Vision Multi Axis User manual

Multi Axis Engraver
Operations Manual
Vision Engraving & Routing Systems
17621 N. Black Canyon Hwy.
Phoenix, AZ 85023
www.visionengravers.com

Copyright 

2005 Vision Computerized Engraving & Routing Systems
(A Division of Western Engravers 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.
Limits of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty for this Equipment Manual
The information contained within this manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate, however, Vision
makes no representations or warranties for this manual, and assumes no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors, or
omissions that may be contained within this manual. In no event shall Vision be liable for any loss of profit including
(but not limited to) direct, indirect, special, incidental, consequential, or other damages resulting from any defect or
omission in this manual, even if previously advised of the possibility of such damages.
In the interest of continued product development, Vision reserves the right to make improvements to this manual and the
products it describes at any time, without notice or obligation.

Table of Contents iii
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1 - BEFORE YOU BEGIN 5
About This Manual ........................................................................................................................................5
Safety ...............................................................................................................................................................5
Unpacking and Taking Inventory.................................................................................................................6
Specifications ..................................................................................................................................................6
CHAPTER 2 - INSTALLATION 7
Hooking up the table......................................................................................................................................7
CHAPTER 3 - OPERATIONS 11
Machine Description & Terminology.........................................................................................................11
DEFINITION OF TERMS 11
Flat Engraving..............................................................................................................................................14
Flat Objects - Initial Setup..........................................................................................................................................14
Plates...........................................................................................................................................................................17
Pens.............................................................................................................................................................................17
Special Shapes ............................................................................................................................................................18
Rotary Engraving.........................................................................................................................................18
Round Objects - Initial Setup...................................................................................................................................... 18
Level Surface Engraving............................................................................................................................................. 20
Angled Engraving .......................................................................................................................................................21
Adjusting the Spindle...................................................................................................................................23
Diamond Drag Engraving ...........................................................................................................................................23
Rotary Engraving........................................................................................................................................................24
Burnish Engraving ......................................................................................................................................................26
Non Nose Riding Rotary Engraving ...........................................................................................................................28
CHAPTER 4 - OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES 31
Clamping Devices .........................................................................................................................................31
Vacuum Chip Removal System...................................................................................................................33

iv Multi Axis Engraver Operating Manual
CHAPTER 5 - MAINTENANCE 35
Removing Chips ........................................................................................................................................... 35
Lubrication................................................................................................................................................... 36
Changing the Motor Belt ............................................................................................................................ 38
INDEX 39

Chapter 1 - Before You Begin 5
Chapter 1 - Before You Begin
About This Manual
This Manual is designed to provide you with information about your Multi Axis Engraver (known as MAX), beginning
with unpacking the machine and continuing through installation and lifetime machine maintenance. This manual does not
attempt to teach you how to engrave, how to use a computer or how to use your engraving software. Some previous
knowledge of engraving terms and the engraving process is assumed. For information on the Vision Engraving
Software or the Vision Pro Engraving Software, see the software manuals that came with them. For more
information on your individual computer system, see your computer’s user manual or contact your computer distributor.
Safety
Safety Precautions for the MAX Engraver.
Keep hands clear of the bottom of the spindle, the motor belt and the spindle pulley during operation.
Always stop the machine before making any adjustments.
Do not operate the machine with the covers removed.
Wear safety glasses when cutting any materials that emit chips.
Use extreme caution when inserting or removing cutters.
Before any servicing, disconnect the power cord to the controller and the table cables.
To avoid electric shock or equipment damage, ensure that the control unit is connected to the appropriate electrical
source as noted in the installation procedures.
Never operate the equipment with damaged or frayed power cords, loose connections or exposed extension cords
where someone can step on the cord and create a tripping hazard.
Be sure to hold the plug, not the cord, when disconnecting the controller from an electrical socket or power source.

6 Multi Axis Engraver Operating Manual
Place the machine in a location with low humidity and a minimum of dust. Avoid placing the equipment in direct
sunlight or in locations with excessive heat. Follow the maintenance instructions for proper cleaning of the Vision
Series 3 Controller air filter, which is contained in the controller manual.
If you machine does not operate properly; in particular, if there are any unusual sounds or smells coming from it,
immediately unplug it and contact a service technician or your local distributor.
Unplug the machine when it is going to be left unused for an extended period of time.
Unpacking and Taking Inventory
This area needs to be filled in when we know how the shipping boxes will be.
Specifications
Z-Axis Clearance: 2 inches (50.8 mm)
(Definition: the distance between the bottom of the spindle and the work surface)
Z-Axis Stroke: 2 inches (50.8 mm)
(Definition: the travel distance of the Z-axis mechanism or spindle)
Table Resolution: .0002 inch
(Defintion: the smallest controlled motion the table is capable of)
Engraving Area: 5“ x 9 ” (127 mm x 228 mm)
Rotary Engraving Max Size: 10“ (254 mm)
Overall Dimensions:
Table: 31” Tall x 17“ Wide x 32” Deep (787.4 mm x 431.8 mm x 812.8mm)
Controller: 16“ Tall x 16” Wide x 5“ Deep (406.4 mm x 406.8 mm x 127mm)
Workholding vice: Self-centering vice with pins for holding various clamps
Various cones for holding round objects
Shipping Weight: 300 lbs. (136kg)
Shipping Dimensions: 1 crate - 43” x 41“ x 32” (1092mm x 1041mm x 813mm)

Chapter 2 - Installation 7
Chapter 2 - Installation
Hooking up the table
There are two connections that must be made on the MAX Engraver table. One is a large 25 pin table cable and the other
is a 9 pin cable for the rotary axis. There are also two connections that must be made on the Vision Series 3 Controller.
For detailed instructions on the connections for the Vision Series 3 Controller, please see the controller manual.
Locate the table cable connection box shown in figure 2.1 below.
(Figure 2.1) The table cable connection box
Plug the 25 pin cable into the table cable connection box as shown in figure 2.2 below. Make sure to tighten the two
table cable tightening screws shown below. Caution: Do not overtighten the cable tightening screws.
(Figure 2.2) The table cable tightening screws

8 Multi Axis Engraver Operating Manual
Locate the rotary axis cable that comes off the back of the MAX Engraver as shown in figure 2.3 below.
(Figure 2.3) The rotary axis cable
Connect the table cable and rotary axis cable to the back of the Vision Series 3 Controller as shown in figure 2.4 below.
The serial cable shown below is the connection to your PC. For more information on this, please see the Vision Series 3
Controller manual. Note: The rotary axis and serial cables are similar in size but they are a different gender. Make sure
that you plug the cables into the correct place.
(Figure 2.4) The Vision Series 3 Controller connections

Chapter 2 - Installation 9
The MAX Engraver is now ready to engrave.

10 Multi Axis Engraver Operating Manual