Each strategy is built up with various nodes and links to achieve the desired result. It is important that this result has been thought out beforehand so that the strategy truly represents the way in which you wish to do things.
Node Types
The strategy may contain nodes of the following types:
Start - Each strategy or group must contain exactly one start node. This is the entry point when the strategy or group is used.
Data - Data nodes are used to set values in user defined attributes. This allows, for example, the same process to be used in two or more places with different criteria. Depth might be set differently for blind and through holes but could then be used by one process.
Note that one data node might set a number of user attributes.
If an attribute is set to a range instead of a specific value the upper and lower limits of the range can be set in different data nodes.
User attributes are initialized in the start node and reset as encountered in data nodes.
Decision - The flow through a strategy is controlled by decision nodes. When all constraints specified in a decision node are met the "yes" exit path is followed, otherwise the "no" path will be used.
Requirements more complex than this can be addressed by multiple decision nodes with appropriate constraints and exit paths.
Process - Process nodes contain one or more EdgeCAM instructions. When this node is actioned the instructions and their modifiers (evaluated according to specified settings) are added to the EdgeCAM sequence.
End - Each path through the strategy must terminate at an end node. Multiple end nodes are permitted.
Notes - Notes are used for annotation purposes and may be placed anywhere in the graphics window. They are not linked to the flow chart logic and do not form part of the applied strategy.
You can use Group nodes to collect together other nodes and links to make the display more understandable.
The upper level of the strategy contains a "Group" node with one entry and one exit route. Within the group there will be a start node and other nodes and links as required, bound by the same rules as for any other strategy.
The flow enters the group by the entry link and exits as soon as the path within the group encounters and end node.
If a group is deleted then it and its contents are removed from the strategy.
Groups may be nested one within another. Movement "down" the structure is by selection of group nodes. Movement up is by use of the "Back" button on the navigation toolbar. The "Home" button on the same tool bar returns to the top level of the strategy.
See Also