TruControl 1000
TruControl 1000
TruControl 1000
2008-04
TruControl 1000
... for transitioners
Before you go on reading...
WinLas or TruControl 1000 For new laser devices, the operating interface TruControl 1000 is
used. Older laser devices are still equipped with a control panel
(LCB control unit) or with WinLas (LCU control).
Users who know WinLas This document is intended for users who already work with
TRUMPF laser devices equipped with the user interface WinLas.
You will find here a description of what is available as known
function in the new design.
2. Functions............................................................................7
2.1 Standby................................................................................7
4. Operation ..........................................................................21
4.1 Graphic output ...................................................................21
4.2 Parameter sets ..................................................................24
4.3 Basic functions of the laser................................................25
5. Hardware...........................................................................27
5.1 Laser control unit ...............................................................27
5.2 Operating panel .................................................................31
5.3 Panel computer..................................................................33
5.4 PC used for operation........................................................34
5.5 Start-up interface ...............................................................35
5.6 Operating safety shutter (ASV3)........................................36
5.7 TRUMPF Laser Network (TLN) .........................................38
5.8 LLK monitoring...................................................................40
5.9 Measuring signals..............................................................41
6. Software............................................................................42
6.1 Software installation...........................................................42
6.2 Software updates...............................................................43
6.3 Replacing control components ..........................................44
6.4 OLE for process control (OPC)..........................................45
6.5 Data storage (backup) .......................................................45
6.6 Diagnosis data ...................................................................46
7. Programming ...................................................................47
7.1 Pulse shapes .....................................................................47
7.2 Laser programs..................................................................50
8. Activation .........................................................................51
9. Glossary............................................................................62
Who is the document for? This document should help you to switch from a laser device with
LCB or LCU control to a laser device with the operating interface
TruControl.
Further information A detailed description concerning the operation and the activation
can be found in the documentation of your laser device:
• Operating instructions for the laser device
• Software manual TruControl 1000
• Interface descriptions
New operating interface Not only by using new functions, but also by using the new
operating interface Tru Control 1000, TRUMPF Laser strikes a new
path.
The operating interface was developped according to the latest
knowledge concerning software ergonomics. It will be easy for
users of the operating interface WinLas to switch to the new
operating interface since they will find known functions from
WinLas in the new interface.
Glossary In a glossary in the last section of this document (see section 9),
you will find a list containing technical terms, abbreviations or
TRUMPF specific terms and their explanation. In the document,
the terms that are listed in the glossary are marked by (→).
2.1 Standby
Previous functions
CW lasers CW laser users know the standby mode as the first step in a laser
program. The laser in CW lasers equipped with LCU control was
operated first in the standby mode with a defined power. While the
standby mode was active, the central shutter was closed. When
changing to the next program step, the central shutter was opened
and laser light could be emitted at the processing point.
Fig. 1
The standby function ensured that the laser worked in a stable way
immediately after having opened the central shutter. The
disadvantage of the standby function was that the user had to wait
until the central shutter was open before the laser light could reach
the workpiece.
Pulsed lasers Pulsed lasers do not have a standby mode. The central shutter
was controlled explicitly by commands. Users of pulsed lasers
therefore must not change over.
What is new?
CW lasers with TruControl 1000 do no longer have a standby
mode. The application of new technologies in the laser enables the
laser to work immediately in a stable way even in the case of an
abrupt rise of the power from zero to the nominal value.
21-A0-57-CP02 Functions 7
Advantages of the new technology
Due to the fact that standby function is no longer needed, the times
for the standby mode and the opening time of the central shutter
are no longer required Therefore, the laser processing can start
more quickly. During the laser program sequence as well, the
times for the standby mode and the opening of the central shutter
are no longer necessary. When changing from one laser program
to the other, up to 120 ms can be saved and this can result in an
increased amount of time during serial production.
Now a pulsed mode is also possible for CW lasers. The laser has a
higher dynamic in the pulse flanks.
It is also possible to execute a complete laser program when the
central shutter is closed. This can be an advantage during the
setup of new production processes.
What is to be done?
When laser programs are transferred from a CW laser with LCU
control to a laser equipped with TruControl 1000, the following
must be observed:
• Standby lines can be omitted
• The opening and closing of the central shutter must be
explicitly programmed.
The software manual, included in the delivery of TruControl 1000
contains further information.
Previous functions
For laser devices having an older operating concept, the
application was not directly supported. The user had to procure the
respective knowledge from other sources
What is new?
In TruControl 1000, the module Weldassist can be integrated
optionally as software function for pulsed lasers. It informs the
user how to set the laser parameters to get a high-quality result
quickly, depending on the material to be machined with the laser.
Even if these are not yet the optimal values for your application,
the module Weldassist supplies appropriate start values which can
be used to get the optimum laser settings quickly. Above all, this
applies to the machining of new material for which you have no
experience.
What is to be done?
For using the module Weldassist, please contact the TRUMPF
Laser sales department.
Previous functions
Up to now, it was only possible for CW lasers to program power
courses with ramps at the beginning and at the end.
What is new?
TruControl 1000 allows you to modulate a selected number of
pulses with the help of a ramp shaped envelope curve so that a
few entries in the software are sufficient to program pulse
sequences which increase or decrease in a ramp shaped way.
Fig. 3
What is to be done?
Information concerning the use of the ramp function can be found
in the software manual of TruControl 1000. The TRUMPF Laser
application consulting engineers can provide help in this matter.
Pulsed lasers are provided with the burst function. The term “Burst”
is explained in the glossary at the end of this technical information.
Previous functions
The capacitors of the laser devices of the last generation have to
be recharged after each activated pulse in order to provide the full
energy for the next pulse.
P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6
P1
P2
P3
P4
B
P5
A
1 Axis capacitor charge P1 - P5 Pulses B Time until the capacitor has been fully charged
2 Axis time A Capacitor charge ≙ Pulse energy
Fig. 5
What is to be done?
Within a program line The software recognizes if the burst function is possible within a
line of the laser program and controls the pulse triggering and the
charging of the capacitor accordingly. The user must not control
actively this process.
Example: Finite sequence of pulses with low pulse energy.
Across several program lines Should the burst function in a laser program be active across
several lines, the feature “overload” can be assigned to the
respective program lines. Then, a line is addressed while the
previous line is still executed. If the stored energy is sufficient, the
next line is executed without recharging the capacitor.
Previous functions
Up to now, the cutting application was not supported. All process
related data has to be determined by the user himself. A speed-
specific power control was not possible.
What is new?
The TruContol module Cutassist was developed for the laser
device TruDisk. Using the module Cutassist, data records for
different common materials can be created. The user enters the
material, material thickness and the speed-specific parameters in
the editor. The data records can then be transferred into a laser
program.
What is to be done?
For using the module Cutassist, please contact the TRUMPF Laser
sales department.
Previous functions
LCU + WinLas The diagnosis functions are well-known to the users of laser
devices with LCU control and WinLas. The diagnosis functions
available in WinLas are summarized in the menu item >Diagnosis.
When the user selects the diagnosis menu, a list of the diagnosis
function is displayed. A software dialog which shows all values
relevant for the function is assigned to each diagnosis function. In
the software dialogs, the data were summarized according to the
respective component: for example dialogs for cavities, power
supply, cooling system, etc.
If control signals were to be recorded, the data recording function
must be called explicitly. This made it possible to display and
evaluate the course of control signals in a past time interval.
LCB Users of laser devices with LCB control unit know only a limited
version of the diagnosis function.
What is new?
For users of laser devices with LCB control unit, the extended
diagnosis function of TruControl 1000 is new.
In TruControl 1000, the diagnosis functions can be found in the
main activity “Diagnosis”.
The activity-specific dialogs are new. The displayed values are
summarized in such a way that they give an overview of a specific
function. The values can come from different components.
Examples for activity-specific dialogs are:
• Observing CPX
• Observing cooling unit
• EMERGENCY STOP and switch-on interface
• Observing pulse data
• Monitoring SIK voltages
• Light Path Overview
• MPI overview
In TruControl 1000, there are also component-specific dialogs.
They are mainly intended for the after-sales service of TRUMPF.
Therefore, most of the dialogs can only be displayed in the user
level of after-sales service operation. You will find further
indications in the glossary at the end of this document.
A new function is also, that switching signals are permanently
and automatically recorded in the control system Thus, switching
signals within a past time period can be displayed and evaluated at
any time. The duration of the display time can be set in the
configuration.
Fig. 6
What is to be done?
In order to call diagnosis functions, the user selects the main
function “Diagnosis” and afterwards the desired diagnosis function.
In order to call the full extent of the component-specific diagnosis
functions, the user level ≥ 70 must be set. For lower user levels,
the use of certain areas may be restricted.
Previous functions
For users of laser devices with LCB control unit, the telepresence
function is completely new.
In WinLas you can find the function „Telepresence”. With the help
of this function, the service technicians of TRUMPF can connect
themselves to the laser device via the telecommunication channels
and have the following possibilities:
• Remote operation of the laser device.
• Displaying operational values.
• Troubleshooting.
• Read-out of operational data and transfer them to
TRUMPF Laser
• Changing the parameters.
• Updating the software.
Most of the connections had been established via an analog
modem or via ISDN connections.
These possibilities also exist in TruControl 1000. An analog
modem is integrated in the central computer (CPX).
What is new?
The user of TruControl 1000 can dial into the after-sales service
department of TRUMPF via a VPN connection (→) and, by doing
this, allow the after-sales service a remote access to his laser
device.
If there is no connection available via the conventional telephone
network, a connection can also be temporarily established via a
mobile phone or a USB interface.
What is to be done?
For this purpose, the laser device must have an access to the
internet. DSL (→) or an integration in the local IT infrastructure is
also advantageous.
Previous functions
For laser devices with LCU control and WinLas, initially three
control components having functions for power measurement and
real-time control were available.
• LLR Laser-Leistungs-Regelung (laser power control), analog
• LMP: Laser-Mess-Platine (laser measuring board
• FGD: Frequenzgeber, Digital (frequency generator digital)
• ILV: Interface Lampenstromversorgung (interface lamp power
supply)
The components LMP and FGD are only used in pulsed lasers.
In a newly developed component DLC (Digital Laser Control), the
functions LLR, LMP, FGD and ILV are combined on one board.
What is new?
The component DLC with all functions can also used in CW
lasers. This means: as far as the power data of the laser allow it,
CW lasers can now be operated and monitored in the same way as
pulsed lasers.
What is to be done?
In order to measure analog values, measuring instruments
(multimeter, oscilloscope, analog recorder) can be connected to
the analog interface.
The measured values can be displayed in TruControl 1000 via a
diagnosis dialog: “Observing pulse data”.
In order to collect the digitalized values for offline evaluations, the
software package Module Datastore of TRUMPF must be activated.
For the real-time control of the laser, appropriate trigger signals
must be applied to the real-time interface of the CPX.
The user himself can configure the safety functions of the firewall
via a dialog in TruControl 1000. The safety functions correspond to
the current safety standards of the data technology.
What is to be done?
During the start-up of a laser device with TruControl 1000, the
service technician of TRUMPF can configure the firewall according
to the user’s demand.
The user himself is able to change the configuration of the firewall.
For doing this, he has to create the preconditions on a selected PC
in the network and to assign the required authorizations. The
software manual, included in the delivery of TruControl 1000,
contains further information.
The changed configuration become immediately effective without
restarting TruControl 1000.
Previous functions
Laser devices with WinLas and LCU control unit can already be
operated via different PCs. This requires, however, that a suitable
version of WinLas configured for the respective laser is installed on
each PC. The connection of the PCs to the laser control is
established by means of a local data network.
What is new?
For users of laser devices with LCB control unit, the remote control
function is completely new.
Using the module Remote, any PC (control station PC) can be
conditioned for the remote control of a laser device with
TruControl 1000.
The PC must mainly fulfill the following two prerequisites:
• The PC must be logged in the same data network as the laser
device.
• The software “TruControl 1000 Module Remote” must be
installed on the PC.
TruContol 1000 Module Remote is a small skeletal program under
the control of which the control station PC has access to the laser
devices.
For the remote control, we make a differentiation between two
modes
• Virtual Network Computing (VNC) (→)
• Local instance
VNC In the VNC mode, the screen content of the operating panel on the
laser device is copied to the control station PC. The PC user can
see what is displayed on the operating panel of the laser device.
Local instance If the control station PC having access to the laser device is in the
“Local instance” mode, the user at the laser device and the user at
the control station PC have independently of one another access to
the laser device. The control station PC copies the operating
interface of the laser device and starts the local instance mode.
What is to be done?
Laser devices which are to be remote controlled and the control
station PC must be logged in the same local network.
The control station PC must mainly fulfill the following two
prerequisites:
• Operating system Windows XP with the latest service
packages
• .NET Framework 1.1:
The handling of the Module Remote is easy. In the software
manual for the Module Remote, the user of the control station PC
can quickly find the required information.
Previous functions
WinLas Fig. 8
21-A0-57-CP02 Operation 21
What is new?
TruControl Fig. 9
22 Operation 21-A0-57-CP02
The laser devices TruDisk 2002 to TruDisk 10003 are usually
equipped with a panel computer.
What is to be done?
The user who already knows WinLas will easily become
acquainted with the interface of TruControl 1000. The user will
familiarize himself very quickly with the convenient handling of the
program via the touch screen and the turn-and-push button and will
soon be able to use the software.
Perhaps, you first have to get used to some terms such as main
activity, secondary activity or technology. They come from the
TRUMPF style guide. A trained user will quickly get used to the
special meaning of these terms
21-A0-57-CP02 Operation 23
4.2 Parameter sets
Previous functions
One (1) parameter set can be entered in the main dialog of WinLas.
In WinLas, parameters can only be stored in the laser programs.
Up to 25 parameter sets can be stored for lasers with LCB control
unit.
What is new?
In TruControl 1000, the laser parameters in the manual mode can
be entered via the dialog “Pulse data”. 200 different laser programs
can be stored. The modifications of the parameter sets are
automatically saved.
What is to be done?
Transferring parameter sets The parameter sets which have been used for WinLas lasers or for
laser with LCB control unit and which you also want to use in
TruControl 1000 must be adapted and transferred manually. The
same also applies for pulse shapes which were used in WinLas.
24 Operation 21-A0-57-CP02
4.3 Basic functions of the laser
Previous functions
Activating and deactivating The control unit for lasers with LCU control unit and WinLas is
the control system activated by pressing a key on the operating panel. By pressing
another key, the control unit can be switched off.
Alternatively, the control unit can be activated via interface signals,
for example from a PLC.
For laser devices with LCB control unit, these functions can be
activated or deactivated by means of switches and buttons located
on the operating panel.
Setting the laser parameters In WinLas, the operating mode and the laser parameter can be
entered in the main dialog of the program As soon as laser
parameters are used, the parameters in the program sequences
are set. In laser programs, every program step can contain its own
parameters. Optionally, the time-dependent change in laser power
can be integrated in the laser programs using the pulse shapes.
Activating the laser Buttons to activate and to reset the laser are located at the bottom
right of the WinLas main dialog. The commands to activate the
functions can be entered using the functions keys of the keyboard
in conjunction with the <Ctrl> key.
For laser programs with LCB control unit, the laser parameters
are entered using the operating panel. Up to 25 parameter sets
can be stored in the operating panel and called for application
purposes. The laser is activated by pressing a key on the operating
panel. Pulses are triggered by means of a footswitch or by
pressing a key on the operating panel.
Selecting a light path In WinLas, the light path can be selected in the main dialog or in
every program step of a laser program.
For lasers with LCB control unit, the light path can be selected via
external control signals for the beam switches in the optical
arrangement.
21-A0-57-CP02 Operation 25
What is new?
The buttons for the basic functions of the laser which can be found
in the WinLas main dialog are located in the dialog „Pulse data“.
What is to be done?
To use the basic function, you only have to know how to find the
dialog in which the inputs can be entered.
Pulsed lasers The operating procedure for pulsed lasers is the same as for laser
devices with WinLas and similar to the operation of the devices
with LCB control unit. The difference lies particularly in the
appearance and in the position of the operating elements.
CW lasers Please observe for CW lasers that:
• the standby function does no longer exist.
• the central shutter has therefore to be opened and closed
manually.
26 Operation 21-A0-57-CP02
5. Hardware
Previous functions
LCU
The LCU control unit is used for pulsed and CW lasers. Using the
LCU control unit, the laser can be operated manually or by means
of an external control unit via a parallel interface or a field bus. In
automated production lines, only lasers with LCU control units are
used.
The central processor and some other components having
interfaces to the external activation (parallel interface, field bus
interfaces) form the core of the LCU control unit. Additional
components which are mainly equipped with own processors
control and monitor the components of the laser device (laser,
beam guidance, power supply, cooling unit etc.).
The LCU control unit is divided in 3 software platforms:
• the operating interface on the connected operating PC
• the software on the control computer
• the firmware of the control unit components
21-A0-57-CP02 Hardware 27
LCB
2
The LCB control unit unit is particularly used for pulsed lasers
which are operated in combination with manual workstations.
What is new?
CPX
CPX
A component named CPX (→) forms the core of the new control
unit.
The CPX combines all functions which are distributed in the LCU
control to the following components:
• Central processor
• VME components (interfaces)
• Operating PC (without periphery)
The operating panel or a panel computer serves as periphery for
operation. Optionally, an operating PC having only display and
entry functions can be used. The operating software is installed on
the CPX.
28 Hardware 21-A0-57-CP02
Thus, there are two software platforms for operation, monitoring
and control:
• the CPX
• the firmware of the control unit components
Versions
1 1 3
2
21-A0-57-CP02 Hardware 29
In the CPX, a modem is integrated which helps you to connect the
laser device to the telecommunication network.
Moreover, the CPX has six slots for the connection of modules to
field bus interfaces.
In combination with the TruControl control unit, two-channel
EMERGENCY STOP and safety circuits are usually provided.
What is to be done?
If a laser device with a LCU control unit is replaced by another one
with a TruControl control unit, it is necessary to mount other
connectors on some of the cables.
If the two-channel EMERGENCY STOP and safety circuits are
used instead of the previous single-channel circuits, the wiring of
these circuits must be renewed.
Normally, other hardware changes are not necessary.
30 Hardware 21-A0-57-CP02
5.2 Operating panel
Previous functions
An operating PC on which the program WinLas is installed serves
as a display and input device for laser devices equipped with an
LCU control unit and WinLas. The keyboard and the mouse are
used to activate functions and to enter values.
An operating unit with LCD display and keys is connected to the
laser devices with LCB control unit.
What is new?
21-A0-57-CP02 Hardware 31
Operating on a TruPulse laser device Fig. 16
What is to be done?
The user who has already operated the laser devices by means of
the keyboard and the mouse will be astonished how easy it is to
switch to the use by means of the touch screen and the turn-and-
push button.
32 Hardware 21-A0-57-CP02
5.3 Panel computer
Previous functions
An operating PC on which the program WinLas is installed serves
as a display and input device for laser devices equipped with an
LCU control unit and WinLas. The keyboard and the mouse are
used to activate functions and to enter values.
What is new?
What is to be done?
The software TruControl 1000 Module Remote must be installed
on the panel computer.
21-A0-57-CP02 Hardware 33
5.4 PC used for operation
Previous functions
For laser devices equipped with LCU control unit and WinLas, the
operating PC is the only option to operate the laser device
manually.
What is new?
The laser devices equipped with CPX and TruControl 1000 can be
operated via the operating panel (see 5.2.)
Apart from the operating panel, the laser devices equipped with
CPX and TruControl 1000 can be operated with the help of a PC.
For this purpose, the PC is connected directly or via a data network
and Ethernet to the laser device.
The main difference is that the operating software TruControl 1000
is installed on the CPX and not on the PC. The PC is only the
interface between user and device where operating commands are
entered and information is displayed.
It is only possible to enter data via touch screen if the PC is
technically equipped with the respective features, for example if an
industrial PC is used. In the other cases, the mouse pointer
replaces the finger on the screen.
If the laser device is equipped with an operating panel, a PC can
be additionally connected to the laser device via Ethernet. This
makes sense if the laser device is to be monitored and, when
appropriate, operated by a control station.
If the software is set accordingly, two users can work
simultaneously with the laser device. Therefore, one user can e.g.
carry out welding operations with the laser device while another
user edits pulse shapes or laser programs. An internal lock
mechanism avoids that the inputs of different users interfere with
each other or create access conflicts.
What is to be done?
The software TruControl 1000 Module Remote must be installed
on the PC. This is a “skeletal program” that includes all functions
for the remote control of several laser devices.
The PC and the laser devices which are to be connected to the PC
must be located in the same data network.
Then, the laser devices must be logged onto the software.
34 Hardware 21-A0-57-CP02
5.5 Start-up interface
Previous functions
Fig. 29
Laser devices equipped with LCU control unit and WinLas have a
start-up interface. This makes it possible to switch the control unit
of the laser on and off via an external equipment, for example a
PLC. The connector to connect the signal line is located on the
SUN board of the mains distribution.
What is new?
Fig. 19
For laser devices of the TruDisk series having a power > 1000 W,
nothing has changed.
For all other laser devices, the connection for the start-up interface
is located on an easily accessible place on the front plate.
Connectors and connector assignment have been changed.
21-A0-57-CP02 Hardware 35
Advantages of the new function
The connection on the front plate is easily accessible. It is not
necessary to observe the neighboring electronic components when
connecting a cable.
What is to be done?
If the start-up interface is located on the front plate, a new plug has
to be mounted on the cable which was connected to the start-up
interface before.
For laser devices of the TruDisk series in which the start-up
interfaces are located on the SUN board, it must be checked by
means of the interface descriptions of the previous and the new
laser device whether the connector assignment has changed.
Previous functions
In the laser devices equipped with LCU control unit, a control
component ASV2 is used for each light path and for the central
shutter. ASV (→).
The component ASV2 has 2 interfaces for the user:
• Connection of the safety circuit
• Connection for an external laser warning lamp
What is new?
The component ASV3 is used in all laser devices with CPX and
TruControl 1000.
The component ASV3 has the following user interfaces:
• Connection for the single-channel safety circuit.
• Connection for the two-channel safety circuit.
• Connection for an external laser warning lamp
The connectors for safety circuit have been changed: At the place
of the round connector (type Tuchel) with soldering contacts used
for ASV2, a connector with terminal screws (type Phoenix) is used
for ASV3.
The interface of the two-channel safety circuit includes additional
connections for status signals and for an external laser warning
lamp.
When opening and closing the connected safety contacts, the time
difference between channel 1 and channel 2 is monitored. The
corresponding light path will remain blocked if the time difference
exceeds a limit value.
Advantages of the new function
The standard safety circuit of the component ASV3 is a two-cannel
circuit and fulfils the requirements of the safety class 3. The
monitoring of the time difference increases the safety.
36 Hardware 21-A0-57-CP02
If the user does not require a higher safety class, an existing
single-channel safety circuit can be connected to the component
ASV3.
What is to be done?
For laser devices of the TruDisk series with a laser power > 1 kW,
the wiring of the safety circuit remains the same.
In the other cases, a differentiation between two situations has to
be made:
• The laser device is equipped with the TLN (→) option.
• The laser device is not equipped with TLN.
With TLN If a laser device with LCU control unit is to be replaced by a laser
device provided with CPX and TruControl 1000, both being
equipped with the option TLN, the connections for the safety
circuits are located on the ILN box.
The connectors on the safety circuit cables can remain unchanged,
independently of the number of channels (single-channel or two-
channel) of the safety circuit. If the safety class is not to be
modified during the change, the entire wiring of the safety circuit
can remain the same.
Without TLN If a laser device with LCU control unit is to be replaced by a laser
device with CPX and TruControl 1000, both not equipped with TLN
option, the wiring has to be changed as follows:
If the safety circuit remains a single-channel circuit, the round
connectors must be replaced by a connector with terminal screws.
For modifying the safety circuits in two-channel circuits, the wiring
and the safety contacts must be completely replaced. If external
laser warning lamps are installed for individual light paths, the
power supply for the laser warning lamp can be included in the
cable of the safety circuit.
21-A0-57-CP02 Hardware 37
5.7 TRUMPF Laser Network (TLN)
Previous functions
Laser devices with LCU control unit and WinLas can be equipped
with the option TRUMPF Laser Network (TLN) (→). In this case,
there is an ILN box near the connection for the laser light cable of
each light path.
What is new?
1
2
In laser devices with CPX and TruControl 1000, the ILN box is
replaced by an ILN3 interface which can be found in the connector
housing of the connection cable leading to the ASV3 board. The
ILN interface is located near the incoupling optics of a light path.
38 Hardware 21-A0-57-CP02
The coding switches are mounted at the sides of the connectors.
There are no status displays on the component.
The TRUMPF peripheral bus was introduced in combination with
the TruControl control unit (see section 8.2) (→). This peripheral
bus offers a lot of new options to connect external systems to the
laser control unit.
In connection with TLN, also the information concerning MPI (see
section 8.5) has to be observed if the function MPI is used.
Advantages of the new function
The new connection boxes are more compact which is an
advantage for small laser devices.
What is to be done?
When replacing a laser device with LCU control unit and WinLas
by a laser device with CPX and TruControl 1000, the cables
connected to the old TLN box can be plugged in the corresponding
connections of the new laser devices
It may be necessary to change the wiring when the user wants to
use the new options of the TRUMPF peripheral bus.
21-A0-57-CP02 Hardware 39
5.8 LLK monitoring
Previous functions
There are two versions for the connection of the LLK monitoring for
laser devices with LCU control unit and WinLas:
• with TLN (→)
• without TLN
With TLN, the connector for the LLK monitoring is plugged in the
ILN box (→).
Without TLN, the connector for the LLK monitoring is connected to
a free cable end which is located in the optics arrangement of the
laser device.
What is new?
Fig. 22
For laser devices with CPX and TruControl 1000 equipped with
TLN, a 9-pin connector for the connection of the monitoring plug to
the LLK is located near the connection for the optical plug. The ILN
box where the connection was located before is no longer available
for the TruControl control unit.
Advantages of the new function
The new connection is more compact which is an advantage for
laser devices with small housings.
What is to be done?
The monitoring plug of the LLK must be connected to the
corresponding place on the new laser device:
• with TLN to the connection (see fig. 14)
• without TLN, as previously to the free cable in the optical
arrangement.
The connector on the LLK remains unchanged.
40 Hardware 21-A0-57-CP02
5.9 Measuring signals
Previous functions
Measurements sockets (BNC) for reading the analog measuring
signals are located on the control components ILV and LLR of the
laser devices equipped with LCU control and WinLas.
What is new?
For laser devices equipped with CPX and TruControl 1000, the
measuring signals are collected on the BNC sockets of the DLC
(→) component.
Advantages of the new function
All measuring signals are collected on one connection. The
measuring cable has not to be plugged into another socket.
What is to be done?
The measuring signal which is to be applied to the BNC socket can
be selected in TruControl 1000.
21-A0-57-CP02 Hardware 41
6. Software
Previous functions
For laser devices with LCU control unit and WinLas, all levels of
the software (operating PC, control processor, control components)
are installed and configured in the factory.
Only in a few cases, a complete installation in the user’s factory is
required, for example when a new PC is to be used. The higher the
version of WinLas, the more complex is the installation procedure.
In most of the cases, the support of the TRUMPF after-sales
service department is needed.
The software has to be installed on three different levels:
• on the operating PC
• on the central processor of the LCU control unit
• in the program memories of the control components with own
processors.
What is new?
For laser devices with CPX and TruControl 1000, the software
must only be installed on two levels:
• on the CPX
• in the program memories of the control components with own
processors.
For laser devices with CPX and TruControl 1000, the software is
installed and configured in the factory. Only in few cases, the
software must be completely re-installed.
If a PC is used at the place of an operating panel, apart from the
operating system Windows XP or Linux, the required network
drivers and the TruControl 1000 Module Remote program, no
further operating and control software must be installed on the
laser device.
The program TruControl 1000 Module Remote is completely
decoupled from the version management of the CPX and the
control components. Therefore there are no incompatibilities
between the software versions on the PC and the CPX.
42 Software 21-A0-57-CP02
What is to be done?
The installation of the software for TruControl 1000 is easier than
for WinLas. Normally the user himself can install the software. If
necessary, the required support is provided by the TRUMPF
service department.
Previous functions
Software updates are carried out by the service department of
TRUMPF or by the user according to the instructions of the service
department. Particular attention should be given to the
compatibility of the software versions on the different levels. This
may require a coordinated version management and often
extensive adaptations on different software levels (see section 6).
In general, data carrier for software updates are installation CDs. In
some cases, updates can be carried out via telepresence.
What is new?
If the software must be updated, the following options are
available:
USB stick The user gets an USB stick (→) containing the software for the
update. Alternatively, the user can update his software via the
TRUMPF download server. If required, the access is enabled by
TRUMPF Laser.
What is to be done?
Often only a few steps are required to carry out a software update
under TruControl 1000. TRUMPF provides the required information
for the user. The service department of TRUMPF will support you if
there are problems despite the simplification of the process.
21-A0-57-CP02 Software 43
6.3 Replacing control components
Previous functions
For laser devices with LCU control unit and WinLas, older
components have been replaced little by little by improved
components. The new components are provided with flash
memories which can be updated via download. At the moment,
some components are proviced with flash memory and some with
EPROMs.
If one of the older components has to be replaced, for example
during repair works, the new component must be equipped with a
program memory and the appropriate software version. Generally,
the EPROM of the removed component is plugged into the base of
the new board.
If a software update is carried out during the repair, at the place of
the previous EPROM another EPROM with the appropriate
software must be plugged in.
For the pulling out and inserting of EPROMs a special sleight of
hand and care is required in order to avoid faults and damages.
What is new?
Control units with CPX are only provided with new components
which have flash memories instead of EPROMs.
A software of a control component is updated via download from
the CPX. The parameterization data (→) are also automatically
transferred from the CPX to the control component.
44 Software 21-A0-57-CP02
6.4 OLE for process control (OPC)
Previous functions
The OPC interface (→) has already been available under WinLas.
Via OPC, the user has the possibilities to:
• control the laser device
• request operational data.
The OPC interface is accessible via the Ethernet connection of the
laser device or via a field bus interface.
What is new?
The OPC functions are adopted in the control unit with CPX and
TruControl 1000. Partly, new names for variables have been
defined for the input and output signals of the OPC interface.
Advantages of the new function
The modifications on the OPC interface are due to the fact that
each laser device with CPX and TruControl 1000 is MPI capable.
This means that it can be connected to several external control
units which request the laser. For further information on MPI: see
section 8.5.
What is to be done?
In the existing OPC applications, individual names of variables
must be changed.
Previous functions
It was already possible in WinLas to secure the following data
types:
• Pulse shapes
• Laser programs
• CFO data (→)
• PFO programs (→)
• Diagnosis and system data
The data of the different types must be stored individually. The
primary storage medium is the hard disk of the operating PC. From
there, the data can be transferred to any other storage medium.
What is new?
Additional parameter sets can be stored in TruControl 1000.
The data can be sorted according to the type, but they can also be
stored all together via one command. The primary storage medium
is a USB stick connected to the USB interface of the CPX.
If a PC is used as an operating panel, the data can be stored on
the hard disk of the PC or on a server which is accessible via the
network.
Stored data can be restored in one package or in several packages
sorted according to the type.
21-A0-57-CP02 Software 45
Advantages of the new function
The data can be stored within a shorter time period on a fast
storage medium by means of one command.
What is to be done?
After a data backup on a USB stick, the data should be archived
and managed on a server. Data stored on a USB stick can be
given to the service department of TRUMPF if this can help to
make a diagnosis.
Previous functions
If a telepresence is not possible and the service department needs
data for the diagnosis, for example, to identify a fault, the user has
to collect the data manually according to the instructions of the
service department. This is necessary since the service
department needs diagnosis data which are stored in different
places on the hard disk of the operating PC.
What is new?
In TruControl 1000, the user calls the dialog “Save diagnosis data”,
activates the command to save the data and afterwards he can
send them, for example, via e-mail to the service department. The
created data record reflects the status of the system at the moment
of saving. The data helps the service to identify a detected fault.
Advantages of the new function
All the diagnosis data can be saved by using one single command.
It is no longer required to collect the data according to the
instructions of the service department on the telephone. So the
data transfer to the service department is much faster.
What is to be done?
The user calls the dialog “Save diagnosis data” via Setting /System
data. Afterwards, he enters the command to save the diagnosis
data. A compressed file (ZIP) containing all diagnosis data is
stored on the USB stick. He sends the file via e-mail to the service
of TRUMPF.
46 Software 21-A0-57-CP02
7. Programming
Users of laser devices with LCB control only know the operation of
the laser device via the operating unit. Especially for these users,
TruControl 1000 offers new features and a variety of new functions.
Previous functions
Users of laser devices with LCB control unit can only determine
the parameters of rectangular pulses and freely formed pulses are
not possible.
In WinLas, pulse shapes can be created and modified using the
pulse shape editor. This allows pulse shapes to be adapted best to
the material of the workpiece and to the machining task.
Also pulse shapes created with WinLas on other lasers can be
imported and used as data records.
The pulse shapes can be embedded in laser programs or triggered
as single pulses or pulse trains in manual mode.
What is new?
It is possible to make a better use of the pulse shapes than in
WinLas.
Pulse shapes can be embedded in parameter sets and in laser
programs.
Pulse shapes can be statically or scalable.
Pulse shapes can be taken over from the module Weldassist.
The pulse shapes can be transformed in personal templates.
Static Static pulse shapes have the same application field than in WinLas.
Power course and duration are always as programmed in the pulse
shape editor. For modifying them they must be edited again in the
pulse shape editor.
21-A0-57-CP02 Programming 47
Scalable
Scalable pulse shapes are create in the pulse shape editor, like the
static pulse shapes. They get the property "scalable". When
embedding them in parameter sets or laser programs the power
course and the duration can be linked with absolute values for
power and duration.
This allows, e.g. a pulse shape to be reduced to half of the original
height (power) or to increase its duration to the double value.
Some marginal conditions like e.g. maximum pulse power have to
be observed.
Pulse shapes can be embedded with by means of a reference or a
copy.
Reference Pulse shapes which are embedded in a parameter set or laser
program by means of a reference, are stored as "global pulse
shapes". Changing a global pulse shape has an effect on places
where the pulse shape is used.
Copy Pulse shapes which are embedded in a laser program by mean of
a copy must be stored as "local pulse shapes". When embedding
them in a parameter set or laser program a copy is created which
is transferred as local object.
Modifying the template does not show an effect on various places
of use. Should a locally embedded pulse shape, e.g in a laser
program, be modified it is loaded from its environment into the
pulse shape editor and locally stored after it has been modified.
The pulse shape remains unchanged at all other places.
48 Programming 21-A0-57-CP02
Module Weldassist You can buy the application wizard TruControl 1000 Module
Weldassist. The module Weldassist contains a collection of laser
parameters which can be used for typical applications. Among
other things, pulse shapes are stored there which can be
transferred in parameter sets or laser programs.
21-A0-57-CP02 Programming 49
7.2 Laser programs
Previous functions
Already with WinLas, it was possible to create and use laser
programs. There are many possibilities to control the production
processes via laser programs. Here are some examples:
• Incorporating pulse shapes into laser programs
• Externally defining the laser parameters
• Synchronizing the sequence of a laser program to other
processes.
What is new?
The options offered in WinLas are also available in
TruControl 1000.
Additionally, pulse shapes in laser programs can be used in
different ways (see section 7.1):
• Static or scalable
• Locally or globally
Users who have worked with CW lasers and WinLas must observe
that the standby line is no longer available in laser programs (see
section 2).
The light paths are already set when loading a laser program and
not when starting it.
Advantages of the new function
Users of CW laser devices equipped with TruControl 1000 can use
the same options that WinLas offered to users of pulsed lasers.
Thus, a simulation mode with a closed central shutter is now
available. This allows to test laser programs without emitting laser
light.
CW lasers can be operated in the same way as pulsed lasers. The
pulse frequency can be entered as a parameter. It is now possible
to display and monitor the pulse energy.
The setting of light paths before starting favors in many cases the
duration and the constancy of the running time of laser programs.
This is an advantage for time-critical applications.
What is to be done?
Laser programs from laser devices with WinLas must be
transferred manually to laser devices with TruControl 1000.
Standby lines and Init lines must be removed.
50 Programming 21-A0-57-CP02
8. Activation
Previous functions
Laser devices with LCU interface and WinLas can be controlled via
a parallel interface by means of 24 volts signals. The interface is
located on an individual control component (VMOD). The external
signal lines are connected by means of a 64-pin contact bank with
soldering contacts to the control unit.
The parallel interface contains 20 input and 16 outputs signals.
What is new?
21-A0-57-CP02 Activation 51
The parallel interface of the TruControl control unit can be used as
MPI. (MPI see section 8.5).
Connector The connectors are arranged in 3 groups with two contact banks
each. Each group contains a contact bank with 8 input signals and
a contact bank with 8 output signals.
Configuration The assignment of the contact banks with signals of a specific
function depends on the configuration.
The standard configuration is the following:
• The upper two groups are set as parallel interface whose
function corresponds mainly to the parallel interface of the LCU
control.
• The lower group is set as real-time interface.
The configuration can be changed in a dialog in the
TruConrol 1000 software. Up to 3 real-time interfaces can be
installed for requesting stations.
Real-time interface The real-time interface is new for CW laser devices. Further
information is to be found in section 8.4.
If the parallel interface is not needed, the two upper groups can be
configured as real-time interfaces.
The configuration can be changed in the MPI parameters dialog of
the TruControl 1000 software.
Some details of the parallel interface signals have been modified in
the TruControl control unit.
Standby Since the standby function is no longer available for CW laser
devices, the input signal “Laser Standby” does no longer exist.
MPI Each laser device with CPX and TruControl 1000 is exclusively
operated in the operating mode MPI (see section 8.5), even if it is
controlled only via one external control unit. Therefore, the signal
REQUEST_LASER (Request laser) must be set even if the laser is
activated only via a single workstation. The simplest solution for
this is to wire the input signals LASER_ON and
REQUEST_LASER to the same output signal of the external
control unit.
Laser programs When the laser programs are started externally, the program
number can be created only as a binary code and not as a BCD
code.
52 Activation 21-A0-57-CP02
What is to be done?
Connectors If a laser device with LCU control unit is to be replaced by a laser
device with CPX, new connectors must be mounted on the cable
leading to the parallel interface. You will find the required
information concerning the signal assignment of the contact banks
in the interface description (Document No. 18-21-85-A1-BA01).
Standby For CW laser devices, the input signal Standby is no longer
necessary. Instead of this, the signal REQUEST_LASER must be
set. In the simplest case, the inputs LASER_ON and
REQUEST_LASER can be set via the same output signal of the
control unit.
You will find the required information in the interface description
(Document No. 18-21-85-A1-BA01).
Previous functions
In the slide-in module of the LCU control unit, a field bus slave
component can be inserted instead of a parallel interface.
The following field bus types are possible:
• Profibus
• Interbus
• DeviceNet
In combination with the MPI option (see section 8.5), up to 3 field
bus interfaces can be integrated in the control unit. The number of
stations requiring laser power via a field bus can be increased up
to 32 if the field bus gateways are wired accordingly.
21-A0-57-CP02 Activation 53
What is new?
CPX
CPX
The CPX contains 6 slots for field bus interfaces. This makes it
possible insert the same number of field bus interfaces and to
connect up to 6 stations directly to the CPX via field bus. The
parallel interface remains unchanged.
The parallel interface can be used to:
• connect another station.
• provide real-time interfaces for individual field bus channels
(see section 8.4).
The following directly connectable field bus standards are currently
supported:
• Profibus
• DeviceNet
54 Activation 21-A0-57-CP02
Profibus For Profibus, the new hardware in the laser control system requires
a modified GSD file to configure the field bus master. The GSD file
is provided by TRUMPF and must be transferred to the field bus
master during start-up.
The following generally applies: TRUMPF supports the users
concerning all modifications of the hardware and software
equipment as far as they are necessary in connection with the
installation of a laser device equipped with TruControl control
system.
Data protocols The data protocols remain largely unchanged compared to those of
the LCU control.
But the following must be observed:
• If a CW laser without standby function is used, the set signal
LASER_STANDBY has no effect.
• In any case the signal REQUEST_LASER must be set, even if
only one requesting station communicates with the laser.
• The number of laser programs can only be transmitted in a
hexadecimal format and not in the BCD (→) format.
• Single laser parameters are transmitted in another resolution.
For further details: see MPI, section 8.5.
21-A0-57-CP02 Activation 55
8.3 TRUMPF Peripheral Bus
Previous functions
Laser devices with LCU control unit can be optionally equipped
with the MPI function (see section 8.5). This allows up to 32
stations (SPS, robots, ) to request laser power.
A maximum of 3 field bus interfaces can be mounted in the slide-in
control module.
If there are more than 3 requesting stations, field bus gateways are
used which allow to extend the number of stations to the maximal
possible number. Normally, an Interbus ring is built up for this
purpose. The Interbus master is located in the laser control unit.
The requesting stations are connected to the laser control unit via
gateways and Interbus slaves.
What is new?
56 Activation 21-A0-57-CP02
Standards Station units are available for the following standard interfaces:
• Profibus
• DeviceNet
• Interbus
• Profinet
• Parallel interface (24 volts)
Hardware Bus stations and station units are available as mounting rail
modules. They can be mounted inside or outside the laser device.
21-A0-57-CP02 Activation 57
8.4 Real-time interface
Previous functions
The real-time interface allow the precise synchronization of the
laser pulses with the external events The delay times are lower
than 2 ms.
For laser devices with LCU control unit and WinLas, the real-time
interface is realized on the control component “Frequency
generator digital” (FGD). The component FGD is only used as an
option for pulsed lasers.
What is new?
CPX
CPX
58 Activation 21-A0-57-CP02
• Since the jitter values are much lower, the precision with time
of the control signals has increased.
• The possibility to communicate with 2 or 3 stations via real-
time signals increases the flexibility of the MPI concept.
What is to be done?
If a laser device with LCU control unit is replaced by a laser device
with CPX and TruControl 1000, the following procedure is required:
• The previously used Sub-D connector must be replaced by a
connector with terminal screws (type Phoenix). For more
information about the pin assignment please refer to the
interface description (Doc. No.: 18-21-85-A1-BA02).
• The configuration data suitable for the application must be set
in the corresponding TruConrol 1000 software dialog.
• The SyncIO (→) board is no longer used. The functions of the
SyncIO board are integrated in the real-time interface. In order
to use the functions, the real-time interface must be configured
in an appropriate way. The differences of the functions must be
taken into consideration. Information regarding this subject can
be found in the interface description. TRUMPF supports the
users when they need help.
If the real-time interface is used in combination with a field bus
interface, as described above, the real-time interface must be
assigned logically to the field bus interface. Detailed information
can be found in the respective interface descriptions.
Previous functions
In the LCU control, the Multi-PLC interface (MPI) is an optional
software interface for the control of laser devices. MPI includes 32
slots. By means of each slot, one requesting station (PLC) can be
connected to the laser control.
The MPI software organizes the reaction of the laser control to the
requests of the stations and assigns the laser to the stations in
compliance with predefined rules.
The laser control and the requesting places communicate via
different types of hardware interfaces.
• Profibus
• DeviceNet
• Interbus
• OPC
Each hardware interface is assigned to an MPI slot. The LCU
control allows the direct connection of three field bus lines. If more
lines are required, an Interbus ring to connect the stations via
gateways is built up in most of the cases.
21-A0-57-CP02 Activation 59
What is new?
In the TruControl control system, MPI is a standard function which
is available in every laser device. Here, too, the number of slots is
32. The request and assignment management mainly remain
unchanged.
The MPI interface can be configured via a dialog in the
TruControl 1000 software.
The versions of the available hardware interfaces are new:
• In the CPX, up to 6 field bus interfaces (Profibus, DeviceNet)
can be integrated for a direct connection.
• Via the TRUMPD peripheral bus, uncounted combinations of
interfaces can be realized (see section 8.3).
• Up to 3 slots can be connected to a real-time interface (see
section 8.4)
• The parallel interface of the CPX can be assigned to a MPI slot
in the same way as field bus interfaces.
Advantages of the new function
MPI is a part of the standard equipment of every laser device and
must only be configured for the respective application.
The combination of 3 slots with a real-time interface each allows
the selected stations a very precise timing. Time-critical
applications can be operated in a reliable way.
What is to be done?
In the simplest case, the MPI interface can remain unchanged
when the laser device with LCU control is replaced. In most of the
cases, the hardware has to be adjusted. The extent of the
adjustments depends on the structure of the control environment.
In any case, the assigned slots must be configured in
TruControl 1000.
In most of the cases, the programs of the requested stations (PLC)
have to be adapted to a small extent.
The following cases may be concerned:
• Individual signals that have changed, for example standby.
• The values of transmitted laser parameters because the
resolution of individual sizes has changed, for example:
– Laser power previously 0.1 watt per digit
now 1 watt per digit.
– Pulse duration previously 1 µs per digit,
now 10 µs per digit.
Detailed information can be found in the latest interface
descriptions.
60 Activation 21-A0-57-CP02
8.6 OLE for process control (OPC)
The laser in laser devices with LCU control and WinLas can be
controlled via OPC (→). This is also possible for laser devices with
CPX and TruControl 1000.
Control signals for OPC applications are transmitted via the local
data network; therefore, time-critical processes cannot be
controlled in this method.
For further information on OPC: see section 6.4, page 45.
21-A0-57-CP02 Activation 61
9. Glossary
62 Glossary 21-A0-57-CP02
Burst Burst, English word for the German word “Feuerstoss”
For laser devices of the TruPulse series, "burst“ means a
sequence of laser pulses created with the charge of the capacitor
without recharging.
The bursts allow the triggering of a fast sequence of laser pulses
as long as there is enough energy in the capacitor because there is
no additional time needed for recharging the capacitor. Since the
average power augments with the pulse repetition frequency, the
average power of the laser can be considerably increased for the
duration of a burst.
However, the average power measured for several bursts remains
in the range between 0 and the nominal power of the laser.
For applications in which a small number of pulses are required
within a short time followed by a break, for example for loading of
the next workpiece, this increase of the average power can have a
very advantageous effect on the process duration.
21-A0-57-CP02 Glossary 63
CPX Central Processor Extendable,
German: Erweiterbarer Zentralrechner
The name traces back to the time when this component was also
intended for the use outside the laser device. Meanwhile it is used
mostly inside the laser. The name CPX was never changed.
The CPX is the central unit in the laser control unit of the last
generation. On the CPX, the operating software TruControl 1000
as well as the plug-in control unit software of the central processor
run under the operating system Linux.
On the front of the CPX there are some interfaces which, in the
LCU control unit, can be found on other components: the parallel
interface for the laser control with configurable real-time interface,
different Ethernet interfaces and 6 connectors for field bus modules.
Flash memory Flash memories are a special type of fixed value memories
(EEPROMs) which can be deleted electrically. They can often be
found in USB sticks or in memory cards for digital cameras. The
packing density of modern flash memories is so high (some
GBytes on a few square millimeters) that they can be used also in
powerful computers as program or data memory. The program
memory of the CPX (→) is designed as a flash memory. Therefore,
the CPX does not need a hard disk.
64 Glossary 21-A0-57-CP02
ILN Interface Laser Network
The ILN is a part of the the TRUMPF Laser Network (TLN) (→).
The ILN is an interface which is assigned to a light path. In a laser
device, the ILN is realized as an ILN box, a component to connect,
among others, the following signals:
• Laser number as a parallel signal, set via coding switch
• Light path number
• Safety circuit
• Individual status signals
A light path of a laser device in a network can be clearly identified
via the ILN. This can be helpful in a composite of lasers, control
units and machines (network).
21-A0-57-CP02 Glossary 65
Module Datastore Module Datastore is the name of a software program which can be
used to record and store quality-relevant data. Quality-relevant
data for lasers can be: Laser power, pulse duration, pulse
repetition frequency, etc.
66 Glossary 21-A0-57-CP02
PFO program A PFO program consists of a command sequence used for
controlling the scanner mirror of a PFO (→). A PFO program
allows you to compose complex geometric figures from elementary
geometric figures.
TRUMPF Peripheral Bus The TRUMPF Peripheral Bus is a field bus system based on
realtime Ethernet. The so-called bus stations are connected to the
CPX (→) of a laser device via an Ethernet connection. The bus
stations can be equipped with interfaces, if required. field bus
interfaces, parallel interfaces in any combination. A laser device
can easily be integrated in nearly every control environment using
the TRUMPF peripheral bus.
USB stick Flash memory (→) with USB connector to be plugged in USB
connections of computers. USB sticks are the most widely used
storage media having the size of a key fob. Commercially available
USB sticks have a capacity of some hundreds of megabytes up to
some gigabyts. Modern PCs recognize plugged-in USB sticks as a
drive such as hard disks or floppy disks.
21-A0-57-CP02 Glossary 67
User level User level, German: Benutzerebene
User levels in the operating software of laser devices (WinLas and
TruControl 1000) are divided in stages of 1 to 100. Different
authorizations to use software functions are assigned to these
levels. Not all the stages are available. The elementary stages are
arranged in steps of 10. Intermediate stages can be defined in the
software configuration.
The higher the number the more functions can be used. The user
level for users who are not authorized to create or modify programs
is the user level 40. The highest user levels 90 and 100 are
reserved for the service department and the software development
of TRUMPF.
A password must be entered in order to reach a higher user level.
A lower user level is available without password.
68 Glossary 21-A0-57-CP02