ACCUSCAN TUTORIAL

Updated for 9.0.0

With the introduction of version 9.0.0, AccuScan can now support long file names for
data being stored to a version 9 AccuMark Storage Area.

AccuScan now supports long file names for piece names and sizes. A piece name can
now be up to 50 characters and alphanumeric size names can be up to 30 characters. Rule
table and model names can be up to 50 characters in length.

The piece name prefix can be up to 45 characters with a maximum of 5 characters for for
the starting piece number.

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 ACCUSCAN TUTORIAL
With the introduction of version 8.5.1, AccuScan can now be used to input images from
not just a scanner, but also from a camera.

Images of pattern pieces can now be converted to AccuMark pattern pieces in 8.5.1. The
pattern pieces are affixed to a special mat with targets. The targets help the AccuScan
software understand the scale and perspective of the image. Images can be taken with
almost any camera and brought directly into Pattern Design.

When photographing pattern pieces, use a Gerber supplied template mat to ensure the
image scaling and orientation. Mats available are:

Gerber Part Number Mat Description

97550100 (default mat) Black Styrene Mat, 26X36 inches

97550200 White Styrene Mat, 26X36 inches

97550300 Black Styrene Mat, 48X32 inches

97550400 White Styrene Mat, 48X32 inches

The mat is available in both black and white background colors. The mat should be a
contrasting color to the pattern pieces. There are two sizes available, medium and large,
to accommodate different size pattern pieces. Refer to the part numbers above to order
different mats.

Before photographing pattern pieces, install the Template Mat following these directions.
Use the provided picture hanging strips to ensure the mat is firmly secured to the wall.

Note: The mat can be used on a table or floor if space is an issue, but be sure there is not
a glare from overhead lighting on the mat before photographing.

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Follow the images below to use the Picture Hanging Strips to attach the template to a
wall.
1. Place a strip on the back of the template mat.
2. Place a strip on the wall.

3. Line up the velcro strips on the picture hanging strips to secure the template to
the wall. Place velcro strips on both top and bottom of the template mat to
ensure it does not curl or bow away from the wall.

The template is now ready to be used for photographing.

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Follow these tips below to ensure a quality photograph.

 Use a high quality camera with a minimum of 6

megapixels
 Use a tripod to help steady the camera. This will
ensure no movement when the photo is taken.
 The template should hang in a room with ambient
light, without windows, to ensure consistent
lighting
 Stand in front of the template
 Take the picture without flash if you have good
light in the room, to ensure shadows are not cast on
the photo
 Use a low ISO, for example ISO-100. This setting
controls the sensitivity of the image sensor in the
camera.
 Make sure all 6 mat targets are present in the
image.
 Pictures can be stored anywhere, for example on a
network drive, as long as the computer with
AccuScan installed has access to the location.

NOTE: This picture shows an ideal environment for

photographing patterns, the light is overhead and will
not cast a shadow on the mat or patterns.

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PREPARATION: Pattern Pieces

 Use the cleanest side of the pattern pieces. Pieces with a lot of lines and
annotation may not scan well. If necessary, photograph the back of the pattern
piece or trace it onto a fresh piece of paper.
 Flatten out the pieces as much as possible. Folds and wrinkles can cause shadows
in the photograph.
 The longest line on the pattern piece will be identified as the grain line.
 Notches will be read off the piece perimeter according to the measurements
provided in the Settings menu.
 Drill mark and punch holes can be automatically detected in the photograph, as
long as the measurements are defined in the Settings menu.
 Mount the pieces to the template with adhesive dots provided. Tape on the front
of the piece may interfere with the perimeter shape of the final piece.

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Transferring Images to AccuMark Pieces

After taking pictures and transferring them to a folder, the AccuScan program can be used to
create AccuMark pieces from the images.

To create AccuMark pieces from images:

1. Open the AccuScan software.
2. Change settings as appropriate. For more information, see pages 2 and 3 of this guide.
3. In the Source area, select Image File. Use the lookup button to locate the Image.
4. After the image is selected, select Actions / Preview.
5. The image will display in the Preview window.
6. Change contrast settings using the controls on the right side of the window, if needed.

 Threshold: Enter a new value to raise or lower the contrast of the image. A higher number
will raise the contrast in the image; changing more of the gray tones to black. A lower value
will change more of the gray tones to white. Lower values will reduce processing time.
 The Save Threshold check box will retain this value for the next image.
 The Darker/Lighter slider can also be used to interactively change the Threshold.

7. Edit the image, if needed.

 Draw Line: Use to draw straight, black lines on the image. Click on the image to start the line;
click the image again to end the line.
 Erase Line: Use to erase lines on the image. Click on the image to start the line; click the image
again to end the line.
 Draw Free: Use to draw freeform, black lines on the image. Click and hold to draw; release the
mouse to end the line.
 Erase Free: Use to erase freeform areas of the image. Click and hold to erase; release the mouse to
complete the task.
 Pen Width. This field will be activated when any of the functions listed above is selected.
Otherwise remains hidden. Since objects at this moment are created by pixels, user is entitled to
determine the thickness of the stroke to be used by any of the image editing tools.
 Crop: Use to reduce the size of the image and eliminate unused portions of the image. Click and
release to begin drawing the cropping rectangle. Click and release again to finish the cropping
rectangle.
 Undo: Use to reverse the previous edit on the image.

NOTE: After editing the image, use the Save Image button to save and changes to the image. The system
will prompt for a name and location for the image. The image will be saved as a Bitmap (.bmp) file.

8. When the image is ready, click the Save AM Data button. The AccuMark pieces will be saved in
the storage area selected in the AccuScan software. The system will return a message with
the number of pieces saved.

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USING PHOTOGRAPHED PIECES: Pattern Design
Pieces converted from images can be opened and modified like other pieces. On workstations licensed to
run AccuScan, two additional functions are available in the File menu: Piece from AccuScan and Toggle
Scanner Bitmap.

 Piece from AccuScan: This function will open the AccuScan dialog and allow for additional images to
be converted.
 Toggle Scanner Bitmap: shows or hides the image behind the AccuMark piece.

To work with the background image:

1. Place the new piece in the work area.
2. From the File menu, select Toggle Scanner Bitmap.

The image will be displayed behind the AccuMark piece. The image can be used as a reference when
cleaning up pieces saved from images.

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Additional Reference Information

Piece Information:

Device and Storage Area: Define the location where the scanned shapes will be saved.

Piece Name Prefix and Starting Piece Number: Type in the name of the piece and
which number it will have. By default, the Starting Piece Number starts with one and
automatically continues to track pieces in a numeric sequence. If you close the software,
the program will remember the last number.

Size Scanned: Defines the base size of the piece scanned. If this field is left blank, the
base size name will be read from the rule table. If no rule table is defined, the base size
name will be 1.

Add to Model (optional): If the new piece should be automatically added to a model,
enter the model name here. If the model does not exist, it will be created when the pieces
are saved.

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 Grade Rule Type: Choose Rule Table to use a grade rule table for size information or
Copy Piece to use a saved piece.

Rule Table/Copy Piece: Define the Rule Table or Piece Name to use for the size
information. Use the lookup button to select from a list. The piece or rule table must be
in the same storage area where the piece will be stored.

Scan Information:

Material: Set this to Camera.

Pattern Type: Choose from Cutout or Line Drawing to describe the piece being
photographed.

Select View/Options to configure additional settings:

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Piece Processing Settings:

Grade Notches: Check this box to add a grade point to scanned notches.

Grade Drill Holes: Check this box to add a grade point to scanned drill marks.

Angled Notches: Check this box if you scan a pattern with notches at a certain angle; the
default value is 90 degrees.
The Minimum Notch Angle will be activated if you check the Angle Notch; then
an angle degree can be entered here.

Set up the Minimum and Maximum desired Notch Depth according to your pattern input
values as a range for the scanner to identify notches.

If scanning Punch Holes make sure to define the size of the hole, this will allow the
creation of punch holes as perfect circled internal lines.

External Notches. Check this box to scan a pattern piece with External notches and type
in the depth of the notches.

Scan Properties

Resolution. Change this setting to get a perfect scanned pattern. The normal setting is
100 dpi, but if you have an unclear image you can use a higher Resolution to get better
results at the scan.

Point reduction. Start with a mid-value of 5. Now this value must to be modified
according to the pattern piece type, based on the appropriate amount of intermediate
points the system will create. The lower the value, the more intermediate points the
piece will have.

Units
Select the Units of Measurement. Metric or Imperial. This is independent of the
unit settings in AccuMark.

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Materials Settings

 New will create a new material to use in scanning

 Edit will change the properties of a selected material.

Name: Enter a name for the material

Type: Use the drop-down to choose

the Material Type. Select an option
that describes the material type from
the types listed.

Threshold: The default contrast for

the scan. Higher values will increase
the contrast in the image. This can be
changed later in the scan preview.

Thin Line Compensation: ability to

build thin perimeter lines, especially
good when scanning or
photographing line drawings.

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Dark Pattern, Light Background: Check this box when using the white background
template.

Image from Camera: Check this box when using the camera for image capture. This
activates the Registration Marks settings.

Registration Marks Width/Height: Enter the distance between the registration marks
(measured from the center). Width is measured in the Y direction; Length is measured in
the X direction.

Click OK to create the new material.

VERIFY PIECES: Transferring Images to AccuMark Pieces

After taking pictures and transferring them to a folder, the AccuScan program can be
used to create AccuMark pieces from the images.

To create AccuMark pieces from images:

1. Open the AccuScan software.
2. Change “Settings” and “Materials” as appropriate.
3. In the Source area, select Image File. Use the lookup button to locate the Image.

4. After the image is selected, select Actions / Preview.

5. The image will display in the Preview window.

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 Use the Views options to view or
hide the Image or Vector Views.
Check the box next to Vector View
to see a preview of the AccuMark
piece shape.

6. Change contrast settings using the controls on the right side of the window, if
needed.
a. Threshold: Enter a new value to raise or lower the contrast of the image.
A higher number will raise the contrast in the image; changing more of the
gray tones to black. A lower value will change more of the gray tones to
white. Lower values will reduce processing time.
b. The Save Threshold check box will retain this value for the next image.
c. The Darker/Lighter slider can also be used to interactively change the
Threshold.
7. Edit the image, if needed.
a. Draw Line: Use to draw straight, black lines on the image. Click on the
image to start the line; click the image again to end the line.
b. Erase Line: Use to erase lines on the image. Click on the image to start
the line; click the image again to end the line.
c. Draw Free: Use to draw freeform, black lines on the image. Click and
hold to draw; release the mouse to end the line.
d. Erase Free: Use to erase freeform areas of the image. Click and hold to
erase; release the mouse to complete the task.
e. Crop: Use to reduce the size of the image and eliminate unused portions
of the image. Click and release to begin drawing the cropping rectangle.
Click and release again to finish the cropping rectangle.
f. Undo: Use to reverse the previous edit on the image.

NOTE: After editing the image, use the Save Image button to save and changes to the
image. The system will prompt for a name and location for the image. The image will be
saved as a Bitmap (.bmp) file.

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 8. When the image is ready, click the Save AM Data button. The AccuMark pieces
will be saved in the storage area selected in the AccuScan software. The system
will return a message with the number of pieces saved.

USING SCANNED PIECES: Pattern Design

Pieces converted from images can be opened and modified like other pieces. On
workstations licensed to run AccuScan, two additional functions are available in the File
menu:

 Piece from AccuScan: This function will open the AccuScan dialog and
allow for additional images to be converted.
 Toggle Scanner Bitmap: shows or hides the image behind the AccuMark
piece.

To work with the background image:

1. Place the new piece in the work area.

2. From the File menu, select Toggle Scanner Bitmap.

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The image will be displayed behind the AccuMark piece. The image can be used as a
reference when cleaning up pieces saved from images.

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Important Notes prior to 8.5.1:

About Software versions and Compatibility:

 AccuScan installation IS NOT INCLUDED in AccuMark family CD Version 8.2.2.192.
 AccuScan IS INCLUDED in the AccuMark family CD Version 8.2.2.195.
 AccuScan Version 8.2.2.19X is compatible with AccuMark in both Versions 7.x.x and 8.x.x;
Pieces can be saved in V7 storage areas; however installation is only available as V8.2.2.x and
higher.
 License File. In order to be able to execute the AccuScan application, make sure the line
"SCANNER" version "8.2 or 8.3" (depending on the version acquired) is included in your current
AM license file if AccuScan will be installed in an existing AccuMark workstation. If AccuScan is
loaded and run from a non-AM system, a separate license file and software key is required.
Remember that you can verify the features included in your AccuMark license file if you open it
with Notepad. Please note that you are not able to make any changes to the license file contents. If
changes need to be made, please contact your Gerber Sales representative or a Customer Service
Agent.
 AccuScan software is loaded by default in the following path: C:\Program Files\Gerber
Technology\AccuScan.

About Hardware Installation:

The Scanner Installation is Windows Plug-Play; when connected to the system, the Installation Wizard will
display on the screen and will prompt to install the driver from a CD, which is provided by the Scanner
manufacturer (Graphtec.) Follow the prompts accordingly. See the information below for further details.
The “Image Scanner By Graphtec” CD Image may also be downloaded from the Gerber Service Software
Library website. For download assistance, contact Customer Support.

About Software Installation:

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1. AccuScan software: From the CD installation, select AccuScan, then Install AccuScan. Follow the steps
to complete the installation. The AccuScan icon will be placed in your desktop; the application may also be
launched from Start > AccuScan.
2. Scanner DriverTwain_32 : When the appropriate TWAIN_32 Driver for the Scanner has been installed,
it will be located in the following paths:
Windows XP Systems: C:\Windows\Twain _32\GRAPHTEC\IS200-11.
Windows 2000 Systems: C:\WINNT\Twain_32\GRAPHTEC\IS200-11
To manually install the Scanner TWAIN32 Driver from the CD, go to D:\English\OPS111\setup and follow
the prompts.
You can also download a copy of the Graphtec Scanner driver (Graphtec TWAIN32 Driver) from the
Gerber Net Service Software site, under the AccuMark Family CD V8.2.2.195
NOTE: During the installation, you will be prompted to select the Scanner Model type; the model may be
found on the back of the scanner. Select the model accordingly when prompted (Model IS200-11eN is the
most common one. Scanner model MUST match the Driver type.) See the example below under Scanner
Configuration.

3. Software Scanning Master 21+: The Scanning Master 21+ software may be installed from the same
“Image Scanner By Graphtec” CD. From the CD, go to D:\English\OPS112\setup and follow the prompts.

Scanner Configuration

In order to complete the Scanner Configuration, go to the following location:

From Start button > All Programs > Scanning Master 21+ > click on Scanning Master 21+
Go to Scan > Model Set up. Ensure the Scanner Model is correct; the Interface type is USB only if the
scanner has been connected locally:

Click on Confirm. OK to keep your changes and exit. Cancel to exit without changes.

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 AccuScan & Scanner First Time Set Up
The following settings are recommended to get started with the AccuScan/Scanner interface.

Scanner Settings

From the desktop double click on AccuScan.

From the AccuScan main menu:

1. Go to Actions > Select Source:

Pay special attention to the model type, since multiple scanner drivers may be found; select the one that
matches your scanner model (IS200-11eN.) If no sources are listed or correct driver is not found, repeat the
steps for Hardware Installation and Configuration.

2. Go to Actions > Set Up

a. At the top section of Graphtec Twain32 Driver Set up Dialog Box > Select the following options:
 Document type=Black and White
 Output= Grayscale

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 b. Set up Tab. The default Interface is USB. Select the appropriate Units of measurement (mm is
the default.)

c. Options Tab. Scan Speed > Slide the bar to the 4th position from the Standard value. Even though this
will slow down the speed of the scanner a little bit, it will provide better results when scanning pieces. This
setting also helps to avoid paper jam problems.

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d. Adjustments Tab. Do not change the default values. Documents will be scanned in as Black and White,
therefore these values are the correct ones.

e. Document Tab. Select the following settings:

 Paper size= User size. (If scanning multiple pieces using the envelope, Length may vary
depending on the Envelope Length -two envelope lengths are available-)
o Width=35.5”/901.7mm (recommended); Maximum value=41.96”/1066mm
o Length= 49.5”/1257.30mm (Short envelope length); Maximum
value=68.89”/1750mm
 Orientation= Portrait
 Resolution= Type in 150 DPI –recommended- (this value should be the same as Resolution
value under AccuScan Options.) Maximum Value=600 DPI. If the latter value is chosen,
make sure you have more than the recommended amount of memory in RAM (Recommended
is 2GB.)
 DPI Quality= Normal (only choice available for this Scanner Model)

f. When finished, click on the Finish or Close Button (this action will save your Scanner settings).

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AccuScan Options: Settings.
1. From the main Screen, Go to View > Options > Settings Tab:

 Units:
o Select the Units of Measurement, Metric or Imperial. This works independently from the
User Environment Parameter Table in your target Storage Area.
 Scan Properties:
o Image Resolution recommended for cutout patterns and drawings is 150 dpi. For specific
or unclear Drawings: 300 dpi. NOTE: It is very important that the resolution set in this
section of the AccuScan match the same value under the Scanner set up, otherwise the
scale of the scanned piece will be either larger or smaller than the actual piece. See E.
Document Tab in the previous section.
o Point reduction: Start with a mid-value by placing the mark guide at recommended
Value=5; this is a variable value that needs to be modified according to the piece type,
based on the appropriate amount of intermediate points the system will create. The lower
the value, the more intermediate points the piece will have; the higher the value, the less
intermediate points the piece will have. Basic criteria can be used to decide whether the
piece should have more or less intermediate points, based on the amount of curve lines
and shapes the pieces would have or how deep the curves could be. Also, keep in mind
that if scanning multiple pieces in one batch, the Threshold value applies for the entire
image group; further work per piece/line basis can be later done in PDS.
 Piece Processing:
o Grade Notches checking this box is recommended if scanning pieces that would need to
be graded (this will allow you to easily identify notches by grade symbols in the
AM/PDS screen.) Tip: If notches are scanned graded by mistake, you can later remove
the grade rule from notches in PDS by selecting Notches with Edit Notch or Point Info in
PDS and remove the grade rule #1.
o Grade Drill Holes. Check this box if you wish to scan drill mark points with a grade rule
#1. (Optional.)
o Angled Notches Check this box if you wish to scan notches at a certain angle; the default
value is 90º (perpendicular to the perimeter line.) The Minimum Notch Angle will be
activated as soon as you check the Angle Notch; enter an angle degree here. (Optional.)
o Set up the Minimum and Maximum desired Notch Depth according to your pattern input
values as a range for the scanner to identify notches. Recommended.
o If scanning Punch Holes, make sure to define a Diameter amount; this will allow the
creation of punch holes as perfect circled internal lines. Note: currently only one Punch
Hole size can be created at a time. (under construction.)

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 o If you are scanning patterns on the wrong side, use the options under Flip Piece, in order
to create the AccuMark piece in the correct orientation. Options are: No, Flip X and Y.
(see the AccuScan Help document for further information of piece preparation.)
o External Notches. Check this box to activate the recognition of External notches. If
unchecked, then the shape of the notch will be created as part of the piece perimeter and
unable to be used along with the P-Notch when AM piece has been created. (Available in
V8.3.0 only.)

C> AccuScan Options: Materials.

2. From the main Screen, Go to View > Options > Materials Tab:

Use the following recommended Threshold values for typical materials only as a reference to get started.
(Refer to the image below for various Material entry values.)

Recommended criteria for most common materials:

 Cardboard/Oak tag = 150 – 200 Threshold; use 150 if the goal is to scan in the pattern perimeter
only; 200+ if the goal is to scan in the pattern perimeter along with internal objects, such as style
lines or drill marks.
 Muslin or similar fabrics= there are two main recommendations: 132 Threshold, at 75DPI or 90
Threshold at 150DPI. Keep in mind that a piece of muslin by itself contains a lot of information
due to the threads and fabric texture itself; the threads do not need to be captured as lines; 75 dpi
Res. helps to avoid getting more pixels than needed.
 Drawings=160-180 Threshold; recommendations: make sure drawings are evenly created as far
the ink tone is concerned; it could be even created out of pencil, but even shades of grays matter.
You can also enhance the quality of the image by increasing from 150 up to 300 DPI resolution
value. This, however, will require more memory resources.

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IMPORTANT NOTES:

1. The Default entry under the Plastic Material Type with a Threshold value of 127 is the only one
preloaded with the software. The recommended ones listed above must be created by the user. Use the New
button to complete the information per every Material Entry. Use the Edit button to modify existing
entries. Use the Remove button to eliminate entries no longer needed.

2. Please take in consideration that every pattern and/or material could behave differently than others.
depending on whether the pattern contains information inside such as style lines, annotation, etc. In V8.3.0
a set of tools has been provided in the Preview Window in order to modify, save or overwrite Threshold
values on the fly as needed. This set of tools will be covered in the Scanning session.

3. About Drawings: creation of AM pieces out of drawings has been enhanced in V8.3.0. Nonetheless, it is
very important that drawn lines are as perfectly defined as possible.

4. In order to save Options click on OK; this action will save both Settings and Materials.

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 Scanner Adjustment and Calibration
You should set the adjustment features if you want to approximate the accuracy of the scanned-in drawing
to that of the original. (Fine tuning the accuracy, depending on the quality of the document.)

Usually this adjustment is unnecessary; however, it is highly recommended to be done at least once before
you use it for the first time. It is also recommended to do some calibration periodically. The frequency of
doing so depends on how often the scanner is being used. Last but not least, it is also good to run a scanner
calibration every time you change the media to be scanned in (for example, if fabric or other material with
different thickness would be used after using oak tag cardboard).

In order to access the tools to calibrate the scanner, use the Graphtec software Scanning Master 21+
provided with the scanner Driver CD or access it via the Gerber AccuScan software. Both procedures are
explained below.

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 Distance Correction
Corrects distances as appropriate for the type of document. The setting may be within approximately ±1%.
It is effective until the scanner uses a different media.

To use the Distance Correction function, first measure a line drawn on the document. For best results, use
the longest part of the document as a reference (see the image below of a pant leg pattern):

1. Measure the length of the line. Define it as a (Distance Measured on Document) and write the
measurement down.
2. Before scaning in the document, open the Scanning Master 21+ software and set it at 600 dpi res;
use portrait orientation:
From the Scan Menu > Scan > Document Tab > change settings accordingly.
3. Scan the previously measured document.
From the Scan Menu > Scan > click on the Scan button. Wait few seconds until the image
displays in the work area (speed depends on the computer processor.)
4. Once the image of the scanned document is displayed in the work area (see image below) proceed
with the adjustment using the follow procedure:
From the View Menu > Relative Measure > Distance between Specified Points.. Define it
as b (Distance Measured after Scanning).

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a. Measure the length of the corresponding drawn line in the image data.

b. Note that this measure tool provides with three values: X, Y and Distance along a line.
Select the one that better represents the reference line and write the measurement down.

c. For the Units of measurement, the Default is Metric. If working in Imperial, change the
units of measurements under the following menu: Tools > Options > click on the Unit Set
Up tab.

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Now go to the Tools menu > Adjust Scanner.

In the Scanner Adjustment dialog box, click on the Distance Correction button:

The Distance Correction dialog box appears: Type in the Distance Measured on Document (defined as a)
and Distance Measured after Scanning (defined as b). These values must be within the range of distance
correction (see information below)

When done, click on the OK button to calculate the corrections. Distance correction will take effect with
the next document scanned.

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 Getting Ready To Scan Patterns

1. Pattern Preparation. Before you scan a pattern, there are a few things to consider:
a. Make your patterns as flat as possible, especially for materials that wrinkle.
b. Patterns should be as clean as possible so that a low threshold value can be used to scan
quickly and clearly. If this is not possible, bitmap images created by the Scanner could be
easily cleaned up with a set of tools provided in the Preview Window. (This topic will be
covered later.)
c. Grain Line. If you are not an experienced PDS user, use the Grain Line Symbol template
provided with your system. This template allows you to define the piece orientation. Just
align the template up to the original grain line on your pattern, and draw the symbol (see
image below.). If the Grain Line Symbol is not defined on the pattern(s), AccuScan will
orient the piece(s) in a random position and will create the piece(s) with a default Grain
Line. Once the piece(s) is retrieved in PDS, the piece orientation can be modified and
grain line re-oriented. The grain line, alternate grain lines, and important internals objects
should stand out on the pattern and be easily identifiable from miscellaneous markings,
such as stains or smudges.
d. If the pattern is marked with items such as text and seam allowance, scan the opposite
side and use the Flip Piece option in the Settings screen to create the piece in its correct
orientation.

e. Notches. Punched/drawn slit or T notches, as well as Internal/External V Notches are

recognized and created by the scanner as Type 1, regardless of the shape of the notch.
Please refer to AccuScan Options to determine the range of Notch depth. Once the piece
has been retrieved in PDS, use the Edit Notch Info Box to change the notch type
according to your settings. AccuMark will then reference the P-Notch to plot/cut the
correct notch shape and size.
f. Drill Marks. Whether they are defined as a cross hair, small circle or just a dot,
AccuScan will create a drill mark valid for AccuMark. The Drill Symbol defined in the
Annotation Table will determine size and shape when piece is plot/cut out.
g. Punch Holes. Only one size may be created at a time. Please refer to AccuScan Options
to determine the size of punch holes. (Future implementation.)
h. Grade Points. By default, all corners –end points- of a piece will become a grade point
with a rule number 1 if either a Rule Table or a source Piece Name is selected. Once the
piece has been retrieved in PDS, use the Edit Point Info Box or Change Grade Rule
Function to change the Grade Rule Number that corresponds to your grading.

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NOTE: Text fonts are not currently recognized by the AccuScan; any text located on the surface of the
piece, will be converted into internal lines.

2. Piece Information. In the AccuScan Main Window, complete the Pattern Piece Information
accordingly:

a. Select target Device and Storage Area name. SQL device/storage areas can also be
selected.
b. Piece Name Prefix and Starting Piece Number: AccuScan will automatically keep track
of your scanned piece names by using the Prefix name defined by the user followed by
the Starting Piece Number. By default, this number starts with #1 and automatically
continues to track pieces in a numeric sequence; if you exit the program then reenter,
AccuScan will remember the last number used. There are a couple of ways you can start
the numbering of pieces from scratch: by changing target storage area and/or by changing
the Piece Name Prefix. You can also modify the Starting Piece Name manually. Note:
only numeric values, no alpha characters allowed.
c. Add to Model name (optional); if a model is selected, the scanned pieces will be added
automatically to the selected Model. The Model file must already exist.
d. Size Scanned; entered the size name you wish to assign to your scanned piece(s) if a
Grade Rule Type was not selected (Piece or Rule Table).
e. Grade Rule Type; select Rule Table or Copy Piece from the Drop Down Menu as a Grade
source of information.
f. Rule Table/Copy Piece: This field will toggle the label automatically according to the
selection made in the field above. If not selection is made, then the Size Scanned field
could be used as a source of naming the size to be scanned. If neither fields are selected,
then AccuScan will automatically assigned size 1 to all scanned pieces. A warning
message will prompt the user to whether accept this default value.

3. Scan Information. In the AccuScan Main Window:

a. Select Material type from the list (the names of material types previously created will
display in this drop down menu)
b. Select Pattern Type from the list according to your pattern, whether it comes as cutout
or as drawing.

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4. Source. In the AccuScan Main Window, select only one of the following options a at time:
a. TWAIN= if scanning pieces via Scanner, this option will enable communication between
AccuScan and the Scanner.
b. Image file= if using an existing raster image, select the one you want to use from the
look up button. Only BMP and JPG files are supported; PCX is a vector type of file.

5. Model Post Processing (Available in V8.3.0 only). Once the scanning of all the pieces is
complete and they have been added to a Model, click on “Edit Piece Names and Quantities” look
up button; this will launch the Model Editor and will open the selected model in the piece
information section.

The Model Editor has a new feature also introduced in V8.3.0 called “Rename Piece on Disk” that
AccuScan will check ON automatically. This feature allows you to rename the piece name assigned by
AccuScan and at the same time will rename the piece name file on disk. (Refer to “What’s New”
document for AccuMark for further details.)

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 Get Ready, Set, Go!
1. Using the Envelope.
Once patterns have been prepared, whether you are planning to scan one or multiple pieces, it is
recommended to use the envelope provided with your scanner. The black envelope is the best choice. Place
the piece(s) inside the envelope. No further preparation is needed other than the one in the section above.
The pieces are held inside the scanner by the static of the plastic itself. If pieces shift pieces due to the
weight of the media, tape may be used to secure them.

2. Scan Preview Window.

Until you become more experienced and confident using the scanner, it is recommended to scan pieces via
the Scan Preview Window. It is also a good way to access a set of tools if your original patterns need to be
cleaned up or better defined in the raster image.

From the Actions Menu > Preview (Press F3 or click on the first icon from left on the Tool Bar shown
below)

The Scan Preview window will display.

Threshold field > allows you to edit the Threshold value for the current image displayed in the preview
window. Keep under consideration that changing this value increases or decreases the definition of vector
images, each value may vary depending on media type and internal objects. Some predefined values should
be tested and saved under the Materials entry list, using the following criteria: the higher the threshold
value, the more information you will capture from the bitmap image and more “image noise” would be
captured; if internal objects exist in the piece, the threshold value may be modified in order to define such
internals. There may be times where high Threshold values will create image noise; so be aware of
different media colors or textures. You are able to modify the Threshold value, either using the Slide Bar or
typing in a value.

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Save Threshold check box > if enabled, when the threshold value has been modified and you click on Save
AM Data, Save Image or OK, the threshold value previously defined under Options > Materials for the
current material selected will be overwritten. Therefore, if this is a temporary change, do not check this
box.

Views.
Image View. Check this box to display the raster image (black/white bitmap.)

Vector View. Check this box to display the vector image (red lines.)

Save options.

Save Image. Allows you to save a raster version of the Preview image; only BMP type of file is available at
the HIGHEST resolution option; depending on the actual dimensions of the image, the file size might
become quite large. This will allow you to continue scanning the same image any time without actually
scanning the physical patterns again. It is indeed a very good option to comparing results, and also it offers
a good back up file either as future reference or for troubleshooting purposes. The file can be saved in any
location of your choice.

Save AM Data. Once the image is ready to be converted into AccuMark piece(s), click on this button in
order to create AM pieces. If several patterns are included in the same raster image, each one of them will
become an AM piece.

OK. To exit the Preview window while keeping the settings currently selected in this window.

Cancel. To exit the Preview window without keeping the settings currently selected in this window.

Zoom (+/-). Click on the +/- buttons to zoom in/out the Preview Image. If you are viewing part of the
image only, use your cursor to Pan the image by clicking and dragging with left button.

Editing Tools. (Available in V8.3.0 only).

Line. Use this tool to draw 2-point straight lines on the current preview image. Just click once with left
button to define the first point, drag the mouse and click one more time to finalize the line.

Paint. Use this tool to create free-hand lines on the current preview image. Just click and drag the mouse
to draw the line; when done, release the mouse button to finalize the line.

Erase. Use this tool to erase any existing object in the current preview image whether it was captured by
the scanner or drawn by using any of the tools listed above. Just click and drag the mouse to erase the line;
when done, release the mouse button to complete erasing objects.

Pen Width. This field will be activated when any of the functions listed above is selected. Otherwise
remains hidden. Since objects at this moment are created by pixels, user is entitled to determine the
thickness of the stroke to be used by any of the image editing tools.

Crop. Use this tool to reduce the size of the preview image. Very useful if Save as Image would be used. It
considerable reduces the size of the file too.

Undo. Use this tool to undo only once the actions performed by any of the Editing tools, including Crop.

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 Scanning pieces

When ready to create AM pieces, click on that button; the following message will display if AccuScan
finds that the piece contains small internal lines:

Select YES to continue. You will be able to clean up your piece once it has been retrieved in PDS.
Select NO if you are unsure of what AccuScan is about to create. Notice that NO will interrupt the scanning
process and no AM pieces will be created. Please remember that choosing NO you will have to start the
scanning process from the beginning.

When the scanning process is done, the following message will display to confirm the AM piece creation,
according to the number of pieces created and the Piece Information:

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 Piece Verification
Now, you can either use AM Explorer or PDS in order to retrieve and verify your pieces and/or Models.

Run
As you gain more experience with the AccuScan, you could always scan pieces directly into AccuMark
bypassing the Preview Window.
In order to do so, go to Actions > Run, press F5 or click on the second icon from left on the tool bar:

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 Scanning pieces via PDS and AccuMark Explorer.
(Available in V8.3.0 and higher)

Please refer to the What’s New Document to learn more about this new functionality.

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 Glossary

 Image Resolution= a way of measuring a two-dimensional value in a raster image –width and
height- called Pixel.
 Pixel= The smallest image-forming unit of a video display.
 DPI= Dots or Pixels per Inch.
 Threshold= Converts grayscale or color images to high contrast, black and white images. By
specifying a certain level of threshold, all pixels lighter than the threshold are converted to white;
all pixels darker than the Threshold are converted to black. The Threshold value is useful for
determining the lightest and darkest areas of an image.
o For AccuScan, Threshold is the amount of contrast between the background, pattern
material, and the pattern markings. The value set affects the following:
 How the gray tone (raster) image produced by the scanner is converted into a
black and white (vector) image required by the system.
 The sharpness of the scanned image.
 Which pattern markings scan.

Computer graphics fall into two main categories:

Raster and Vector Images:
 Raster Image= made up of a grid of dots known as pixels. When working with bitmap images,
you edit pixels rather than objects or shapes.
 Vector Image= made up of mathematically defined lines and curves called vectors. This means
that you can move, resize, or change the color of a line without losing the quality of the graphic.
 TWAIN= Technology Without An Interesting Name.
 Driver Twain_32= Set of files needed to run a peripheral device such as Printers or Scanners.


Document prepared by Rodolfo Ramirez,

August 2007

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