Vision VR48 4 Series User Manual

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Vision VR48 Series 4

Router User Manual

Revised: 8/19/2015

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Summary of Contents for Vision VR48 4 Series

Page 2 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems All rights reserved. No parts of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means - graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or information storage and retrieval systems - without the written permission of the publisher.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
........................... 23 6 Vacuum Pump Installation - Vacuum Table Models Only ........................... 24 7 Mounting the Pendant Holder ........................... 26 Part III Series 4 Contoller and Vision 9 Software Installation 1 Computer Requirements ........................... 27 2 Direct Connection to Computer ...........................
Page 4 Example Job 10 - Plastic Control Panel ................................. 250 4 Feeds and Speeds ........................... 281 Part VIII Vectorizing Images in Vision 9 Pro Part IX Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro Part X Maintenance 1 General Cleaning ...........................
Page 5: Contents
........................... 340 Part XI Optional Accessories 1 UNIST Misting System ........................... 342 2 Vacuum Chip Removal System ........................... 345 3 Hold Down Clamps ........................... 346 4 Fixtures ........................... 348 5 Clamping Vises ........................... 351 © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 6: Part I Introduction
Introduction About This Manual Thank you for your purchase of the Vision VR48 Large Format Engraving and Routing System. To fully take advantage of your system, be sure to read this guide completely before using your system. This manual is designed to provide you with information about your VR48 machine. Beginning with ing the...
Page 7: Disclaimer And Warranty Information
In the event a defect is discovered during the warranty period, within thirty days of discovery, but no later than the last day of the warranty period as described above, the user shall contact Vision for instructions regarding disposition of the problem. Vision shall, at its option, either (1) repair the affected product with new or refurbished parts, or (2) provide a replacement.
Page 8 Vision does not warrant defects caused by a failure to provide a suitable environment for the system, by unauthorized attachments, by modifications or repairs other than by Vision, by use of the System for other than its original intention, or by other misuse or abuse of the System.
Page 9: Safety Precautions
Keep hands clear of the bottom of the spindle during operation. Do not operate the equipment with the covers removed. Use extreme caution when inserting or removing cutters. Before any servicing, disconnect the power cord. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 10 Operators should inspect the machine daily for damage or modifications. Under no circumstances should the machine be operated if there is any doubt about the machine condition. If there are any questions call the Vision Engraving Systems technical support team at 602-439-0600. Keep a safe distance away from machine while its running.
Page 11 If there are any questions about the abilities of your machine, please call the Vision Engraving Systems technical support team at 602-439-0600. Do not force the machine to work at excessive speeds. The machine will work safely under normal permissible speeds which are material and application dependent.
Page 12: Emergency Stop Locations
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Emergency Stop Locations There are 4 emergency stop buttons on the VR48. One is on each side of the gantry, one is on the front panel and the last one is on the Pendant. Refer to the below diagram and pictures to identify the emergency stop locations.
Page 14: Part Ii General Information - Installation
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual General Information - Installation Requirements Electrical Connections 1. A qualified and licensed electrician must be used to complete all wiring and grounding of the machine according to all state, local, and national electrical codes.
Page 15 8. Typically, the vacuum pump is between the router table and Wall A (Refer to Installation Layout Diagram - Section 2.1). Please note the orientation of the pump and motor. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 16 2. If an electrician is not available for the installation, please call Vision ASAP in order to reschedule installation/machine orientation. If Vision personnel arrive and the electrical connections are not ready and the electrician is not present, there will be an additional charge $750/day while waiting.
Page 17: Wiring Connections
Note: The picture below is for illustration purposes only. The power cable should enter the Main Electrical Box through the hole in the left side of the box as shown in the above picture. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 18 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual On the front of the control box for VR48 Router, there are four connection ports; One is an Ethernet port used to connect your computer or network to the on-board Series 4 Controller, the second is for the Pendant, the third is another Ethernet port used to connect a computer to the optional DACS Camera System, and the fourth is to connect the Remote Start Switch for the Dust Collector System.
Page 19 The supply for this connection is from Outlet #1 (220 VAC, Single Phase, 20 Amp or 110 VAC 25 Amp). © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 20 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Wiring for this switch is shown below. The input and output wires should be connected as shown. Both input and output ground wires can be connected to the single GND location shown. The switch can be wall mounted at a location convenient for the user.
Page 21: Carriage Ports Description
Surface Sensing Block Port - Connects the Surface Sensing Block cable to the machines controller when setting the surface of the material to be processed. *If equipped © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 22: Installation Layout Diagram - T-Slot Table Models
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Installation Layout Diagram - T-Slot Table Models Example Router Installation Room Layout © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 23: Installation Layout Diagram - Vacuum Table Models
General Information - Installation Installation Layout Diagram - Vacuum Table Models Example Router Installation Room Layout © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 24: Vacuum Pump Installation - Vacuum Table Models Only
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Vacuum Pump Installation - Vacuum Table Models Only The Main Vacuum Port for the VR48 is located at the foot of the machine. To connect the vacuum pump to the machine, use the supplied 3" diameter vacuum hose and connect one end to the vacuum pump and the other end to the Main Vacuum Port on the machine.
Page 25 It does not matter which two leads are swapped. After the wiring change has been made, briefly turn on the power to the vacuum pump to again confirm the direction of rotation. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 26: Mounting The Pendant Holder
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Mounting the Pendant Holder The Pendant Holder for the VR48 can be mounted on the front of the machine. To install the Pendant Holder, remove the three screws on the machine and mount the holder to the machine as shown below.
Page 27: Part Iii Series 4 Contoller And Vision 9 Software Installation
The third configuration is for a connection from the computer to a hub (or router) and then to the VR48. This is WITHOUT a computer network. Standard Ethernet cables are used in this configuration. Please call your distributor or the service department at Vision for assistance if you are having problems making these connections.
Page 29: Direct Connection To Computer
Turn the main power switch to On, then turn the safety key switch to On. Once the machine has initialized, plug the supplied Vision USB drive (or Orange USB Dongle) into an available USB port on your computer.
Page 30 Locate the file named Start and double click on the file to start the installation. The screen below shows Start.exe, but your computer might not show the .exe portion. Select Step 1 - Setup Machine. This installs the Vision Connectivity Manager software. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 31 Series 4 Contoller and Vision 9 Software Installation When the software is installed, select Finish. The Connectivity Manager will search for available Vision devices. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 32 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The computer's IP address will need to be set. NOTE - this should not cause any conflicts with your computer's wireless IP address, which is determined by the computer's wireless network card. To set the computer's IP address, open the Window's Control Panel.
Page 33 Series 4 Contoller and Vision 9 Software Installation Then, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4). Then select Properties. Select Use the following IP address: and enter 192.168.5.100 and set the Subnet mask to 255.255.255.0 as shown. Then select OK and close any other network configuration windows.
Page 34 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The IP address of the machine will need to be set to set up the connections properly. Select the + box next to the machine now listed in the Discover Machine Tools window to expand the information. Then select Configure (Your Machine) at the bottom of the screen.
Page 35 Set the IP address (as shown) to 192.168.5.101, then select OK. This sets the machine's IP address. The configuration is complete at this point. Close the Discover Machine Tools window and return to the Main Installation Screen to proceed with the Vision software installation in the next section. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 36: Network Connection
VR48 is located on the front left of the machine. Turn the main power switch to On, then turn the safety key switch to On. Once the machine has initialized, plug the supplied Vision USB drive (or Orange USB Dongle) into an available USB port on your computer.
Page 37 Locate the file named Start and double click on the file to start the installation. The screen below shows Start.exe, but your computer might not show the .exe portion. Select Step 1 - Setup Machine. This installs the Vision Connectivity Manager software. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 38 The Connectivity Manager will search for available Vision devices. The configuration is complete at this point. Close the Machine Tools Discovery window and return to the Main Installation Screen to proceed with the Vision software installation in the next section. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 39: Using A Network Hub - Only
Turn the main power switch to On, then turn the safety key switch to On. Once the machine has initialized, plug the supplied Vision USB drive (or Orange USB Dongle) into an available USB port on your computer.
Page 40 Locate the file named Start and double click on the file to start the installation. The screen below shows Start.exe, but your computer might not show the .exe portion. Select Step 1 - Setup Machine. This installs the Vision Connectivity Manager software. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 41 Series 4 Contoller and Vision 9 Software Installation When the software is installed, select Finish. The Connectivity Manager will search for available Vision devices. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 42 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The computer's IP address will need to be set. To set the computer's IP address, open the Window's Control Panel. Depending on how you have this folder set, you will either see Network and Internet, or you will see the Network and Sharing Center immediately.
Page 43 Series 4 Contoller and Vision 9 Software Installation Then, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4). Then select Properties. Select Use the following IP address: and enter 192.168.5.100 and set the Subnet mask to 255.255.255.0 as shown. Then select OK and close any other network configuration windows.
Page 44 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The IP address of the machine will need to be set to set up the connections properly. Select the + box next to the machine now listed in the Discover Machine Tools window to expand the information. Then select Configure (Your Machine) at the bottom of the screen.
Page 45 The configuration is complete at this point. The new IP address should appear in a few seconds in the Discover Machine Tools window. Close the Discover Machine Tools window and return to the Main Installation Screen to proceed with the Vision software installation in the next section. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 46: Vision Software Installation
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Vision Software Installation From the Main Installation Screen, Select Step 2 - Install Vision Software. The Windows Installer will prepare the installation. Select Next. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 47 Series 4 Contoller and Vision 9 Software Installation Select Install. The installation will proceed. Select the appropriate language and select OK. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 48 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Installation will proceed. Select Next to begin the installer. Select Accept the license agreement, then select Next. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 49 Series 4 Contoller and Vision 9 Software Installation Select Next (or change the destination folder - not recommended). Select Next to create the folder. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 50 The installation will continue. Select Vision Routers S4 (4'x8' and larger) from the Manufacturer list on the left side of this window by clicking in the box to the left of the machine (or machine series) you own. The right side of the window will list a selection of Output Devices.
Page 51 Select Continue to install True Type fonts and Vision Engraving Fonts on your computer. The software will look for True Type fonts on your computer and allow the Vision software to use them. Once the True Type fonts are installed, select OK.
Page 52 In order to install the fonts on the USB drive, select A Removable drive and from the drop down list, select the drive letter for the Vision USB drive plugged into your computer. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 53 Series 4 Contoller and Vision 9 Software Installation Select OK to install to the default folder. Select OK. All fonts and clipart have been installed from the USB drive at this time. Select OK to return to the main installation screen.
Page 54 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To complete the installation, select Finish. To close the Software Setup window, select Finish. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 55 If you were supplied with an Orange Dongle (orange USB stick), keep it installed in your computer's USB port in order to use the Vision software. If you were supplied with another color USB stick with your machine, it can be removed at this time from your computer. Installation is now complete.
Page 56: Part Iv Router, Engraving And Knife Heads
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Router, Engraving and Knife Heads High Frequency Router Head High Frequency Router Head Diagram - Installed The High Frequency Router Head is NOT removable on the VR48 Router. It is permanently aligned at the factory to a maintain perpendicularity to the machine's X and Y axis.
Page 58: Engraving Head And Spindles
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Engraving Head and Spindles The VR48 has an Engraving Head option that can be easily attached when the application requires. There are two spindles available with the Engraving Head; a standard spindle and a high speed spindle.
Page 59 Connect the proximity sensor cable to the plug on the right side of the carriage and route the cable as shown. Place the cable into the cable retainers to secure the cable. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 60 RPM as the router motor. The high speed spindle runs at a ratio of 1.833:1. When determining the RPM of the high speed spindle, the user must multiply the speed shown in either the tool options in the Vision 9 software, or on the Pendant by 1.833. As an example, to achieve 27,500 RPM at the spindle, the router motor must be set to 15,000 RPM (15,000 x 1.833 = 27,500).
Page 61: Cutting Tool Installation
In the Example Jobs section of this manual, techniques for setting the cutter depth are detailed for common applications. Once the cutter has been lowered the appropriate amount, tighten the cutter knob set screw. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 62 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Installing Cutters - Router Head The router head uses a collet to hold the cutting tool in place. Shown below are the included items needed to properly install a cutter into the collet.
Page 63 Turn the nut in the direction shown below to tighten the nut. The nut should be tightened by hand. If the nut is not tight enough, the tool may either slip in the collet, or fall out during operation. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 64 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To remove the cutter, turn the nut as shown below using the open end wrench and spanner wrench. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 65: Oscillating Knife
Plug the supplied cable (not shown) into the port on the top of the Oscillating Knife Assembly and plug the other end of the cable into the Oscillating Knife Port on the Carriage. NOTE: ALWAYS REMOVE THE OSCILLATING KNIFE FROM THE ROUTER WHEN USING THE ROUTER OR ENGRAVING HEADS. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 66: Oscillating Knife Operation
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual 4.4.1 Oscillating Knife Operation Knife Blade Installation WARNING: KNIFE BLADES ARE VERY SHARP AND CAN CAUSE INJURY. HANDLE WITH CARE. PROTECTIVE GLOVES ARE RECOMMENDED WHEN INSTALLING OR REMOVING KNIFE BLADES. To install a Knife Blade, loosen the Allen Screw at the base of the Knife Assembly and insert the Blade Shaft into the Holder, making sure the Flat on the Blade Shaft is facing the Allen Screw.
Page 67 Plug the Surface Sensing Block Connector into the Port on the left side of the Carriage and place the Surface Block on the Cutting Pad under the Knife Blade as shown. The Spindle Clamp is NOT used when setting surface with the Surface Sensing Block. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 68 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Lower the spindle using the Z Down Key on the Pendant until the tip of the knife is approximately 1 inch above the Surface Block. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 69 The surface of the Cutting Pad (or MultiMat) is then stored in the machine's controller and the Set Surface procedure is complete. Press Go To Home on the Pendant and unplug the Set Surface Block Connector from the Carriage. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 70 ONLY recognizes objects drawn in PEN 31. To create a custom pen using pen 31 in any color desired, double click on any of the color swatches at the bottom of the Vision software screen. In this example, the Red color swatch was chosen.
Page 71 Oscillation RPM and/or Cutting rate to optimize cutting the substrate being used. Select OK when finished, then send the job to the machine by clicking on the engrave icon in the Cut Toolbox. For further instructions on using the Oscillating Knife, please contact Vision technical support - 602- 439-0700.
Page 72: Part V Operation
Operation The Pendant Controls The Pendant controls all of the movement and speeds of your Vision engraver or router. Below is a picture of the Pendant. The function of each button is explained below. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 73 Z SPD - button. Again, this is part of the presets sent to the engraver after a material is selected in the Vision software. RPM (Spindle Speed) + and - Buttons - These buttons control the rotational speed (RPM) of the engraving spindle.
Page 74 When connected to Vision Machine Tools - If there is no job in the machine, pressing Shift, then Start will display a list of jobs that are stored on the computer's hard drive. Use the Y up and down jog buttons to move the cursor on the Pendant screen to the job to be engraved and then press Enter to select the job.
Page 75 Jog Speed Button - The Jog Speed button will toggle the machine's jog speed between Fast, Medium and Slow. The current jog speed can be seen on the Pendant screen as highlighted below. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 76 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual X & Y Jog Buttons - The X & Y jog buttons are used to move the position of the spindle on the T-Slot table work area. This is used to position graphics, or to locate an area for engraving.
Page 77 Shift, then Set Surface Button - When you first press the Shift button, then press the Set Surface button, the red dot laser pointer will power on. Repeating Shift, then Set Surface will turn the red dot laser point off. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 78 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Goto Home Button - When you press the Goto Home button, the engraver will return to its home position, which is either the default location in the upper left (lower left on VR48 machines) corner of the T-slot table, or a user defined home position.
Page 79 Spindle On/Off button, the Pendant screen will display the status as (Auto), or Off. Note: The spindle can be changed to on or off from within the Vision Pro software. When the Engrave icon is selected, the spindle icon can be selected or deselected to automatically turn the spindle on or off when the job is running.
Page 80 Note: The auxiliary can be changed to on or off from within the Vision Pro software. When the Engrave icon is selected, the auxiliary icon can be selected or deselected to automatically turn the vacuum on or off when the job is running.
Page 81 Enter button one more time to jog the spindle to these coordinates, or press Exit to cancel this operation. Access Jobs Button - When connected to Vision Machine Tools - If there is no job in the machine, pressing Access Jobs will display a list of jobs that are stored on the computer's hard drive.
Page 82 Numeric buttons and press ENTER. Note: This button only works when a rotary axis is present on your machine. Menu Button - The Menu button allows access to various options within the Vision Controller. Pressing the Menu button will display the following Pendant screen. There are controls for Z Lift Height, Z Cut Depth, Defining a Preset Home Position, Loading a Preset Home Position, Clear Preset Home, Cylinder Diameter (when using a rotary axis), and Ethernet Connection Settings.
Page 83 Operation Pressing the Y down button will access the last menu item: Configuration. On certain Vision machines, the second menu page adds options for Digitize and DACS. Those features are discussed in separate sections. To access any of these menu items, use the Y up or down arrows to highlight the menu item, then press the Enter button.
Page 84 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Note: Many of the following features can be set from the Vision Pro software. When the Engrave icon is selected, select the icon with three dots to the right of All Tools as shown below. Settings can be...
Page 85 Net Mask. Please refer to the Machine Connections section for details on network configuration settings 2. Display IP - This menu is used to show the IP address that the Vision controller is set to. It also shows the IP address of the PC that is connected to the Vision controller.
Page 86 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The Configuration Menu - There are three screens to the configuration menu as shown below. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 87 To correct this, the Vision Job Server will flip the job automatically so that the engraving will be oriented properly. However, when doing this, the Vision controller needs to know the page size that is set up in programs such as CorelDraw©.
Page 88 Outline Speed - Pressing Enter with this item highlighted will allow the user to set the outline speed which used by the measure feature in the Vision Pro software. To set the speed, use the Y up or down buttons to highlight the menu item and press Enter. Use the numeric buttons to enter the desired speed, then press Enter to save this speed.
Page 89 Operation or Off. The Vision Pro software automatically turns this function on or off with the job. This function is used only when the machine is being run from software other than Vision Pro. Inserter Offset - Pressing Enter with this item highlighted will allow the user to modify the factory set offset used with the Braille Inserter tool.
Page 90: Using The Measure Feature
Vision 9 software. To use this feature, turn on the engraver and press the Go to Home button. Open the Vision 9 software with a new drawing and select the Plate Size icon on the top toolbar.
Page 91 Then, click on Next in the Measure Wizard window. Move the laser pointer to the lower right corner of the engraving are you wish to define, then click on Finish in the Measure Wizard window. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 92 If the area appears to be correct. click on OK in the Plate Size window. The plate size in the Vision 9 software now shows the area defined with the measure feature.
Page 93: Set Surface Procedures
Your machine may have been equipped to use with the Surface Sensing Block, which automatically sets the material surface. The Surface Sensing Block Port is located on the front of the left side of the Gantry (as shown below). © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 94 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual CAUTION: Keep hands and fingers away from the spindle and cutter when performing this procedure! Serious injury may result. Do not place your hands or fingers below the cutter when setting the surface of your material! To set the surface of your material: 1.
Page 95 2. Make sure that the spindle is locked by tightening the spring adjustment knob all the way down. 3. Make sure that you have entered a depth of cut in the Vision or Vision Pro software. If you are using a different program then Vision or Vision Pro, use the Menu button on the controller to select and enter the Z Cut Depth.
Page 96: Set Home Procedure
When positioning graphics in the Vision 9 software, it is important to reference the lower left corner of the drawing as the 0,0 position on the table.
Page 97: Sending Jobs To Your Machine
Sending Jobs to Your Machine Once a job has been set up in the Vision 9 software, select the Engrave icon from the left toolbar. The Cut Toolbox window will appear and the top toolbar will change to the Engrave toolbar.
Page 98 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Select the appropriate material from the Material Selection drop down list, then select OK. Verify the Cut Toolbox settings (settings available will depend on device selected and version of Vision 9 software), and click on the Engrave icon.
Page 99: Using The T-Slot Table
There are many ways to hold material down to the T-Slot Table. You can use double-sided tape, Multi Mat hold down material, or clamps and fixtures. Double-sided tape or Multi Mat material are available from your Vision Distributor or directly from Vision.
Page 100 The router can be equipped with either the standard edge guides (shown below) or custom edge guides can be ordered through Vision. The standard edge guides are held in place with "T" nuts and screws and can be moved or removed as needed.
Page 101: Using The Vacuum Table
If the VR48 is equipped with a T-slot table, material can be mounted the same as it would with other Vision systems. Clamps, fixtures, multi-mat, or tape can be used to hold materials to the table. If the VR48 is equipped with a Vacuum table: a) Place a spoil board (sacrificial material) on top of the Vacuum table.
Page 102: Vacuum Table Zones
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Vacuum Table Zones The vacuum table is separated into 4 zones. Each zone has 2 vacuum ports as shown below. Rubber strips can be used to concentrate the vacuum to specific areas. Valves on the front of the VR48 control which zone receives vacuum. All valves are shown as closed.
Page 103 Plugs are used to block airflow in the vacuum ports that are not being used. Remove the plugs in zones which are to be used. Lay rubber strips in the vacuum table slots to concentrate vacuum in specific locations. (Vacuum port plug shown as removed) © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 104: Dust Collector Operation
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Dust Collector Operation The Dust Collector system includes several components which need to be installed on the VR48. Install the dust collector hose support bar mount to the right side of the VR48 and mount the support bar by sliding it on to the bar mount.
Page 105 NOTE - Make sure there is enough hose between the front bracket and the dust collector nozzle to allow the router head to drop to its lowest position. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 106 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual ** NOTE: The Hose Loop should provide enough length to allow the Gantry and Carriage to move to all 4 corners of the Table, without excessively stretching the hose. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 107: Part Vi The Dacs Camera System
Vision software). Please open the DACS Test.cdl file in your Vision software and print it at 100% scale. The file is designed to be printed on a standard letter (8.5" x 11") sized paper. The printed image can then be adhered to a solid piece of material, such as acrylic, in order to perform the set up procedure.
Page 108: Setting Up The Dacs Camera System 2
6.2.1 Machine Tools Installation Install Vision Machine Tools - The VISION USB drive (or orange dongle used with the Vision software) contains a folder named Vision Machine Tools v4. Open Windows Explorer and open this folder and double click on Setup (or Setup.exe) to install Vision Machine Tools.
Page 109: Ethernet Camera Driver Installation
Install the DACS Camera dongle into an available USB port on your computer. Open Windows Explorer and open the VISION USB drive (this is the drive for your orange Vision dongle). Open the folder named Camera, then open the folder named Sentech Ethernet camera. Double click on either the file named StGigE-Package_x86.exe for 32 bit operating systems, or StGigE-...
Page 110 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Right click on this shortcut and click on Rename, then rename it to DACS. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 111: Ethernet Camera Software Setup
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Ethernet DACS camera requires the VR48 Router to be connected to your computer or network via a STATIC IP Address. Please refer to the sections of this manual regarding connecting your router using a Static IP Address, or call Vision technical support - 602-439-0700.
Page 112 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual DACS Connection Locations - Electronics Box View Open the DACS (VisionTool4) software using the newly created shortcut, then select your machine in the Select Connection window and click on OK. If there is only one machine connected to your computer, this list will not appear.
Page 113 After selecting the camera, the following screen may appear. If so, select OK and then OK to close the XMI Settings window, then close and reopen the DACS software. Go back to File > XMI Settings to proceed. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 114 Note - if the camera is not listed in the available device list, place a check mark in the box in the lower left corner of this window - Show unreachable GigE Vision Devices. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 115 The DACS Camera System Highlight the STC camera by clicking on the icon under the Available GigE Vision Devices list. If selected, it will highlight in blue as shown. Then, select Set IP Address... at the bottom of this screen.
Page 116: Camera Adjustments
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual 6.2.4 Camera Adjustments Place a graphic containing 0.25 inch diameter fiducial markers on the machine's table, then roughly center the camera over one of the fiducial markers using the X and Y move buttons on the Pendant. It is best to use a graphic that contains both 0.25 inch diameter fiducial markers as well as detailed images,...
Page 117 Watch the image on the DACS software screen. As the aperture is adjusted, the screen image will become lighter or darker. The camera focus may also need to be adjusted. This is best performed after the aperture is adjusted. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 118 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Below are 4 images depicting under-exposed, over-exposed and properly exposed/focused images. Adjust the aperture to provide enough contrast to view all image details, then adjust the camera focus to show the image as clearly as possible. To adjust focus, first make sure the thumbscrew for the aperture adjustment has been tightened (this may adjust exposure slightly), then loosen the top thumbscrew on the camera and turn the focus adjustment until the image shown on screen is crisp.
Page 119: Vision Vr48 Machine Configuration
Enter button on the Pendant, enter 0.25 using the Pendant's numeric keypad, then press Enter on the keypad. The Correlation should be set to 0.9000. To set this value, highlight Correlation, press Enter, enter 0.9000 and press Enter to set this value. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 120 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The Retake Distance default value is 0.0000, and should not need to be changed. The Settling Time default value is 200 and should not need to be changed. Flip to Cut should be set to "No".
Page 121 Using the X and Y Arrow buttons on the Pendant, jog the camera so that a fiducial marker can be seen in the center of the DACS software screen, then press Enter on the Pendant. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 122 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The Controller will calculate the camera scale and set it automatically. Press Enter on the Pendant to exit this screen. In order to set the Camera Offset, first install a cutter UPSIDE DOWN in the spindle so that the flat end of the cutter extends below the nose cone.
Page 123 After the file has run, use the X and Y Arrow buttons to jog the motion system so that the SAME fiducial marker used can be seen in the center of the DACS software window. Try to get the marker as close to the center of the window as possible. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 124 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Press Enter on the Pendant. The Camera System will locate the fiducial marker. When the fiducial marker has been found, a blue box and cross-hair will be displayed in the DACS software over the marker and the offset will be saved.
Page 125: Vision Software Setup
Then click on Next. Since Vision Machine Tools will now be controlling how files are sent to the engraver or router, any previously installed device drivers will need to be set up to properly send jobs from the Vision software to the machine.
Page 126 Select the Port tab, then select Direct to Port in the Method area - the Path shown should be c:\Vision Machine Tools\Inbox. If this not the case, select Set Path and correct it. Set Port Location to File, then click on Apply, then OK.
Page 127: Using The Dacs Camera System
In order to use the DACS Camera System, files need to be set up in the Vision 9 software with a minimum of 3 Fiducial Markers located within the plate area and surrounding the graphics to be cut out with the router or engraver.
Page 128 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Once the design has been finished, the Fiducials need to be changed to Pen 99 in the Vision software. This is mandatory, as the DACS software looks for objects drawn in Pen 99 and identifies those objects as Fiducials.
Page 129 If you need to check the pen number, simply double-click on the color swatch to see the pen number assigned. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 130 Create a tool path for the items you want to cut. In this example, a male tool path was created around the Vision logo. Note that in areas where there are internal corners, the tool path may allow for white areas to be exposed after cutting.
Page 131 This can be done by selecting the Plate Size icon on the top toolbar (as shown), or after clicking on the Engrave icon on the left toolbar. Click on the Machine Tools icon located on the bottom right corner of the Windows Taskbar. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 132 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Make sure that Job Name Server is checked for your machine. This is necessary so that the Machine Tools software sends the file to the correct machine. Open the DACS software. The DACS software icon should be on your computer's desktop.
Page 133 3. Surface Set. The Set Surface procedure has been performed (if the Proximity Sensor is not being used). 4. Home Set. The machine's home has been set to the material's upper left corner (the machine's home position, if the material is positioned as suggested here). © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 134 Follow the Pendant's on screen commands to have the camera system find the Fiducial Markers and properly locate the cut tool path. Then, run the job. If you have any issues when running the DACS Camera System, please contact Vision Technical Support - 602-439-0700.
Page 135: Part Vii Example Jobs
In the following sections, there are 10 example jobs which can used to learn the different ways to operate the Vision engraver or router. The jobs are separated into three levels; Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. Level 1 contains files that provide instructions on the most common uses of the engraver or router, and utilizes Vision 9 Express software for job creation.
Page 136: Level 1 Job Examples
These first set of example jobs cover the basics of engraving and cutting. Starting with diamond drag engraving, the basic machine functions and software setup are discussed. By the last of these 4 examples, the user should be well acquainted with the machine and Vision software. 7.1.1...
Page 137: Example Job 1 - Diamond Drag
In this first example, Diamond Drag engraving will be performed on a 3" x 2" plate. The material used for this example application is black painted aluminum. Starting with a new file in Vision Express 9 software, the first step is to adjust the plate size to match the plate to be engraved.
Page 138 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The Plate Size window will appear. Click on the Current Selection drop down list and select Custom. Enter the plate size to be engraved - for this example 3" x 2", and select the appropriate driver for...
Page 139 Example Jobs your machine in the Selected Driver drop down list. (VE810 S4 shown). To add text, click on the Text Tools icon. The flyout icons will appear, then select the Text Compose icon. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 140 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Click somewhere in the drawing to begin typing text. Note that on the top toolbar, the various font editing fields have appeared. The user should become familiar with the various ways fonts can be formatted with the toolbar options.
Page 141 The Break Text warning may appear. If so, select No. If Yes is chosen, and more than one line of text has been entered, each line will align on top of one another in the center of the plate. At this point, the screen should appear as below. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 142 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Next, the material should be placed on the engraving table, with the upper left (lower left on VR48 machines) corner of the material positioned in the machine's home position. Note that the Multi Mat material has been placed on the t-slot table in order to hold the engraving material in place.
Page 143 Stop Button on the machine. If either of these occur, make sure that Dry Run was selected in the Cut Toolbox (shown as the letter "D") and that the spindle has not been turned © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 144 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual on. The Spindle icon on the Cut Toolbox is show below for reference. Spindle icon (shown as disabled) © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 145 Sensor (see the Prox icon below) is enabled, then select the Engrave icon on the Cut Toolbox to send the file to the engraver. Engrave icon (from toolbar) Dry Run Off Prox icon (shown as enabled) Engrave icon © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 146 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Make sure the material is positioned properly and secured on the engraving table, then press the Start Button on the controller to begin engraving. The finished piece should appear as shown below. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 147: Rotary Engraving
The cutter is now zeroed. To run a job, turn the machine on, then set up the job in the Vision Software. (For more information on this, see the example job file in the next section). Put the material on the t-slot table as described in the previous section.
Page 148: Example Job 2 - Rotary Engraving
System significantly reduces these problems and provides for a cleaner work area. As with Example Job 1, the first step is to set the plate size in the Vision 9 Express software. Create a plate that is 4 inches wide x 6 inches high and make sure that the driver selected is for your machine.
Page 149 1.250 inches and a slant of 19 degrees. The top and center lines are left justified and the bottom is center justified in order to produce a sloping look to the sign. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 150 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Once the file has been set up, select the Engrave Icon, open the Tool Options window and select Engravers Plastic(Engraving) from the Materials drop down menu. In the picture below, the Cut Toolbox shows that the Vacuum, Prox, Dry Run, and Spindle are all enabled.
Page 151 When the file is complete, remove the material from the table. HINT - Use a light bristle brush to clean out any debris that may remain in the engraved characters. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 152: Burnishing
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual 7.1.3 Burnishing In this section, we will set up to engrave with a burnishing cutter. The figure below shows a spindle with a burnishing cutter and an optional EZ Rider burnishing adapter. Spindle with Burnishing Cutter and EZ Rider Burnishing Adapter Burnishing is different than standard rotary engraving mainly because the nose cone is not used to set the depth of cut.
Page 153 You can then jog the Z down until it touches the surface and press Enter to set the surface. Pressing Start will then begin the engraving process. In the following example job, a burnishing file will be set up and run on coated brass material. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 154: Example Job 3 - Burnishing
(also known as black brass or trophy brass). The plate will use a text import function from an external text file that will be copied into a plate template and the Vision software will automatically format the imported text.
Page 155 Apply. Note that the page margins on the toolbar are located such that the top field is for the top margin, the left field is the left margin, etc. The screen should then appear as below. Select the Text Compose Icon. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 156 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Click in the middle of the Plate Object. Enter any text in the format you wish to use. In this example, two lines of text are entered as variables (it does not matter what you type. The text entered is only for formatting and will be replaced with the text imported from the .txt file).
Page 157 Width Compression, select the text, then click on the Toolbar Mode icon (shown below). Select Frame mode. Select all text and select the Width Compression Mode by clicking on the drop down list (as shown). © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 158 Change the settings to Always compress or expand text to fit width, Method: Width compress/expand, and Apply to: Each Line Individually. Deselect Word Wrap, then select OK. For a detailed description of all the font modifications possible, refer to the Vision software help or user manual.
Page 159 Example Jobs In this example, a text file was created in order to copy and paste the variables into the Vision software. Highlight the text and select copy from the edit menu (or right click and select copy). Note that in this example, the two variables are entered as subsequent lines in the text file and that there may be difficulties when importing from other file formats.
Page 160 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Click in the center of the plate. After clicking in the center of the plate, all fields are merged and multiple plate objects will be created based on the number of text variables selected.
Page 161 Example Jobs Also, if there are more variables than can be fit into one plate in the Vision software, multiple plates (or pages) are automatically generated for individual output to the engraver. The lower right corner of the Vision software screen allows the user to view the individual pages. During the Engrave operation, the user will select the page to be sent to the engraver.
Page 162 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual In this example, the plate object lines were engraved. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 163: Profile Cutting
This, in effect, sets the cut depth to match the material thickness. The cutter knob set screw is tightened, then the micrometer is adjusted, either for a through cut (turning clockwise) or a kiss cut (turning counter-clockwise), 1 - 3 clicks. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 164 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Holding Down Material Secure the material on the t-slot table. It is best to use Multi Mat to hold the material in place, but keep in mind that since we are cutting completely through, there will likely be cut marks into the Multi Mat when the job is complete.
Page 165: Example Job 4 - Profile Cutting
As with Example Job 2, the Vacuum Chip Removal System is highly recommended for this application and is shown in this example. First, the plate size will be adjusted to a 10 x 8 inch size (the standard Vision VE810 10 x 8 inch area can be used).
Page 166 Windows Explorer and drag the file to the engraving area on the plate within the Vision software. the image will be quite large, so it must be re-sized to fit, either by changing the size manually on the toolbar, or by selecting the object and clicking on a corner node (holding down the left mouse button) and dragging the corner to make the image smaller.
Page 167 To re-size the text frame, click and hold with the left mouse button on the black edge of the text frame and drag the frame to the appropriate size. then, Two more text fields are entered in the same manner, re-sized, and fonts are changed. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 168 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual At this point, we need to change the two fixed text fields to graphics, so that when we import the text file for multiple badges, the correct text is replaced. Select the two text fields shown and from the toolbar, select Arrange Text To Graphics.
Page 169 (red in this example), select the Plate Object frame, then click on the Red color icon on the bottom toolbar of the Vision software. It is also a good idea to verify the color of the other objects on the screen.
Page 170 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Note that is there is more than one page of names, each page of the file will need to have the plate frame color changed. After changing the plate frame color. If you try to send this file to the engraver at this point (by clicking on the Engrave icon), a warning screen may appear as below.
Page 171 Filter by Color window will appear. Select the color to send to the engraver in the Filter Layer drop down box. In this example, all text and graphics are Black, so the color Black (P1) was selected from the drop down menu in the Filter by Color window. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 172 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual After clicking on Select, the Vision software window will show only the color being sent to the engraver, in this case, black. Make sure that Engravers Plastic(Engraving) is the material selected, and all options are turned on in the Cut Toolbox, including Dry Run for this example file.
Page 173 Note that the nose cone for the vacuum chip removal system has been installed in this picture. After pressing Start and finishing the job,the engraved portion of the file should appear as shown. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 174 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Cutting After sending the engrave file to the machine, the Filter by Color window will re-appear, signaling that the software is ready for you to send another file to the engraver. Since we need to change the material setting, select Stop Cutting.
Page 175 Make sure you have installed the cutter/beveler tool for this process and set up the cutting depth as described in the previous section. When the file is complete, is should appear as shown. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 176 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Note - The Filter by Color screen will once again appear. Since we have no further colors to send to the engraver, select Stop Cutting. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 177: Level 2 Job Examples
System significantly reduces these problems and provides for a cleaner work area. Set the plate size to 6 x 6 inches and select the driver for your machine. In this example, the Phoenix 1212 Series 4 engraver will be used. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 178 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To make this job setup a little easier, we will add guidelines to the plate. Right click outsize the plate area to show the Edit Guides window. Then select the vertical guides as shown.
Page 179 This will open the Import File window. The file we are importing is BORD0117 and is located in the C:\Vision Express 9\ClipArt\BORDER folder. Select the file, then click on Import. Click inside the plate area to finish importing the file.
Page 180 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To add a rectangle that will separate the sign, select the Shape Tools icon from the left toolbar, then select the Rectangle tool. Draw a rectangle 5.5 inches wide x 0.05 inches high and position it to 3.00 inches X and 1.90 inches Y, as shown below.
Page 181 To align each line of text, select the text along one line (such as Monday - Thursday and 8:00 - 5:30), then use the Align tool by selecting Layout Arrange and Distribute Align to Last Object Centers Vertically. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 182 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Align each line of text. The spacing between text lines was equalized by moving each line of text with the up or down arrow keys on the computer's keyboard. Since we are engraving the back side of the plastic, we need to mirror all objects about the center of the plate.
Page 183 Many times, clipart is drawn in colors that may look similar to the color of other objects, but if they are different. The software will interpret them as different tools, and they may be engraved out of sequence or with different parameters. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 184 Make Path. This resets the fill path so that when we use the Hatch Fill tool, the correct parts of our clipart object will be filled. Lastly, select the Stroke and Fill Tools (or the Tool Path Tools in Vision Expert or Pro) icon from the left toolbar, and click on the Hatch Fill tool.
Page 185 It is recommended to mask the edges of the piece before painting. In this example, two colors were used to fill the engraved areas. (Back of plate shown for reference) © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 186: Deep Engraving Sign Foam
Beginning with a plate size of 8 inches x 8 inches in the Vision Expert 9 program, create three circles using the Circle Tool.
Page 187 Example Jobs Select the middle circle, then select Transform Fit Text to Path from the top menu bar. Select Add Text from the top toolbar. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 188 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Select Arial Black from the font drop down list and set the size to 0.625 inches, type in the text as shown, then click on OK on the top toolbar. Select the Bottom Start Position icon, then select the Text on Path icon.
Page 189 For this example, the text needs to be placed in between the outside and the middle circles. Enter 0.250 in the Text to Path Distance entry field, then select Apply, then select Close. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 190 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The text should now be centered between the outside and middle circles. Two stars will be added using the Star tool. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 191 CTRL key on the computer keyboard while drawing the star. Draw a second star in the location shown. Do not be concerned with the size or exact placement of the stars at this time. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 192 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Select the first star, then change the size to 1.25 inches high in the Object Height entry field on the top toolbar. Repeat this for the second star. Move each star to roughly 1/4 inch from the inner circle as shown.
Page 193 To center these two stars within the circles, first, group the stars by selecting Layout, then clicking on Group from the top menu bar. Hint: Hold the CTRL key on the computer keyboard and press the letter G at the same time as a shortcut to the Group command. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 194 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual With the group of two stars selected, hold down the Shift key on the computer keyboard and select the inner circle. To align the group of stars to the circle, select Layout Align and Distribute Align to Last Object and click on Center Vertically from the top menu bar.
Page 195 The font used is HANDLED and the size is 1.0 inch and the slant is 16 degrees. To access the Slant field, Character mode must be chosen. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 196 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Before we can modify this text and weld it together, we must convert it to graphics. Select the text (or exit text mode by clicking in an empty area of the plate, if you are still in text mode), then select Arrange from the top menu bar and click on Text To Graphics.
Page 197 Select all of the overlapped letters, then select the Weld Tools icon from the left toolbar, then select Basic Weld. The finished logo should now appear as shown below. Center this logo in the middle of the plate. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 198 Arrange from the top menu bar, and click on Make Path. The Vision 9 software will automatically create a fill area based on the objects selected. To view the area now defined for filling, click and hold on the center node (with all objects selected). This will display the area which can now be filled.
Page 199 Using a negative Gap will allow the cutter to slightly reduce the size of the characters and increase detail in sections where these is not enough room for the tool to move through. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 200 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Click on the icon to the left of the Depth field as shown. This will allow the user to set the number of passes the engraver will make. The Engrave Parameters window will appear. Set the number of passes to 1. Note that the other fields will automatically adjust.
Page 201 If there are, either a smaller diameter tool should be used, or the gap should be reduced in order to increase detail. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 202 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To send only the tool path we just created to the machine, select the Engrave icon from the left toolbar. You will likely see this warning. Click on OK. Then select the Filter by Color icon in the Cut toolbox.
Page 203 0.250 inches below the vacuum nose cone. This is critical when not using the proximity sensor. If the tip does not extend more than the cut depth, the nose cone will stop the tool from cutting to its proper depth. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 204 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To set the surface, move the spindle over your material and lower it down using the Z Down button on the Pendant until the cutter tip just touches the surface of the material. Press the Set Surface button on the Pendant, then press Enter on the Pendant to set this position.
Page 205: Profile Cutting Dimensional Letter - Metals
Surface Sensing Block. 7.2.3.1 Example Job 7 - Dimensional Letter in Metals Begin by setting the plate size to a 9.0 x 9.0 inch area. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 206 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Using the Frame Text Compose tool, enter the letter as shown below. The font used in this example is Windsor and the font height is 8 inches In order to create a tool path, text objects must be converted to graphics. With the letter selected, select Arrange from the top menu bar, then click on Text to Graphics.
Page 207 Depth field in order to set the number of passes. Set the number of passes to 2. The other fields, except the Depth field, will adjust to equal depths per pass. Click on OK when finished. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 208 In this example we "turn off" all colors except for the one we want to cut. To do this, first, notice that on the right side of the Vision 9 window, there are two color swatches.
Page 209 Adhesive was sprayed on to the tape covering the spoil board and the tape on the back of the aluminum plate. The plate was then pressed on to the spoil board to secure it. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 210 Metal applications are best performed using a lubricant. If your machine does not have the Vision Misting System, spray the surface of the metal prior to (and sometimes during) the cutting process.
Page 211 Remove the cut piece by prying it up with a sharp tool. The spoil board will have grooves cut into it, but it can be resurfaced using the router and reused until the board becomes to thin. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 213: Profile Cutting Dimensional Letter - Non-Metals
Example Job 8 - Dimensional Letters in Non-Metals Begin by changing the plate size to 9.0 x 9.0 inches. Select the Text Tools icon from the left toolbar and click on the Frame Text Compose tool. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 214 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Type in the letter shown below. The font used in this example is Arial Black and the front height is set to 8 inches. In order to create a tool path, we first need to change the letter from text to graphics. With the letter selected, select Arrange from the top menu bar and click on Text to Graphics.
Page 215 Do NOT attempt to profile cut any material thicker than the maximum cutting height of the tool being used. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 216 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Select Engrave, then click on Tool Library to add a new tool for this application. In the Tool Library, select a tool that is closest in description to the one you want to add. Give it a new name (1/8' End Mill 1"...
Page 217 The tool path should now be created as shown below. This example will show how to set the Device and the Tool before sending the job to the machine. Select Engrave form the top menu bar and click on Engraving Defaults. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 218 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Select the Device as your machine. We will be sending only Selected items in our drawing to the machine, so put a check mack in the box to the left of Selected, then click on Apply and then Close.
Page 219 Position procedure in the Operations section of this manual). To send the job to the machine, select only the tool path in the Vision 9 software (remember, we are sending only selected objects to the machine). Select the Engrave icon from the left toolbar. Verify the Device and Tool setup, then send the job to the machine by clicking on the Engrave icon in the Cut Toolbox.
Page 220 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Since we have the Proximity sensor turned off, the machine will cut to a depth we set in out Tool Path setup. It uses the surface position set with the Set Surface function as the "zero" depth and will lower the cutter 0.875"...
Page 221: Level 3 Job Examples
Begin by creating a 13 inch x 9 inch plate in Vision Expert 9. Vision Expert or Pro is required to create braille text as shown in this example job. Select the Shape Tools icon from the left toolbar, the select the Rectangle Tool..
Page 222 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual We now round the corners of this rectangle. With the rectangle selected, select the Round Corners icon from the top toolbar.. The following warning about large radius corners may appear, if so, click on OK. Our corner radius is small enough to not distort the rectangle.
Page 223 ADA Raised Text tool. Instead, enter the first line of text, press the Enter Key on you computer's keyboard, the type the second line. Repeat this for the third line. Move the text to the bottom left area on the plate. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 224 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To insert some decorative clipart, select the Clip Art Viewer after selecting Layout from the top menu bar. The Clipart window will appear. Double-click on the folder named Decorative to open it. Select the file STRIPE09.CDL, then click, hold and drag it to the plate.
Page 225 Select the STRIPE13.CDL file and click hold and drag it to the plate. You will need to move these clipart images to their general locations within the plate area, and re-size them to fit. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 226 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To be more specific on the size of the clipart images, select the image as shown, then change the Object Width to 3.25 inches in the entry field on the top toolbar. To rotate the image, enter -20 in the Rotation entry field on the top toolbar, then press Enter on the computer keyboard to make the change.
Page 227 We will now duplicate this image a specific distance from the original and make a total of 4 images. To set the distance the duplicate image will be moved from the original image, Select Options from the top menu bar, then select Vision Setup and click on General Preferences. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 228 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The General Preferences window will appear. In the Duplicate section, type in an X offset of 2.3 inches and a Y offset of -0.25 inches. Click on OK to set these preferences. To duplicate the selected image, either select Edit from the top menu bar and click on Duplicate, or use the shortcut keys for this function CTRL D.
Page 229 To accurately position these 4 images, we need to group them. Select Layout, then click on Group. Once grouped, change the X position on the top toolbar to the middle of the page width, in this example, 6.5 inches. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 230 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Change the width of the second clipart image to 2.8 inches using the Object Width entry field on the top toolbar. Move the second clipart image to the right side of the page. In this example, the position was roughly chosen.
Page 231 Select the group of images we created and the second clipart image. To create a fill tool path for these images, select the Tool Path Tools icon from the left toolbar and then click on the Fill icon. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 232 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual In the Fill window, for this example, choose the .030 Engraver as the Tool, set the Depth to 0.010 inches, set the Color to Red and set the Fill style as S-sweep with a 20% overlap.
Page 233 The clipart images now have tool paths, which will be used to engrave out the centers of these images. Two more tool paths need to be added. First, select the large rectangle and select the Male tool path tool from the left toolbar. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 234 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Choose the 1/8th inch End Mill as the Tool. Set the Depth to slightly more than the material thickness (in this case the material was 0.125", so the depth was set to 0.130"). Set the Color to Green (or another color you are not already using).
Page 235 Example Jobs The tool path for the rectangle should be shown as below. Select the ADA text, then select Engrave, then Create Tool Path and click on ADA Profile. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 236 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Set the Tool as the .015 Engraver, the Depth to 0.035 inches and the Color to cyan (or another unused color). Click on the to set the number of passes. Set the number of lasses to 1, then click on OK to close the Engrave Parameters window, then click on OK to close the ADA Profile window.
Page 237 With the drawing now mirrored, we will turn off all colors except for red. Hold the CTRL Key down on your computer's keyboard and LEFT click on the black, cyan and green color swatches on the right side of the Vision 9 window. They should appear as shown below after doing so. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 238 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Before sending any jobs to the machine, place the material on the machine's table. The material shown here is in black in the upper left corner of the picture. Note: When using the vacuum table, all open areas should be covered with a non-permeable material in order to maximize vacuum hold down force.
Page 239 1/8" acrylic material and stop when hitting the vacuum table (or in this case, the MDF material used as a spoil board on top of the vacuum table) as shown below. Make sure the micrometer is set to the same 0 as when setting the other cutters. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 240 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Braille Inserter Installation: In order for the machine to insert the braille beads (rasters) into the drilled holes, the braille inserter must be installed. Install the inserter into its bracket. Lower the inserter into the bracket and tighten the clamp. At this point, the bottom of the inserter should be ABOVE the nose cone on the spindle.
Page 241 This procedure sets the proper pressure applied to the raster beads to insert them into the holes we will drill. The top of the inserter flange is shown below with the pin flush with its top surface. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 242 With the machine now set up, install the 0.030" flex cutter and adjust for proper depth using the micrometer. In the Vision 9 software, send the job to the machine by clicking on the Engrave icon in the Cut Toolbox and run the job.
Page 243 NOTE: The material could have been profile cut first, then aligned using the table's rulers. The file setup would be different than in this example (i.e., the plate size would match the profile cut dimensions of the piece). © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 244 Remove the End Mill cutter and install the Braille Drill cutter. Set the cut depth to 0.042" (42 clicks). To send a job which drills the holes for the braille rasters, we first turn on all colors in our Vision 9 plate (again, using the CTRL + Left click on the color swatches), and click on the Horizontal Mirror icon on the top toolbar to "un-mirror"...
Page 245 Example Jobs The Vision 9 software will automatically select only the braille dots on the screen and apply the correct parameters for drilling the holes. Click on Engrave to send these two jobs to the machine. After drilling the holes, lower the braille inserter by loosening the inserter clamp and remove the braille drill tool from the spindle.
Page 246 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual After running the job, raise the inserter so that the inserter tip is well above the bottom of the spindle nose cone. Install the 0.015 Flex cutter and set the depth to 0.035 inches (35 clicks). Apply a piece of applique above the braille rasters as shown.
Page 247 Example Jobs Select Engrave from the Top Menu, then click on ADA Plot. Select Cut Raised Elements. Click on the Engrave icon to send the job to the machine. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 248 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual When the machine is finished cutting the applique, use a stiff bristled brush to remove any debris that remains in the cut areas, then remove the excess applique and weed any remaining pieces from the centers of characters.
Page 249 Example Jobs Mask the edges of the back of the sign and fill with an acrylic based paint. The finished sign. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 250: Control Panels
7.3.2 Control Panels In this example, an industrial control panel will be created using 1/16th inch engraver's plastic. Vision Pro 9 software is required for this application in order to create a dial on the panel. The techniques covered in this application include: Logo creation, welding objects, object duplication, creating a basic array, dimensional placement of objects, and the creation of a dial.
Page 251 This is done so that the letters can be welded together and form one single object. Select the first two letters, then move them together so that the second letter overlaps the third letter. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 252 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Repeat this for the rest of the letters, adding one at a time as selected objects and moving them until all of the letters overlap as shown. Note that when overlapping letter like the letter "S", make sure that the side of the letter completely overlaps the next character.
Page 253 Enter the circle radius of 0.75 inches in the Radius entry field on the top toolbar. Also, change the X and Y coordinates for the center of the circle to 2.200 X and 2.600 Y. Press Enter on your keyboard or click in another field to set these changes. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 254 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Create another circle with a radius of 0.500 inches and place it at the coordinates of 1.900 X and 5.800 To create the array of circles, a simple row in this case, we first set the duplicate distance. Select Options Vision Setup and click on General Preferences.
Page 255 With the circle selected, either select Edit, then click on Duplicate from the top menu bar, or press CTRL D on your computer's keyboard to duplicate the circle. Continue duplicating each circle, until seven circles have been created. Using this method, each circle will be spaced exactly 1.5 inches apart. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 256 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Create another circle with a diameter of 1.00 inches and position it at coordinates of 5.05 X and 10.20 With this circle selected, duplicate it to create a total of three circles. Use the same duplicate distance as above (1.5 inches X and 0 inches Y).
Page 257 Create another circle with a radius of 0.25 inches and positioned at coordinates of 11.125 X and 10.20 We now add some rectangles to the plate. Select the Shape Tools icon from the left toolbar and click on the Rectangle tool. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 258 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Click, hold and drag a rectangle below the first row of circles. Change the size and position of the rectangle to 2 inches wide x 1 inch high, positioned at 2.40 X and 7.75 Y.
Page 259 2.00 inches wide x 1.85 inches high, and position it at 2.40 X and 10.20 Y. We now add text under the logo we created. Using the Text Compose tool, type in the text as shown. The font used is Helv1, height is 0.375 inches. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 260 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Center the text below the logo by first selecting the text, then while pressing the Shift key on your computer's keyboard, click on the logo to add it as a selected object. To center the text under the logo, either use the shortcut key by pressing the letter "C"...
Page 261 Center Vertically from the top menu bar. Adjust the Duplicate distance within the General Preferences window to 1.5 inches X and 0 inches Y, then duplicate the text until each circle on this first row has text above it. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 262 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Repeat the procedure of creating text, aligning it over the first circle on the bottom row of circles, then duplicating the text until each circle has text above it. To change the actual text over each circle, double click on the text you wish to change, select all of the text, then type in the text as shown below.
Page 263 Now we add text around the large circle on the top left of the plate. First, select the circle, the select Transform from the top menu bar, the click on Fit Text to Path. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 264 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The top toolbar will change the the Fit Text to Path toolbar. Click on Add Text on the right side of this toolbar. Enter the text as shown. The same font (Helv1, sized 0.20 inches high) was used.
Page 265 Rotate the duplicate text 180 degrees using the Rotation tool on the top toolbar. After entering 180 in the rotation entry field, press the Enter key on the computer's keyboard to accept this change. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 266 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Move the text below the circle as shown. Align the text so that it is Centered Vertically to the text on the top of the circle, group the two lines of text, then center them both vertically and horizontally to the circle.
Page 267 240 degrees. Click in another entry field on the top toolbar (such as the Radius entry field) to set these angles. Click, hold and drag a dial roughly positioned over the small circle. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 268 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Set the Radius to 0.654 inches by entering this number in the Radius entry field. Press the Enter key on the computer keyboard to set this radius. Alternatively, you can click, hold and drag from the node near the top of the dial to adjust its radius, although this is not an accurate way to size the dial.
Page 269 Select the Labels and Major Tick setting icon on the top toolbar. The Major Ticks window will appear. Change the settings to: Number of Ticks - 11, Tick size - 0.250, then add a check mark in the Print Labels box. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 270 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The Font Detective window will appear. Select Engraving Fonts as the Group, choose Helv1 font from the Font drop down list, then click on the Select button to the right of the Font drop down list.
Page 271 Select the dial and using the Horizontal and Vertical positions fields on the top toolbar, enter the coordinates of 11.125 X and 10.20 Y. The dial should appear as shown below and be centered around the small circle. The basic layout is finished at this point. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 272 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Since we have areas which will need to be cut out, we need to create tool paths in order to cut out the shapes to accurate dimensions. Before doing so and in order to make this procedure clear, all items to be cut out were changed to a different color (red was used here).
Page 273 Click on OK to accept these settings, then click on OK to close the Female tool path window. The plate should now show three different object colors (note the right side of the Vision 9 software window - you can see which colors have been used in this job).
Page 274 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual We now need to add a fill to the Vision logo. Select the Vision logo and select the Tool Path Tools icon from the left toolbar, then click on the Fill icon. Set the tool as the .015 Engraver, the Depth to 0.015 inches, the Color to Black (we will engrave this...
Page 275 Example Jobs Set the number of passes to 1, then click on OK. Click on OK to close the Fill tool window. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 276 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Before sending this job to the machine, all objects were selected (press the F3 on your computer's keyboard to select all objects) and grouped. Then the objects were centered to the plate horizontally (shortcut keys ALT+End), and centered to the plate vertically (shortcut keys ALT+Home).
Page 277 VR48 machines) corner of the material. To send only the engraving portion, disable the red and cyan colors by clicking on the color swatches on the right of the Vision 9 window while holding down the CTRL key on your computer's keyboard.
Page 278 Any exposed areas of the MDF were covered to maximize vacuum. Only the black items should show in the Vision 9 software prior to sending the engraving portion to the machine. The below picture is after the engraving has finished.
Page 279 Select the Shape Tools icon from the left toolbar and click on the Rectangle tool. Draw a rectangle with a size of 13.75 inches wide x 11.75 inches high, center it on the plate and change the color to red. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 280 Use the 0.015" Engraver as the tool and make the tool path color cyan (or any other unused color). You can then turn off the black and red colors using the color swatches on the right side of the Vision 9 window and send all the objects in cyan to the machine.
Page 281: Feeds And Speeds
Hold down method – The more securely a product is held down the more aggressive the feed and speed rates can be. Depth of cut - Shallow cuts can be made with faster feed rates. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 282 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Strength/Speed of Motor – The strength and speed of the motor will limit the materials that can be cut and what feed rates you can cut at. The optional engraving and routing motors will cover most all engraving/routing needs.
Page 283: Part Viii Vectorizing Images In Vision 9 Pro
"boxes", then when combined together, create an image. Bitmaps have no "path", no continuous outline and no solid fill. Because of this, Vision engravers and routers cannot process a bitmap. A vector image is necessary for the machine to understand the path it should follow to create the image on a substrate.
Page 284 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Vectorizing an Image - Outline Tracing The first image used will be the Vision business logo. The below image is the same file, but zoomed in to see the individual pixels. As you can see, each pixel is a specific color and the edges are not smooth. What we would like the image to look like is shown below.
Page 285 Vectorizing Images in Vision 9 Pro To begin the vectorization process, import a bitmap file into Vision Pro 9 using the File > Import command. (Vision Expert 9 can be used, but not all of the same vectorization features are available).
Page 286 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The image will need to be prepared to vectorize. Select the Posterize Region icon from the top toolbar. The below window will appear asking if you want to run the Prepare to Vectorize wizard. Select Yes.
Page 288 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The next window allows for a selection of colors and whether or not to see more or less of the specific color via sliding the Tolerance level for that color.The Brightness adjustment at the bottom of the screen can also be adjusted to show more or less of the image.
Page 289 In this case, LOGO-Long Lines & Curves was chosen. The user should experiment with the different presets to determine which works best for the image being vectorized. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 290 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Alternatively, the preset can be adjusted by selecting the Trace Setup icon and making adjustments in the below window. When a preset has been chosen, or modified in the Trace Setup window, select the Vectorization icon to begin vectorizing the image.
Page 291 When the vectorization is complete, select Close on the top toolbar. Two images will now be on the screen. Click, hold and drag the top image away to expose the vectorized image underneath. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 292 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The vectorized image is shown selected (in blue). We can now modify the image to fix any errors, or delete areas we do not wish to use. In order to modify the individual elements of this image, first, select Arrange > Break Path from the top toolbar.
Page 293 The outline of the entire image is selected below and will be deleted. Zooming in allows small areas we do not wish to engrave to be visible and deleted. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 294 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual When finished modifying the image, select Arrange > Make Path to prepare the image for fills or tool paths. To verify that the image will be filled in the areas you want, select the image, then click on the center node of the image and hold down the mouse button.
Page 295 Vectorizing Images in Vision 9 Pro To use the Node Edit tool, select a line to modify and double click on it. Each node will appear as shown below. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 296 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To delete nodes and thereby straighten the line they are on, click, hold and drag a box around several nodes. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 297 Vectorizing Images in Vision 9 Pro Then press the Delete key on the keyboard to erase them. You can also drag nodes and/or lines to create a more accurate image. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 298 As can be seen, the image does not have a consistent color. There are gaps in the lines and even at 300 dpi, the individual pixels can be seen. Import the image into Vision 9 Pro using the File > Import command and place in anywhere inside the plate area.
Page 299 Select the image and make sure the image mode is set to RGB. Select Image > Mode > RGB to change the image mode. Open the Prepare to Vectorize Wizard by selecting Image > Prepare to Vectorize Wizard. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 300 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The Wizard will recommend that the image be increased in size. Select OK and use the suggested file size. The image will be resampled and the pixels will be split up into smaller pixels in order to increase the image quality.
Page 301 NOTE - This entire procedure would be eliminated if the signature was written in black ink with a felt tip pen. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 302 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Below is an example of too much contrast. Contrast was set to +90 and the background is clearly visible as yellow spots. (See area below the mouse pointer). Although these spots are seen in the image above (adjusted to +70), they are fairly light and will be eliminated in the next step.
Page 303 (P1), then click on OK. Adjust the Tolerance as high as possible without going to 100. In the below picture, Tolerance was increased to 99. Speckles will likely appear around the image at this point. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 304 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Example of speckles surrounding image. Reduce the Tolerance until these speckles are not visible. In this example, the Tolerance was reduced to 83 in this example. The picture below shows that the speckles have been removed.
Page 305 Vectorizing Images in Vision 9 Pro The transformed image will now appear in the Vision 9 Pro window. Note that it is completely black at this point. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 306 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Select the Center Line tool from the Accuscan icon on the left toolbar. Marquee select the signature (click, hold and drag a box around the signature). © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 307 1, Resolution to 1500, Corner Sensitivity to 1. select the large pixel centering option (to the left of the mouse pointer in the picture below), Detail Level 0.000 and Truncate Endpoints 0.000, then select OK. Select the Vectorization icon on the top toolbar. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 308 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Then, select Close from the top toolbar. The centerline vector will be created and by default, the vector will be selected. Move the vectorized image away from the original image to view the results. It is common for the image to look slightly rough.
Page 309 Reduce the size of the image to represent an actual signature. In this case, the image was resized to 2.25 inches wide. Apply an Online Tool Path. Select the Tool Path Tools, then the Online tool from the left toolbar. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 310 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Set the Tool and Depth setting to the cutter you are going to use and the depth you wish to engrave the item. Choose the color for the tool path. In this example, a 0.015 Engraver was selected as the tool and the depth was set to 0.010 inches.
Page 311 The below image is a comparison of the same vector image and the original, except that the tool path was recreated using a 0.010 Engraver as the tool and depth setting of 0.005 inches. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 312: Part Ix Creating Multiples And Serialization In Vision 9 Expert And Pro
To begin, a new plate is created in Vision 9. In this example, the plate size used is 3 x 2 inches. Plate size should provide just enough space for the text of graphics to be engraved on ONE item.
Page 313 Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro The text added below will be fixed text and remain the same for all items engraved. A 4th line of text is added using the same Text Compose tool, but instead of clicking inside the plate to start the text, a frame was drawn by clicking, holding and dragging in order to constrain the variable text to a specific area.
Page 314 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual When the mouse button is released, a frame text area is created. In order to make the text always start at the left side of the frame, the Left Justify option was selected on the top toolbar.
Page 315 Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro If the outer red frame is dragged up, as shown below, the inner red frame will match the height of the outer red frame. If this happens, the text will be reduced in size to fit.
Page 316 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual After aligning the text, the plate is as shown below. To begin creating multiple items, select the text to be serialized and click on the Multiple icon on the top toolbar. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 317 Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro The Multiples window will appear. In this window, the user can select the number of copies of the image to process, as well as their location and spacing. This is also where the text designated for serialization is chosen.
Page 318 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Before moving forward, we need to define where are parts will be located on the engraving table and the number of items we will be engraving. The following diagram shows an array of parts placed in a template/fixture and their locations/spacing.
Page 319 Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro Before proceeding, it is important to note that in the Multiples window, the spacing between items will be based NOT on the plate size, but on the size of the graphics. To properly locate the text within the engraving area on our parts, we will add a rectangle that matches the plate size as shown below (which also represents the area on the part where we want to engrave.
Page 320 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To start creating multiples, select ALL graphics and click again on the Multiples icon. The Multiples window will again appear. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 321 Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro We will now set the spacing and number of items per job. Set the number of copies to 30, set the Margins to 0.00 and set the spacing to match our array - enter a vertical spacing of 4.00 and a horizontal spacing of 5.00.
Page 322 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual To assign serial numbers to the variable text, first select the variable text (it will highlight in blue) in the Replaceable items/text area, then click on OK at the bottom of the page.
Page 323 Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro Click on the column header (where the variable text is displayed). All rows will now be highlighted in blue and the Serialization box will be activated. Click on the Serialization box.
Page 324 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual We want to create serial numbers beginning with 00015 and ending with 00044. First, replace the serial number in the Start field with the first serial number we want to produce. In this example, type in 00015.
Page 325 Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro HINT - Vision 9 remembers the last set of serial numbers created and will allow you to begin the next set of serial numbers where you left off. Select Set as Start when producing the next set of serial numbers.
Page 326 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual The job is then created. Note that since we are making 30 items, there are 3 pages to this job (see lower right corner of the below picture). In order to properly locate this array of text, we now set the machine's home position to the upper left corner of the engraving area on the upper left part on our table.
Page 327 2nd job is complete. The selected objects will be then highlighted in blue. Make sure you have Vision 9 set to send only selected objects (if you are not selding the job using the Engrave by Color option), by first opening the Engraving Defaults (Engrave >...
Page 328 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Then placing a check mark in the Selected option box near the bottom center of this window. Click on Apply, then Close to save this change. After selecting the Engrave icon from the left toolbar, the cut preview window is shown. Two important...
Page 329 Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro NOTE - The above procedure is appropriate for applications using the nose cone and proximity sensor. For applications where you have set the surface of the material and plan on setting the engraving depth via a tool path depth, follow the below procedure to set a specific engraving depth for a specific color.
Page 330 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Change the Depth (and if desired, the number of passes and depth per pass) to what is needed for your application, then select Change. In this example, a depth of 0.010 was entered and 1 pass will be used.
Page 331: Part X Maintenance
Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro Maintenance Vision strives for the highest quality in their manufacturing process to provide you with the most cost effective, reliable engraving machine in use today. Please remember that proper maintenance and care is necessary to achieve maximum product life expectancy.
Page 332: Electronics Maintenance
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual 10.2 Electronics Maintenance How to Remove and Clean the Air Filters Weekly preventive maintenance should be performed to ensure reliable operation of the machine's electronics. It is recommended that the electronics box and router head air filters be removed weekly and cleaned to ensure proper cooling of the electronics.
Page 333 To clean the router head air filters, snap the filter guard off and remove the foam filter. Clean per above instructions and replace before using the machine. (Right side air filter not shown). © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 334: Motion System Cleaning And Lubrication
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual 10.3 Motion System Cleaning and Lubrication Materials Needed Grease Gun with General Purpose Grease (included) Grease Fitting Adapter (included) Paper Towels Grease Gun Kit Grease Fitting Adapter © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 335 60 days. Only 1/2 to 1 pump of the grease gun is required. (The grease fitting adapter is supplied to allow access to the all grease fittings). Grease should lightly be applied to the Y Axis Racks monthly. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 336 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Use a paper towel to wipe down the X Axis stainless steel rails. Using the included grease gun and grease fitting adapter, supply grease to the grease fittings for the bearings ever 60 days. Only 1/2 to 1 pump of the grease gun is required.
Page 337 Use a paper towel to wipe down the Z Axis stainless steel rails. Using the included grease gun and grease fitting adapter, supply grease to the grease fittings for the bearings every 60 days. Only 1/2 to 1 pump of the grease gun is required. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 338 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Move the router head up and down to expose the Z Axis Ball Screw for cleaning. Use a paper towel and wipe down the ball screw. Using the included grease gun and grease fitting adapter, supply grease to the ball screw grease fitting weekly.
Page 339 If you suspect lubrication problems, call your dealer/representative or the service department at Vision. DO NOT oil the stepper drive motors. None of the motors on the Vision VR48 require lubrication. Oiling the stepper motors can cause permanent damage. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 340: Vacuum Pump Maintenance
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual 10.4 Vacuum Pump Maintenance Vacuum Pump Air Filter The vacuum pump filter will need to be serviced periodically. The frequency of service will depend on machine usage and materials being processed. Check the filter by removing the filter cap and filter on a weekly basis.
Page 341 The Vacuum Pump requires periodic lubrication. It is recommended to lightly apply grease via a grease gun to the two fittings (shown) every 3,000 hours of use. Please refer to the Vacuum Pump User Guide shipped with the pump for more information. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 342: Part Xi Optional Accessories
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Optional Accessories These accessories are available for purchase directly from Vision, or you local distributor, as well as through www.visionengravers.com. If you have any questions about these accessories, please contact Vision or your distributor for advice for choosing the best accessories for your applications. Vision can also help if you have a need for special fixtures, or modifications to our standard accessories.
Page 344 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual UNIST Air Inlet Port Location Connect a compressed air supply, regulated to 60 - 90 psi maximum, to the UNIST Air Inlet Port. The port is located on the left side of the VR48 router as shown.
Page 345: Vacuum Chip Removal System
The vacuum pump canister uses replaceable/reusable filters to assure maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This vacuum chip removal system is available with or without a Vision vacuum nose cone.
Page 346: Hold Down Clamps
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual 11.3 Hold Down Clamps Wedge Clamps Simply slide the clamp onto the T-slot table surface and position it over the edge of the engraving stock. The downward clamping force eliminates bowing. This clamp can be used with material up to 1/4” thick.
Page 347 This clamp is designed to hold down square or rectangular plates. By lining up the “V” cut-out of the clamp with the corner of the plate, the engraver is allowed maximum engraving space. It will hold material as thin as 1/32”. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 348: Fixtures
Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual 11.4 Fixtures Universal Pin Fixtures Available for the Versa Vise, T-slot table, and Self-Centering Vise. Also usable with other computerized engravers and Pantographs. These fixtures enable engraving on uniquely shaped items such as pens, lighters, knives, keychains, and more.
Page 349 Enables engraving on most pens and cylindrical items that vary in diameter from end to end. Available for most computerized engravers and Pantographs. It is also usable with the Versa Vise and Self- Centering Vise. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...
Page 350 Vision VR48 Series 4 Router User Manual Pen & Medallion Fixture This is a double-sided fixture that, when turned in one direction, accommodates a pen, and when turned in the other direction, accommodates a medallion, seal, or other circular item. With a space for the “eye”...
Page 351: Clamping Vises
This vise is supplied with a removable front clamping plate which allows for the holding of thicker items. Self-Centering Deep Vise This self-centering vise allows for easy setup of odd-shaped items up to 3 1/4” deep. © 2015 Vision Engraving and Routing Systems...

Vision VR48 4 Series User Manual

Contents

Part I Introduction

Part II General Information - Installation

Part III Series 4 Contoller and Vision 9 Software Installation

Part IV Router, Engraving and Knife Heads

Part V Operation

Part VI the DACS Camera System

Part VII Example Jobs

Part VIII Vectorizing Images in Vision 9 Pro

Part IX Creating Multiples and Serialization in Vision 9 Expert and Pro

Part X Maintenance

Motion System Cleaning and Lubrication

Vacuum Pump Maintenance

Part XI Optional Accessories

UNIST Misting System

Vacuum Chip Removal System

Hold down Clamps

Fixtures

Clamping Vises

Quick Links

Related Manuals for Vision VR48 4 Series

Summary of Contents for Vision VR48 4 Series

Table of Contents