APT System (Formerly UCC APT)

The Compatible APT System


Introduction

Austin N.C.'s APT (Automatically Programmed Tools) System, formerly known as UCC APT, is a fully supported traditional APT Processor that has earned the name "The Compatible APT System".   Compatibility switches for IBM 360/370, APTAC, UCCAPT, Univac APT, PC APT and UniAPT are a standard feature.

The APT System is an easy-to-use, high-level language for creating generalized NC tool motion.   The APT processor generates a series of cutter location points (CL file) that defines the cutter path.   These cutter paths serves as input for another program, call a postprocessor, which generates machine code to drive specific NC/CNC devices.

This APT System complies with ANSI X3.37 standards, including extensions such as CASE and LOGICAL IF.   In addition, a Lathe Module accommodates turning operations with simple machine-shop terminology.   Through user requests and innovative design our APT System has been continually enhanced to provide state-of-the-art features required in today's complex manufacturing environments.

The CIMpro Java interface, is supplied with the APT System.   This interface makes the part programming process intuitive and the programmer more productive.


APT Lathe Module

There are three main parts to the APT Lathe Module.

The LATHSQ (Lathe Sequence) statement is used to program a series of motion statements.   LATHSQ allows nested geometric definitions, computations, postprocessor commands, predefined APT geometry and scalar values or variables.   The LATHSQ processor generates cutting motion based on six commands:   TURN, TAPER, FILLET, FACE, CORNER and BORE.   With the cutting type specified as right or left-hand internal or external, the LATHSQ processor can make assumptions that relieve programmers from having to specify many details.   Furthermore, it will not allow cutter movements that conflict with the specified cutting type unless specifically requested, and important safety factor in programming lathes.

The THRDSQ (Threading Sequence) statement is a simple and convenient method for programming a threading operation.   With a description of the required thread, this processor will generate motion commands for internal and external threads, for right or left-hand threads, for tapered threads, for variable-pitch threads and for multiple-start threads.

The UTURN (Automatic Roughing) statement provides a simplified means of programming lathe roughing operations.   UTURN eliminates the need for individually programming the many moves required to rough out a given area. Instead, the user merely defines the boundary of the area and UTURN automatically generates all the immediate moves required to rough the part.   UTURN provides many optional features that give the programmer greater control over an operation to tailor the output for site-specific needs.


APT System Feature List



Curve Fitting (CRVFIT/ARC/NURBS)

The Curve Fitting (CRVFIT/ARC/NURBS) process converts a set of linear input points (GOTO/x,y,z(,i,j,k)) into an arc or NURBS motion that fits the tolerance and other given options.   This may reduce the length of the machine code file and/or generate a smoother machining operation.   The Curve Fitting process has been implemented in the APT System as an optional component and must be purchased seperatly.

To download the Curve Fitting document file or APT samples click on one of the links below.

Curve Fitting Document      APT Samples     


General Requirements

Microsoft Windows:   NT 4.0 (Service Pack 5 or higher), 2000 Professional, 2000 Server, XP Professional, 2003/2008 Server, Vista 32 and 64 bit and Windows 7.

UNIX:   SUN (Solaris 2.6), SGI (Irix 6.5), IBM (AIX 4.3.3) and HP (HPUX 11.0)
** These are the minimum version levels of each UNIX O/S supported.

Hardware:   Approximately 125MB of hard disk space is required for the complete system.