2.3. Axis movement functions

2.3.1. General description

The functions described in this chapter are necessary for the proper execution of processes related to the movement of the machine axes. These functions are universal and are called automatically when required by a given procedure.

2.3.2. Verification of safety conditions

The machine's firmware continuously monitors operating conditions to ensure safe operation and protect the machine components from damage. For each procedure, only those conditions that are relevant to its correct execution are verified.

Depending on the type of operation, the following may be controlled, among other things:

• presence of blank key in the milling slot,
• closing the door of the milling slot cover,
• presence of the key in the scanning unit,
• contact of the measuring probe with any component,

If the required condition is not met, the operation is automatically suspended or blocked until the correct state is restored.

2.3.3. Axis start-up

The axis start-up process is activated automatically when you enter the menu functions that require machine movement.

During the start-up process, automatic axis control is activated, which prevents manual movement of the axes. Simply turning on the machine does not activate this control.

This startup is performed once during each work session, which means that it must be performed after each power-up. During this process, the machine performs a full range of movements in all axes in order to:

• checking the correct operation of mechanical and electronic systems,
• establish reference positions (base positions) for all working axes.

2.3.4. Referencing

The referencing process involves taking multiple measurements of the position of the reference element relative to the measuring probe plate when they are in contact. The purpose of this is to:

• specifying the exact position of the reference element; this value will serve as a reference point for subsequent operations,
• verification of the correct movement of the axes,
• check the scanning unit (in particular, check that it is not dirty).

Successful completion of the process results in progression to the next operation.

If the results are outside the acceptable range, a procedure to assist in cleaning the scanning unit will be automatically triggered:

1. Extend the measuring probe for better access to the entire measuring plate and display a message indicating that it needs to be cleaned.
2. Return the measuring probe to its rest position and display a message indicating that the reference element needs to be cleaned.

2.3.5. Quick test of the measuring probe

This process checks the position of the side planes of the probe measuring plate relative to each other using the left plane of the reference element. Its purpose is to verify that the measuring plate is straight and to make any necessary corrections to the current scanning procedure.

Successful completion of the process results in progression to the next operation.

2.3.6. Checking for the presence of a key in the scanning unit

This process uses a measuring probe to check whether a key is in the scanning unit's clamp.

The result of this process determines what actions are to be taken in the current procedure.

2.3.7. Return to the starting position

This function is used to automatically set the scanning and milling unit to the starting position, which facilitates the start of subsequent operations.

This position also serves as a safe parking position where delicate machine components are protected from accidental damage.

2.3.8. Stopping the machine with an error code

In the event of a serious error preventing further operation of the machine, an emergency procedure is initiated. The following actions are performed automatically:

• immediate stopping of the axis movement and the electric spindle,
• disabling automatic axis movement control,
• locking the user interface,
• displaying a message on the control panel screen indicating that the machine has stopped, including the error code and details of the error.

Recommended user action in this situation:

• Note the error code – it is best to take a photo of the entire message displayed on the screen. This information will be helpful for diagnostics if the error occurs again.
• Verify that no actions that could cause the error have been performed before the error occurred – e.g., incorrect mounting of the blank key or original key, blocking of the axis movement by an external factor, working with a damaged or worn cutter, etc.
• Turn off the machine using the power button.
• **Remove the key or blank key from the machine if it is still in the scanning or milling unit – take special care not to damage any parts of the machine.
• **Restart the machine and test the individual components to verify that they are working correctly.