General Introduction

Inhaltsverzeichnis:
Prerequisites for the workstation computer Instructions, work descriptions, update Important information about the program The directory PROJECT Program registration Screen layout Keyboard commands + mouse key configuration Panning + Zoom The Aids Input parameter – Selection Input Input parameter – Selection Colour Input parameter – Selection Basic Setting | Input parameter – Selection AutoCorr Input parameter - Selection Text Effect The combined cursor – Keyboard Input Open using file linkage C alculator Customer service Milling data setting Automatic arc creation Export aids Tool input

AHSoft - Programs are comprehensive design and calculation solutions for the sphere of milling and engraving. They can be obtained in different variants and different designations and can also be supplemented at a later date. Independent of the scope of work some of the functions described here are not available in simpler programs. The program designation eSIGN is used in these instructions. Prerequisites for the workstation computer. For the installation of the program the computer should have the following minimum configuration. Windows 7/8/10 32/64 Bit with at least 1024 MByte main memory. Graphic VGA. resolution: at least 1024Pix.*768Pix. or higher. At least 16235 colours or more. Hard disk with at least 100MByte free space. 2 button, or better 3 button Mouse. Instructions, work specifications, update. Program updates are always possible when a newer version (Ver. 8.x) is offered on the internet page. For a program update you require the file CtlStrDat.ahs(.dll) for the release of your program. For a program update please note the details in the internet page. Important information about the program. These instructions describe the general user interface of the program. Please read through these carefully and completely. If you have questions about operation, then please first use Program help. This can be reached even with already activated functions using <F9> or with [?] and click on the function. The program supports the 3 button Mouse. The middle button <M> can be used for input, help, so far as it has not already been reconfigured by the operating system. Alternatively <F2> opens the same function. Function support using <Shift> (<^>): <^> and cursor movement at the edge of the graphic: Zoom - Relocation (Display list). Function support <R> (right Mouse key): if no function is active, pressing the right Mouse key in CAD opens the alternative menu (<F2>) for the selection aid. Function support Abort: almost all windows or inputs into the program can be aborted using the Mouse key <R> or using <Esc>. Only Windows standard windows have to be clicked on exclusively. Without previous written consent from AHSoft, it is forbidden to transfer to a third party or in any way to make available to a third party the Software or the associated written material. The Software. and the associated written material are protected by copyright. The right to the use of the Software can be transferred to a third party only with the previous written consent from AHSoft . The giving away, leasing and lending of the Software and the written accompanying material are strictly forbidden. The directory PROJECT. The program creates a subdirectory PROJECT. This directory is used together with the functions Open Project and Save Project. Under PROJECT you can save all data, also foreign data, which are linked with the current task. Using Save Project these data are packed and secured together in a target file. If, at a later date, you again open this Project, then all data are available again in the PROJECT directory. Program registration. Register your milling program. You can use our mail service only for registered programs (see Customer service) . Only users of registered programs can profit from our update service. Advantages for registered users: All registered programs can be upgraded to a more comprehensive configuration at any time. We offer favourable update/upgrade conditions. You receive program updates within the current main number (currently Ver.7.x) at no cost. AHSoft customers receive assistance with problems for program versions free per e-mail. Do you have particular engraving/milling problems? Contact AHSoft. Here you receive solutions and support directly from the developer. For program registration simply send an e-mail to AHSoft - Ing.-Büro A.Horn eMail: Info@AHSoftgravur.de Your registration should contain the following information: User code or, if you still do not have this, your reference source with precise program identification and your complete address.

Screen layout.
(1) | Text menu: Selection of the functions and program areas.
(2) | Processing status: Display of processing possibilities using the program: There are 3D data in the Projection layers (following a projection). There are milling data in the Tool layers (following the AutoCorrection). In the ActLayer there are 2D graphic data. These data can be processed using all functions as described. In the ActLayer there are 3D or milling data with tool and technology information. Here some processes can lead to errors (e.g. the correct data sequence is lost). In this case the user must decide whether this is wanted. Following clicking on the display using <M, F2> the Layer tool is indicated. If, with the indication 3D, there is tool information in the milling data, then this tool is indicated. Tool data can be modified in the list and rewritten in the data set. + A green traffic light indicates that the program is waiting for input, a red traffic light indicates that a function is active.
(3) | Commentary, Input: Commentaries give information on further operation. Numerical inputs also take place in this line.
(4) | Aids Button for marking, for graphic control, for parameters, etc. (see below).
(5) | Cursor position: The X/Y- cursor position in the graphic is shown above right in the display screen.
(6) | Graphic cursor: Here a cursor cross or arrow appears. The cursor is indicated under (5). The cursor line can be selected using Aids Input Parameters.
(7) | ICON Menu / Functions menu: ICON Menu (Symbol menu) for rapid manipulation using CAD, CAM and in Relief. The Icon Menu contains all functions of CAD, CAM and Reliefs. T he uppermost line serves for the switching between the program areas. The selectable functions are below this. All sub-menus and functions are selected sing the functions menu (Input Parameter. Basic Setting. Menu Form = Text) on the righthand edge of the picture.
(8) | Layer selection bar: Direct layer allocation via layer button at left edge of picture. Clicking on directly changes into the target layer, if paths are marked then the paths are adopted in the target layer (displaced).
(9) | Graphics: The graphic area is the main part of the screen. The background colour can be selected using the Aids Input Parameter.

Keyboard commands + Mouse key configuration. For some operations there are commands available in the CAD keyboard. Mouse key configuration.
<L> | Left mouse key (for input = <Ret>).
<M> | Middle mouse key (so far as this is not reconfigured = <F2>).
<R> | Function support (right mouse key): aborting of an input. If no function is active, pressing the right mouse key in the CAD opens the alternative menu (<F2>) for the marking aid.
<R>, <Esc> | Function support Abort: nearly all windows or inputs into the program can be aborted using the mouse key <R> or using <Esc>. Only Windows standard window has to be exclusively clicked on.
<Maus Rad> | Using the mouse wheel in CAD you control the graphic zoom (Zoom –, Zoom +). The graphic is always so set that, following a zoom, the cursor is in the centre of the picture.
<Ret> | Return key (Enter) of the keyboard (for input acknowledgement).
<A> | Key A of the keyboard. input line 'emersed' (start point).
<E> | Key E of the keyboard. Input line 'immersed'.
<S> | Key S of the keyboard.
<SPACE> | Space key (space bar) of the keyboard. Edit marked paths.
<DEL> | Key DEL of the keyboard. Delete marked path.
<¬> | Backspace key (¬) of the keyboard. Delete the marked paths.
<Sft>, <Shift> | Shift key of the keyboard (switch to capital letters). <Shift> and mark: in addition select or with already marked paths deselect. <Shift> and cursor movement at edge of graphic: Zoom - relocation (Display list).
<TAB> | Tab key (<=>) of the keyboard. Edit marked paths (as with <Space>).
<Ctrl> | Ctrl key of the keyboard.
<Ctrl A> | Press Ctrl key and key A of the keyboard simultaneously. Marks all paths in the ActLayer.
<Ctrl C> | Press Ctrl key and key C of the keyboard simultaneously. Copies into clipboard (in CAD, comp. Marking aids).
<Ctrl V> | Press Ctrl key and key V of the keyboard simultaneously. Input from clipboard (in CAD, comp. Marking aids).
<Ctrl X> | Press Ctrl key and key X of the keyboard simultaneously. Cut out in clipboard (in CAD, com. Marking aids).
<Ctrl S> | Press Ctrl key and key S of the keyboard simultaneously. Save CAD data. If a file name is known (is shown in window bar above), then the data are immediately saved in this file. Otherwise the file dialogue for the selection of a file name is opened.
<Alt R> | In the number input of the program – activate internal data processor.
<F2> | Function key F2 of the keyboard (for input aids).
<F3> | Function key F3 of the keyboard (for input aids e.g. Layout. Graphic Limits).
<F4> | Function key F4 of the keyboard (for input aids e.g. Layout. Graphic Limits).
<F7>, <+> | Zoom + at the position of the graphics cursor (picture centre).
<F8>, <-> | Zoom – at the position of the graphics cursor (picture centre).
<F9> | Aid to the functions (comp. Aid and [?]).

Panning. If the graphics cursor touches the edge of the picture when the <Sft> is pressed, then the graphic is displaced, without change of size, so that the cursor position lies in the centre of the picture. This Panning is applicable in vector graphics (drawing the graphic layers). Zoom. Using the mouse wheel you control the graphics zoom (Zoom –, Zoom +) in CAD. The graphic is always so arranged that at the end of a zoom the cursor is in the centre of the picture. The keys <F7>, <+> also have a similar function for Zoom + and <F8>, <-> for Zoom –.

The aids.
| Undo c an be carried out up to 5 times.
| Redo c an be carried out once.
| Save (comp. keyboard command <Ctrl S>).
| Graphics print. Graphics and texts are output on the standard printer. Exported are all layers which are marked in colour in ascending order (0..MaxLayer). Layers which are not to be printed are to be marked in white by clicking-on. Current information on this can be found in the program aids <F9>, [?].
| Machine output direct mill auto. Output the milling data on the standard machine. Exported are all layers which are marked in colour in ascending order. Layers which are not to be exported are to be marked in white by clicking-on. By clicking-on using <M/F2> you reach the setup aid for the standard output. For the output at least one matching path (output program) and one data path are required. Current information on this can be found in the program aids <F9>, [?].
| Position selection (marking aid). The selected path is drawn in red and marked with 8 mark points. In he text module with this section aid text rows are marked (on its source point). Click with <M, F2> onto the position selection opens a menu.
Deselect all: | All marking is cleared.
Mark all: | All paths are marked.
Mark Track Posn: | Select a route using a support point or through cutting using a rectangle.
Mark in Layer: | Search for the next path in all layers.
Deselect: | Deselect a marked path.
Paths - Info: | Show information on the marked paths.
Cut out <Ctrl X>, copy <Ctrl C>, input <Ctrl V>: | Exchange marked path via the program clipboard.
Group: | The paths are 'combined' into a block.
Cancel Grouping: | A grouping is cancelled.
Note: Group is only sensible together with relief design (ReliefVTR module).
| Position marking: Point and direction marking of the vectors. Mark the starting points, the supporting points with directions and the end points on all contours and routes in the ActLayer.
Green square | Start point of the traverse.
Arrow | Support point and direction indicator.
Red triangle | End point of the polygon.
| Cutter track: representation with tool width. The picture is drawn with the wide cutter track of the layer tools. Depending on the setting in input parameters, colouring will show the cutter width in relief surface height (for texts in surface and base height) or only in base height. A tool must be input for this function!
| Graphic ZOOM +: enlarge picture. Frame a picture detail with a rectangle and present enlarged. After clicking-on using <M , F2> you obtain a zoom selection depending on the module.
| Graphic ZOOM -: reduce picture. Redraw the picture half-size. After clicking-on using <M , F2> you obtain a zoom selection depending on the module.
| Graphic picture NORM: picture on preset limits.
| Graphic picture New: redraw picture with current settings.
| Graphic All: show all picture components (also outside the limits).
| Graphic Displace: Relocate picture section. Relocate the graphic using the cursor. For this click-on a point, using the pressed key <L> move into the end position and release the key. The graphic is now so displayed that the clicked-on point lies in the end position. In combination with <F6> the function can be activated repeatedly without the button having to be clicked-on using the cursor.
| Graphic Selection: select picture section in the window.
| Graphic background: create background picture. Fade in a background graphic. The choice is dependent on the program version. The pictures can only be used if the appropriate data exists in the modules.
| Indicating of setting/selection:
Black: | Current selected background.
Blue: | The setting can be selected.
Grey: | The setting is not possible (no data in the module).
Bkgd picture: | Show background picture.
Relief: | Show relief graphic in the background. If the graphic in the relief module is set to render (standard), then the relief in the background graphic is also rendered. For all other graphic settings the normal grey scale representation is drawn.
Scan: | Using a scanner graphic in the background processing can be carried out only using whole number enlarging/reducing factors (1,2,...n). The max. enlargement is 8.
Load bkgd picture: | Load a background picture in BMP-, PCX-, GIF- (256 grey shades), JPG-, JPEG- or in relief format. The background picture is always loaded with the zero pint bottom left. The picture dimensions for GIF graphics can be determined in the interrogation Relief Dimensions. For pictures in BMP-, PCX-, JPG- and JPEG format the dimensions are calculated from the picture data.
Background setting: |
Background contrast [1..10]: | The background picture is usually presented faded in order to recognise still clearly the input on to the background graphic. Setting 1 results in a very faint picture, Setting 10 results in normal picture contrast with dark elements. Standard setting = 5.
Background inverse: |
YES: | The background picture is shown with inverted grey shades. I.e. dark points on the picture are shown light, light points are shown dark.
No: | The background picture is shown using the specified grey distribution.
| Input parameters (Program settings). Current information can be found in the program help <F9/?>.
| Help: if you have questions on operation then please first use the installed Help. You can access Help also with already activated function by using <F9> or using the aid ? Help and click-on the function.
| Select ActLayer: All operations are carried out using one layer of the ActLayer (current or active layer). The desired layer is selected here. All layers are of the same value! The layers can be provided with a name in the tool input (Engraving, Text,..). Layers, which are allocated data are marked with the number of support points , empty layers with 0. The second marking denotes the number of lines of text. By clicking on the symbol elements alongside the layer indicator the graphic for this layer can be switched to 'inactive' (= white) or 'active' (= layer colour). (1) ActLayer (2) Amount of Graphicpoints (3) Amount of text rows (4) Hidden layer (inactive = white) (5) Reversible tool active/inactive

Input parameters - Selection input: Circular resolution: Vectorisation – resolution for arcs. Spline resolution: Vectorisation – resolution for spline curves. Background colour: The graphic – background colour.
White: | Background = white (constant).
WhiteLn: | Background = white with orientation lines.
LGray: | Background = light grey (constant).
Black: | Background = black (constant).
Input grid X / Y: The cursor input takes place in the entered step width (grating). Cursor circle: With input cursor circle > 0 the reticle is plotted in CAD using a circle. Cursor – capture grid: Capture can be switched on using capture grid (combined with the point lying nearest in the capture grid) for drawing functions. Capture layer (plot): The layer on which capture is to take place with plot within the capture grid using capture layer. W ith the setting -1 capture is always in the ActLayer. Arc Tolerance: Automatic arc creation with export data in Menu Export a nd Font Editor. Arcs are created from vector data which deviate max. from the polyline with the set tolerance. Cursor shape: Setting of continuous or dashed cursor shape. Message Beep: Setting of the warning tone.
ON: | Standard warning tone setting.
Simple: | Tone for selection of a Windows sound.
OFF: | Warning tone basically OFF.
Warning with 3D Edit: If there are 3D paths in the graphic layer, then there is a respective warning with editing. Warning Edit Tool Data: If there are tool data in the graphic layer, then there is a respective warning with editing. Displace marked paths [Y/N]:
YES: | Marked paths can be modified in CAD using the cursor (relocated, enlarged, distorted).
No: | Marked paths can not be modified.
Input parameters - Selection graphic: Layer colors / Tool colors [Y/N]:
YES: | The layer colours are used for the graphic structure.
No: | If there are tool data in the layers, then the tool colours are used otherwise the layer colour is used in each graphic structure.
Cutter track Y=base / N=relief surface: With plotting using the Aid - cutter track, with YES the cutter width at the base (= tip radius) and with NO the cutter width at the relief surface height is shown. Filling contour Y=accurate / N=rapid: For plotting using the Aid - cutter track, with YES the filling contour is calculated accurately and with NO the filling contour is calculated as rapidly as possible. With complex contours errors can, however, occur. Filling contours: With plotting using the Aid - cutter track, with YES all contours are filled for engraving preview and with NO only the contours are plotted. Empty runs visible: With YES the emerged lines are also shown. Clip area fast graphic: Depending on the graphics card, lines in zoom can no longer be plotted correctly. Using the clip area the limit can be defined from which slower but safer routines apply. Standard setting 16000. If, with zoom, there are lines missing in the graphic, then the clip area must be reduced in size (setting 8000, 4000). On the other hand, for a good graphics card the clip area can be enlarged can (32000, 64000 ..) for a more rapid graphic build up. Disk window lines [15..30]: Magnitude setting for the Menu file. Drilling marking [2D,..,0]: Graphic marking of drillings.
None: | Drillings are not marked. Here, for imported foreign data which is not to be converted, the disruptive marking can be switched off.
For 2D: | Drillings are marked for 2D only (data sequence PosA-PosE). Standard setting with indication of the (2D-) drillings in the graphic.
2D+3D: | Drillings are marked for 2D and 3D (data sequence PosA-PosE and PosA-Pos3D). Indication of drillings in cutter paths (3D) e.g. according to Cycles or Multi Head Drill.
Input parameters - Selection basic setting: Number of layers: T he number of available graphic layers (0 .. MaxLayer) can be determined by the user in the range 16..50. Graphic with ruler: Switch ruler ON/OFF. Graphic with layer bar: Switch layer bar (left) ON/OFF. Help in Editor:
YES: | The help indication takes place in Text Editor. Here, inter alia, you can also print out help.
No: | The standard program aids indicator is used.
Clear layer tools [Y/N]:
YES: | The layer tools are deleted using File . New and Open .
No: | Using File . New the layer tools are not deleted. Using File . Open the layer tools can be overwritten only with the tool data available in the label.
Data safeguarding for subsequent session:
YES: | After the ending of the program the work is kept for the next session (standard).
No: | At the end of the program he work is saved in a file.
Delay help. [0..100*0,1s]: Setting for the automatic tool tips for menu functions.
0: | No help is indicated.
1..100: | Time delay in 0.1sec. If the cursor is on a menu function longer than the given time, then a short description (help) of the function is indicated.
Convert ASCII into ANSI [Y/N]:
YES: | With the import of texts, umlauts in ASCII format are converted into the correct ANSI(Windows) symbols. With this, however, there some ANSI special symbols cannot be entered directly.
Input parameters - Selection AutoCorr: Round-off angle The round-off angle describes the angle for rounding (vectorization) of outside corners. An angle of 5° to approx. 30° rounds all outside corners. An angle >90° (e.g. 120° .. 180°) forms corners. A too large rounding angle can cause problems. Therefore the setting should be selected in the range 20 ° .. 30 °. Round-off angle2D: Round-off angle for outer corners with 2D correction. Round-off angle 3D: Round-off angle for 3D correction (using cutout movement). Up-milling:
YES: | A surface (relief surface) is milled in mathematically positive direction (up-milling).
No: | A surface (relief surface) is milled in mathematically negative direction (down-milling).
Clear overlapping lines: Overlapping of neighbouring milling traces with line-shaped clearance. 0% results in a track separation with cutter diameter (2*Frs utilisation 100%). Values > 0 result in an overlapping of the clearance paths. Overlapping parallel clearance: Overlapping of neighbouring cutter traces with equidistant clearances. The input of 0% gives the setting Trackpar. Radius a track separation with cutter radius (utilisation ratio 50%) and with the setting Trackpar. Diameter a track separation with cutter diameter (utilisation ratio 100%). Values > 0 give an overlapping of clearance paths. Due to the more favourable conditions for the line-shaped clearance tracks (shorter calculation time and quicker processing) line form clearance is recommended. Parameter standard size: Adjustment of the calculation parameters in one data standard size. Settings 50 / 100 / 200 / 500 / none. Standard setting = 50. With calculation problems the value can vary. Data check before calculation: With the setting YES the program checks the contours for overlapping before calculation. Marking is retained even in CAD. interface marking can be removed using Process . Marking Interface . Delete Interface. Calculation by block:
No: | All data are calculated. This setting should, for safety reasons, be as far as possible avoided.
Lines/ columns: | The data are calculated by block (all contours in an outside contour together) in line/column-shaped sequence.
Contour start:
Unmodified: | The contour start points are not modified.
Inner corner: | The contour start points are relocated in the respectively tightest inner corner.
Straight: | The contour start points are in the middle of the respectively longest straight (lines).
Clearance tracks first: With the setting YES the clearance paths are first issued (standard setting). Combine clearance lines: With YES the milling paths are as far as possible combined with each other. Resort clearance lines: Additional sorting of the clearance sequence to achieve shortest spacing paths (corresponds to ca. Process . Sort tracks . Auto). Clearance paths together:
YES: | Milling around contours with the clearance tool and the clearance movements are combined.
No: | Contour milling and clearance movements remain separate data sets.
Round-off clearance lines: YES: Clearance lines are rounded off at the reversal points for a softer mechanical movement. Input parameters - Selection Text Effect: With control commands <Alt n> in the text input you achieve the effect within a line. Note: the text effects are always set for the current label only. If another label is loaded then the text effect therein is also loaded. If the label is deleted using New or using Delete Text, the text effect is thus set at the initial status. Larger: All subsequent symbols are presented larger. Smaller: All subsequent symbols are presented smaller. Set higher: All subsequent symbols are arranged higher. Set lower: All subsequent symbols are arranged lower. Distortion X: All subsequent symbols are distorted in their width. Inclination: All subsequent symbols are set at an angle. Space: All subsequent symbols are spaced. Parallel displacement: All subsequent symbols are arranged perpendicular on an inclined base line. Word separation (space): Word separation (space) for the complete data set. With 100% the separations from the character set are used. Incorporate serial number +/-99999: With every export the serial number is incremented or decremented by the given amount. Input parameters - Color: For the program, color layouts are individually selectable. Click on one of the color graphics, the program will be set up with this color layout.

> The combined cursor – keyboard input (Position input). Positions or displacements can be input graphically using the cursor (Mouse) or analytically using the keyboard. If such a function is activated, then the cursor appears which can be positioned using the Mouse. At the same time the entry line is overlaid (upper area of the display screen). The entry line contains the description of the input followed by a double point ':' and a vertical input mark. As long as nothing it has been entered using the keyboard the graphical cursor input is active. If a symbol is entered via the keyboard then the graphic cursor is inactive. If all entered symbols are once again cancelled (e.g. using <Ctl Y>), then the graphic cursor input is again active. Input via the keyboard is always possible if the entry line is indicated as described. As far as no or invalid values are entered, the point of the cursor cross is always the input. The number of values to be entered with keyboard input results from the display text of the entry line e.g.:
> Display: | Input via keyboard:
> Input zero position (x,y)[mm]: | 105,23 45,90
> Straight (radius, angle) [Deg.]: | 10.1 45
> Inner circle - radius [mm]: | 23.5
> Position 2 (x,y): | 200+18,5 100-2*3,5
> A position consists, for example, of 2 numerical values X- / Y- value or radius / angle (e.g. 50 60). The individual values are to be separated through a space character ' '. Decimal places can be separated using a comma ',' or point '.' (e.g. 123,1 210,5 or 123.1 210.5). For the input of numbers the symbols '0 .. 9', '.', ',', '-', '+', '*', 'x' are accepted. Repeated numbers must be separated e.g. using space ' ' or any other symbol which is not admissible as a number. Only if precisely as many values have been entered as the program demands is the input accepted. I.e. the number of figures must correspond with the requirements. If, for example, 2 values (for X and Y) are demanded, then 2 figures must be entered. The input is concluded using <Ret> or <L>. The input is aborted using <Esc> or <R>. The number input can be combined together with the basic arithmetic operations. Values which are to be calculated must be written coherently. Bracketed operations or several successive arithmetic operators (10*-0.5) are not possible. Processing takes place in the order of the input. All arithmetic operation have the same validity. Permitted arithmetic operations:
> + | = Addition
> - | = Subtraction
> * or x | = Multiplication
> / or : | = Division
> Input examples: | Result:
> 123.4+10 | 133,4
> 234-3 | 231
> 12*4 | 48
> 256.4/2 | 128,2
> -10*0.5 | -5
> 100-2*3,5 | 343

Open using file linkage. [Explorer . Open using...] Using Windows from Win2000/XP onwards, files with the expansion .SLD, .LG1 and .H2R from Explorer can be linked and directly opened with HCAM/eSIGN. For this select the desired file (.SLD, .LG1, .H2R) in Windows – Explorer using double click. If no linkage exists then the window open using... is displayed. Here select Other and the program HCAM/eSIGN. Select always open this type of file using this program and OK.

Calculator. The calculator is switched ON from the active numerical input using <Alt R>. The input field OK closes the calculator and transfers the result into the numerical input. The input field Esc closes the calculator and leaves the numerical input unchanged.

Customer service. If you have questions about the program, about the range of applications etc., please send your questions and your customer data by e-mail to: AHSoft Ing.-Büro A.Horn e-mail: Info@AHSoftgravur.de We would request you to understand that we can only offer our customer service for registered program licences. If an error occurs then send the faulty data and a detailed description of the error, the last operations and relevant program settings to the above given e-mail address. A transmission of the data per e-mail is recommended. Please send only data packed using WinZip. Please give previous notification of data amounts >1 Mbyte. You will then receive information on the further procedure. Note: Settings: all inputs and data are saved during the operation of the program and are immediately available with every program start. If there are damaged data sets in the memory, then these can lead to running time errors following program start. Temporary data can be deleted in that you remove '*.TMP' and '*.PAR' files from the directory. The program parameter (*.PAR) can also be deleted using Parameter . Help . Clr Parameter. Font installation: Character sets (fonts) should be located in the working directory of eSIGN before the first program start. For subsequent modification the fonts must be copied into the working directory and reinstalled. For the installation of the fonts for programs using Font-Editor select Font Editor . Import Font . install HZE. For eSIGN(l,ly) exit the program, delete the file HCAMHZE.PAR in the working directory of eSIGN and start eSIGN again. For eSIGN home no further fonts can be installed.

The milling data setting. HCAM/eSIGN is a universal milling/engraving program. Using this milling data can be created via several paths: Layer allocation. The milling data are saved as 'Graphic' in individual layers. Each layer is allocated a tool from the tool library (Tool 0 to Layer 0, Tool 1 to Layer 1 etc.). The milling data are automatically created with export using File . Direct Mill from the layer and tool information. This path is ideal for 2D milling tasks such as labels, simple front plates, simple engravings. The milling task can be easily monitored through the layer colour and milling path visualisation already during data input. Milling objects in milling layer. Milling layer is a layer, which is occupied by milling data only. Milling objects in several milling layers: In the menu CAM graphic objects are converted into milling paths and saved in target layers using the functions MillCorr 2D/3D, Graphic > Millpath, Hatching, 3D Cycles etc. Here various target layers can be used and processed similarly as with the layer allocation. The results from AutoCorrection and Relief (using TLayer/PLayer > Target layer) can be saved in this milling layer. Thus several milling procedures (2D/3D engraving, cutout, projected, partial relief) can be combined and milled together. This technology is expedient for straightforward 2D/3D milling tasks. Milling objects in one milling layer: In the menu CAM graphic objects are converted into milling paths and saved in one target layer (milling layer) using the functions MillCorr 2D/3D, Milling Path, Hatching, 3D Cycles etc. The results from AutoCorrection, Projection and Relief (using TLayer/PLayer > ActLayer) are also saved in this milling layer. Here the milling sequence should already be observed. The data in the milling layer can be modified using CAM . CAM - Edit. This technology is ideal for comprehensive, complex milling tasks and combinations of all milling procedures. Milling is completely prepared at the programming position. With the aid of the functions CAM . Norm/Zoom Projection and Volume view complete views of the milling tasks can be created and thus the overall work monitored. Direct milling data export from the modules: For simple 3D tasks (e.g. the complete tasks is a cutout stamp or a relief milling), the milling data can be exported directly from the modules AutoCorrection and Relief (with TLayer/PLayer Export:).Thus one is spared making unnecessary program commands.

Automatic arc creation. The program has automatic arc creation for milling data. This reduces the amount of data and improves the quality of the milling. With this it is entirely immaterial from where the milling data originates, whether it is texts with splines, vectorised data, automatically calculated paths etc. The program always calculates the optimum arcs for the program for the milling machine. For input comp. Aids Input Parameter . Arc Tolerance.

Export aids.
| In addition to the various export paths to machines and exchange formats, the export menu has Export aids. Here there are a selection for repeat milling, 3D viewing, examination, printing etc.
Tool edit export: The export data/data of a milling file are examined and possible incorporated tools are listed. The tool data can be edited and saved. Save tool list: Help for the production of a work sheet. Saves the data of the export (file name, dimensions, tools etc..) in an ASCII file (.txt). Tool string: Sort the milling sequence of the tool object according to various criteria. Sorting can be inverted using Reverse sequence. Output from mark: Input of a start point for repeat (post-) processing.
From cursor contour/position: | Using the cursor select a start contour or start position.
+/- Tool object/Contour/ Position/Milling path: | Relocate the start position forward/backwards.
Tool object: | Select and export only one individual tool data set.
Vector filter: Some machines react unfavourably to high resolution milling data (milling supporting points are so dense that the transmission or precalculation times of the processing time is exceeded). The processing is jerky. For these machines the supporting point density can be reduced according to an adjustable limiting value. Please note that, with this, the accuracy of the milling data is changed. Removal of supporting points takes place in the range 0.001 .. 10 mm. Here, the shape of the milling path is, as far as possible, unaltered. Smooth milling paths: Approximate (smooth) the milling data in the range 0.001 .. 10 mm. The repeated smoothing of the milling data produces no advantages. Graphic print: The current drawing is printed out on a standard printer.
Match to page: | The graphic is matched to the sheet size.
Fill contours: | All closed contours are as far as possible filled in black/white.
Paper margin and offset: | Additional margin around the graphic.
With frame: | Print with graphic frame.
With dimensions: | Print dimensions of the graphic frame.
Upright format: | Select portrait/landscape.
TestTrackDisplay: Indication for the testing of the vector and tool data. The display can be advanced in steps using <Space> and page-by-page using <S>. Standard/Zoom Projection: The (3D-) data are shown in perspective. With setting in plan view (all angles = 0) the 3D paths are shown in grey- (colour-) steps. PosA: colour setting for emersed movements. With input PosA without colour the perspective indication takes place with high level marking. Volume aspect: The milling paths are displayed as volume aspect of the processed workpiece. For this a cuboid is processed, as if it has been milled. Valid tools in the data set are required for this display. Preparatory inputs:
Limits: | Workpiece: the operating limits are the operating frame and the milling paths. Milling path: the display limits are determined by the milling paths.
Resolution: | Setting very fine to very coarse. Very fine requires long calculation times, very coarse creates a coarsely gridded aspect.
Creation: | The aspect is calculated.
Setting of the volume view:
Palette selection: | Selection of the grey shades/colour palette.
Graphic: | Graphic setting for the grey shades/colour representation.
Posn height: | Shows the 3D relief position and gradient angle at the cursor position. RX, RY, RZ: relief position in mm. AngZX, AngZY: gradient in degrees at the relief position for the directions Z-X (horizontal) and Z-Y (vertical).
Height line: | The height line is shown from a horizontal section through the relief. The intersection line is positioned in the Y – direction using the cursor.
Standard/Zoom Projection: | 3D aspect via grid, vectors, points or surfaces. The viewing direction can be set in 5° steps. With PosA you set the line presentation colours. Inputting PosA without colour the perspective display takes place with adjustable height level marking.
Save relief: | Save the volume aspect as relief.
Render: | Calculate the picture of the graphics in the aspect angle and with defined illumination source (render).
Aspect angle: | Adjust aspect angle.
Light angle: | Angle and separation of the illumination source.
Resolution: | Picture resolution marginal .. high.
Drawing: | Setting soft/hard.
Contrast: | Grey grading marginal .. very intense.
Graphics: | View calculated picture.
Save relief: | Save picture as relief.
BMP picture: | Save the picture in a BMP file.
Save graphics: Help for the production of a work sheet. The current graphic is saved in a picture file. Setting of working area/Graphics area: limits of the graphics detail. With the working area setting only the tool within the working limits is saved. Note: with zoom only the visible area can be saved. With Graphics area setting the complete area planned for the graphics is saved.

> Tool input. Input of tools and technology data for the calculations. For the creation of milling complete tool information is required. The tool data are entered in the tool list. The tool list can be reached for example using Parameter . Tool Input or the layer tool in CAD by clicking the buttons 2D/3D. Each tool requires a geometry (cutting radius, tip radius, angle and possibly spherical radius) and valid technology data (immersed depth, safety height, working feed XY, immersed feed Z, spindle revs and changing station). For track characteristics Technology Data II (max. layer depth, chip lift, smoothing offset) is additionally required. If the tool data are incomplete or has errors, then false milling data can result. Tools are differentiated by the change station. Tools with the same geometry can also have the save changing stations. This is, for example, applied if a tool with different technologies (immersed depth, safety height, working feed XY, immersed feed Z, spindle revs) are to be employed.
> Example: | Engraving in Layer 0 using layer tool 0: | Engraving in Layer 1 using layer tool 1:
> Immersed depth | 1,0mm | 1,5mm
> Safety height | 0,5mm | 0,5mm
> Working feed XY | 1,0m/min | 0,8 m/min
> Immersed feed Z | 0,8m/min | 0,6m/min
> Spindle revs | 30000 | 40000
> Changing station | 1 | 1
The geometry data of the tools 0 and 1 agree completely! If the layers 0 and 1 are exported one after the other using File . Direct Mill, then no tool change is created, the technology data are, however, changed. For extensive automation it is sensible to lay down standard tools which are employed for all similar machining. The first tools (#0..MaxLayer) are allocated to the layers (comp. produce milling data. Layer allocation). All other tools are planned for the milling offset calculations in AutoCorrection, Relief etc. Here up to 200 tools are entered. Tool list The tool list is shown in the upper area of the display. The lower area shows the current tool. Display current tool. Geometry data area. Geometry data:
| Tool colour + Number (Far): Serial number according to the sequence of the data set.
| Tool name (Nam): Optional text for the tool – also used as layer name.
| Cutting radius (Snr): tool dimension for the graphic.
| Tip radius (FrS): Radius at the tool tip.
| Angle (FWi) of the cutter measured to the tool centre line.
| Radius (FrK) of a sphere at the tool tip.
Area Technology Data I. Technology Data I.
| Immersed depth (FEt): Immersed depth: milling depth of tool measured from the tool tip to the surface of the material.
| Safety height (Off): safety separation of the cutter tip to the material surface with withdrawn movements.
| Working feed XY (VXY): milling feed for XY and 3D movements.
| Immersed feed Z (EVZ): immersed feed for vertical movements downwards. Note: The immersion feed (EVZ) is only used for vertical movements (90 °) into the material. If the immersion takes place with an angle (<> 90°), these movement is 3D, which is supplied with the working feed (VXY).
| Spindle revs (Spd): tool spindle revs.
| Tool life travel (Stz): path up to automatic cutter change.
| Changing station (WSt): Changing station: for every tool, independent of the geometry data, a changing station (CSt) must be allocated. Tools with CSt = 0 are switched OFF. A tool change is carried out only with a change of the CSt# . On the other hand tools with the same geometry, but with different technology data (milling depth, feed,...) can have the same CSt# . In this case no tool change is carried out, but the technology data are modified.
Area Technology Data II. Only for cycles. Technology Data II.
| Max. layer depth (Smx): max. milling depth which is carried out in one layer using this tool.
| Chip lift (Sbh): chip removal movement with vertical drillings (no milling).
| Smoothing offset (Sof): separation for an additional smoothing run. With 0 there is no smoothing run.
Operating/display elements:
| Tool select +/- (1/5 lines).
| Selection typical tool.
| Tool preview: Schematic tool representation with marking of the milling depth and display of the cutter radius (Res.) at height of relief surface.
<PgUp>, <PgDn>: | Selection of the current cutter in the tool list.
<CuAuf>, <CuAb>: | Selection within the current tool.