Sometimes it is desired to make specific decisions every time a toolpath is post processed. This could be to make sure that the CNC control operates in the correct mode appropriate for the given toolpath. The Inventor HSM post processor has built-in functions to allow simple interaction; like asking simple questions in a sequential order. However if many questions/settings must be considered, then a conventional user interface approach is preferred.
The post processor does not directly support customization of user interfaces. However, it does allow third-party applications to be run which in turn can present the user interface and return the settings to the post processor. It is fully up to the post developer to choose his preferred development platform to fit the requirements (commonly known platforms would be C++/MFC, C#, Java, and Python).
However, there is a good alternative to the above platforms called HTML applications (HTA) supported through Internet Explorer. An HTA style application is almost identical to a normal HTML web page with minor changes in the accessible API. The user interface possible for HTA is the same as for normal web pages ensuring great flexibility in user interface design and dynamic content. When relevant, we recommend that you develop user interfaces in HTA and use JScript (similar to Javascript) for consistency with the post processor. An HTA application is just a normal HTML file with a special HTA tag and that uses the extension "hta". You can use the "interactive.hta" file as a template for your own post customization. Furthermore, you can find all the information required for developing user interfaces based on HTML on the Internet.
Since the post processor runs in the background, any executed application during posting will not block the main Inventor HSM user interface. The user can see in the Task Manager that the post, is in fact, waiting for an application to complete. In this particular example, that is until the user clicks either "Cancel" or "Accept". You can always abort the post processing immediately from the Inventor HSM Task Manager in case the third-party application should get stuck.
Post processor waiting for application to complete
All in all, the HTA approach will simplify user interface customization and allow you to easily maintain it; just like the remaining post customization. In most cases, a single HTA text file will be sufficient for your user interface requirements.