VISION ENGRAVING TABLES Table of Contents Operating Manual Table Of Contents Liability Statement ________________________________________ 2 Safety ____________________________________________________ 3 Chapter 1: Unpacking and Taking Inventory _______________ 5-8 Chapter 2: Table Description ____________________________ 9-14 Chapter 3: Setting Up The Table ___________________________ 15 Chapter 4: Table Adjustments __________________________ 17-20 Chapter 5: Table Maintenance __________________________ 2
Copyright 1998 Vision Computerized Engraving & Routing Systems (A Division of W estern Engravers Supply Western Supply,, Inc.) All Rights Reserved This publication is protected by copyright, and all rights are reserved. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted by any means or in any form, without prior written consent from Vision.
Safety Precautions ables for Vision Engra ving TTables Engraving Safety !Keep hands clear of the spindle belt during operation. !Keep hands clear of the bottom of the spindle during operation. !Always stop the machine before making any adjustments. !Keep clear of adjustment knobs located on the rear, left and right side of the table. !Disconnect the table cable and spindle drive cable before servicing. !Do not operate the system with covers removed.
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Chapter 1: aking In or Unpacking and TTaking Invvent entor oryy Chapter 1 The table or engraving system may be shipped in more than one carton, depending on the options, software, and accessories purchased. The table itself is contained in a wooden crate and the controller, if purchased, will be in a foam-pack cardboard container. Examine the condition of all containers for external damage.
Chapter 1 Step 3. Prepare a clean, level surface to put the engraving table on. Step 4. Wing Nut 7/16” Nut Washer Plastic Protector Engraving Baseplate Foam Packing Crate Bottom (Figure 1.2) Remove the four wing nuts by hand or by using pliers. Using a 7/16" wrench, remove the nuts and washers securing the table to the floor of the crate. Most tables are secured at four locations around the base of the table. This prevents the machine from moving around during shipment and becoming damaged.
Chapter 1 Step 7. 1.or3. 4. 6. 1.or3. 6. Assembling the optional table stand. Approximate time for assembly is 10-20 minutes. 4. 6. 1.or2. 5. 5. 5. 8. 1.or2. (Figure 1.3) Table stand for Vision 2424 and 2448 models 6. 7. A. Cross beam is only for the 24” x 48” table stand. B. Swivel casters are inserted up into the frame, in the positions indicated. The ring at the neck of the caster can be turned to tighten the caster in place, once inserted. C.
Chapter 1 (Figure 1.4) Table stand for Vision1624 1. 4. 4. 2. 5. 5. 5. 4. 3. 5. 4. A. 3. A. Swivel casters are inserted up into the frame, in the positions indicated. The ring at the neck of the caster can be turned to tighten the caster in place, once inserted. B. Four 4¼” bolts are used to connect the table to the roll-around frame. Note: All connections are made with a socket hex screw and washer (supplied). Do not fully tighten all screws until frame is assembled; this helps keep alignment.
Chapter 2: Table Description Chapter 2 This chapter briefly describes the major components of the Vision table. Figure 2.1 and Figure 2.3 show pictures of two typical engraving tables. This chapter will help you identify the parts of your Vision table discussed elsewhere in the manual.* Find the model number as referenced in the description for each type of table design. *Optional equipment such as accessory vises, clamps, fixtures or vacuum systems may have been included with your system.
Chapter 2 (Figure 2.1) Series 3 full linear T-slot table format. Shown here is the top view of the Series 3 Vision 1624. The Vision 1212 and the Vision 1224 have a similar design. 6. Carriage Assembly 8. Y-Axis Stepper Motor (underneath) 11. Engraving Motor 7. Breakout Box 5. Gantry Assembly 9. X-Axis Stepper Motor 10. Material Guides 1. Table Base Plate 3. T-Slot Table 12. Quick-Lock Vise 4. Y-Axis Lead Screw (under metal cover) 2. Y-Axis Linear Rails (Figure 2.1a) Series 3 T-slot table format.
Chapter 2 3. T-Slot Table. Also referred to as the work surface, this aluminum bed supported by the linear rails allows placement of the engraving material or special clamps and fixtures. The slots in this table are shaped with an upside-down T, with the bottom of the T being a single-line slot across the top of the table (see fig 2.1b). The slots are used to hold various accessory holders, clamps, and jigs. (A selection of various T-slot accessories used with the T-slot table appears in chapter 7.) 4.
Chapter 2 (Figure 2.2) Close up of the Series 3 Vision table carriage Shown is 3/4 view, without sheetmetal top cover 1. Engraving Motor 2. Z-Axis Stepper Motor 5. Z Lead Screw 4. Spindle Block 6. Engraving Motor Belt 3. Spindle Assembly 1. Engraving Motor. The engraving motor or “spindle motor”, is the large black motor on the top of the carriage assembly. The engraving motor drives a belt and pulley system, which turns the engraving cutter during the engraving process. 2. Z-Axis Stepper Motor.
Chapter 2 (Figure 2.3) Series 3 flatbed (moveable gantry) table format. Shown here is a top view of the Series 3 Vision 2424. 10. Engraving Motor 5. Carriage Assembly 4. Gantry Assembly 7. Y-Axis Stepper Motor 3. X-Axis Lead Screw 2. X-Axis Linear Rails 9. Material Guides 1. Table Base Plate 8. X-Axis Stepper Motor 6. Breakout Box (Figure 2.3a) Front angled view of the Series 3 Vision 2448 7. Y-Axis Stepper Motor Knob 5. Carriage Assembly 9. Material Guides 4. Gantry Assembly 1.
Chapter 2 3. X-Axis Lead Screw. This is a threaded rod located underneath the table base. Combined with the stepper motor, the lead screw is rotated and causes the gantry to move along the rails in the X-axis direction (see fig 2.3b). There is also a second lead screw called in the X-axis lead screw. The Y-axis lead screw is contained within the gantry, and can be accessed by removing the black sheet metal gantry cover.
Chapter 3: Se tting U p The TTable able Setting Up Chapter 3 Connection of Power, Cables, and Controllers Additional boxes may have been shipped along with your table, depending on the system ordered. These will typically include a control unit and associated cables. The proper connection of these cables is essential. Check the appropriate user’s manuals for your controller before attempting to connect them it to the table.
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Chapter 4: Table A djustments Adjustments Chapter 4 Spindle Assembly Description Our most recent tables (the “Series 3’s”) include our newest spindle design, which now incorporates tension spring adjustment. (Figure 4.2) The Series 3 Top and Bottom-Loading Collet Spindle Assembly (Figure 4.1) The Series 3 TopLoading Spindle Assembly 15. 14. 1. 2. 9. 3. 4. 5. 12. 13. 6. 11. 7. 10. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 8.
Chapter 4 Zeroing Cutters for Top-Loaded Spindles (see figure 4.1) 1. Turn the micrometer to zero. This provides a starting point and reference for setting the depth accurately. It’s important to note that the micrometer should be threaded onto the spindle housing sufficiently to prevent excessive play in the micrometer and nosecone. If there are too few threads holding the micrometer in place it will move during the engraving process. The best starting position is 3 or 4 complete revolutions from the top.
Chapter 4 Proximity Sensing Device All Series 3 Vision Table Models come standard with a proximity-sensing device. Explanation and procedure for operating a Vision engraving machine equipped with a proximitysensing device. Advantage of this feature The advantage of this device is that it eliminates the need to perform a surface setting before zeroing the cutter. Procedure 1. Make sure that the proximity switch is in the “On” position on the controller front panel.
Chapter 4 (Figure 4.
Chapter 5: Table Maint enance Maintenance Chapter 5 Vision strives for the highest quality in their manufacturing process to provide you with the most cost effective, reliable engraving machine in use today. Please remember that proper maintenance and care is necessary to achieve maximum product life expectancy. The engraving environment generates small plastic and metal chips as well as other particles during operation.
Chapter 5 Cleaning the Vacuum Filter (only with the vacuum chip removal option) On systems with a vacuum chip removal system, frequent cleaning of the vacuum filter is necessary for proper performance. When engraving with the vacuum filter system, the filter should be checked and cleaned several times a day, depending on the amount of engraving done. If the vacuum does not appear to be functioning efficiently, clean the filter more frequently as needed.
Chapter 5 The motor brushes on the engraving motor should be inspected regularly, and replaced when worn. Two brush assemblies are included with the accessories package. (One for each side of the motor.) Inspect the brushes for possible replacement at least every six months. (see figure 5.2) The engraving motor is the large, black motor on the top of the carriage assembly. Unplug the speed controller to remove power to the motor. Perform the inspection one brush at a time to simplify reinstallation.
Chapter 5 Spindle Lubrication (for Series 3 Vision Tables only) The spindle assembly in the Series 3 Vision Tables requires a monthly lubrication of the housing (as shown in Fig.5.4). Simply push the spindle up until there is a 1/3” gap between the spindle block and the “lip” of the housing. Lubricate with 2 to 3 drops of 3 in 1 oil. DO NOT OVER LUBRICATE! This wil cause the spindle to stick. Spindle Housing “Lip” Spindle Block (Figure 5.
Chapter 6: Earlier TTable able Models Chapter 6 Over the years, most of the changes to Western’s engraving tables has been in the carriage assembly. Earlier upgrades to the Z-axis have evolved from the Series 1 V-wheel design to the Series2 THK bearing design. The terms and descriptions for these earlier models are the same as the current models--please refer to chapter 2. (Figure 6.
Chapter 6 Chapter 6 (Figure 6.3) Series2 flatbed (moveable gantry) table with THK carriage design. Shown here is a top view of the Vision 2424. 10. Engraving Motor 5. Carriage Assembly 4. Gantry Assembly 7. Y-Axis Stepper Motor 2. X-Axis Linear Rails 3. X-Axis Lead Screw 9. Material Guides 1. Table Base Plate 8. X-Axis Stepper Motor 6. Breakout Box (Figure 6.3a) An angled front view of the Series2 Vision 2448. 5. Carriage Assembly 7. Y-Axis Stepper Motor 9. Material Guides 4.
Chapter 6 6 (Figure 6.4) Close up of the Series1 V-wheel carriage assembly and spindle block. Engraving Motor Z-Axis Knurled Thumb Wheel Engraving Motor Belt Spindle Assembly Spindle Block Z-Lead Screw V-Wheel X-Axis Rail (Figure 6.5) Series1 version T-Slot Table Model with V-wheel carriage design Shown below is the Vision 1624 (Series1 Vision 1212 and 1224 were similar).
Chapter 6 Chapter 6 (Figure 6.6) Series1 Flatbed Table Model with V-wheel carriage design Series1 Vision 2448 model is shown. The Series1 Vision 2424 was similar. Stepper Motor Gantry (inside is the Y-Axis lead screw) Material Guides Lead Screw X-Axis Base Plate Carriage Assembly Engraving Motor 37-pin plug Motor Speed Controller Plug Stepper Motor Y-Axis MAINTENANCE FOR EARLIER MODELS Most maintenance procedures are similar to those for the current models.
Chapter 6 6 EARLIER SPINDLE ASSEMBLIES All Series1 and Series2 Vision Table models included one of the following spindles: (Figure 6.9) Top-and-Bottom Loading Spindle (Figure 6.8) Top-Loading Spindle 12. 1. 11. 6. 2. 10. 9. 3. 8. 4. 5. 7. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Pulley Spindle Housing Micrometer Retainer Ring Nose cone Draw Bar 7. Cutter 8. Solid Collet 9. Split Collet 10. Pointer 11. Cutter Knob 12.
Chapter 6 SPINDLE PRESSURE ADJUSTMENT FOR SERIES2 VISION TABLES The pressure of the spindle nosecone against the material can be controlled by adjusting the down pressure in the Z-axis assembly. If the cutter is skipping across the material or engraving unevenly, the pressure should be increased. Locate the black knurled thumb wheel below the Z-axis motor (see “1.” in fig 6.10). To increase the pressure, turn the thumb wheel clockwise.
Chapter 7: Optional Accessories and Uses Chapter 7 Versa Vise This low profile vise features a fixed top jaw and a moveable bottom jaw. Total opening is 3.5”. It adapts to most systems with at least 1” clearance under the spindle. This vise is designed to be directly mounted to many engraving tables and includes T-nuts to allow quick placement on Tslot tables. The jaws will hold a variety of clamps and jigs to secure odd shaped or difficult-tohold items. (Figure 7.
Chapter 7 Universal Seal / Medallion Holder This universal clamp will hold 1-3 round objects at a time. It also has a place for the “eye” of a medallion or tag. This clamp may be used to any diameter of notary seal. These clamps will fit the Versa Vise or can be used directly on most T-slot table surfaces. They will also fit Pantographs and other computerized systems that use the dowel pin system. (Figure 7.
Chapter 7 Adjustable Pen Jig Designed specially for pens and cylindrical items whose shape is not symmetrical. The adjustment allows the capture of the small tapered diameter of pens or odd shaped items. These jaws will fit the Versa Vise or can be used directly on most T-slot table surfaces. They will also fit Pantographs and other computerized systems that use the dowel pin system. (Figure 7.6) Adjustable Pen Jig (Figure 7.
Chapter 7 TYPICAL VERSA VISE COMBINATIONS (Figure 7.9) Versa Vise with 9” Jaws (Figure 7.
Chapter 7 (Figure 7.11) Versa Vise with Seal Jig (Figure 7.
Chapter 7 Riser Block Extensions The optional riser block kit allows you to raise the entire gantry assembly quickly and simply. Each end of the gantry assembly is supported by two tower blocks stacked on top of each other. Riser blocks are installed between the two tower blocks, and add height to the gantry. Riser Block Installation (See Fig 7.13) Determine the extra height required, and select riser blocks of appropriate height. One end of the gantry has long threaded rods topped by washers and nuts.
Chapter 7 Spindle Options Increase your profits and engraving quality with the split collet spindle (see fig 7.14). Designed to be extremely accurate and durable, the collet spindle is simple to use. This collet retracts around the cutter gripping it at the bottom, while firmly holding on the top. By holding the cutter in two places the cutter is virtually vibration-free and nearly eliminates play and runout.
Chapter 7 The Vacuum Chip Removal System The optional vacuum chip removal system is designed to simplify the engraving process and minimize wear and tear on the engraver. The vacuum chip removal system uses a vacuum nose cone to remove chips created during the engraving process before they have the chance to create problems. The quiet pump, coupled with the microfine-layered filters assures that your unwanted chips are whisked away effortlessly.
Chapter 7 VACUUM CHIP REMOVAL SYSTEM ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION (approximate installation time = 10-15 minutes) You should have: 1 Vacuum Pump System (silver with a box, and power cord attached) 1 Elbow pipe connector (black metal with USA stamped on it) 1 Vacuum filter canister (blue metal, with 3 wing-nut fastners) 1 Vacuum hose connector (white plastic, 2 pieces) 1 Vacuum hose (white/clear spiral, 3/4" diameter) 10' 1 Vacuum hose (clear, 2") 1 Vacuum nose (large or small) To assemble the vacuum pump unit
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Chapter 8: Troubleshooting Chapter 8 ENGRAVING PROBLEMS Problem: Engraving on the plate is “slanted”. Possible solutions: 1. Check material for squareness. Maybe your shear does not cut squarely. 2. Check to see if the material on the table is indeed at a true home and is square to your scale bars or stops. 3. If your table is equipped with scale bars insure that they are secure and flush to your T-Slot table. Hint: Always inspect your job before removing your plate from the system.
Chapter 8 Problem: You are not using a nosecone and you have uneven engraving. Possible solutions: 1. Switch to a nose-riding method. 2. Use a different method of holding the material. If you use double sided tape, it may be thick enough to change your surface flatness by a few thousandths. 3. Parcel the job if possible so that you can have more direct control over the depth of each specific area. This may be effective if you have uneven material or a large engraving bed. 4.
Chapter 8 This could be in the gap between the cutter and the spindle shaft. Maybe the shaft is worn or the spindle bearings need to be replaced. Once a shaft starts to wear and a cutter is loose, the problem can worsen quickly. 2. The spindle is loose in the housing or block. 3. The carriage is loose or has excessive play, check the z-axis bearings or slide. 4. Lubricate lead screws with recommended lubricant. Problem: My baseline is off. Possible solutions: 1.
Chapter 8 Problem: System has no movement in any one axis. Possible solutions: 1. Try to jog the problem axis using the X/Y/Z jog keys on the control unit. If OK, retry the job. 2. Check the table cable for a solid connection. 3. Call service technician for further instructions. Problem: Unusually loud noises during the engraving process. Possible solutions: 1. Isolate the cause of the unusual noise by: a. Remove the cutter. b. Turn the engraving motor to OFF. c.
