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Description

LaserCAM control software for ILP laser projectors

Control Software for ILP Laser Projectors – LaserCAM Single: The MediaLas software for laser-based worker guidance: extensive interface options, scalable distortion correction for any surface and oblique/transverse projection, CAD data import, and contour teach-in.

  • Control of ILP laser projectors
  • Distortion correction for any surface, oblique/transverse projection
  • CAD data import, positioning, contour teach-in

Overview

The MediaLas LaserCAM software is used to control ILP laser projectors and offers extensive interface options as well as user functions for laser-based worker guidance. A freely scalable distortion correction for any surface, oblique projection, or transverse projection has been developed, allowing even complex projection scenarios to be precisely adapted to the work surface.

Thanks to the open external interfaces, data can be imported in virtually any format—from the simplest CAD file formats to coordinate data via serial transmission or automated processes from a PLC. Pre-created contours and drawings can thus be positioned and displayed with modifications using simple plain-text coordinates.

A very helpful Teach-In function with a real-time laser cursor allows contours to be created directly on the workpiece without requiring preliminary data from CAD or a connection to an external control system.

Projection Correction onto the Work Surface

To correct for even extreme projection angles or non-flat projection surfaces, we have developed a scalable correction matrix that enables continuous linear correction on any surface based on position points. This means the laser projector can be mounted at any location, as long as the laser beam is not obstructed by objects.

Importing Data from CAD

Two-dimensional CAD data can be imported quickly and easily into LaserCAM. The following file formats are primarily supported:

  • DXF
  • DWG
  • PLT
  • EPS
  • HPGL
  • and many more

Files can be imported automatically via configurable directory polling, enabling simple automated control from an external host.

Positioning of Predefined Markers

LaserCAM can display predefined markers—also known as patterns—at any location within the coordinate field. To do this, LaserCAM receives an external position specification in plain text. This can be received via a serial interface, an IP interface, or any other interface.

Contour Teach-In

LaserCAM offers a very powerful function for defining contours. Often, CAD cannot provide the appropriate images, or no CAD drawing is available at all. A prime example: a cable bundle. Here, Teach-In can be used to quickly and easily program the respective start and end positions of a cable, along with its routing path, directly on the workpiece. For this purpose, LaserCAM provides a real-time cursor in the laser. Tracing and creation are performed in the same way as in any standard CAD program. Here, too, any number of contours can be created, saved, and assigned to any number of projects.

Recall is performed via an easy-to-use touchscreen interface, which can also be controlled via external control signals. The individual contours are displayed in output fields and selected using the touchscreen, foot switch, mouse, trackball, or external control signals. Projection occurs without any delay.

Additional Features

Numerous additional functions round out LaserCAM. Examples:

  • Adjusting the laser’s brightness via the software
  • Cascading of multiple projectors (optional)
  • Automatic height correction
  • Automatic laser shutdown (laser timeout)
  • Password-protected user levels
  • Remote control via PLC or IP interface
  • Operation via touch buttons or foot switch
  • and much more
Our ILP laser projectors are classified as Class 2 per EN 60825-1 in operation. This is possible because the galvo scanners deflect the laser beam at high speed across the area – the optical power is continuously distributed over the entire projection area. The average irradiance at any single point therefore stays well below Class 2 limits. Eye-safe in normal use; no laser safety officer strictly required. Important: in a scan-fail event (galvo stall due to a defect) the full power concentrates on one point – then the class of the installed laser module applies (up to 3B). For safety-critical applications we offer the SafeGuard Pro module.
Yes. The ILP series is fully network-capable via 100 Mbit LAN. Up to 16 independent ILP projectors can be addressed per network, each with its own IP address and individual programming. Applications: long production lines with multiple stations, large warehouses with multiple pick-by-light zones, multi-workstation setups in manual assembly. Networking also enables coordinated choreographies – for example projector 1 showing the next position while projector 2 visualizes quality control of the previous one. Connection is typically via PLC or a central control PC.
LaserCAM is the control software for our ILP laser projectors. It forms the interface between the laser projector and the command source (PLC, PC, operator panel, MES system). Functions: creation and management of projection content (numbers, text, symbols, lines, vectors, images); programming of sequences and workflows; connection to machine controllers via LAN; management of multiple projectors in a network. LaserCAM is licensed separately – it is not included with the ILP projectors. For simple standard applications (e.g. a fixed pick-by-light sequence) the basic licence is usually sufficient; for custom programming there are upgrade tiers.
Operator guidance is an assistance system that guides workers visually through a work process. A laser projector shows directly on the workpiece or work surface what to do next: which part to pick, where to drill, which step follows. Benefits: dramatically fewer assembly errors (studies show –60 to –80 % error rate), faster onboarding of new staff, higher cycle rates, fewer screen switches. Used in: manual assembly (which screw type), PCB placement, cable harness wiring, inspection and quality control. The ILP series supports operator guidance via the LaserCAM software with PLC and PC connectivity.
An industrial laser projector such as our ILP series projects freely programmable content onto workpieces and work surfaces: numbers, letters, symbols, lines, vectors up to complete images and drawings. Unlike simple line/cross lasers the projection is dynamic – controlled via PLC, PC or operator panel over the network. It is realized via two galvo scanner mirrors that deflect the laser beam at high speed across the area. Thanks to the persistence of vision the viewer sees a stable image. Applications: operator guidance, pick-by-light, marking on workpieces, wiring aids on cable harnesses, non-destructive information display.