Difference between spatial angles and axis angles

Spatial angles

Using spatial angles, you can define the angle of the tool relative to the workpiece. While programming, there is no need to distinguish between head and table axes; often, the angles can be taken over directly from the drawing.

 
Tip

When you program using spatial angles, the machine kinematics need not be taken into account. This means that you can program as if only the tool was moving, just like in the Workpiece mode in the simulation.

The control takes care of calculating the required axis positions. This means that NC programs with spatial angles can also be used for other machines that might have other rotary axes.

The control might approach a defined spatial angle using different axis angles (e.g., +90° or –270°). The solution selected by the control may vary, depending on the machine. You can predefine a solution (e.g., by pre-positioning or by defining SYM).

When tilting with spatial angles, the control considers an active basic rotation or 3D basic rotation.

The control performs calculations with spatial angles in the following NC functions:

NC function

Further information

All PLANE functions except PLANE AXIAL

Straight line LN with vectors (#9 / #4-01-1)

FUNCTION TCPM with AXIS SPAT (#9 / #4-01-1) selected

 
Tip

HEIDENHAIN recommends using spatial angles because of their greater flexibility.

Axis angles

Using axis angles, you can define an unambiguous position for a rotary axis. You can configure only the axes that are actually present on the machine. When programming with axis angles, you always need to take into account whether the rotary axis is arranged in the head or in the table. The programmed positions must be located in the traverse range of the machine.

If you program axis angles, the control cannot account for the basic rotation or 3D basic rotation in its calculation. Use offsets to orient the workpiece.

Comparison of offset and 3D basic rotation

NC programs with axis angles can only be used for other machines that have the same rotary axes and matching traverse ranges.

Program axis angles in the following NC functions:

NC function

Further information

PLANE AXIAL

M function M128 (#9 / #4-01-1)

FUNCTION TCPM with AXIS POS (#9 / #4-01-1) selected

 
Tip

Even if M128 or FUNCTION TCPM is active with AXIS POS, the control will use spatial angles (#9 / #4-01-1) anyway when calculating straight lines LN with vectors.