message display indicating the function
is still active. Repeat the steps to chamfer subsequent corners.
Shape 2000 4-46

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Rect Notch
Hole Notch icons Draw a rectangular notch in a straight line.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Rect Notch icon.
Result
Center of notch? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Determine the center of the notch:
Method 1
Method 2
Use the mouse for freehand placement. Left click the mouse to
release the point at the required position on the segment.
Result
Which side of segment? prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Left click the mouse on the required side of the segment line,
i.e. inside will create an internal notch, outside an external
notch.
Result
5. Enter the depth and width of the notch. Click OK.
Result
The system will create the rectangular notch. The Which side
of the segment? prompt remains in the message display
indicating the function is still active. Repeat the steps to create
subsequent notches.
Shape 2000 4-47

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Vee Notch
Hole Notch icons Draw a V shaped notch of specified size in a figure line.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Vee Notch icon.
Result
Center of notch? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Determine the center of the notch:
Method 1
Method 2
Use the mouse for freehand placement. Left click the mouse to
release the point at the required position on the segment.
Result
Which side of segment? prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Left click the mouse on the required side of the segment line,
i.e. inside will create an internal notch, outside an external
notch.
Result
5. Enter the depth and angle of the notch. Click OK.
Result
The system will create the vee notch. The Which side of the
segment? prompt remains in the message display indicating
the function is still active. Repeat the steps to create
subsequent notches.
Shape 2000 4-48

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Linear Array
Hole Notch icons Draw a linear array (row) of round holes with a nominated radius, the
number of holes and the X - Y spacing between hole centers.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Linear Array icon.
Result
3. Input the hole radius and number of holes. Click OK.
Result
4. Input the X and Y center apart. Click OK.
Result
Center of 1st hole prompt appears in the message display.
Shape 2000 4-49

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Linear Array
Hole Notch icons

Operation
Method 1
Method 2
to release the array into position.
Result
The system constructs the array. The function remains active
allowing you to replicate the array in subsequent positions on
the workspace.
Shape 2000 4-50

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Circular Array
Hole Notch icons Draw a circular array of round holes.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Circular Array icon.
Result
3. Input the separation angle. Click OK.
Result
4. Enter the radius of the holes to be constructed and the number

of holes in the array. Click OK.
Result
Center of array prompt appears in the message display.
Shape 2000 4-51

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Circular Array
Hole Notch icons

Operation
5. Determine the center position of the first hole:
Use the mouse to place the cursor into position. Right click to
release the center point of the array.
Result
The Center of 1st hole prompt appears in the message display.
6. Move the cursor to the position of the first hole and right click
the mouse.
Result
The system constructs the array around the center point with
leadins. All holes are treated as one figure.
The function remains active allowing you to create new center

points to replicate the array in subsequent positions on the
workspace.
Shape 2000 4-52

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Loop Corner
Hole Notch icons Draw a loop of specified size at the corner of a figure.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Loop Corner icon.
Result
3. Enter the loop length and the required radius. Click OK.
Result
4. Left click the mouse on the required corner.
Result
The system will draw the loop. The Which corner? prompt
remains in the message display indicating the function is
still active. Repeat the steps to create subsequent loops.
Shape 2000 4-53

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Delete Corner
Hole Notch icons Remove a notch or corner from a figure.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Delete Corner icon.
Result
1st point of corner/notch? prompt appears in the message
display.
3. Left click the mouse to select the first point of the notch or
corner to be deleted.
Result
2nd point of corner/notch? prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Left click the mouse to select the second point of the notch or
corner to be deleted.
Result
The corner/notch will be highlighted in white.
5. Click Yes to confirm the deletion.
Result
The corner/notch is removed from the figure.
Shape 2000 4-54

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Drill Dimension icon functions
Place or remove drill points and set drill parameters. The software knows that the drill is a separate tool and is
represented with a different colour on the monitor.
Drill Point
Drill Dimension Create drill points in a figure. To delete a point, use the Delete Segment
icons icon located in F> Modify Figure .
Tip Before creating a drill point, you must perform the following
steps:
1. Setup operating parameters using the Drill CutTool icon.
These are saved into a database.
2. Apply the saved operating parameters to the drill point
using the Drill Operations icon.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Drill Point icon.
Result
Which figure? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the required figure
point.
Result
(Figure ?) Drill Position prompt appears in the message
display.
3. Determine the drill point position:
Method 1
Method 2
to release the drill point at the cursor position.
Result
The (Figure ?) Drill Position prompt remains in the message
display indicating the function is still active. Continue to create
drill points.
Tip When you create a drill point, it is not numbered.

Therefore, you need to presume the machine will
drill in the order created. Use the ReOrder Drills
function to nominate a new drilling order.
Shape 2000 4-55

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Rectangular Array
Drill Dimension Draw a rectangular array of drill points. The array position is determined by
icons the position of the existing drill point.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Rectangular Array icon.
Result
Which drill point? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Select an existing drill point. Left click the mouse to snap the
cursor to the drill point.
Result
4. Set the X gap spacing required between drill point columns,

and the Y gap between drill point rows. Click OK.
Result
Shape 2000 4-56

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Rectangular Array
Drill Dimension Operation

icons
5. Change or accept the default/maximum number of drill points
per row (X direction). num ber of drill points per column (Y
direction). Click OK.
Result
The system constructs the rectangular array of drill points.
Shape 2000 4-57

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Linear Dim
Drill Dimension Use the system to calculate the dimension of a straight line and display the
icons value on screen. Use the Delete Dim icon to remove the display.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Linear Dim icon.
Result
First point? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse on the first point.
Result
Second point? appears in the message display.
4. Left click the mouse on the end point.
Result
Dimension point? prompt appears.
5. Place the cursor at the point on the workspace where you

would like the dimension value to be displayed. Left click the
mouse.
Result
The linear dimension is displayed in red. The function remains
active allowing you to continue establishing dimensions.
Shape 2000 4-58

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
X-Y Dim
Drill Dimension Use the system to calculate the X and Y dimension and display the value
icons on screen. Use the Delete Dim icon to remove the display.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the X-Y Dim icon.
Result
3. Left click the mouse on the first point of the line to be

measured.
Result
Second point? appears in the message display.
4. Left click the mouse on the end point.
Result
X Dimension point? prompt appears (or Y, depending on which
axis is being measured).

would like the dimension value to be displayed. Left click the
mouse.
Result
The X dimension (400.00) is displayed in red. The function
remains active allowing you to continue establishing
dimensions.
6. Repeat the procedure to find the Y dimension.
Shape 2000 4-59

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Angle Dim
Drill Dimension Shows the angle size in degrees.

icons
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Angle Dim icon.
Result
First line? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click somewhere on the first line that forms the angle.
Result
Second line? appears in the message display.
4. Left click somewhere on the second line that forms the angle.
Result
Dimension point? prompt appears.

would like the angle value to be displayed. Left click the
mouse.
Result
The angle dim ension appears.
Shape 2000 4-60

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Circular Array
Drill Dimension Produce drill points, evenly distributed over a circle.

icons
Operation
1. Click F.
Result
Which drill point? prompt appears in the message display.
Result
Center of array prompt appears in the message display.
4. Determine the center position of the array.
Use the mouse to place the cursor into position. Right click to
release the center point of the array.
Result
5. Enter the required number of drill points. Click OK.
Result
The system constructs the array around the center point. All
drill points are treated as one figure.
Shape 2000 4-61

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Move Drill
Drill Dimension Move a drill point to a new location.

icons
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Move Drill icon.
Result
Which drill point! prompt appears in the message display.
Result
New location! appears in the message display.
4. Determine the drill point position:
Method 1
Method 2
to release the drill point at the cursor position.
Result
The drill point moves to the new location. The Select drill point!
prompt appears in the message display indicating the function
is still active. Continue to move drill points as required.
Shape 2000 4-62

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Radius Dim
Drill Dimension Use the system to calculate the length of an arc radius, and display the
icons dimensions on screen. Use the Delete Dim icon to remove the dimensions.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Radius Dim icon.
Result
Which arc? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse somewhere on the line of the required

arc.
Result
Dimension point? appears in the message display.
4. Left click the mouse somewhere in the arc, for example the
center point.
Result
A red arrow and R(dimension ) appears. The function remains
active allowing you to continue the procedure.
Shape 2000 4-63

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Diameter Dim
Drill Dimension Use the system to calculate the length of a circle/arc diameter and display
icons the dimensions on screen. Use the Delete Dim icon to remove the
dimensions.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Diameter Dim icon.
Result
Which arc? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse somewhere on the line of the required

arc.
Result
Dimension point? appears in the message display.
4. Left click the mouse somewhere inside the arc, for example
the center point,
Result
A red arrow and R(dimension ) appears. The function remains
active allowing you to continue the procedure.
Shape 2000 4-64

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Delete Dim
Drill Dimension Delete dimensions displayed on screen, one at a time.

icons
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Diameter Dim icon.
Result
Which dimension? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Position the cursor anywhere on the dimensions (displayed in

red). Left click the mouse.
Result
The dimension is removed. The function remains active
allowing you to continue the deleting process.
Tip To delete all dimension from screen in one

command, use the DeleteAll Dim icon.
Shape 2000 4-65

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
ReOrder Drills
Drill Dimension Use the ReOrder Drills function to nominate a new drilling order.
icons
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the ReOrder Drills icon.
Result
Select a drill point? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the required drill
point.
Result
The colour of all the drill points in that group will change to red.
The Select drill point 1? prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the drill point to be
drilled first.
Result
Select drill point 2! prompt will appear in the message display.
The selected drill point returns to its original colour.
5. Respond to the prompt until all red drill points in the group
have been reordered into the new drilling sequence.
Shape 2000 4-66

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Drill Operations
Drill Dimension Apply one or more drill operations to a drill point.

icons
Tip Before creating a drill point, you must perform the following
steps:
1. Setup operating parameters using the Drill CutTool icon.
These are saved into a database.
2. Apply the saved operating parameters to the drill point
using the Drill Operations icon.
Operation
1. Ensure the required drill operating parameters for the job at

hand, have been setup and saved into the database using the
Drill CutTool feature. You will need to know the DID/Offset
number combination to proceed with this instruction.
2. Click the Drill Operations icon.
Result
The Drill Operations List opens with a default setting. This

cannot be deleted, therefore use the Modify function to set
it up as your first drill setting.
3. Click Modify.
Result
The Set Drill Operation Data box appears.
Shape 2000 4-67

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Drill Operations
Drill Dimension
icons Operation
4. Recall the required operating parameters (setup via the Drill

CutTool function), and select the Depth, Depth type and Cycle
type variables.
Result
In this example, DID 022 / Offset 2 will be retrieved from the
database and applied to the drill point.
Drill No = DID number

See Drill CutTool
Drill Offset = Offset number
5. Click OK to exit the Set Drill Operation Data box.
6. Click Done to exit the Drill Operation List.
7. Create drill points as required.
To change the parameters, repeat this process. The new

preset data will apply to all subsequent drill points.
How to apply more than one set of operating

parameters to a drill point
Repeat the instruction, but instead of using Modify, click
Insert to open the Set Drill Operation Data box. Make your
selections. In this example, DID 022 / Offset 1 is recalled.
Shape 2000 4-68

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
DeleteAll Dim
Drill Dimension Delete all dimension displayed on screen in one command.

icons
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the DeleteAll Dim icon.
Result
Result
All dimensions displayed in red are removed.
Shape 2000 4-69

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Drill CutTool
Drill Dimension Set up and save drill operating parameters to the system database. These
icons can be recalled, modified (if required) and applied to a drill head.
Recall the required parameter data set by selecting the applicable

DID/Offset number combination. In this example, DID: 22 / Offset: 2.
Tip More than one set of operating parameters can be applied

to a drill head to enable different drilling actions. Refer to the
Drill Operations icon instruction.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Drill CutTool icon.
Result
3. Setup a new set of DrillTool operating parameters.
DID Drill ID number

Activate the DID dropdown to find the next
available number in the sequence.
Click New .
Enter the next available number into the
Input new ID: box. Click OK.
Shape 2000 4-70

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Drill CutTool
Operation
Drill Dimension 3. Continued.
icons
DID Enter the operating parameters.
More than one set of parameters can

be stored against a DID by applying
multiple offset numbers. This allows
you to create variations for the same
cut tool. These unqiue sets of data
can be recalled by the selecting the
DID/Offset number combination. For
example:
DID 022 / Offset 1

/ Offset 2
/ Offset 3
Spin = spindle speed

Feed = feedrate
Dwell = time in seconds
Tlot = coolant 0 (liquid), 1 (air)
Click Modify.
How to apply drill dimensions to a drill tool

Use the Drill Operations icon to recall preset drill tool
operating parameters from the database and apply them
to the drill point created in Shape.
Shape 2000 4-71

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Grinding Tools
Drill Dimension Set up and save grinding operating parameters to the system database.
icons These can be recalled, modified (if required) and applied to a figure.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Grinding Tools icon.
Result
Tip Figure 1 was created without changing the

tool setup. The colour (green) of the circle
indicates the current tool is plasma. The
tool is changed later in this procedure via
the Step Tools function, however, you may
setup the grinding tool prior to creating the
figure. If so, the circle would be blue.
GID: Create your own ID numbers or use the

default G series (G001 = grinding tool
one). These numbers are for reference
only (they are not machine tool numbers).
Click New Series to create a new

GID number, for example G002,
G003, G004 etc.
Shape 2000 4-72

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Grinding Tools
Drill Dimension
icons Operation
Offset: Create a set of grinding tool parameters

and save them to an offset number. Select
the required offset number to
automatically recall the saved data.
Click New Tool to create a new

Offset number, for example 2, 3, 4
etc. and set up parameters to be
stored.
Modify To change data, select the required field,

overwrite the value and click Modify. The
new value will be saved.
3. Recall the required parameter data set by selecting the

required GID/Offset number combination. In this example,
G001/Offset: 2.
Result
4. Click Close (or modify if required).
5. Change the tool selection (if required).

5.1 Click the Step Tools icon.
5.2 Click the Tool No dropdown and select Grinding.
5.3 Click the Grinding Operations box. It is here that you
nominate the GID/Offset combination to be applied to
the figure.
Click the Grinding Tools dropdown.
Scroll and select the required parameters. In this
example, G001/Offset: 2. The full parameter ID will
display in the Grinding Tools field.
Click the Add this tool icon. The selection will
transfer into the Operations window.
Shape 2000 4-73

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Grinding Tools
Drill Dimension
icons Operation
Result
Tip When the Grinding Tools ID is transferred

to the Operations window, the system
allocates the machine tool number, in this
example T72. The NC code starting
number for grinding tools is 60. The
system adds the Assigned Pocket number
to 60 to derive the tool number (60 + 12 =
72).
If you want a different tool number/

pocket number to be applied to the
current figure only, select the
required Assigned Pocket number
before you click Add this tool.
In this example, you can see the

tool number changes to T62 as a
result of selecting Assigned
Pocket: 2 (60 + 2 = 62).
Click OK.
Click Done .
Shape 2000 4-74

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Grinding Tools
Drill Dimension
icons Operation
Result
The figure changes to blue indicating the grinding tool (with
the nominated preset parameters) applies.
Tip The system generates the NC code for the

grinding tool setup. To view the code:
Click the Save .n icon to bring up the Save As
box.
Select the No_Name file. Click Save .

Result
Click Yes to overwrite the existing file.

Result
Click OK.
Result
Shape 2000 4-75

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Text icon functions
Add Text
Text icons Use to add text to a figure at a specified position.
Tip Set text parameters via the Text Param icon, prior to creating
text.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Add Text icon.
Result
The Which figure? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Click the mouse at the figure point.
Result
The Text position? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Position the text:
Method 1
Method 2
placement). Right click the mouse to release the text into
position.
Result
5. Key in the text. Click OK.
Result
The text appears in position.
Shape 2000 4-76

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Text icon functions
Delete Text
Text icons Use to delete on screen text.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Delete Text icon.
Result
The Which text? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse on the text.
Result
It will immediately disappear.
The function remains active until you exit. Continue to left click
text to be deleted.
Shape 2000 4-77

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Text icon functions
Move Text
Text icons Use to move and rotate text to a new position/angle.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Move Text icon.
Result
3. Click the text.
Result
3.1 Input the rotation angle if required (otherwise ignore).

3.2 Click OK.
Result
The New position of text? prompt appears in the message
display.
Shape 2000 4-78

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Text icon functions
Move Text
Text icons Operation
4. Position text:
Method 1
Method 2
placement). Right click the mouse to release the text into
position.
Result
The text moves.
The function remains active, therefore you can keep moving

selected text until satisfied with the position, using one of the
methods described. For example, continue to position the
cursor, right click and the text will move.
About text rotation

If a rotation angle has been applied, the word will position
at that angle. Place the cursor on the first letter and right
click, the text will rotate another increment (in degrees).
Shape 2000 4-79

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Text icon functions
Copy Text
Text icons Use to copy text.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Copy Text icon.
Result
3. Click the text.
Result
The Belongs to which figure? prompt appears in the
message display.
4. Left click the point to select the figure you require.
Result
The At what position? prompt appears in the message
display.
5. Position text:
Method 1
Method 2
placement). Right click the mouse to release the copy into
position.
Result
The text copies.
The function remains active, therefore you can keep copying

selected text, using one of the methods described. For
guidance, look at the message display for prompts.
Shape 2000 4-80

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Text icon functions
Text Param
Text icons Set up the text operating parameters for the installed marker/s. The font is
fixed.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Text Param icon.
Result
Text Tool
This field displays the machine tool number, e.g. T09
inkjet/dot marker.
Text Height
Specifies the height of the character.
Text Width
Specifies the width of the character.
Note
Height & width must be specified,
Inkjet as it affects the final print at the
machine.
Dot For Dot Marker, these values are
irrelevant to the final print.
However, you can use these fields
to change the size of the character
on the Shape workspace.
Text Angle
Specifies the printed line angle (not the slant).
Offset X
Applies to Dot Marker only.
Offset Y
Applies to Dot Marker only.
Acc. Distance
Applies to Inkjet only.
Shape 2000 4-81

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Text icon functions
Text Param
Text icons
Operation
3. Select the marker and setup according to the following

instructions.
Shape 2000 4-82

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Text icon functions
Dot Marker
Text icons A test program must be run to print the first character on the plate, in order to physically
measure the X and Y offset values from the marker rotation point. Once found, these
values are input into the Shape Set Text Parameter box.
Step Action
1. Ensure the value in the Text Angle field is 0.
2. Prepare to print a test character on the plate.
2.1 Write the following code and save as a test program that can be used
each time the position of the first character needs to be establis hed.
Tip Use the job setup> MDI function at the CNC.
G90 absolute mode

G71 metric
G50X0.0Y0.0 component zero
F10000.00 feedrate
T09 tool number (inkjet/dot marker)
G32 C0.00 rotation angle change command set to zero
G07 La send text to an external serial port
M15 inkjet/dot marker transfer & orientation completed
M77 start marking
M16 inkjet/dot marker trigger
M79 end marking
N1
T00 zero offset reference point (laser spot)
M02 reset
2.2 Activate the program.

2.3 Press Cycle Start.
Result
The marker moves to the laser spot and the character is printed.
Shape 2000 4-83

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Text icon functions
Dot Marker
Text icons Step Action
3. Measure the X and Y offset. Apply the X, Y coordinate axes to find the
values:
start position (laser spot)
20mm Y (+)
a
18mm
X (+)
The dot situated on the character represents the point from

which you should measure from. It is displayed here for
illustrative purposes only (not to scale).
4. Enter the measurements into the Set Text Parameter box.
5. Click OK.
Shape 2000 4-84

ICON OVERVIEW
F (Figure)
Misc icon functions
Delete Figure
Misc icons Delete one or more figures.
Operation
1. Click F.
2. Click the Delete Figure icon.
Result
When there is more than one figure on screen, the Select
first figure! prompt will appear in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the first figure.
Result
Select last figure! prompt will appear in the message
display. When deleting a range of figures, select the figures
in ascending order, for example figure 1 to figure 3.
4. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the last figure.
Result
All figures in the range highlight in white and the
confirmation box appears.
Result
Selected figures are deleted.
Shape 2000 4-85

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
The Nest module provides a method of positioning parts onto a sheet in such a way that scrap is minimised and/or
machine utilisation maximised. Features of the Nest module include:
move parts on the sheet

make arrays of parts
copy a part to a new position
control the cut sequence of parts.
Shape 2000 4-86

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Add Figure
Basic icons Use to add a saved figure to the screen.
Tip If the retrieved figure is a nest of parts, the whole nest will be
treated as a single figure. Use Restore Fig. to re-establish the
separate numbering. Alternatively, if you know its a nest, use
Add Nest which will retrieve the file and display it as designed,
with separate figure numbers.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Add Figure icon.
Result
The Open .a Files box appears.
3. Highlight the required file. Click Open.
Result
The Draw at saved position box appears. To confirm:
3.1 Click Yes and respond to the prompt that follows.
Result
The figure will appear.
3.2 Click No.
Result
New Position? prompt appears in the message display.
For precision placement
Press V (absolute) or I (relative) at the keyboard.
Result
Enter the coordinate values. Click OK. The figure will

automatically appear.
Shape 2000 4-87

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Add Figure
Basic icons
Operation
For freehand placement

Drag the mouse to the coordinate position. Refer to
the message display to view the X, Y coordinate
values. Right click the mouse to place the figure into
position.
Shape 2000 4-88

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Add Nest
Basic icons
Load a saved nest of parts to the screen. Unlike the Add Figure , all the
parts will be numbered separately.
Operation
Refer to the Add Figure Help topic as the procedure is the same.
Shape 2000 4-89

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Copy Fig.
Basic icons
Copy a figure and place it at any desired position.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Copy Fig. icon.
Result
Select a figure! prompt appears in the message display.
3. Click on the figure point.
Result
Position of copied figure? prompt appears in the message
display. Find the position using one of the following
methods:
3.1 For precision placement

Press V (absolute) or I (relative) at the keyboard.
Result
Enter the coordinate values. Click OK.
Result
The figure will automatically copy to position.
3.2 For freehand placement

Drag the mouse to the coordinate position. Refer to
the message display to view the X, Y coordinate
values. Right click the mouse to copy the figure to
this position.
Note
Although the action is complete, Position of copied figure
prompt in the message display indicates the function is still
active. In this condition, you can continue to copy figures to
a new X,Y coordinate point.
Shape 2000 4-90

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Move Fig.
Basic icons Rotate and/or move one part on the screen, with or without figure overlap
prevention. This feature is most useful to form a nest of figures.
The = key is used to toggle the overlap prevention. If the prevention is

switched on while the figure is in overlap, the figure will remain locked in
place. Press the = key again to move the figure out of the overlap zone.
Only the use of the arrow keys activates the overlap prevention.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Move Fig. icon.
Result
Center of rotation? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse to select the point/center of rotation, for

example a corner or the part center. For the overlap
prevention to work properly this point must be the one with the
figure number.
Result
3.1 Gap between figures

Enter the minimum gap between figures. This value
sets the distance to be maintained between figures, so
they cannot overlap within each others cutting zone.
3.2 Fine step distance

Enter the increments of each move when using the
arrow keys. A small distance will increase calculation
time but reduce plate material waste.
When using arrow keys to move the figure

With overlap prevention on, the gap between figures
will be maintained, i.e. the figure will stop at the
preset gap and is unable to move closer. With figure
overlap prevention off, the arrow keys will allow the
figure to be moved past the set gap.
Shape 2000 4-91

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Move Fig.
Basic icons
Operation
3.3 Rotation angle

Enter the rotation angle. If no rotation required, accept
the default (0.00).
If you do enter a rotation angle

Enter the rotation angle. Click OK. The input box will
disappear and the figure will automatically rotate. At
this point, you can manually continue to rotate the
figure by the degrees set in the Rotation angle field:
At the keyboard:
press ] to rotate the figure clockwise.
press [ to rotate the figure counterclockwise.
3.4 Press OK.
Result
New location? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Press V (absolute) or I (relative) at the keyboard.
Result
The Input Cursor Position box appears.
5. Input the Current X, Current Y coordinate values. Click OK.
Result
The figure will automatically move to the new position.
Tip Refer to the coordinates on the message display to

confirm the X,Y values as entered into the Input
Cursor Position box.
Note
Although the action is complete, New location? prompt in
the message display indicates the function is still active. In
this condition, you can continue to move figures to a new
X,Y coordinate point, by activating the Input Cursor Position
box again or by using the arrow keys. The arrow keys will
move the figure in the increment set in the Fine step
distance field. Refer to the X,Y coordinates in the message
display to visually see this incremental movement and find
your new location.
Shape 2000 4-92

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Fast Move
Basic icons Pick up a part and drag it around the workspace with the mouse, freehand.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Fast Move icon.
Result
3. Click the figure point.
Result
The cursor automatically picks up the figure and the lines
turn white.
4. Move the part to the desired position:
4.1 Use the mouse

Move the mouse to the new position.
If a point exists at the new pos ition, left click the
mouse to attach the figure. Press Esc to release it
into position.
If a point does not exist, right click the mouse at the
new position. Press Esc to release it into position.
4.2 Use the arrow keys

Press the arrow key. The white figure outline will
immediately return to its original line colour and
move in the increments set in the Fine step distance
field of the Move Fig. function.
Tip To change the Fine step distance refer to

the Move Fig. help topic.
Press Esc to release the figure into position.
Shape 2000 4-93

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Fast Move
Basic icons
Operation
About rotation
Move mode. Whether moving the figure using the mouse or
arrow keys, before pressing Esc to set the figure into the
new position, at the keyboard:
press ] to rotate the figure clockwise.

press [ to rotate the figure counterclockwise.
press Esc to finalise the position.
Note
If the Rotation angle field has been set via the Move
Fig. function, these increments will be applied.
However, if the Rotation angle is zero, the system will
apply a 5 angle in default.
Tip To change the Rotation angle refer to the Move Fig.

help topic.
Shape 2000 4-94

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Split Fig.
Basic icons Convert the individual contours that make up the figure, into figures in their
own right, i.e. the contour will be allocated a figure number when this
process is applied.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Split Fig. icon.
Result
Select a start point ! prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the contour point.
Result
A figure number will appear.
Tip If you dont click the contour point, the following alert
will appear. Click OK. Press Esc to clear the last
command and start again.
4. Continue to click the required contour points to convert them

to figures.
Shape 2000 4-95

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Combine Fig.
Basic icons Combines two or more figures into a single figure after which the
combination will be treated as one.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Combine Fig. icon.
Result
Select first figure ! prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the figure point.
Result
Select last figure! prompt appears in the message display.
4. Left click the second figure point.
Result
The figures automatically combine.
Tip To reverse/undo the process, use the Restore Fig.

function.
Shape 2000 4-96

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Rect. Array
Basic icons From one part on the screen an array up and to the right is created.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Rect. Array icon.
Note
When there is only one figure, the Input box will
automatically appear.
When there is more than one figure, the following
prompt will appear in the message display:
Which figure?
Left click the point of the figure to be arrayed and the
Input box will appear.
Result
2.1 X offset / Y Offset

Set the X, Y offset.
2.2 X gap / Y gap

Enter the minimum distance between parts (gap) or
accept the default setting.
Shape 2000 4-97

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Rect. Array
Basic icons
Operation
2.3 Click OK.
Result
3. Input number of figures in the X and Y direction.
4. Click OK.
Result
5. Confirm the cutting sequence:
Yes = X direction first

No = Y direction first.
Result
The array of figures appear on the workspace.
Shape 2000 4-98

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Rings Array
Basic icons Forms staggered columns/rows of round parts.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Use Fast Move to position the part in the left bottom corner.
3. Click the Rings Array icon.
Result
4. Enter the gap required between parts or accept the default

setting as automatically displayed in the Input Parameter box.
5. Click OK.
Result
6. Choose which method of compacting, across the X axis or

across the Y axis (the quantity of parts possible from the
specific plate size is indicated for each method) from the list
selection .
Shape 2000 4-99

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Rings Array
Basic icons
Operation
7. Click OK.
Result
8. Enter the number of parts in the X and Y direction or accept

the systems calculated maximum quantity.
9. Click OK.
Result
The figures automatically array.
Shape 2000 4-100

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Circular Array
Basic icons From one part on the screen a circular array is created. The parts are
rotated along the array circle.
Operation
1. Click N.
Result
Center of array? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Move the mouse freehand to the required X, Y coordinate

position and click to enter the center point of the array.
Result
4. Input the number of parts to be evenly distributed along the

circle.
5. Click OK.
Result
The figures automatically array.
Shape 2000 4-101

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Restore Fig.
Basic icons Reverse/undo a move made on one or more figures.
Example 1
When a nest of parts has been recalled to the screen via Add Figure , it is
recalled as a single figure, regardless of the number of contours that form
this figure. This function restores the separate figure numbers, as originally
designed.
Example 2
Combine Fig. has joined a selection of figures into one. This can be undone
by clicking Restore Fig.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Restore Fig. icon.
Result
Which figure? prompt appears in the message display
(when there is more than one figure on screen).
3. Left click the point of the figure to be restored.
Result
The separate figure numbers appear.
Shape 2000 4-102

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
ReOrder Fig.
Basic icons Cancel a selection of figure numbers and manually re-apply them in a
different order.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the ReOrder Fig. icon.
Result
Select first figure! prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the point of the first figure of the group to be re-
organised.
Result
Select last figure ! prompt appears in the message display.
4. Click the point of the last figure.
Result
A star will replace each figure number, inclusive.
Position figure (no.) prompt appears in the message display.
5. Left click each star, in the new order, to replace it with the
required figure number.
6. Click Esc to exit the function.
Shape 2000 4-103

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Auto ReOrder Fig.
Basic icons Have the computer reorder the figure numbers based on a standard
pattern.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Auto ReOrder Fig. icon.
Result
3. Select the order type from the list selection box. This is the
path that the torch will take.
4. Click OK.
Result
The figure numbers will change in accordance with the pattern
selected.
Shape 2000 4-104

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Alter Traverse
Basic icons View the traverse and alter the course of the torch. Use F3 to toggle the
traverse lines on/off.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Alter Traverse icon.
Result
Pink traverse lines appear between the figures.
3. Right click the mouse somewhere on the required traverse

line.
Result
Drag traverse! prompt appears in the message display. The
traverse line highlights in white.
4. Drag the traverse line to the new position. Right click the
mouse to release it into position.
Tip Use F3 to toggle the traverse lines on/off.
Shape 2000 4-105

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Parts Parameters
Basic icons Displays and allows changes of the part identification and quantities
required.
Only individually saved parts can be dealt with.
Shape 2000 4-106

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Nest Report
Basic icons Print the parameters for the current nest, including additional estimating
information such as cutting speed, cut path length, traverse length, number
of corners, number of starts and time required for the task.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Have the nest visible in the graphic window.
3. Click the Nest Report icon.
Result
Printer Ready? prompt box appears.
4. Click Yes to send the report to the printer or No if a printout is

not required.
Result
The report will appear on screen.
5. Close the nestReport window to exit the function.
View Parts
Select a particular part of a nest. All identical parts will be highlighted and
their count displayed.
Shape 2000 4-107

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Cut Simulation
Basic icons Preview the cut sequence on screen.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Cut Simulation icon.
Result
Select start figure! prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the figure point.
Result
The cut simulation starts.
Tip Increase animation speed by repeatedly clicking the

right mouse.
Stop the simulation any time during the cycle by

rolling the wheel of the mouse, or press Esc.
Press F7 to toggle the arrows on/off, to view the cut

direction of each figure.
Related topic
To change the direction, go to
F> Modify Figure> Reverse Direction icon.
Shape 2000 4-108

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Change Sheet
Basic icons Unlike the Clear Sheet command (from the main menu), this changes the
sheet and grid size without deleting the existing figures or geometry. This is
particularly useful when the operator wants to change the screen size from
an average part size to the size of the sheet that the parts are to be cut
from. This will allow tight nesting on the actual cutting sheet.
The material thickness and type can also be specified; if not, the machine
defaults will be used.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Change Sheet icon.
Result
The Input box appears.
3. Enter the required parameters.
4. Click OK.
Result
The new sheet size will be applied.
Shape 2000 4-109

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Miscellaneous icon functions
Scale Fig.
Miscellaneous Proportionally enlarge or reduces all dimensions of a part.

icons
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Scale Fig. icon.
Result
3. Click the point of the figure.

Result
4. Input the required scale factor.

Tip The scale factor is a ratio. For example, Scale factor
2 would double the size of the part. To reduce this
example scale factor back to original size, input 0.5.
5. Click OK.
Result
The figure will adjust accordingly.
In this screen example, Figure 1 represents the original

figure (X200.0,Y200.0). Figure 2 represents what the figure
looks like with the scale factor applied. The new
dimensions become X400.0,Y400.0.
Shape 2000 4-110

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Expand Fig.
Miscellaneous Enlarge or reduce the size of a part (in inches or mm) by moving the
icons outside perimeter a constant distance out/in.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Expand Fig. icon.
Result
3. Left click the point of the figure.
Result
4. Input the expand offset value.

5. Click OK.
Result
The figure will adjust accordingly.
In this screen example, Figure 1 represents the original

figure (X200.0,Y200.0). Figure 2 represents what the figure
looks like with the expand offset applied. The new
dimensions become X220.0,Y220.0, as all four sides have
expanded by 10mm. To reduce back to original size, input
10.
Shape 2000 4-111

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Flip Fig.
Miscellaneous Flip a figure (mirror image). When a figure is flipped, the original kerf
icons compensation is changed to the new figure and the cutting sequence is
reversed.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Flip Fig. icon.
Result
3. Left click the point of the figure.
Result
Position of flipped part? prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Drag the mouse to the new X,Y position (refer to the

coordinates on the message display for guidance), and left
click the mouse to place the figure in the new position.
Original position
Flipped position
Shape 2000 4-112

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Bridge Cut
Miscellaneous Bridge cutting applies to separate parts that are kept together with bridges.
icons The bridges may prevent small parts from falling down the worktable, or
improve parts handling after cutting. Bridge cutting results in a lower
number of pierces.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Bridge Cut icon.
Result
Nothing seems to happen. There are no prompts in the
message display.
3. Left click the mouse somewhere on the workspace to activate

the Dialog box.
Result
4. Input the required parameters. Click OK.
Result
1st segment bridge pt! prompt appears in the message
display.
5. Left click the mouse on the first segment.
Result
2nd segment bridge pt! prompt appears in the message
display.
6. Left click the second segment.
Result
The system draws the bridge and the two figures become
one.
Shape 2000 4-113

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Delete Bridge
Miscellaneous Delete a bridge cut.

icons
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Bridge Cut icon.
Result
Nothing seems to happen. A prompt does not appear in the
message display, although the cursor is in cross mode,
indicating an action is required.
3. Left click the mouse somewhere on the workspace.
Result
Position a bridge line! prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Left click the mouse on the bridge.
Result
The bridge disappears. Position next bridge line! prompt
appears. Ignore this.
Shape 2000 4-114

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Common Cut
Miscellaneous This refers to a cut being effective to two parts. Cutting a plate into strips is
icons efficient because all inside cuts result in a part on both sides of the cut.
Treat the gap like a kerf.
Operation
1. Start with the figures.
2. Click N.
3. Click the Common Cut icon.
Result
1st common line prompt appears in the message display.
4. Left click the mouse somewhere on the line of the first figure.
Result
2nd common line prompt appears in the message display.
5. Left click the mouse somewhere on the line of the second

figure.
5.1 Enter the gap. Treat the gap like a kerf. The cut will
be made between the figures, in this example, 4mm
either side of the cut line.
5.2 Click OK.
Result
Nothing seems to happen, although the 2nd common line
prompt remains in the message display.
Shape 2000 4-115

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Common Cut
Miscellaneous Operation
icons
6. Left click the mouse somewhere on the second figure line.
Result
The second figure moves 8mm from the first figure.
At this stage, there are two figure numbers. Click Esc

to exit the function, then exit N mode (for example,
click F). This will refresh the screen, and the two
figures will infact be one.
Tip Use the Cut Simulation icon located in N> Basic to

view the cut path.
Delete ComCut
Delete a common cut.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Delete ComCut icon.
Result
Select common line prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse on the common line.
Result
The parts separate as the gap is restored.
Tip Use the Split Fig. icon located in N> Basic if you wish
to restore the parts to two separate figures.
Shape 2000 4-116

ICON OVERVIEW
N (Nest)
Delete Fig.
How to use icons Remove a range of figures in one action. The remaining figures will
automatically re-number.
Operation
1. Click N.
2. Click the Delete Fig. icon.
Result
3. Left click the point of the first figure in the range.
Result
4. Left click the point of the last figure.
Result
The outline of the selected figures changes to white and the

5. Click OK.
Result
The selected figures are removed. The remaining figures
are automatically re-numbered.
Shape 2000 4-117

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
The Geometry module is used to meet conditions between construction elements, e.g. two elements are made to
have just one point in common. These elements, consisting of points, lines, arcs and circles, can be joined
together to form the outline of a complex shape. Parts of this shape can be traced using the F (Figure) module,
and thus become a part of the actual tool path.
Shape 2000 4-118

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Open .g file
Basic icons Recall previously saved geometry to the workspace.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Open .g file icon.
Tip This icon is permanently displayed in the main tool

bar. The same icon is also available in the Geometry
module.
Result
Test.g
3. Highlight the required file from the list.
4. Click Open.
Result
The saved geometry opens on the workspace exactly as
originally created.
Shape 2000 4-119

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Undo Geom
Basic icons Click this icon once to undo the last geometry point/line/circle created.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Undo Geom icon.
Result
The last geometry point/line/circle created is removed from
screen.
Tip Repeatedly click to remove geometry step by step,

in reverse. To remove all geometry at once, use
DeleteAll Geom .
DeleteAll Geom
Delete all geometry in one command.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the DeleteAll Geom icon.
Result
Result
All geometry is removed from screen.
Shape 2000 4-120

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Delete Fig. delete a figure
Basic icons Remove one or a range of figures in one action. The remaining figures will
automatically re-number.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Delete Fig. icon.
Result
3. Left click the point of the first figure in the range.
Result
4. Left click the point of the last figure.
Result
The outline of the selected figures changes to white and the

5. Click OK.
Result
The selected figures are removed. The remaining figures
are automatically re-numbered.
Shape 2000 4-121

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create points
Cursor Position point at cursor position
Define Point icons Create a geometry point.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Cursor Position icon.
Result
Point position? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Position text:
Method 1
Method 2
position.
Tip The function remains active allowing you to continue

creating geometry points.
Shape 2000 4-122

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create points
Intersection point at an intersection
Define Point icons Create a geometry point at an intersection.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Intersection icon.
Result
Which intersection? prompt appears in the message
display.
3. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the required

intersecting geometry lines.

creating intersection points.
Shape 2000 4-123

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create points
Circle Center center point of a circle
Define Point icons Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Circle Center icon.
Result
Which circle? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the required centre
of a geometry circle.

creating intersection points.
Shape 2000 4-124

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create points
Line DistPoint point on a line at a distance to a point
Define Point icons Create a geometry point on a line, at a nominated distance from another
point.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Line DistPoint icon.
Result
Which line? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the cursor somewhere on the required line.
Result
Distance to which point? prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Left click the point on the required line that the new point will
measure from (see the screen view below. The new point is to
be 40mm from the corner).
Result
5. Input the distance the new point is to be from the start point.
6. Click OK.
Result
The geometry point appears in the nominated position.
40mm
new pt
Shape 2000 4-125

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create points
Delete Point
Define Point icons Individually delete geometry points.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Delete Point icon.
Result
Which point prompt appears in the message display.
3. Position the cursor as close as possible and left click the

mouse to snap to the point.

deleting geometry points.
Shape 2000 4-126

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Two Points line through two points
Define Line icons Draw a line through two points.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Two Points icon.
Result
3. Position the cursor:
Method 1
Left click the mouse to snap the point to grid (F5).
Tip The grid lines must be on. If not, left clicking the
mouse will snap the point to the nearest
figure/contour point.
Method 2
Right click the mouse to release the point at the cursor
position.
Result
Second point? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Position the cursor and click to release the point.
Result
The second point will appear and the system will automatically
draw a line between the two points.

creating two point lines.
Shape 2000 4-127

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Pt Tangent line through a point tangent to a circle
Define Line icons Draw a line through a known point and tangential to a known circle.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Pt Tangent icon.
Result
Through which point? prompt appears in the message
display.
3. Position the cursor and right click to create the start point of
the line.
Result
Approx tangent point? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Position the cursor at the approximate location of the tangent

point (left/right/over/under) on the circle. Right click the mouse
to release the point.
Result
The system draws a line between the two points.
Pt 2
tangent point
Pt 1
start of line
Shape 2000 4-128

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Pt AngXaxis line through a point at an angle to X axis
Define Line icons Draw a line through a known point, at a specified angle to the X axis.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Pt AngXaxis icon.
Result
display.
3. Position the cursor at the point the line is to run through, and
right click to release it at that location.
Result
4. Enter the angle, for example 45. Click OK.
Result
The system draws a line at the required angle to the X axis.
45
Shape 2000 4-129

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Pt Parallel line through a point parallel to a line
Define Line icons Draw a line through a known point, parallel to an existing line.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Pt Parallel icon.
Result
3. Click the existing line that the new line is to run parallel to.
Result
display.
4. Position the cursor at the point which the new line is to run,
and click to release the point at that location.
Result
The system draws a line identical to the original at the
nominated position.
Shape 2000 4-130

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Pt Perp line through a point perpendicular to a line
Define Line icons Draw a line through a known point, at a right angle to an existing line.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Pt Perp icon.
Result
3. Click the existing line that the new line is to run perpendicular
(at right angle) to.
Result
display.
4. Position the cursor at the point which the new line is to run,
and click to release the point at that location.
Result
The system draws a line perpendicular to the original.
Shape 2000 4-131

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Pt AngYaxis line through a point at an angle to Y axis
Define Line icons Draw a a line through a known point, at a specified angle to the Y axis.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Pt AngYaxis icon.
Result
display.
3. Right click the mouse to release the point at the position the
line is to run through.
Result
4. Enter the angle, for example 45. Click OK.
Result
The system draws a line at the required angle to the Y axis.
45
Shape 2000 4-132

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Pt Angline line through a point at an angle to a line
Define Line icons Draw a line through a known point, at a specified angle to an existing line.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Pt Angline icon.
Result
3. Click somewhere on the existing line.
Result
display.
4. Right click the mouse to release the point at the position the
line is to run through.
Result
5. Enter the required angle and the number of lines to draw from
the point. Click OK.
Result
The system draws a line through the point, at the specified
angle. Use the Angle Dim function to check the angle is
correct. Go to F>Drill Dimension> Angle Dim .
Shape 2000 4-133

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Pt Gradient line through a point at a given radius
Define Line icons Draw a line at a known gradient, where the gradient of a line is defined as
the ratio of the Y rise of the line divided by the X run of the line (rise/run).
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Pt Gradient icon.
Result
display.
3. Left click the mouse to release the point at the position the line
is to run through.
Result
The Input Parameter box appears prompting What gradient.
4. Determine what gradient, i.e. Y/X. Look at the screen view

example. 150/150 = 1
5. Enter the gradient of the new line. Click OK.
Result
Shape 2000 4-134

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Offset Line line offset from a line
Define Line icons Draw a line parallel to an existing line at a known perpendicular distance
from the existing line.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Offset Line icon.
Result
3. Left click somewhere on the existing line.
Result
4. Enter the Offset distance and Number of lines (if more than
one). Click OK.
Result
Approx. position of line? prompt appears in the message
display.
5. Left click the mouse on the workspace to indicate which side

to draw the line.
Result
The system draws a perpendicular line, at the specified offset.
Shape 2000 4-135

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Bisect 2Lines line bisecting two lines
Define Line icons Make a line that will bisect (divide in two equal parts) the angle between
two existing lines. The existing lines may be parallel in which case the
bisecting line runs right between the lines.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Bisect 2Lines icon.
Result
3. Left click somewhere on the first existing line.
Result
Second line? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Left click somewhere on the second existing line.
Result
Where will the line run? prompt appears in the message
display.
5. Left click the mouse to indicate where the line is to run.
Result
The system draws a line.
Tip Use the Angle Dim function to find the angle

values. Go to F>Drill Dimension> Angle Dim .
Shape 2000 4-136

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Median Pts line at median between two points
Define Line icons Draw a line midway between two points of an existing line.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Median Pts icon.
Result
3. Left click on the first point (in this example Figure 1 point).
Result
A red geometry point is drawn. The Second point? prompt
appears in the message display.
4. Left click at the end of the existing line.
Result
A red geometry point is drawn and a line is simultaneously
created at the median point.
Tip Use the Linear Dim function to check the

distances are equal. Go to F>Drill Dimension>
Linear Dim .
Shape 2000 4-137

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Tang 2Circles line tangent to two circles
Define Line icons Draw a line that is tangential to two circles. As there are four possible
positions where such a line can lie, the region in which the line will pass
must be indicated.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tang 2Circles icon.
Result
Approx 1st tangent point? prompt appears in the message
display.
3. Position the cursor at the approximate tangent point of the first

circle and click the mouse.
Result
Approx 2nd tangent point? prompt appears in the message
display.
4. Position the cursor at the approximate tangent point of the

second circle and click the mouse.
Result
A red point appears at the position of the 1st and 2nd point
and the system draws a line between them.
1st point
2nd point
Shape 2000 4-138

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Tang Angle line tangent to a circle at a given angle
Define Line icons Draw a line that is tangential to a circle and at a known angle to the X axis.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tang Angle icon.
Result
Approx tangent point? prompt appears in the message
display.
3. Position the cursor at the approximate tangent point of the

circle and click the mouse.
Result
4. Input the required angle to the X axis. Click OK.
Result
A red geometry line is drawn at the specified angle (in this
example, at 45).
Shape 2000 4-139

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create lines
Delete Line
Define Line icons Delete a line.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Delete Line icon.
Result
Which line prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse somewhere on the line.
Result
The line is removed. The function remains active allowing you
to continue deleting lines.
Shape 2000 4-140

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Center Radius circle using center and radius
Define Circle icons Draw a circle of a specified radius at a nominated location.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Define Circle icon.
Result
3. Position the center point:
Method 1
Method 2
position.
Result
4. Enter the required radius. Click OK.
Result
The system draws a geometry circle around the center
point.
Tip Check the radius of the new circle is correct. Go to

the F> Drill Dimension> Radius Dim icon and follow
the prompts in the message display.
Shape 2000 4-141

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Three Points circle passing through three points
Define Circle icons Draw a circle through three existing points.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Create the three points or locate the existing three points.
3. Click the Three Points icon.
Result
4. Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the first point,
second point and third point.
Result
The system draws a circle between the three points and
creates the corresponding center point.
Shape 2000 4-142

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Three Points circle passing through three points
Define Circle icons

Operation
Tip To determine the diameter and/or radius

dimensions, use the Diameter Dim and Radius Dim
functions in the F> Drill Dimension module. To do
this, attach a figure or contour point to one of the
geometry points, so the function will activate.
Shape 2000 4-143

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Radius TwoPoint circle with given radius, through two pts
Define Circle icons

Draw a circle through two existing points and let the system determine the
radius.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Radius TwoPoint icon.
Result
3. Left click the mouse to snap to the existing point.
Result
4. Left click the mouse to snap to the second existing point.
Result
5. Click the mouse anywhere on the workspace to bring up the

Input Parameter dialogue box.
6. Click OK to accept the given radius.
Result
The system draws a circle between the two points.
Tip Check the radius of the new circle. Go to F> Drill
Dimension> Radius Dim icon and follow the prompts.
Shape 2000 4-144

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Tangent 3Lines circle tangent to three lines
Define Circle icons Create a circle that lies tangential to three existing lines.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tangent 3Lines icon.
Result
3. Position the cursor somewhere on the first existing line and left
click to select (the order of selection is not important).
Result
4. Repeat to select the second and third line.
Result
5. Left click the mouse in the area where the circle is to be

drawn.
Result
The system draws the circle between the three lines.

Shape 2000 4-145

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Rad Tang2Lines circle tangent to 2 lines with given radius
Define Circle icons Draw a circle by specifying the two lines it runs tangential to and the radius
of the circle.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Rad Tang2Lines icon.
Result
3. Position the cursor somewhere on the first existing line and left
click to select (the order of selection is not important).
Result
4. Repeat to select the second.
Result
5. Left click the mouse in the area where the circle is to be

drawn.
Result
6. Click OK to accept the given radius.
Result
The system draws a circle between the two lines.

Shape 2000 4-146

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Tangent RadiusPt circle through a pt & tangent to a line
Define Circle icons Draw a circle of a specified radius that runs tangential to an existing line,
through a known point.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tangent RadiusPt icon.
Result
Tangent line? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Position the cursor somewhere on the required line and left

click to select.
Result
Passing point? prom pt appears in the message display.
4. Left click to snap the cursor to an existing point, or right click

to release a new point into position.
Result
5. Left click the mouse at the approximate position of the circle

center, to indicate where the circle is to be drawn.
Result
6. Input the radius (in this example 100). Click OK.
Result
The system draws the circle with the specified radius.

Shape 2000 4-147

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Tangent 2Points circle through 2 pts & tangent to a line
Define Circle icons Draw a circle that runs through two points and tangential to an existing line.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tangent 2Points icon.
Result
Tangent line? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Position the cursor somewhere on the required line and left

click to select.
Result

Result

Result

Result
The system draws the circle between the two points and
tangential to the line.
Pt 1
Pt 2
existing line

Shape 2000 4-148

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Tangent 2OutC circle tangent to two outside circles
Define Circle icons Draw a circle of a given radius that runs tangential to two existing circles
that lie outside the new circle.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tangent 2OutC icon.
Result
First circle? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click to select the first existing circle.
Result
Second circle? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Left click to select the second existing circle.
Result

Result
6. Accept the system radius or input the required radius. Click

OK.
Result
The system draws the geometry circle.
Shape 2000 4-149

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Tangent 2IncC circle tangent to two inside circles
Define Circle icons Draw a circle of a given radius that runs tangential to two existing circles
that lie inside the new circle.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tangent 2IncC icon.

Result
First circle? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click to select the first existing circle.
Result
Second circle? prompt appears in the message display.
Result

Result
6. Accept the system radius or input the required radius. Click

OK.
Result
The system draws the geometry circle around the existing
circles.
Shape 2000 4-150

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Tangent OutInC circle tangent to inside & outside circles
Define Circle icons Draw a circle of a given radius that runs tangential to two circles, one that
lies inside the new circle and the other outside the new circle.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tangent OutInC icon.

Result
Ins ide circle? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click to select the existing circle to be inside the new

geometry circle.
Result
Outside circle? prompt appears in the message display.
Result

Result
6. Accept the system radius. Click OK.
Result
Shape 2000 4-151

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Tangent LineC circle of given size tangent to existing circle

& line
Define Circle icons Draw a circle that runs tangent to an existing line and circle.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tangent LineC icon.

Result
3. Left click to select the existing line.
Result
4. Left click to select the existing circle.
Result

Result
Result
Shape 2000 4-152

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Tangent PointC circle tangent to an outside circle, through

a point & of a given radius
Define Circle icons Draw a circle that runs tangential to an outside of an existing circle, passing
through a known point and is of a given radius.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tangent PointC icon.

Result
Result
Through which point? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Left click to snap the cursor to the existing point (the new
circle will run through this point).
Result
Result
6. Left click the mouse at the approximate position of the

circle center, to indicate where the circle is to be drawn.
Result
existing pt
new circle
existing circle
Shape 2000 4-153

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Tangent PointInC - circle tangent to an inside circle, through

a point & of given radius
Define Circle icons Draw a circle that runs tangential to, and around an existing circle, passes
through a point and is of a given radius.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Tangent PointC icon.

Result
Result
Through which point? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Left click to snap the cursor to the existing point (the new
circle will run through this point).
Result
Result
6. Left click the mouse at the approximate position of the

circle center, to indicate where the circle is to be drawn.
Result
existing pt
new circle
Shape 2000 4-154

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Define Arc
Define Circle icons Draw an arc by specifying the starting point of the arc, the center of the arc
and the angle the arc subtends (stretches) about its center. The system will
draw a circle on which the arc has been marked by points.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Define Arc icon.

Result
Center of arc? prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click to snap the cursor to an existing point or right click to

release a new point into position.
Result
Start point of arc? prompt appears in the message display.
4. Left click to snap the cursor to an existing point or right click to

release a new point into position.
Result
5. Input the arc angle (in this example 45). Click OK.
Result
The system draws the arc, as shown below, then as stage
two of the process, complete the circle drawing, retaining
the arc points. If the circle does not appear, click out of G to
another menu, and back again.
center of arc pt
start arc pt
arc drawn at 45
Shape 2000 4-155

ICON OVERVIEW
G (Geometry)
Create circles
Delete Circle
Define Circle icons Delete a circle.
Operation
1. Click G.
2. Click the Delete Circle icon.

Result
Which circle prompt appears in the message display.
3. Left click the mouse somewhere on the circle.
Result
The circle will be deleted.
Tip The Which circle prompt remains in the message

display indicating the function is still active. Repeat
to continue.
The geometry points of the deleted circle remain on

screen. Use the Delete Point function to remove
these, if required.
Shape 2000 4-156

ICON OVERVIEW
Zoom tools
The Zoom functions allow you to magnify or reduce the view of the part on screen and to pan across the screen.
Tip The zoom icons are on permanent display as they are not available through the pull down menu.
Zoom Extent
Zoom icon panel Reduce the size of the screen to its full extent. If parts are positioned
outside of the set sheet size and are not visible when in normal view, this
function will reduce the size of the screen to show all parts.
Operation
1. Click the Zoom Extent icon.
Result
The screen automatically reduces in one motion to reveal
parts drawn outside the normal sheet size.
Fig. 1 within normal view
Zoom Extent reveals Fig. 2

outside normal view
2. Press Zoom Reset to restore to normal view.
Shape 2000 4-157

ICON OVERVIEW
Zoom tools
Zoom Pan
Zoom icon panel Pan around the screen.
Operation
1. Click the Zoom Pan icon.
Result
The cursor anchors at the center point of the window. At
the same tim e the Center of window? prompt appears in
the message display.
1.1 Drag the cursor across the screen in the required

direction.
Result
A white highlight line appears.
1.2 Click the mouse to stop the white line.
Result
The view pans to that location. Although the white
line disappears, it is still active. Simply drag the
mouse to reactivate it and continue panning.
anchor point

Shape 2000 4-158

ICON OVERVIEW
Zoom tools
Zoom In
Zoom icon panel Magnify the view.
Operation
1. Click the Zoom In icon.
Result
Drag a zoom rectangle! prompt appears in the message
display.
2. Position the cursor somewhere outside of the shape to be

magnified.
2.1 Left click the mouse to establish an anchor point.

2.2 Hold and drag the mouse to bring up the white
highlight lines. Capture the shape in its entirety or
part of.
2.3 Left click the mouse to establish the end point.
Result
The shape will automatically enlarge. The prompt remains
in the message display indicating the function is still active,
therefore continue to enlarge the view even further.
Tip Restore the graphic to its original position in one

motion, by clicking the Zoom Reset icon, or
incrementally using Zoom Out .
Shape 2000 4-159

ICON OVERVIEW
Zoom tools
Zoom Out
Zoom icon panel Restore the enlarged view incrementally to its original size, i.e. reverse the
magnifications made using Zoom In. For example, if the figure on screen
was enlarged x2, Zoom Out will reduce the size by the same two
increments.
Operation
1. Click the Zoom Out icon.
Result
The enlarged shape will reduce by one increment.
2. Continue to click the icon until the desired view is reached.
Zoom Reset
Restore the enlarged view to its original size in one motion.
Operation
1. Click the Zoom Reset icon.
Result
The enlarged shape is restored to its original size.
Shape 2000 4-160

ICON OVERVIEW
Open files
Open an existing file onto a new sheet, or add it to the current screen drawing.
Recent .a
Open files icon Reload an .a file recently opened.

panel
Operation
1. Click the Recent .a icon.
Result
A list selection box appears.
2. Highlight the required filename and click OK.
Result
Result
4. Click Yes or No as required.
Result
The graphic will open onto the current screen.
Shape 2000 4-161

ICON OVERVIEW
Open files
Open .a
Open files icon Open an .a file from the system folder.

panel
Operation
1. Click the Open .a icon.

Result

Result
If you click then.

Yes the message box below immediately
appears.
No the New position? prompt
appears in the message display.
Press V or I at the keyboard to

input exact X, Y coordinate
values into the Input Cursor
Position box, or right click the
mouse at the required position
on the workspace.
Result
The message box below
appears.
Result

Result
The graphic will open onto the current screen.
Shape 2000 4-162

ICON OVERVIEW
Open files
Open .g
Open files icon Open a .g file from the system folder.

panel
Operation
1. Click the Open .n icon.

Result
Result
The saved geometry appears on screen.
Open .n
Open an .n file from the system folder.
Operation
1. Click the Open .n icon.

Result

Result
Shape 2000 4-163

ICON OVERVIEW
Open files
Open .dxf
Open files icon Open a .dxf file from the system folder.
panel
Note
A detailed section about dxf file operations is currently being written. You will be supplied
with an updated version of this Shape manual when complete.
Shape 2000 4-164

ICON OVERVIEW
Save files
Saving is normally done after file creation or modification. The reason why this topic is placed first, apparently out
of sequence, is that you should be aware of the following:
Warning!
Shape 2000 does not save at regular intervals. Like in most expert software, this is done to give the user full
control over every step. Autosave could result in loss of a deliberately saved intermediate step of the figure
development.
When saving a new file you will be prompted to input a name. When saving an existing file it will, by default, be
saved under its original name unless a new name is typed in. When saving a file under a new name, the file with
the original name will remain available unchanged.
Tip A quick save for *.a* files is available by pressing Ctrl S.
When opening an existing file, it will be added onto the current screen drawing. If required, save the existing
screen; then clear the screen to open the file on a blank screen.
The Save icons are used to store the on screen information for a particular purpose. The save mode can be used
to:
Save.a
Save part profiles as an .a file.This file type contains all cut path (with tool and machine data) information to
generate the NC program. So, when drawing your design in Figure mode, this is saved as an .a file.
Refer to the operating instruction following for an example of how to save a figure to an .a file.
Save.g
Save geometry elements as a .g file, to be retrieved for later use. This file type stores the geometry data that are
used to mathematically describe and position the cut path. These support data are only needed during the design
phase of the tool paths.
Save.n
Contains the machine codes. The machine operator uses this file to run the actual cutting process.
Save.dxf
A data transfer standard file. To enable the exchange between different drawing software packages, the dxf file
serves as the common language between drawing standards.
Shape 2000 4-165

ICON OVERVIEW
Save files
Save to an .a file
Icon panel
Operation
1. Click the Save .a icon.

Result
The Save As window appears.
Tip Look at the Save in: field. Your file will automatically
save into a Shape system folder titled Spart .
2. Go to the File name: field and key in the name.
3. Click Save .
Result
Tip If you do not require this information box, go to

Settings> Save .a file in DB> and select off.
4. Key in the required details. Use this to store unique identifying

details about the part.
5. Click OK.
Result
The figure has been saved as an .a file.
Shape 2000 4-166

ICON OVERVIEW
Save files
Save to a .g file
Icon panel
Operation
1. Click the Save .g icon.

Result
save into a Shape system folder titled Sgeom .
3. Click Save .
Save to an .n file
Operation
1. Click the Save .n icon.

Result
save into a Shape system folder titled Nests .

3. Click Save .
Result
4. Key in the required details.

5. Click OK.
Result
The system generates the NC code.

6. Exit the Notepad code window.
Shape 2000 4-167

ICON OVERVIEW
Save files
Save to a .dxf file
Icon panel
Operation
1. Click the Save .dxf icon.

Result
save into a Shape system folder titled Sgeom .
3. Click Save .
Result
4. Accept the First Figure No. / Last Figure No. or change as

required.
5. Click OK.
Shape 2000 4-168

ICON OVERVIEW
Other icons
Plot Parts (print a hardcopy)
Icon panel
Print a hardcopy of the figure/s on screen.
Operation
1. Click the Plot Parts icon.

Result
2. Nominate the printing parameters required from the above

options.
3. Click Print.
Result
The system will send the design to the active printer.
Shape 2000 4-169

ICON OVERVIEW
Other icons
Show Ruler (use to measure distances on screen)
Icon panel Activate the ruler as a quick and easy way to measure distances on
screen.
Operation
1. Click the Show Ruler icon.

Result
Anchor point? prompt appears in the message display.
2. Left click the mouse to snap to the required start point (an
actual point does not have to exist, as long as you identify the
start and end so the system can calculate the distance).
Result
The Anchor Point X,Y coordinates appear in the message
display. These remain constant indicating the start of the
measurement. A white ruler line is activated.
3. Drag the line and left click to snap to the end point. The line
highlights in pink. Hold the mouse steady.
4. Refer to the message display.

len (length): =200
ang (angle): is 90
Alternatively, use the Linear Dim icon (located in

F> Drill Dimension) as shown in the screen view
above.
Shape 2000 4-170

ICON OVERVIEW
Material and tools
Upon installation of Shape 2000 the defaults are prepared for the customers applications. After this, except for the
default directories, all options come up with the last used figures as default values.
Since the material and tools need to be known for creating an NC program; of the icons shown, the five rightmost
icons should be clicked to check/change the values.
Each contour can have its own tool settings.
Clear Sheet (start a new workspace)
Icon panel To start a new sheet, the screen must be cleared of all existing figure and
geometry lines, material type and thickness set and dimensions of the
worksheet entered. Alternatively, use the main menu dropdown Settings>
Clear/Set. The same dialogue boxes result.
Warning!
Confirmation is required before the existing screen is wiped. The
Sure to clear sheet? prompt box will appear. Notice the prompt does
NOT offer to save the existing screen. Therefore, you must
remember to save the open file you have been working on, prior to
clearing the sheet, or data will be lost.
Operation
1. Save your work (if required), prior to starting this procedure.
2. Click the Clear Sheet icon.

Result
3. Click Yes to confirm you wish to clear the screen and lose
existing contents.
Result
Shape 2000 4-171

ICON OVERVIEW
Material and tools
Clear Sheet (start a new workspace)
Icon panel
Operation
4. Input the parameters into each required field. Click OK.
Result
The system changes the work dimensions. The new sheet size
and material will appear on the top most title bar of the Shape
2000 window.
How to change sheet details after initial setup
Use the Change Sheet icon located in N> Basic icon panel.
Shape 2000 4-172

ICON OVERVIEW
Material and tools
Step Segments
Icon panel Use this feature to highlight segments in order to clearly see where they
are placed.
Operation
1. Click the Step Segment icon.

Result
Select a segment! prompt appears in the message display.
2. Left click the mouse somewhere on the shape.
Result
The segment will highlight.
Tip Left click the mouse to move the cursor back to

the previous segment, and right click to move
forward to the next segment.
Shape 2000 4-173

ICON OVERVIEW
Material and tools
Set Tool (setup tool operating parameters)
Icon panel Use the Set Tool icon to set up the tool parameters for the cutting
operation. The data entered will apply to the next contours to be drawn.
The screen colour of the contour will change according to the tool number.
Operation
1. Click the Set Tool icon.

Result
2. Make the required selections:
Tool No Set according to the cutting operation.

Feedrate Set according to cutting specifications
Kerf Comp Set kerf compensation left, right or none.
Kerf Table Set the kerf value by nominating the kerf
offset table.
Auto Toggle the auto height sensing on or off.
Bevel Type None
Gradual the angle changes over the
current (leadin) segment
Round (default), the radius increases
with the bevel angle.
Loop if a sharp corner is required, the
bevel angle is adjusted while
going through the arc of the
loop. Loop to be minimum 15
mm. An error message appears
if the loop is too small.
3. Click OK.
Shape 2000 4-174

ICON OVERVIEW
Material and tools
Area Weight (calculate area and weight)
Icon panel Have the system calculate the area and weight of a part.
Operation
1. Click the Area Weight icon.

Result
2. Click OK.
Result
3. Click OK to remove the Area And Thickness window.
Shape 2000 4-175

ICON OVERVIEW
Material and tools
Step Tools (change tool parameters for a contour)
Icon panel
Use the Step Tools icon to change tool parameters for a selected contour.
Operation
1. Click the Step Tools icon.

Result
Select a figure! prompt appears in the message

display.
1.1 Left click the mouse to snap the cursor to the

required figure.
2. Find the required contour by clicking the Pre or Next icon to

move the highlight around the contours of the figure.
3. Change the tool parameters in the Step Tool/Rate box. Click

Done .
Result
The new tool parameters are applied to the selected
contour.
4. Click OK.
Shape 2000 4-176

ICON OVERVIEW
Material and tools
Replace Tool (change tool parameters for a range of figures)
Icon panel Use the Replace Tool icon to change tool parameters for a range of figures,
in one action.
Operation
1. Click the Replace Tool icon.

Result
2. Input the figure numbers (in a consecutive range, e.g. 1 4).

Click OK.
Result
Result
4. Highlight the required tool from the list selection box. Click OK.
Result
The Replace Tools Parameters box appears. Setup the
parameters (see Set Tool for more detail about the options).
5. Click OK.
Result
The tool parameters are applied to the range of selected
figures, and the graphics colour changes accordingly.
Shape 2000 4-177

ICON OVERVIEW
Material and tools
Machine Selection (change machine)
Icon panel Use the Machine Selection icon to choose the appropriate post processor
when generating the NC code for a particular machine. This information is
important as the NC code, generated for the on screen figures, will be
unique to the selected machine type.
Operation
1. Click the Machine Selection icon.

Result
2. Highlight the required option from the list selection box. Click
OK.
Shape 2000 4-178

ICON OVERVIEW
Material and tools
Number of Torches (state number of operational torches)
Icon panel Use the Number of Torches icon to let the system know with how many
torches and at which spacing an on screen part is going to be cut
simultaneously. This function is only to be used for machines with
individually driven carriages. If a machine with manual carriage spacing is
going to be used, comments at the start of the program should give proper
instructions for the machine operator. These comments can be entered
when saving a *.n* file.
Operation
1. Click the Number of Torches icon.
Result
2. Input the number of torches to be used and set the spacing

between the torches. Click OK.
Make sure that the machine has these many torches and
can handle the spacing.
Result
The system will save this information and when the NC
code is generated for this nest it will include the information
into the code.
Shape 2000 4-179

Operating Manual CHANGE HISTORY
CHANGE HISTORY
Rev
No. Issue Date Description Author
01 Oct 2006 Original issue. J. Sharp

Released to:
2115, 2117
Shape 2000

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G (Geometry) ........................................................................................................................................................ 4-127

Material and tools ................................................................................................................................................. 4-171

Shape 2000 1-1

Machine instruction codes

Start each program with a G90 (absolute programming) or G91 (incremental

Shape 2000 1-2

Machine instruction codes

Shape 2000 1-3

Machine instruction codes

M codes Code Description

T codes Perform the tool selection function.

Shape 2000 1-4

Machine instruction codes

Speed function codes.

Shape 2000 1-5

2. INSTALL SHAPE 2000

3.1 Open file sn.

3.2 Note the S/N: number.

3.3 Close the windows to return to the installation start up page.

Shape 2000 2-1

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

It is essential that you DO

Welcome to Shape 2000 Setup go to the Installation instruction

Shape 2000 2-2

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Tip There is no need to Exit the start up window. The following

Shape 2000 2-3

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

2.3 Highlight folder (e.g. Spart, Sgeom, nests, sdxf).

2.6 Repeat to move all required folders.

2.8 Close the Shape folder to return to the installation window.

Shape 2000 2-4

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

3.1 Click OK.

3.2 Click Yes .

Shape 2000 2-5

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

wait while the Setup Status select Yes, I want to restart my

The computer will automatically shutdown and restart. You are

4.1 Click Install shape .

Next step Go to the Installation instruction.

Shape 2000 2-6

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

1.1 Click Next>

Result: License Agreement

Read the License Agreement Read this next page

Shape 2000 2-7

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Key in your user information, Click Next>

Result: Setup Type Result: Select Program Folder

Select Setup Type option. Click Next>

Result: Setup Status Result: DAO Setup

Wait. Click Next>

Shape 2000 2-8

INSTALL SHAPE 2000

Click Next> Click Next>

Result: Setup Needs The Next Disk

Result: Copying Jet files

Shape 2000 2-9

INSTALL SHAPE 2000