ISO 3592:2000

Overview - ISO 3592:2000 (NC processor output, file structure & language format)

ISO 3592:2000 specifies a standardized file structure and language format for CLDATA (originally “cutter location data”) used to transfer machining information from an NC (numerical control) processor to a post processor. The document defines the CLDATA Reference Language (RL) - a stream-oriented representation of tool location, orientation and technological control information - and the rules for representing that RL on physical, record‑oriented media. The standard was developed primarily for numerically controlled machine tools to ensure consistent exchange of machining data between systems.

Key topics and technical requirements

• CLDATA file model: a CLDATA file is composed of records; each record contains up to 245 elements. Elements represent integers, reals, literal character strings or keywords.
• Record and element semantics: the first element is a sequence number (starting at 1); the second element is a record type code. Remaining elements follow record-specific syntax and semantics.
• Record types: standardized record types include original program identification, post‑processor commands (integer/literal), surface and tool position data, relative tool direction, unsegmented tool path, part contour description, termination records and proprietary records.
• Coordinate system: uses a right‑handed Cartesian system with reference axes X, Y, Z and tool orientation components (i, j, k). Angles are given in degrees and decimals.
• Character set & delimiters: defines letters, digits, special characters and literal delimiters (apostrophe), and makes use of ISO/IEC 646 character set rules.
• Syntax rules: formal syntax for integers, reals, unary operators, literal strings, element separators (comma), record separators (semicolon) and file delimiter (colon). Annexes provide representation rules for record‑oriented media and syntax conventions.

Practical applications

• Enables interoperable data exchange between NC processors, CAD/CAM systems and post processors.
• Standardizes tool path, cutter location and machine command representation for multi‑axis CNC machine tools.
• Useful for post processor development, CAM output formatting, archival of NC programs, and automated tool‑path verification or conversion.
• Supports portability of manufacturing programs between different NC equipment and software environments.

Who should use it

• NC/NC‑processor and post‑processor developers
• CAM/CAD system integrators and CNC software engineers
• Machine tool manufacturers and production engineering teams
• Standards and interoperability engineers working with CNC data exchange

Related standards

• ISO 4342 (basic part program reference language)
• ISO 4343 (NC processor output - post processor)
• ISO 841 (axis and motion nomenclature)
• ISO/IEC 646 (7‑bit coded character set)

Keywords: ISO 3592, CLDATA, reference language (RL), NC processor output, file structure, language format, numerical control, CNC, post processor, tool position, cutter location data.