Uptime Virtual Joystick 2D

Uptime Virtual Joystick 2D is the second generation of the Uptime Virtual Joystick for OpenCNC. Implemented using Microsoft's latest .NET technologies, the Virtual Joystick 2D affords the user 2 new modes of totally free 2-dimensional axis movement with dazzling transparent graphics.

Free 2D Jogging

The 2D Virtual Joystick's Free Jog Mode provides the operator with a semi-transparent on-screen touchpad that permits free-form 2-axis, 2-dimensional movment. It works like MDSI's jog slide except that it allows movement of 2 axes simultaneously in the direction and the magnitude of the operator's touch.  Additionally, unlike the MDSI jog slide, the orientation of positive and negative axis movement is fully configurable.  No longer will an operator have to slide a finger left to move an axis right!

While jogging, on-screen graphics follow the operator's finger to clearly indicate the component speeds of each axis.  Simply lifting one's finger stops all motion.

8-Way Jogging

The 2D Virtual Joystick's 8-Way Jog Mode limits motion to vectors at 45 degree intervals, providing a somewhat more controlled way to jog 2 axes at once.  8 semi-transparent slide jog bars fill the screen in a star pattern.  Each bar when touched expands to fill the screen, permitting slide-jog motion only in the positive and negative directions indicated by its orientation. Graphical arrows and percentages clearly indicate current jog speed and direction.  Motion stops when the finger is lifted from the screen.

The Virtual Joystick 2D is a standalone module that may be controlled either by soft logic within MDSI OpenCNC or entirely via machine files (WinGen, WinMenu, and OST).  Axis letters and their orientations are fully configurable.  The Microsoft Windows .NET runtime library must be installed for this software to operate.  It is available as a free download from Microsoft's website.

Note: Use of the Uptime Virtual Joystick 2D requires minor changes either to the OpenCNC PLC code or to the OpenCNC startup files. These changes are simple but if you choose may be made for you by Uptime in which case additional charges for labor may apply.

Ordering Information

The Uptime Virtual Joystick 2D is typically requested as part of an Uptime CNC Retrofit job.  However any existing MDSI OpenCNC installation may easily have the Virtual Joystick 2D integrated into it.  Call us at (562) 692-7072 to discuss your needs and order a Virtual Joystick 2D Package.

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