3.3. Testing and diagnostics

3.3.1. General description

This section allows you to test and diagnose individual machine components. The following options are available:

• scanning unit test,
• milling unit test,
• axis movement test,
• sensor diagnostics.

The selected test starts when the START button is pressed.

3.3.2. Scanning unit test

The main purpose is to verify the technical condition and cleanliness of the machine components responsible for measurement during the scanning process. This test checks in particular the straightness of the measuring probe plate and its correct setting.

Test procedure:

• referencing (i.e., the process of referencing) - description in chapter 2.3. Axis movement functions,
• check the position of the front and rear edges of the measuring plate based on the scan of the reference element.

The test results are presented as the difference in values between the front and rear edges of the measuring plate – separately for the left and right sides of the reference element.

The permissible deviation from the standard is also displayed on the screen. Exceeding this value may result in errors in the key profile measurement.

The following options are available for this test:

• REPEAT - repeat test (without referencing process),
• CLEAN - start the procedure to assist in cleaning the scanning unit,
• FINISH - end of test and return to the previous menu.

3.3.3. Milling unit test

The purpose of the test is to verify the correct operation of the milling machine components responsible for the milling process.

The test consists of three stages:

1. Electric spindle and its control

   • The machine is set to the parking position,
   • The electric spindle starts up,
   • After starting the electric spindle, the machine verifies the feedback signals from the sensors.
   • If the signals are correct, a message is displayed asking whether the spindle has reached full speed. The user should assess acoustically whether the spindle is running at the nominal speed and confirm the selection.
   • After completing the test, it is possible to repeat it or proceed to the next stage.

2. Operation of the mechanics and sensors of the milling unit

   • The machine sets the position for easy mounting of the blank key in the milling unit.
   • According to the message, place the blank key (any size) in the milling unit. It is forbidden to use blanks with an already made profile.
   • After the installation is confirmed, the blank key is automatically measured and its dimensions are displayed on the screen.
   • After completing the test, it is possible to repeat it or proceed to the next stage.

3. Setting the axis of the electric spindle (geometry relative to the other axes)

   • The machine uses a blank key fixed in the previous stage to measure the plane of the cutter relative to the side edges of the blank key.
   • The test results are presented as the difference between the measurements at the front and rear, separately for the left and right sides of the blank key.
   • The screen also shows the permissible range of deviation from the standard. Exceeding this range may result in incorrect reproduction of the milled key profiles.
   • After completing the test, it is possible to repeat it or terminate the procedure.

After completing the entire test procedure, remove the blank key from the milling unit. The machine will display an appropriate message.

The blank key used in this procedure is suitable for reuse, provided it was new. During testing, it is not machined, but only measured using electrical contact.

3.3.4. Axis movement test

This function allows you to verify the correct operation of all machine axes during movement without a working load.

The test is started or stopped by pressing the ON/OFF button. Movement is continuous and sequential for each axis. Each movement sequence consists of two stages:

1. Move the axis until the limit switches are activated in both directions.
2. Movement within the full working range, without reaching the limit switches.

During the test, values corresponding to the displacement length for each axis are displayed on the screen. These data are updated after the completion of a full movement cycle of the given axis.

The feed speed can be changed using the SPEED button. The speed can also be changed while the test is in progress. The new value is applied after the current movement is completed.

3.3.5. Sensor diagnostics

This function allows you to manually check the operation of most of the machine's sensors.

The control panel display shows the status of individual sensors in binary form (0 – open, 1 – closed). The readings are updated continuously, allowing for quick assessment of correct operation.

The machine is equipped with two types of sensors:

• Microswitches (M) - activated by direct mechanical pressure.
• Electronic (E) - the status is determined by closing an electrical circuit through contact with a metal part of the key clamp or a metal part of the machine body.

Checking the axis limit switches is only possible when automatic axis control has not been activated - details in section 2.3. Axis movement functions. Using the ON/OFF option enables or disables automatic axis control depending on the current status.