The Software: Operation Made Easy |
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The TruTops Mark software leads to high quality marking results |
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The main advantages - only one interface for all operations
- functions for a variety of markings, such as serial numbers, dates, time, barcodes and Data Matrix codes
- structured laser parameter administration
- import of common graphics formats (DXF/DWG, HPGL, and IGES)
- import of pixel formats (BMP, TIF, JPG and PCX) as greyscale or dithering
- sequence programming with Quickflow
- laser control and data communication from/to other computer systems (parallel I/O, RS-232, Profibus, TCP/IP or COM software interface)
- diagnostics tool allows to monitor and change values, either at the laser on-site or via telepresence
- image field segmentation for marking field enlargement when using linear or rotary axes
- integrated font editor with TrueType font importing possibility
- multitasking: use of graphics editor and data transfer possible during marking
- user administration
- electronic manual
Marking software CAD editor Laser parameter administration Interfaces Sequence programming with Quickflow Marking on the fly Diagnostics tool |
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Comfortable user interface |
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The TruTops Mark marking software makes the many options on the VectorMark® lasers very easy to use. It is Windows based and is available in several languages.
The motorised door, focus axis, optional linear and rotary axes and any peripherals are numerically controlled via the integrated electronic axis control. They can be programmed via the software of the marking system – which means that the user has just one interface for all the workstation functions. Simple sequences can be programmed and stored into workpiece files. The operator can start repeating tasks easily by using this option.
From the control side, the VectorMark® lasers can easily be integrated into automatedproduction lines.

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CAD editor |
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The CAD editor is based on a CAD system and offers all conventional functions for drawing, modifying, and alignment of graphical objects. Further it contains a converter for the CAD data formats DXF/DWG, HPGL and IGES as well as for the pixel formats BMP, TIF, JPG and PCX. This ensures a simple and true to detail linkage of graphics and logos.
Composing text is easy with the multitude of laser optimised fonts available. With the help of an integrated converter, true-type fonts can be transferred from Windows.
Creating one, or multi-dimensional barcodes, i.e Data Matrix codes in various formats, is just as simple. Variable data such as time of day, date or continuous serial numbers can also be automatically integrated. Different drawing objects can be quickly and easily filled with predefined hatching and filling patterns. It is possible to define the filling angle, the line and contour distance as well as the filling type - parallel or equidistant to the outer contour.

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Laser parameter administration |
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In the laser parameter administration the laser parameres are listed in a separate dialog, thematically segmented and clearly arranged. With establishing a laser parameter database, it is possible to reuse optimized laser parameters for a specific material again and again. These so-called global laser parameters can be used for marking as a reference but also as modifiable copies.
The overlap is displayed visually, depending on the main laser parameter’s deflection speed and pulse frequency, this helps to optimize the marking.

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RS-232 interface in TruTops Mark |
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The interfaces allow variable production data to be retrieved via interfaces and merged into the marking program being marked. Multiple possibilities simplify the integration of the marking laser into production lines. The parallel I/O - interface, RS-232, ProfiBus (RS-485) or Ethernet (TCP/IP) are available to control the laser. Furthermore a COM inprocess server is available for the VectorMark® lasers, which is the software interface, by using TLV commands.
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Example of a Quickflow sequence program |
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Sequence programming with Quickflow allows programs to be created which control the whole marking cycle from beginning to end. It is possible to create a data exchange with external systems and, for example, be able to react with variable marking by differing the measuring values. Quickflow allows graphically orientated creation of sequence programs without needing another programming language. All interfaces on the VectorMark® lasers can be accessed with Quickflow, as can data from external sources. Effective and efficient links to external databases can be established.

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Marking on the fly |
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Marking on the fly Unclocked continous production processes require a possibility to mark products without interrupting the workflow. Therefore TRUMPF offers the option "Marking on the fly". Distortion free marking on the workpiece is achieved by superposing the movement of the transport equipment on the deflection mirrors. The speed of the conveyor belt is continously measured to grant a precise marking, even if the assembly line is accelerated or decelerated.

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Diagnostics tool |
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The diagnostics tool serves to visualise and analyse analogue measured values obtained by the sensors and is an important part of telepresence. It offers the following possibilities:
- store and display the latest monitoring and fault monitoring messages
- display of the laser's status information
- display of working values of the laser unit, this contains current values and time sequences
With this display and monitoring, causes of interruptions can be quickly and accurately traced and if necessary corrected.
In serious cases, TRUMPF service experts can dial into the laser unit with this software tool from anywhere in the world. The analogous values accessed by the diagnostics tool can not only be read but can be changed in their limits and thus help to reduce downtime to a minimum.

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