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Prismatic Machining
Preface
What's New
Getting Started
Enter the Workbench
Create a Pocketing Operation
Replay the Toolpath
Create a Profile Contouring Operation
Create a Drilling Operation
Assign a Macro
Assign a Tool
Generate NC Code
User Tasks
Milling Operations
Closed Pocketing
Open Pocketing
Prismatic Roughing
Facing
Profile Contouring: Between Two Planes
Profile Contouring: Between Two Curves
Profile Contouring: Between Curve and Surfaces
Profile Contouring: Flank Contouring
Curve Following
Groove Milling
Point to Point
2.5 to 5-axis Drilling Operations
Spot Drilling
Drilling
Drilling Dwell Delay
Drilling Deep Hole
Drilling Break Chips
Reaming
Counterboring
Boring
Boring Spindle Stop
Boring and Chamfering
Back Boring
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Tapping
Reverse Threading
Thread without Tap Head
Thread Milling
Countersinking
Chamfering Two Sides
T-Slotting
Circular Milling
Auxiliary Operations
Features for Machining
Create and Use a Prismatic Machining Area
Create a Prismatic Rework Area for Reworking Corners and Channels
Part Operations, Manufacturing Programs, and Machining Processes
Create a Machining Process for Prismatic Features
NC Manufacturing Entities
Verification, Simulation and Program Output
Workbench Description
Menu Bar
Toolbars
Specification Tree
Customizing
NC Manufacturing Settings
General
Resources
Operation
Output
Program
Photo / Video
Reference Information
Pocketing Operations
Profile Contouring Operations
Prismatic Roughing Operations
Facing Operations
Curve Following Operations
Groove Milling Operations
Point to Point Operations
2.5 to 5-axis Drilling Operations
Machining Patterns
Methodology
How to Generate CUTCOM Syntaxes
Select Hole Design Features for Machining
Use Tolerances on Design Features for Machining
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Glossary
Index
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PrefacePrismatic Machining enables you to define and manage NC programs dedicated to machining parts designed in 3D wireframe or solids geometry using 2.5 axis machining techniques.
It offers an easy-to-use and easy-to-learn graphic interface that makes it suitable for shop floor-oriented use. Moreover, its leading edge technologies together with a tight integration with Version 5 design methodologies and DELMIA's digital manufacturing environment, fully satisfy the requirements of office programming. Prismatic Machining is a unique solution that reconciliates office and shop floor activities.
It is integrated to a Post Processor Access execution engine, allowing the product to cover the whole manufacturing process from tool trajectory (APT source) to NC code.
This product is particularly adapted for tooling and simple machined parts, and is also an ideal complement to other manufacturing applications.
Prismatic Machining offers the following main functions: ● 2.5 axis milling and drilling capabilities
● Management of tools and tool catalogs
● Flexible management of the manufacturing program with intuitive and easy-to-learn user interface based on graphic dialog boxes
● Tight interaction between tool path definition, verification and generation
● Seamless NC data generation thanks to an integrated Post Processor Access solution
● Automatic shop floor documentation in HTML format
● High associative level of the manufacturing program ensures productive design change management thanks to the integration with Version 5 modeling capabilities
● Based on the Process Product Resources (PPR) model, the manufacturing applications are integrated with Digital Process for Manufacturing (DPM).
Certain portions of this product contain elements subject to copyright owned by the following entities:
© Copyright LightWork Design Ltd., all rights reserved.© Copyright Deneb Robotics Inc., all rights reserved.© Copyright Cenit, all rights reserved.© Copyright Intelligent Manufacturing Software, all rights reserved.© Copyright WALTER Informationssysteme GmbH, all rights reserved.© Copyright ICAM Technologies Corporation, all rights reserved.
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What's New?
Enhanced Functionalities
Milling Operations
Back and Forth tool path now available in Prismatic Roughing operationMachining can now be done with a Back and Forth tool path style.
Cutter compensation modeIn addition to the existing automatic CUTCOM generation for cutter profile output, an option choice is added to support CUTCOM generation for Pocketing, Profile Contouring, and Circular Milling in case of standard tool tip output.
Axial Machining Operations
Preview button to check compatibility of selected parametersNew automatic checking control of parameters of an axial operation: compatibility between the tool, geometry and machining parameters is checked to inform the user that an inconsistency exist in the operation.
Back Boring operationNew Retract parameter for Back Boring operation to limit the retract distance after the back bore tool path.
General Functions
Usability of MacrosNew macro definition user interface for all prismatic machining operations.
Enhancements brought to the NC Manufacturing InfrastructureThis product benefits from enhancements to the infrastructure's general functions (NC resources, design changes, simulation, NC data output, 3D PLM integration, and so on).
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Getting StartedBefore getting into the detailed instructions for using Prismatic Machining, this tutorial is intended to give you a feel of what you can accomplish with the product.
It provides the following step-by-step scenario that shows you how to use some of the key functionalities.
Enter the WorkbenchCreate a Pocketing Operation
Replay the ToolpathCreate a Profile Contouring Operation
Create a Drilling OperationAssign a MacroAssign a Tool
Generate NC Code
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Enter the WorkbenchThis first task shows you how to open a part and enter the Prismatic Machining workbench.
1. Select File -> Open then select the GettingStartedPrismaticMachining.CATPart document.
2. Select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from the Start menu.
The Prismatic Machining workbench appears.
The part is displayed in the Setup Editor window along with the manufacturing specification tree.
3. Select Manufacturing Program.1 in the tree to make it the current entity.
To insert program entities such as machining operations, tools and auxiliary commands you can either: ● make the program current before clicking the insert program entity command
● click the insert program entity command then make the program current.
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Create a Pocketing OperationThis task shows you how to insert a pocketing operation in the program.
As this operation will use the default tool and options proposed by the program, you just need to specify the geometry to be machined.
1. Select the
Pocketing icon .
A Pocketing.1 entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Pocketing dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page
.
The red status light on the tab indicates that you must select the pocket geometry in order to create the operation.
The Geometry page includes an icon representing a simple pocket.
There are several sensitive areas and texts in the icon to help you specify the pocket geometry. Sensitive areas that are colored red indicate required geometry.
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2. Right click the red Bottom in the icon and select Contour Detection from the contextual menu.
Click the red Bottom area.
The dialog box is reduced allowing you to select the corresponding part geometry.
3. Select the bottom of the pocket.
The boundary of the selected pocket bottom is automatically proposed as drive element for the operation thanks to the Contour Detection setting
The dialog box reappears.
The bottom and sides of the pocket in the icon are now colored green, indicating that the corresponding geometry is defined for the operation. The tab status is
now green .
4. Click OK to create the operation.
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Replay the Tool PathThis task shows you how to replay the tool path of the pocketing operation.
1. Select the pocketing operation in the tree then select the Replay Tool Path
icon .
The tool path is computed and the Replay dialog box appears.
2. Choose the Point by Point replay mode by means of
the drop down icon .
You can set the number of computed points to be replayed at each step of the verification by means of the spinner.
3. Click the button to
position the tool at the start point of the operation.
4. Click the button to
start the replay and continue to click that button to move the tool along the computed trajectory.
5. Click OK to quit the replay mode.
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Create a Profile Contouring OperationThis task shows you how to insert a profile contouring operation in the program.
Make sure that the pocketing operation is the current entity in the program.
1. Select the Profile
Contouring icon .
The Profile Contouring dialog box appears directly at the Geometry
page .
Make sure the Contouring mode is set to Between Two Planes.
2. Click the Bottom: Hard text in the sensitive icon to switch the type of bottom to Soft.
3. Click the Bottom plane then select the corresponding part geometry (that is, the underside of the part).
The closed external contour of the bottom is proposed as Guide element for the operation.
Make sure that the arrow on the Guide element is pointing away from the part.
4. Click the Top plane in the icon, then select the corresponding part geometry.
5. Double click Offset on Contour in the icon.
Set this value to 1mm in the Edit Parameter dialog box and click OK.
6. Select the Strategy tab
page and set the
parameters as shown.
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7. If needed, you can change the tool axis orientation. Just click the Tool Axis symbol then click the Reverse Direction button in the Tool Axis dialog box.
You can display the tool with the specified orientation by selecting the Display tool checkbox.
8. Click Preview in the dialog box to request that the program verifies the compatibility of the selected tool, geometry and machining parameters. A message box appears giving feedback about this verification.
9. Click Replay in the dialog box to visually check the operation's tool path.
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At the end of the replay click OK to return to the Profile Contouring dialog box.
10. Click OK to create the operation.
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Create a Drilling OperationThis task shows you how to insert a drilling operation in the program.
1. Select the Drilling icon .
The Drilling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry page .
The program is updated to include a Drilling operation.
The Drilling dialog box appears.
2. Select the red hole depth representation in the sensitive icon.
The Pattern Selection dialog box appears to help you specify the pattern of holes to be machined.
3. Select the cylindrical feature of the first hole.
4. Select the second hole feature, then double click to end hole selection.
The Drilling dialog box replaces the Pattern Selection dialog box.
The icon is updated with geometric information about the first selected hole of the pattern.
5. Double click the Jump distance parameter in the sensitive icon, then enter a value of 5mm in the Edit Parameter dialog box.
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6. Click Preview in the dialog box to request that the program verifies the compatibility of the selected tool, geometry and machining parameters. A message box appears giving feedback about this verification.
7. Click Replay to replay the operation as described previously.
Click OK to return to the Drilling dialog box.
8. Click OK to create the Drilling operation in the program.
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Assign a MacroThis task shows you how to assign a circular approach macro to the Profile Contouring operation.
1. Double click the Profile Contouring operation in the program, then select the Macro tab page
.
2. In the Macro Management frame, select the Approach line.
3. In the Current Macro Toolbox frame, select the Circular Horizontal Axial mode. An icon representing this approach motion is displayed.
Default values are displayed on the individual paths of the macro.
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4. Double click the circular path in the icon. A dialog box appears allowing you to specify the desired parameters of the circular path.
5. Enter values in the dialog box as shown and click OK.
6. Click Replay in the Profile Contouring dialog box to verify the approach motion.
At the end of the replay click OK to return to the Profile Contouring dialog box.
Note that the status of the specified approach macro is now Up to date.
7. Click OK to assign the specified macro to the operation.
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Assign a ToolThis task shows you how to assign another tool to an operation.
1. Double click the Profile Contouring operation in the program, then select the Tool tab page
.
2. Enter a name of the new tool (for example, 16mm Flat Milling Tool).
3. Double click the D (nominal diameter) parameter in the icon, then enter 16mm in the Edit Parameter dialog box. The tool icon is updated to take the new value into account.
4. Double click the Rc (corner radius) parameter in the icon, then enter 0mm in the Edit Parameter dialog box. Set the db (body diameter) parameter to 24mm in the same way.
The Tool number is set to 2.
5. Click OK to accept the new tool.
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The program is automatically updated.
You can modify the tools of the other operations in the same way. For example, you may want to replace the End Mill by a Drill in the Drilling operation.
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Generate NC Code
This task shows you how to generate NC data in APT format from the program.
For more information about this procedure please refer to Program Output.
1. Use the right mouse key on the Manufacturing Program.1 entity in the tree to select Manufacturing Program.1 object > Generate NC Code Interactively. The Generate NC Output Interactively dialog box appears.
2. Select APT as the desired NC data type.
3. Click Output File to select the folder where you want the file to be saved and specify the name of the file.
4. Click Execute to generate the APT source file.
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An extract from a typical APT source file is given below.
$$ -----------------------------------------------------------------$$ Generated on Thursday, May 10, 2001 04:58:20 PM$$ -----------------------------------------------------------------$$ Manufacturing Program.1$$ Part Operation.1$$*CATIA0$$ Manufacturing Program.1$$ 1.00000 0.00000 0.00000 0.00000$$ 0.00000 1.00000 0.00000 0.00000$$ 0.00000 0.00000 1.00000 0.00000PARTNO PART TO BE MACHINEDCOOLNT/ONCUTCOM/OFFPPRINT OPERATION NAME : Tool Change.1$$ Start generation of : Tool Change.1TLAXIS/ 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000$$ TOOLCHANGEBEGINNINGRAPIDGOTO / 0.00000, 0.00000, 100.00000CUTTER/ 10.000000, 2.000000, 3.000000, 2.000000, 0.000000$, 0.000000, 100.000000TOOLNO/1, 10.000000TPRINT/T1 End Mill D 10LOADTL/1$$ End of generation of : Tool Change.1PPRINT OPERATION NAME : Pocketing.1$$ Start generation of : Pocketing.1FEDRAT/ 1000.0000,MMPMSPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLWGOTO / 30.61644, 2.50000, 5.00000GOTO / 17.50000, 2.50000, 5.00000...GOTO / 30.61644, 35.00000, 5.00000$$ End of generation of : Pocketing.1PPRINT OPERATION NAME : Tool Change.2$$ Start generation of : Tool Change.2$$ TOOLCHANGEBEGINNINGRAPIDGOTO / 0.00000, 0.00000, 100.00000CUTTER/ 16.000000, 0.000000, 8.000000, 0.000000, 0.000000$, 0.000000, 100.000000TOOLNO/2, 16.000000TPRINT/16 Flat Milling ToolLOADTL/2$$ End of generation of : Tool Change.2PPRINT OPERATION NAME : Profile Contouring.1$$ Start generation of : Profile Contouring.1FEDRAT/ 300.0000,MMPMSPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLWGOTO / -69.00000, 40.00000, 46.00000...GOTO / -69.00000, 50.00000, 0.00000$$ End of generation of : Profile Contouring.1PPRINT OPERATION NAME : Tool Change.3$$ Start generation of : Tool Change.3$$ TOOLCHANGEBEGINNINGRAPIDGOTO / 0.00000, 0.00000, 100.00000CUTTER/ 9.000000, 0.000000, 4.500000, 2.598076, 30.000000$
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, 0.000000, 100.000000TOOLNO/3, 9.000000TPRINT/9mm DrillLOADTL/3$$ End of generation of : Tool Change.3PPRINT OPERATION NAME : Drilling.1$$ Start generation of : Drilling.1LOADTL/3,1SPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLWRAPIDGOTO / -40.00000, -30.00000, 25.00000RAPIDGOTO / -40.00000, -30.00000, 21.00000CYCLE/DRILL, 10.000000, 1.000000, 1000.000000,MMPMGOTO / -40.00000, -30.00000, 20.00000GOTO / -40.00000, 30.00000, 20.00000CYCLE/OFFRAPIDGOTO / -40.00000, 30.00000, 21.00000RAPIDGOTO / -40.00000, 30.00000, 25.00000$$ End of generation of : Drilling.1SPINDL/OFFREWIND/0END
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User TasksThe tasks you will perform in the Prismatic Machining workbench involve creating, editing and managing machining operations and other NC manufacturing entities.
Milling Operations2.5 to 5-axis Drilling Operations
Auxiliary OperationsFeatures for Machining
Part Operations, Manufacturing Programs, and Machining ProcessesNC Manufacturing Entities
Verification, Simulation and Program Output
The tasks dealing with the following NC Manufacturing topics are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Design ChangesSet Up and Part Positioning
MfgBatch Utility for Generating NC Data
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Milling OperationsThe tasks in this section show you how to create 2.5 axis milling operations in your NC manufacturing program.
Pocketing OperationsSelect the Pocketing icon then select the geometry to be machined (open or closed pocket, islands, and so on). Specify the tool to be used. Set parameters for axial and radial machining and other criteria such as finishing and high-speed milling. Set feeds and speeds and NC macros as needed.
A Pocketing operation can be created for machining: ● Closed pockets
Tool machines the area delimited by hard boundaries
● Open pocketsTool machines the area that has a least one soft boundary.
Prismatic Roughing OperationsCreate a Prismatic Roughing Operation: Select the Prismatic Roughing icon then select the geometry to be rough machined and specify the tool to be used. Set parameters for axial and radial machining and other criteria such as high-speed milling. Set feeds and speeds and NC macros as needed.
Facing OperationsCreate a Facing Operation: Select the Facing icon then select the geometry to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Set parameters for axial and radial machining and other criteria such as finishing and high-speed milling. Set feeds and speeds and NC macros as needed.
Profile Contouring OperationsSelect the Profile Contouring icon then select the geometry to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Set parameters for axial and radial machining and other criteria such as finishing and high-speed milling. Set feeds and speeds and NC macros as needed.
A Profile Contouring operation can be created for machining: ● Between two planes
Tool follows contour between top and bottom planes while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
● Between two curves (P2 functionality)Tool follows trajectory defined by top and bottom guide curves while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
● Between a curve and surfaces (P2 functionality)Tool follows trajectory defined by a top guide curve and bottom surfaces while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
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● By flank contouring (P2 functionality)Tool flank machines vertical part surface while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
Curve Following OperationsCreate a Curve Following Operation: Select the Curve Following icon then select the geometry to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining parameters and feeds and speeds as needed.
Groove Milling OperationsCreate a Groove Milling Operation: Select the Groove Milling icon then select the geometry to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining parameters and feeds and speeds as needed.
Point to Point OperationsCreate a Point to Point Operation: Select the Point to Point icon then define a sequence of elementary Goto Point, Goto Position and Go Delta tool motions. Specify the tool to be used, machining parameters, NC macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
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Create a Pocketing Operation for Machining Closed Pockets
This task shows how to insert a Pocketing operation in the program when the pocket to be machined comprises hard boundaries only (that is, a closed pocket).
To create the operation you must define: ● the Pocketing mode as Closed Pocket
● the geometry of the pocket to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the PrismaticMilling01.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Pocketing icon .
A Pocketing entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Pocketing dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page .
This tab page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry to be machined.
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The bottom and flanks of the icon are colored red indicating that this geometry is required for defining the pocket.All other pocket geometry is optional.
Make sure that the Pocketing style is set to Closed Pocket.
2. Right click the red Bottom in the icon and select Contour Detection from the contextual menu.
Click the red Bottom then select the desired pocket bottom in the 3D window.
The pocket boundary is automatically deduced thanks to the Contour Detection setting. This is indicated by the highlighted Drive elements.
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The bottom and flanks of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now defined.
For parts containing islands, you can right click the red Bottom in the icon and select Island Detection from the contextual menu. This allows island boundaries to be deduced automatically.
3. Click the Top Plane in the icon then select the desired top element in the 3D window.
4. Set the following offsets: ● 1.5mm on hard boundary
● 0.25mm on bottom.
If your part includes islands, you can specify different offsets on individual islands using the Offset on Island contextual command (right click the Island label in the 3D window).
5. Select the Strategy tab page and choose the desired tool path style: Inward helical,
Outward helical or Back and forth.
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You can then use the tab pages to set parameters for:● Machining such as machining tolerance
● Radial strategy
● Axial strategy (number of levels = 3, for example)
● Finishing
● High speed milling.
A tool is proposed by default when you create a machining operation. If the proposed tool is not
suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.
This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the
operation.
7.Select the Macros tab page to specify the operation's transition paths (approach and retract motion, for example).
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● In the Macro Management frame, select the Approach line.
● In the Current Macro Toolbox frame, select the Axial mode. A sensitive icon representing this approach motion is displayed.
● Double click the distance parameter in the sensitive icon and enter the desired value in the pop-up dialog box.
● Repeat this procedure to specify the Retract motion.
See Define Macros of an Operation for another example of specifying transition paths on a machining operation.
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Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
8. Click OK to create the operation.
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Create a Pocketing Operationfor Machining Open Pockets
This task shows how to insert a Pocketing operation in the program when the pocket to be machined comprises at least one soft boundary (that is, an open pocket). To create the operation you must define:
● the Pocketing mode as Open Pocket
● the geometry of the pocket to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the PrismaticMilling02.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Pocketing icon .
A Pocketing entity along with a default tool is added to the program. The Pocketing dialog box
appears directly at the Geometry tab page .
This tab page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry to be machined.
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The bottom and flanks of the icon are colored red indicating that this geometry is required for defining the pocket. All other pocket geometry is optional.
Make sure that the Pocketing style is set to Open Pocket.
2. Right click the red Bottom in the icon and select Contour Detection from the contextual menu.
Click the red Bottom then select the desired pocket bottom in the 3D window.
The pocket boundary is automatically deduced thanks to the Contour Detection setting. This is indicated by the highlighted Drive elements.
Hard boundaries are shown by full lines and soft boundaries by dashed lines.
For edge selection only, you can change a boundary segment from hard to soft (or from soft to hard) by selecting the corresponding edge.
You can also globally change segments from hard to soft and from soft to hard using the Swap Hardness Mode contextual command.
The bottom and flanks of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now defined.
For parts containing islands, you can right click the red Bottom in the icon and select Island Detection from the contextual menu. This allows island boundaries to be deduced automatically.
3. Click the Top Plane in the icon then select the desired top element in the 3D window.
4. Set the following offsets: ● 1.5mm on hard boundary
● 0.25mm on bottom.
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If your part includes islands, you can specify different offsets on individual islands using the Offset on Island contextual command (right click the Island label in the 3D window).
5. Select the Strategy tab page and choose the desired tool path style: Inward helical,
Outward helical or Back and forth.
You can then use the tab pages to set parameters for:● Machining such as machining tolerance
● Radial strategy (overhang = 50, for example)
● Axial strategy (number of levels = 3, for example)
● Finishing
● High speed milling.
For Back and forth, you can modify the proposed machining direction and progression direction that are symbolized by arrows next to the machining axis system.
Clicking the Machining direction arrow displays a dialog box for specifying the direction of paths.
Clicking the Progression direction arrow reverses the overall direction of progression of the paths.
6. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed
tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.
This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
7. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
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8. Select the Macros tab page to specify the operation's transition paths (approach and
retract motion, for example). ❍ In the Macro Management frame, select the Approach line.
❍ In the Current Macro Toolbox frame, select the Axial mode. An icon representing this approach motion is displayed.
● Double click the distance parameter in the sensitive icon and enter the desired value in the pop-up dialog box.
● Repeat this procedure to specify the Retract motion.
See Define Macros of an Operation for another example of specifying transition paths on a machining operation.
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9. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
10. Click OK to create the operation.
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Create a Prismatic Roughing OperationThis task shows how to insert a Prismatic Roughing operation in the program. This type of operation allows you to quickly rough machine a part in a single operation. This is particularly useful for parts that include drafted pockets or multiple bottom pockets.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry to be rough machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the Multi_Pockets.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1.Select the Prismatic Roughing icon . A Prismatic Roughing entity along with a default tool is added to
the program.
The Prismatic Roughing dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page
includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the operation's required and optional geometry.
The Part and Rough stock areas of the icon are colored red indicating that this geometry is required. All other geometry is optional.
2. Click the red Part area then select PartBody either in the specification tree or in the 3D window.
3. Click the red Rough stock area in the icon then select Rough Stock.1 either in the specification tree or in the 3D window.
4. Set a 1.0mm offset on part.
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The Part and Rough stock areas are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now defined.
5. Select the Strategy tab page . You can then use the tab pages to set parameters for:
● Machining
● Radial strategy
● Axial strategy
● High speed milling (HSM).
In the strategy tab page, you can modify the proposed tool axis direction by clicking on the arrow in the sensitive icon. This displays a dialog box for specifying the tool axis.
For a Back and forth tool path, you can modify the proposed machining direction by clicking on the arrow in the sensitive icon. This displays a dialog box for specifying the direction of paths.
6. A tool is proposed by default when you create a machining operation. If the proposed tool is not suitable,
just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of
an Operation.
Only end mills can be used in Prismatic Roughing operations.
7. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the operation.
8.Select the Macros tab page to specify the operation's transition paths (approach and retract motion, for example).
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9. Before accepting the operation, check its validity by replaying the tool path.
10. Click OK to create the operation.
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Create a Facing OperationThis task shows how to insert a Facing operation in the program. To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy :
the proposed tool path styles are: Inward helical, Back and forth, and One way
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the PrismaticMilling01.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Facing icon .
A Facing entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Facing dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page .
This tab page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry to be machined.
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The part bottom and flanks in the icon are colored red indicating that this geometry is required for defining the operation.All other geometry is optional.
2. Right click the red Bottom in the icon and select Contour Detection from the contextual menu.
Click the red Bottom then select the underside of the part in the 3D window.
The part boundary is automatically deduced thanks to the Contour Detection option. This is indicated by the highlighted Drive elements.
The bottom and flanks of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now defined.
3. Select the Strategy tab page and choose the desired tool path style: Inward helical, Back and
forth, or One way.
You can then use the tab pages to set parameters for:● Machining such as machining tolerance
● Radial strategy (see example)
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● Axial strategy (number of levels = 1, for example)
● Finishing
● High speed milling (for Inward helical tool path style only).
4. Select the Tool tab page to replace the default tool by a more suitable one.
5. Select the Face Mill icon.
A 50mm diameter face mill is proposed. You can adjust the parameters as required.
See Edit the Tool of an Operation for more information about selecting tools.
6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the
operation.
7.Select the Macros tab page to specify a return macro, which is necessary for the One Way mode.
● In the Macro Management frame, select the Return in a Level Retract line.
● In the Current Macro Toolbox frame, select the Axial mode. An icon representing this retract motion is displayed.
● Double click the distance parameter in the sensitive icon and enter the desired value in the pop-up dialog box.
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● Select the Return in a Level Approach line, the repeat the procedure to specify the approach motion.
See Define Macros of an Operation for another example of specifying transition paths on a machining operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
8. Click OK to create the operation.
In this scenario the operation used the default start point (that is, the origin of the absolute axis system).
If you want to define a different start point, you can click the start point symbol in the sensitive icon then select a point.
Please note that the exact position of operation's start point may be different from your selected point. The program will choose the nearest point from a number of possible start positions.
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Create a Profile Contouring OperationBetween Two Planes
This task shows how to insert a 'Between Two Planes' Profile Contouring operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define: ● the Contouring mode as Between two planes
● the geometry to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the PrismaticMilling01.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Profile Contouring icon . The Profile Contouring dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page
. This page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry to be machined.
Set the Contouring mode to Between Two Planes.
The part bottom and flanks in the icon are colored red indicating that this geometry is required for defining the operation. All other geometry is optional.
2. Click the red bottom in the icon, then select the underside of the part in the 3D window.
3. Set the Bottom type to Soft by clicking the text, then set the Offset on Bottom to -5mm.
4. Click the red flank in the icon, then select the profile along the front edge of the part in the 3D window.
5. Right click Start to set this condition to Out.
Click the first relimiting element in the icon, then select the horizontal edge at one end of the contour profile in the 3D window.
6. Right click Stop to set this condition to Out.
Click the second relimiting element in the icon, then select the horizontal edge at the other end of the contour profile in the 3D window.
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7. Click the check element in the icon, then select the top face of the green fixture in the 3D window.
The bottom, guide, limit and check elements of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now defined. These are also indicated on the part.
8. Select the Strategy tab page and choose the desired tool path style. You can then use the tabs to set parameters
for:● Machining such as machining tolerance
● Stepover (see example)
● Finishing
● High Speed Milling.
Output type in the Machining tab page allows you to manage the generation of Cutter compensation (CUTCOM) instructions in the NC data output. See Reference section for more information.
9. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select
the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.
This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
10. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the operation.
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11. Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.
The specified operation uses a default linking macro to avoid collision with the selected fixture.
You can optimize the linking macro and add approach and retract macros to the operation in the Macros tab page
. This is described in Define Macros of a Milling Operation.
12. Click OK to create the operation.
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Create a Profile Contouring OperationBetween Two Curves
This task shows how to insert a 'Between Two Curves' Profile Contouring operation in the program. To create the operation you must define:
● the Contouring mode as Between Two Curves
● the geometry to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
This task also illustrates the capability to machine a discontinuous guiding curve.
Open the PrismaticMilling02.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Profile Contouring icon . The Profile Contouring dialog box appears directly at the Geometry
tab page . This page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry to be machined.
Set the Contouring mode to Between Two Curves.
The top guiding curve in the icon is colored red indicating that this geometry is required for defining the operation. All other geometry is optional.
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2. Click the top guiding curve in the icon, then in the 3D window: ● select the three continuous edges on the top of the part as shown (Guide 1 in figure below)
● select the three continuous edges of the downward slope on the other side of the part as shown (Guide 2 in figure below).
During the selection, answer No to the question about inserting a line.
3. Click the bottom guiding curve in the icon, then in the 3D window: ● select the three continuous edges of the downward slope the part as shown (Auxiliary Guide in figure
below)
● select the three continuous bottom edges on the other side of the part as shown.
During the selection, answer No to the question about inserting a line.
4. If needed, set offsets on the geometric elements.
The guide and limit elements of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now defined. These are also indicated on the part.
5. Select the Strategy tab page and choose the desired tool path style. You can then use the tabs to
set parameters for:● Machining such as machining tolerance
● Stepover (see example)
● Finishing
● High Speed Milling.
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6. In the Macros tab page you should add an appropriate Linking macro that will allow the tool to
retract and approach the discontinuous guiding curves. This is described in Define Macros of an Operation.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed tool is not
suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use. This procedure for this is
described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
7. If needed, select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the
operation.
8. Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.
Please note that the tool tip is shifted below the guiding curves by a distance equal to the tool corner radius. If you want the tool tip to exactly follow the guiding curves you should enter an appropriate Offset on Contour value.
9. Click OK to create the operation.
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Create a Profile Contouring OperationBetween a Curve and Surfaces
This task shows how to insert a 'Between Curve and Surfaces' Profile Contouring operation in the program. To create the operation you must define:
● the Contouring mode as Between Curve and Surfaces
● the geometry to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the PrismaticMilling02.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Profile Contouring icon . The Profile Contouring dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab
page . This page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry to be machined.
Set the Contouring mode to Between Curve and Surfaces.
The top guiding curve and part bottom in the icon are colored red indicating that this geometry is required for defining the operation. All other geometry is optional.
2. Click the red bottom in the icon, then select the bottom surface of the part in the 3D window.
3. Click the top guiding curve in the icon, then select the top edge of the part in the 3D window.
4. Click the first relimiting element in the icon, then select a vertical edge at one end of the part in the 3D window.
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5. Click the second relimiting element in the icon, then select the vertical edge at the other end of the part in the 3D window.
6. If needed, set offsets on the geometric elements.
The guide and limit elements of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now defined. These are also indicated on the part.
7. Select the Strategy tab page and choose the desired tool path style. You can then use the tabs to set
parameters for:● Machining such as machining tolerance
● Stepover (see example below)
● Finishing
● High Speed Milling.
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A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed tool is not
suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use. This is described in Edit the
Tool of an Operation.
8. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the operation.
9. Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.
You can add approach and retract motions to the operation in the Macros tab page . This is described in
Define Macros of an Operation.
10. Click OK to create the operation.
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Create a Profile Contouring Operationfor Flank Contouring
This task shows how to insert a 'Flank Contouring' Profile Contouring operation in the program. To create the operation you must define:
● the Contouring mode as Flank Contouring
● the geometry to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the PrismaticMilling02.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Profile Contouring icon . The Profile Contouring dialog box appears directly at the Geometry
tab page . This page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry to be machined.
Set the Contouring mode to By Flank Contouring.
The guiding element in the icon is colored red indicating that this geometry is required for defining the operation. All other geometry is optional.
2. Click the guiding element in the icon, then select the vertical face of the part in the 3D window.
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3. Click the first relimiting element in the icon, then select a vertical edge at one end of the part in the 3D window.
4. Click the second relimiting element in the icon, then select the vertical edge at the other end of the part in the 3D window.
The guide and limit elements of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now defined. These are also indicated on the part.
5. If needed, set offsets on the geometric elements.
6. Select the Strategy tab page and choose the desired tool path style. You can then use the tabs to
set parameters for:● Machining such as machining tolerance
● Stepover (see example below)
● Finishing.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed tool is not
suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use. This is described in Edit
the Tool of an Operation.
7. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the
operation.
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8. Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.
You can add approach and retract motions to the operation in the Macros tab page . This is
described in Define Macros of an Operation.
9. Click OK to create the operation.
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Create a Curve Following OperationThis task shows how to insert a Curve Following operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the PrismaticMilling02.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Curve Following
icon .
The Curve Following dialog box appears directly at the
Geometry tab page .
This page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry to be machined.
The guiding curve in the icon is colored red indicating that this geometry is required for defining the operation.All other geometry is optional.
2. Click the guiding curve in the icon, then select the desired curve in the 3D window.
3. If needed, set an axial offset on the guiding curve.
The guide element of the icon is now colored green indicating that this geometry is now defined. It is also indicated on the part.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page
to specify parameters
for: ● Machining
● Axial.
Set the main strategy parameters as shown.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed
tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.
This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the
operation.
6. Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.
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You can add approach and retract motions to the operation in the Macros tab page . This
is described in Define Macros of an Operation.
7. Click OK to create the operation.
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Create a Groove Milling Operation
This task shows how to insert a Groove Milling operation in the program. To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the sample_groove_milling.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Groove Milling icon . The Groove Milling dialog box appears directly at the
Geometry tab page . This page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry
to be machined.
The groove top, bottom and flank in the icon are colored red indicating that this geometry is required for defining the operation. All other geometry is optional.
Note that Contour Detection contextual command is not activated.
2. Click the red bottom in the icon, then select the bottom of the groove in the 3D window.
3. Click the red top in the icon, then select the top of the groove in the 3D window.
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4. Click the red guiding element in the icon, then select the flank contour of the groove in the 3D window.
If the Contour Detection contextual command is set, the boundary of the selected face will be proposed automatically as guiding contour. See Specifying Guiding Contours for more information.
5. Right click Start to set this condition to Out. Click the first relimiting element in the icon, then select the horizontal edge at one end of the contour profile in the 3D window. Set the Offset on Limit1 to 5mm.
6. Right click Stop to set this condition to Out. Click the second relimiting element in the icon, then select the horizontal edge at the other end of the contour profile in the 3D window. Set the Offset on Limit2 to 5mm.
See Specifying Relimiting Elements for more information.
The bottom, guide, limit and check elements of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now defined. These are also indicated on the part.
7. Select the Strategy tab page and choose the desired tool path style. You can then use
the tabs to set parameters for:● Machining
● Axial/Radial stepover, such as:
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● Finishing.
8. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed
tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.
This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
9. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
10. Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.
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The specified operation uses a default Return between levels macro to allow switching compensation points for machining upper and lower levels of the groove.
You can optimize this macro and add approach and retract macros to the operation in the
Macros tab page . This is described in Define Macros of a Milling Operation.
11. Click OK to create the operation.
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Create a Point to Point OperationThis task shows how to insert a Point to Point operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● a sequence of elementary tool motions and machining strategy parameters
● the tool that will be used
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the PrismaticMilling02.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Point to Point icon .
A Point to Point entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Point to Point dialog box appears directly at the Strategy tab page .
This Motions tab allows you to define the elementary Goto Point, Goto Position and Go Delta motions making up the machining operation.
2. Click the Goto Point icon , then select a corner point on the underside of the part.
Just double-click to end point selection. The first tool motion is defined and appears in the list in the dialog box.
3. Click the Goto Position icon . A dialog box appears to help you specify the part, drive and check elements as well
as positioning conditions (To / On / Past).
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4. Just click OK when you have specified the desired elements and conditions. The second tool motion is defined and appears in the list in the dialog box.
5. Add other Goto Point, Goto Position and Go Delta motions as shown in the figure below.
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In this dialog box you can: ● add PP words to the list by clicking on the PP words icon and specifying the desired syntax.
● move motions up or down the list by the Arrow icons or remove motions by means of the Remove icon.
● edit the properties of a motion by clicking the Properties icon.
6. Select the Strategy tab to specify machining parameters.
If needed, double click the sensitive text in the icon to specify an offset along the tool axis.
Define the tool axis direction by first selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon then specifying the direction in the dialog box that appears.
7. Select the Tool tab page to replace the default tool by a more suitable one.
Select the Face Mill icon. A 50mm diameter face mill is proposed. You can adjust the parameters as required.
See Edit the Tool of an Operation for more information about selecting tools.
Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.
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8. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the operation.
9. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab page to specify
the desired transition paths.
The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Operation.
10. Click OK to create the operation.
You can use the contextual menu commands to insert or remove points and to assign local feedrates.
By selecting a circle, its center is taken as the point to machine.
Points of an associated sketch can also be selected.
Points can be defined by indicating on a user-defined plane.
Points can be defined by means of X, Y, Z coordinates in the machining axis system.
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2.5 to 5-axis Drilling OperationsThe drilling (or axial machining) operations described in this section are intended to cover the hole making activities in your NC manufacturing program.
Spot Drilling Operation
Create a Spot Drilling Operation: Select the Spot Drilling icon then select the positions to be spot drilled and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Diameter). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Drilling Operations
Create a Drilling Operation: Select the Drilling icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be drilled and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Drilling Dwell Delay Operation: Select the Drilling Dwell Delay icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be drilled and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder) and the dwell duration. Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Drilling Deep Hole Operation: Select the Drilling Deep Hole icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be drilled and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Drilling Break Chips Operation: Select the Drilling Break Chips icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be drilled and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Hole Finishing Operations
Create a Reaming Operation: Select the Reaming icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Counterboring Operation: Select the Counterboring icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Boring Operations
Create a Boring Operation: Select the Boring icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Boring Spindle Stop Operation: Select the Boring Spindle Stop icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder) and the amount of tool shift away from the bored hole. Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Boring and Chamfering Operation: Select the Boring and Chamfering icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally, for the boring and chamfering phases set the machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
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Create a Back Boring Operation: Select the Back Boring icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder) and the amount of tool shift for back boring. Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Threading Operations
Create a Tapping Operation: Select the Tapping icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Reverse Threading Operation: Select the Reverse Threading icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Thread without Tap Head Operation: Select the Thread without Tap Head icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. The By Tip depth mode is imposed for this operation. Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.Create a Thread Milling Operation: Select the Thread Milling icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Countersinking and Chamfering Operations
Create a Countersinking Operation: Select the Countersinking icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By Distance or By Diameter). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.Create a Chamfering Two Sides Operation: Select the Chamfering Two Sides icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. The By Tip depth mode is imposed for this operation. Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
T-Slotting and Circular MillingCreate a T-Slotting Operation: Select the T-Slotting icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. The By Tip depth mode is imposed for this operation. Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.Create a Circular Milling Operation: Select the Circular Milling icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the machining mode (Standard or Helical). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
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Create a Spot Drilling OperationThis task shows how to insert a Spot Drilling operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Spot Drilling icon .
A Spot Drilling entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Spot Drilling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page includes an icon
representing a simple hole. There are several hot spots in the icon.
2. Select red hole depth representation, then select the points to be spot drilled. You can do this by selecting the circular edges of holes.In this case, the circle centers are taken as the points to be spot drilled.Just double click to end your selections.
3. If needed, click on the tool axis symbol to invert the tool axis direction.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page to specify the following
machining parameters:
● approach clearance
● depth mode: by diameterThe diameter value used is the one specified in the geometry tab page.
● dwell
● compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
5. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
Drills, Multi-diameter Drills, Spot Drills, and Center Drills can be used. Conical Mills can also be used.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use. This is
described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Dwell for the specified duration
● Retract at retract feedrate from 2 to 3.
7. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab page to specify
the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
8. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
9. Click OK to create the operation.
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Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Spot Drilling operations:
CYCLE/SPDRL, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/SPDRL, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information please refer to Editing
Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_SPOT_DRILLING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Drilling OperationThis task shows how to insert a Drilling operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Drilling icon . A Drilling entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Drilling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page
includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry of the hole or hole pattern to be machined.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the pattern of 10 holes as shown below. Just double click to end your selections.
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The sensitive icon is updated with the following information:
● depth and diameter of the first selected feature
● hole extension type: through hole
● number of points to machine.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
4. If needed, you can define a clearance by first double clicking the Jump Distance parameter in the sensitive icon then specifying a value in the Edit Parameter dialog box that appears.
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5. Select the Strategy tab page
to specify the following
machining parameters:
● Approach clearance
● Depth mode: by tipThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page.
● Breakthrough distance
● Compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
Remember that you can make use of the hole diameter found on the selected hole feature to select an appropriate tool.
6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the
operation.
Note that in the Drilling tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:● machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● retract or rapid feedrate from 2 to 3.
7. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab page
to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described in
Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
8. Click OK to create the operation.
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Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Drilling operations:
CYCLE/DRILL, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/DRILL, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_DRILLING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Drilling Dwell Delay OperationThis task shows how to insert a Drilling Dwell Delay operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Drilling Dwell Delay icon .
A Drilling Dwell Delay entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Drilling Dwell Delay dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page
includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry of the hole or hole pattern to drill.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the hole feature as shown.Just double click to end your selection.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following information:
● depth and diameter of the selected hole
● hole extension type: blind.
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3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
4. Select the Strategy tab page to specify
the following machining parameters:
● Approach clearance
● Depth mode: by shoulderThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page.
● Dwell delay
● Compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to
use.
Remember that you can make use of the hole diameter found on the selected hole feature to select an appropriate tool. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the
operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:● machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● dwell for the specified duration
● retract or rapid feedrate from 2 to 3.
6 If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab page
to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described in Define
Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
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7. Click OK to create the operation.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Drilling Dwell Delay operations:
CYCLE/DRILL, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/DRILL, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information please
refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_DRILLING_DWELL_DELAY section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Drilling Deep Hole OperationThis task shows how to insert a Drilling Deep Hole operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Drilling Deep Hole icon .
A Drilling Deep Hole entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Drilling Deep Hole dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page includes a
sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry of the hole or hole pattern to be machined.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the hole features as shown below.Just double click to end your selections.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following information: ● depth and diameter of the first selected hole
● hole extension type: through
● number of points to machine.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page to specify the following
machining parameters:
● Approach clearance
● Depth mode: by tipThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page.
● Breakthrough distance
● Maximum depth of cut and retract offset
● Decrement rate and Decrement limit
● Dwell mode
● Compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.
Remember that you can make use of the hole diameter found on the selected hole feature to select an appropriate tool. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Dwell for specified duration
● Retract at retract feedrate from 2 to 3
● Motion at plunge feedrate from 3 to 4
● Motion at machining feedrate from 4 to 5
● Dwell for specified duration
● Retract at retract feedrate from 5 to 6
● Motion at plunge feedrate from 6 to 7
● Motion at machining feedrate from 7 to 8
● Dwell for specified duration
● Retract at retract feedrate from 8 to 9
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Distance (1,2) = A + DcDistance (3,4) = A + Dc - OrDistance (4,5) = Or + Dc*(1 - decrement rate)Distance (7,8) = Or + Dc*(1 - 2*decrement rate).
Also note that: Depth of current peck > Maximum depth of cut * Decrement limit.
For more information see Example of Decrement rate and Decrement limit.
6. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab page to specify the
desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
7. Before accepting the operation, check its validity by replaying the tool path.
8. Click OK to create the operation.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Drilling Deep Hole operations:
CYCLE/DEEPHL,%MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH,INCR,%MFG_AXIAL_DEPTH,%MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT,%MFG_CLEAR_TIP,DWELL,%MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/DEEPHL, 25.000000, INCR, 5.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information please refer to Editing
Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_DEEPHOLE section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Drilling Break Chips OperationThis task shows how to insert a Drilling Break Chips operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Drilling Break Chips icon .
A Drilling Break Chips entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Drilling Break Chips dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page includes a
sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry of the hole or hole pattern to be machined.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the hole feature as shown below.Just double click to end your selections.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following information: ● depth and diameter of the selected hole
● hole extension type: through.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page to specify the following
machining parameters:
● Approach clearance
● Depth mode: by tip The depth value used is the one specified in the geometry tab page.
● Breakthrough distance
● Maximum depth of cut and retract offset
● Dwell
● Compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.
Remember that you can make use of the hole diameter found on the selected hole feature to select an appropriate tool. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Dwell for specified duration
● Retract at retract feedrate from 2 to 3
● Motion at machining feedrate from 3 to 4
● Dwell for specified duration
● Retract at retract feedrate from 4 to 5
● Motion at machining feedrate from 5 to 6
● Dwell for specified duration
● Retract at retract feedrate from 6 to 7
Distance (1,2) = A + DcDistance (2,3) = Distance (4,5) = OrDistance (3,4) = Distance (5,6) = Or + Dc
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6. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab page to specify the
desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
7. Click OK to create the operation.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Drilling Break Chips operations:
CYCLE/BRKCHP,%MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH,INCR,%MFG_AXIAL_DEPTH,%MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP,DWELL,%MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/BRKCHP, 25.000000, INCR, 5.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information please refer to Editing
Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_BREAK_CHIPS section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Reaming OperationThis task shows how to insert a Reaming operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Reaming icon .
A Reaming entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Reaming dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page
. This tab page includes a
sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry of the hole or hole pattern to be machined.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the pattern of 10 holes.Just double click to end your selections.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following information:
● depth and diameter of the first selected feature
● hole extension type: through hole
● number of points to machine.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page to
specify the following machining parameters:
● Approach clearance
● Depth mode: by shoulderThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page.
● Dwell (in seconds)
● Compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is at:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Dwell for specified duration
● Retract at retract feedrate from 2 to 3.
6. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
7. Click OK to create the operation.
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Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Reaming operations:
CYCLE/REAM, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/REAM, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_REAMING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Counterboring OperationThis task shows how to insert a Counterboring operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Counterboring icon .
A Counterboring entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Counterboring dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page
.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select hole geometry in the 3D window. Just double click to end your selection.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page and
specify the following machining parameters:
● Approach clearance
● Depth mode: by tipThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page.
● Dwell
● Compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the toolpath represented in the strategy page, tool motion is at:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Dwell for specified duration
● Retract at retract feedrate from 2 to 3.
6. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
7. Click OK to create the operation.
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Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Counterboring operations:
CYCLE/CBORE, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/CBORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_COUNTERBORING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Boring OperationThis task shows how to insert a Boring operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Boring icon .
A Boring entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Boring dialog box appears directly
at the Geometry tab page .
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the pattern of 10 holes.Just double click to end your selections.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following information:
● depth and diameter of the first selected feature
● hole extension type: through hole
● number of points to machine.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page to
specify the following machining parameters:
● approach clearance
● depth mode: by tipThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page
● breakthrough distance
● dwell
● compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
5 A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Dwell for specified duration
● Retract at retract feedrate from 2 to 3.
7. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
8. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
Note that Boring Bars are supported for Photo and Video material removal simulations.
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9. Click OK to create the operation.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Boring operations:
CYCLE/BORE, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT,
%MFG_CLEAR_TIP, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/BORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_BORING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Boring Spindle Stop Operation
This task shows how to insert a Boring Spindle Stop operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturingworkbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Boring Spindle Stop icon
.
A Boring Spindle Stop entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Boring Spindle Stop dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab
page .
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the hole geometry in the 3D window.Just double click to end your selections.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following information:
● depth and diameter of the first selected hole
● hole extension type: through
● number of points to machine.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
4. A boring bar tool is proposed by default for this operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
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5. Select the Strategy tab page to
specify the following machining parameters:
● approach clearance
● depth mode: by tipThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page.
● breakthrough distance
● shift: by linear coordinates or polar coordinates
● dwell
● compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion with a boring bar is as follows:
● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Dwell for specified duration
● Spindle stop
● Shift motion at retract feedrate from 2 to 3
● Retract at retract feedrate from 3 to 4
● Shift motion at retract feedrate from 4 to 1.
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7. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
8. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
Note that Boring Bars are supported for Photo and Video material removal simulations.
9. Click OK to create the operation.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Boring Spindle Stop operations:
CYCLE/BORE, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP, ORIENT, %MFG_XOFF, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/BORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, ORIENT, 1.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_BORING_SPINDLE_STOP section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Boring and Chamfering Operation
This task shows how to insert a Boring and Chamfering operation in the program. To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Boring and Chamfering icon
.
A Boring and Chamfering entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Boring and Chamfering dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab
page .
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select hole geometry in the 3D window.Just double click to end your selections.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following information:
● depth, diameter, conterbore depth and angle of the first selected feature
● number of points to machine.
3. If needed, select tool axis direction.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page to
specify the following machining parameters:
● approach clearances 1 and 2
● depth mode: by shoulderThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page
● breakthrough distance
● dwell
● first compensation number depending on those available on the tool for boring
● second compensation number depending on those available on the tool for chamfering.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use.
This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
You can specify a machining feedrate for the boring phase of the operation and a chamfering feedrate for the chamfering phase.Similarly, you can specify a machining spindle speed for the boring phase and a smaller spindle speed for the chamfering phase.
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Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:
Boring● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 up to the position where hole is to be bored
● Possibly, activation of second tool compensation number
● Rapid feedrate up to a clearance position before start of chamfering.
Chamfering● Motion at chamfering feedrate from clearance position to 2
● Dwell for specified duration
● Possibly, activation of first tool compensation number
● Retract at retract feedrate from 2 to 3.
6. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths.
The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
7. Click OK to create the operation.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Boring and Chamfering operations:
CYCLE/BORE, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, %MFG_CHAMFERFEED_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_SPINDLE_MACH_VALUE, %MFG_SPINDLE_LOW_VALUE, &MFG_SPNDL_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/BORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, 150.000000, MMPM, 70.000000, 40.000000, RPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_BORING_AND_CHAMFERING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Back Boring OperationThis task shows how to insert a Back Boring operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Back Boring icon .
A Back Boring entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Back Boring dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page
.
2. Select the top plane representation then select the top of the part.
3. Select the red hole depth representation then specify the hole pattern to be machined by selecting the two counterbored features in the 3D window.
Just double click to end your selections.
The Geometry page is updated with information about the first selected feature.
4. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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5. A boring bar tool is proposed by default for this machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
6. Select the Strategy tab page
to specify the following machining parameters:
● approach clearances A and A2
● depth mode: by tipThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page
● shift: by polar coordinates or linear coordinates
● retract clearance
● compensation number depending on those available on the tool
● NC output with CYCLE syntax.
See the Reference section for a description of all parameters.
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7. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:● Shift motion (if defined) at rapid feedrate from 1 to 2
● Motion at rapid feedrate from 2 to 3
● Shift motion (if defined) at rapid feedrate from 3 to 4
● Motion at machining feedrate from 4 to 5
● Dwell for specified duration
● Retract clearance motion at retract feedrate from 5 to 6
● Shift motion (if defined) at retract feedrate from 6 to 7
● Retract at retract feedrate from 7 to 8
● Shift motion (if defined) at retract feedrate from 8 to 9.
8. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
9. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
Note that Boring Bars are supported for material removal simulations in Video mode.
10. Click OK to create the operation.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Back Boring operations:
CYCLE/BORE, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP, ORIENT, %MFG_XOFF, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/BORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, ORIENT, 1.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_BACK_BORING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Tapping OperationThis task shows how to insert a Tapping operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Tapping icon .
A Tapping entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Tapping dialog box appears directly
at the Geometry tab page .
This tab page includes an icon representing a simple hole. There are several hot spots in the icon.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select a threaded hole feature in the 3D window.Just double click to end your selection.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following:
● thread depth and thread diameter
● hole extension type
● thread pitch
● thread direction.
You can modify this data. Other values are shown for information only.
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3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
4. Select the Strategy tab page to
specify the following machining parameters:
● approach clearance
● depth mode: by shoulderThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page.
● compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Reverse spindle rotation
● Retract at machining feedrate from 2 to 3
● Reverse spindle rotation.
If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
6. Click OK to create the operation.
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Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Tapping operations:
CYCLE/TAP, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/TAP, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_TAPPING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Reverse Threading OperationThis task shows how to insert a Reverse Threading operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Reverse Threading icon .
A Reverse Threading entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Reverse Threading dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab
page .
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select a threaded hole feature in the 3D window.Just double click to end your selection.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following:
● thread depth and thread diameter
● hole extension type
● thread pitch
● thread direction.
You can modify this data. Other values are shown for information only.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page to
specify the following machining parameters:
● approach clearance
● depth mode: by shoulderThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page.
● compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is at:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Spindle off then reverse spindle rotation
● Retract at machining feedrate from 2 to 3.
6. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
7. Click OK to create the operation.
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Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Reverse Threading operations:
CYCLE/TAP, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/TAP, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_REVERSE_THREADING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Thread without Tap Head OperationThis task shows how to insert a Thread without Tap Head operation in the program. To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Thread without Tap Head icon
.
A Thread without Tap Head entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Thread without Tap Head dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab
page .
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select a threaded hole feature in the 3D window.Just double click to end your selection.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following:
● thread depth and thread diameter
● hole extension type
● thread pitch
● thread direction.
You can modify this data. Other values are shown for information only.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page and
specify the following machining parameters:
● approach clearance
● breakthrough
● compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
5. A tool is proposed by default when you create a machining operation. If the proposed tool is not
suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use. This is
described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
You can use a boring bar or a tap in this type of operation.
6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the toolpath represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Spindle stop
● Retract at retract feedrate from 2 to 3.
7. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
8. Click OK to create the operation.
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Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Thread without Tap Head operations:
CYCLE/TAP, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/TAP, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_THREAD_WITHOUT_TAP_HEAD section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Thread Milling OperationThis task shows how to insert a Thread Milling operation in the program. To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Thread Milling icon .
A Thread Milling entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Thread Milling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page
.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select a threaded hole feature in the 3D window.Just double click to end your selection.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following:
● thread depth and thread diameter
● hole extension type
● thread pitch
● thread direction.
You can modify this data. Other values are shown for information only.
3. If needed, enter offset values for the Bottom and Contour.
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4. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
5. Select the Strategy tab page
and set the following machining parameters:
● Approach clearance
● Breakthrough
● Machining tolerance
● Plunge mode
● Compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed
tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use. This
is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the toolpath represented in the strategy page, tool motion is at:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Motion at feedrates defined on macros from 2 to 3 and 3 to 4
● Retract at retract feedrate from 4 to 5.
7. Select the Macros tab page to specify the operation's transition paths (approach and
retract motion, for example). The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
8. Click OK to create the operation.
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Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Thread Milling operations:
CYCLE/TAP, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/TAP, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_THREAD_MILLING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Countersinking OperationThis task shows how to insert a Countersinking operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Countersinking icon .
A Countersinking entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Countersinking dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page
.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select hole geometry in the 3D window.Just double click to end your selections.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page to
specify the following machining parameters:
● Approach clearance
● Depth mode: by distanceThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page.
● Dwell
● Compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
5. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
Countersinks, Drills, Multi-diameter Drills, Spot Drills, Center Drills, and Two Sides Chamfering tools are the recommended tools. Conical Mills can also be used.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. For more information, please refer to Edit the Tool of an Operation.
6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the toolpath represented in the strategy page, tool motion is at:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Dwell for specified duration
● Increment at finishing feedrate from 2 to 3
● Retract at retract feedrate from 3 to 4.
7. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
8. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
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9. Click OK to create the operation.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Countersinking operations:
CYCLE/CSINK, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/CSINK, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_COUNTERSINKING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Chamfering Two Sides OperationThis task shows how to insert a Chamfering Two Sides operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Chamfering Two Sides icon
.
A Chamfering Two Sides entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Chamfering Two Sides dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab
page .
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the hole geometry in the 3D window.Just double click to end your selections.
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page to
specify the following machining parameters:
● approach clearances 1 and 2
● depth mode: by tip
● breakthrough distance
● dwell in seconds
● first compensation number depending on those available on the tool for top chamfering
● second compensation number depending on those available on the tool for bottom chamfering.
Please note that the depth value and chamfer diameter are retrieved from your geometry selections.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Dwell for specified duration
● Possibly, activation of second tool compensation number (output point change)
● Motion at approach feedrate from 2 to 3
● Motion at machining feedrate from 3 to 4
● Dwell for specified duration
● Possibly, activation of first tool compensation number (output point change)
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● Retract at retract feedrate from 4 to 5.
6. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
7. Click OK to create the operation.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Chamfering Two Sides operations:
CYCLE/BORE, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/BORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_TWO_SIDES_CHAMFERING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a T-Slotting OperationThis task shows how to insert a T-Slotting operation in the program.
To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the T-Slotting icon .
A T-Slotting entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The T-Slotting dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page
.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the desired hole geometry in the 3D window.Just double click to end your selections.
The sensitive icon is updated the depth and diameter of the selected feature. In this example, the slot diameter (78mm) was entered manually
3. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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4. Select the Strategy tab page to
specify the following machining parameters:
● Approach clearance
● Depth mode: by tipThe depth value used is the one specified in the Geometry tab page.
● Dwell
● Compensation number depending on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
5. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the toolpath represented in the strategy page, tool motion is at:● Motion at approach feedrate from 1 to 2
● Motion at machining feedrate from 2 to 3
● Retract at retract feedrate from 3 to 4.
6. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab
page to specify the desired transition paths. The general procedure for this is described
in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
7. Click OK to create the operation.
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Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for T-Slotting operations:
CYCLE/TAP, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/TAP, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_T_SLOTTING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Create a Circular Milling Operation
This task shows how to insert a Circular Milling operation in the program. To create the operation you must define:
● the geometry of the holes to be machined
● the tool that will be used
● the parameters of the machining strategy
● the feedrates and spindle speeds
● the macros (transition paths) .
Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Circular Milling
icon .
A Circular Milling entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Circular Milling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page
.
2. If needed, enter Offset values for the Bottom and Contour.
3. Select the red hole depth representation then select hole geometry in the 3D window.Just double click to end your selections.
4. If needed, you can invert the tool axis direction by selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon.
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5. Select the Strategy tab
page and choose
the machining mode: ● Standard
● Helical.
6. Specify the machining strategy parameters.The following are common to the two machining modes:
● Approach clearance
● Plunge mode
● Machining tolerance
● Direction of cut
● Percentage overlap
● Compensation number depending on those available on the tool
● Output style for managing cutter compensation.
Standard machining stepover parameters:
● Breakthrough
● Number of paths and Distance between paths
● Axial mode: Maximum depth of cut or Number of levels (with or without top)
● Sequencing mode: Axial first or Radial first
● Automatic draft angle.
Helical machining stepover parameters:
● Breakthrough
● Helix mode: By Angle or By Pitch
● Angle or Pitch value.
7. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. You can use an End Mill or a T-slotter in this type of operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
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8. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
Note that in the toolpath represented in the strategy page, tool motion is at:● Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2
● Motion at feedrates defined on macros from 2 to 3, 3 to 4, 4 to 2', 2' to 3' and 3' to 4'
● Retract at retract feedrate from 4' to 5.
9. Select the Macros tab page to specify the operation's transition paths (approach and
retract motion, for example). The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
10. Click OK to create the operation.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Circular Milling operations:
CYCLE/CIRCULARMILLING, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/CIRCULARMILLING, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
You can use the Edit Cycle icon to edit or choose output syntaxes. For more information
please refer to Editing Cycle Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations.
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the NC_CIRCULAR_MILLING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
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Auxiliary OperationsThe tasks for inserting auxiliary operations in the manufacturing program are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Insert Tool Change: Select the Tool Change icon then select the tool type to be referenced in the tool change.Insert Machine Rotation: Select the Machine Rotation icon then specify the tool rotation characteristics.Insert Machining Axis Change: Select the Machining Axis Change icon then specify the characteristics of the new machining axis system.
Insert PP Instruction: Select the PP Instruction icon then enter the syntax of the PP instruction.
Insert COPY Operator (P2 functionality): Select the COPY Operator icon then select the reference operation. You can then specify the number of copies and the characteristics of the transformation.Insert TRACUT Operator (P2 functionality): Select the TRACUT Operator icon then select the reference operation. You can then specify the characteristics of the transformation.Insert Copy Transformation Instruction (P2 functionality): Select the Copy Transformation icon then select the reference operation. You can then specify the number of copies and the characteristics of the transformation.
Opposite Hand Machining: for machining symmetrical parts.
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Machining Features The tasks for creating and using prismatic machining features are described in this guide.
See Create and Use Prismatic Machining Areas.
Corners and channels left unmachined by Pocketing or Profile Contouring operations can be identified thanks to a Prismatic Rework Area. This feature can then be used to Create operations for reworking corners and channels.
The tasks dealing with the following machining feature capabilities are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
See Machining Patterns
Machining Axis System
See Manufacturing View.
Create a User Feature for NC Manufacturing (P2 functionality).
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Create and Use Prismatic Machining AreasThis task shows how to create a prismatic machining area and then use this feature in Pocketing and Profile Contouring operations.
Open the Rework01.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from the Start menu.
1. Select the Prismatic Machining Area icon .
2. Click the red Bottom in the icon then select the pocket bottom in the 3D window.
The pocket boundary (Guide.1) is automatically deduced from the pocket bottom.
Click OK to create the feature called Prismatic machining area.1. This feature references the selected pocket geometry.
3. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree, then select the Pocketing icon .
4. In the Pocketing dialog box select the Prismatic machining area.1 feature using the Feature combo.
The operation's geometry is initialized with the pocket bottom and guide elements referenced by the feature.
5. Select the Tool tab page to specify a tool with nominal diameter = 16mm.
You can refer to Edit the Tool of an Operation for more information.
6. Select the Macros tab page to specify a Retract macro with a linear Retract path of 50mm.
You can refer to Define Macros of an Operation for more information.
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7. Check the Pocketing operation by replaying the tool path in Video mode .
Select the Analyze icon to analyze the result of the simulation.
You can see that in the corners the pocketing operation leaves some unmachined material.
Close the Analyze and Replay dialog boxes.
Click OK to create the Pocketing operation.
8. Select the Profile Contouring icon .
9. In the Profile Contouring dialog box select the Prismatic machining area.1 feature using the Feature combo.
The operation's geometry is initialized with the pocket bottom and guide elements referenced by the feature.
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10. Select the Tool tab page to specify a tool with nominal diameter = 5mm.
You can refer to Edit the Tool of an Operation for more information.
11. Select the Macros tab page to specify an Approach macro with a linear Approach path of 50mm.
You can refer to Define Macros of an Operation for more information.
12. Check the Profile Contouring operation by replaying the tool path in Video mode .
Select the Analyze icon to analyze the result of the simulation.
You can see that in the remaining material has now been machined by the Profile Contouring operation.
Close the Analyze and Replay dialog boxes.
Click OK to create the Profile Contouring operation.
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13. Select the Manufacturing View icon to display the Manufacturing View.
Use the Sort by Machinable Features contextual command to see how the Prismatic machining area is referenced by the Pocketing and Profile Contouring operations.
In addition to Pocketing and Profile Contouring operations, Prismatic Machining Areas can also be used on Prismatic Rework Areas.
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Create a Prismatic Rework Area for Reworking Corners and Channels
This task shows how to create operations for reworking corners and channels by making use of prismatic rework areas. The areas to be reworked are identified by means of a Rework feature.
You will first create a Pocketing operation to rough cut the part. Then, you will see how corners and channels can be quickly identified and then reworked using different operations.
Open the Rework01.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Pocketing icon
.
2. Click the red Bottom in the icon then select the pocket bottom in the 3D window.
3. Select the Tool tab page
to specify a tool with
nominal diameter = 40mm.
You can refer to Edit the Tool of an Operation for more information.
4. Select the Macros tab page
to specify a Return
in a Level macro with linear Approach and Retract paths of 50mm.
You can refer to Define Macros of an Operation for more information.
5. Check the Pocketing operation by replaying the tool path in Video mode.
You can see that the pocket is rough cut by this operation.
Close the dialog box to exit the replay mode.
Rename the operation Rough Pocketing then click OK to create it.
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6. Select the Prismatic Rework
Area icon .
In the dialog box that appears, click Load From then select the Pocketing operation that you have just created.
The Rework feature is initialized with the geometry and other characteristics of the defined operation.
You can rename this feature (for example, ReworkPocket.1).
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7. Click Compute to visualize the areas to rework.
Here you can identify 6 corners and one channel to rework.
8. Select the Pocketing icon to create an operation to machine the channel left by the first
operation.
9. Select the ReworkPocket.1 feature using the combo in the Geometry tab page.
The dialog box is then updated with information from the feature.
Choose Channel from the Rework Area Type combo.
10. Select the Tool tab page to specify a tool with nominal diameter = 10mm.
11. Select the Strategy tab page and set the Overhang value to 100.
12. Select the Macros tab page to specify:
● an Approach macro with linear Approach path of 50mm
● a Return in a Level macro with linear Approach and Retract paths of 50mm
● a Retract macro with linear Retract path of 50mm.
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13. Check the operation by replaying the tool path in Video mode.
You can see that the channel is machined by this operation.
14. Rename the operation Channel Rework then click OK to create it.
15. Select the Profile Contouring icon to create an operation to machine the corners left by the
first operation.
Select the ReworkPocket.1 feature using the combo in the Geometry tab page.
The dialog box is then updated with information from the feature.
16. Select the Tool tab page to specify a tool with nominal diameter = 5mm.
17. Select the Strategy tab page and set:
● Overhang for Rework Areas to 100
● Distance between paths to 2mm.
18. Select the Macros tab page to specify:
● an Approach macro with linear Approach path of 50mm
● a Return in a Level macro with linear Approach and Retract paths of 50mm
● a Retract macro with linear Retract path of 50mm.
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19. Check the operation by replaying the tool path in Video mode.
You can see that the corners are machined by this operation.
20. Rename the operation Corner Rework then click OK to create it.
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This user task illustrates the Load From capability in which the Rework feature is initialized with the geometric and other characteristics of a machining operation.
You can also set the characteristics of the Rework feature manually by means of the dialog box.
This capability can be used with Pocketing and Profile Contouring operations.
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Part Operations, Manufacturing Programs and Machining Processes
The following Prismatic Machining task is described in this guide:
Create a Machining Process for Prismatic Features (P2 functionality): Create a Machining Process dedicated to machining a Prismatic Machining Area including rework operations.
Other tasks for creating and managing Part Operations, Manufacturing Programs and Machining Processes are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Create and Edit a Part Operation: Select the Part Operation icon then specify the entities to be referenced by the part operation: machine tool, machining axis system, tool change point, part set up, and so on.
Create and Edit a Manufacturing Program: Select the Manufacturing Program icon to add a program to the current part operation then insert all necessary program entities: machining operations, tool changes, PP instructions, and so on.
Auto-sequence Operations in a Program (P2 functionality): Verify the administrator's settings for sequencing rules and priorities. If you are authorized, you can adjust these settings before applying the Auto-sequencing to your program.
Generate Transition Paths in a Program (P2 functionality): Automatically creates all necessary transition paths and machine rotations in the program according to the kinematics of the machine tool assigned to the Part Operation and user-defined transition planes.
Create a Machining Process (P2 functionality): Select the Machining Process icon to create a machining process, which can then be stored in a catalog.
Apply a Machining Process (P2 functionality): Select the Open Catalog icon to access the machining process to be applied to selected geometry.
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Create a Machining Process for Prismatic Features
This task shows how to create a Machining Process (MP) dedicated to machining a Prismatic Machining Area including rework operations. The objective of the MP is to machine a prismatic pocket by:
● a roughing stage using a Pocketing operation
● a channel rework stage using a Pocketing operation
● a corner rework stage using a Profile Contouring operation
● a finishing stage using a Profile Contouring operation.
Start the Prismatic Machining workbench.
1. Display the Machining Process view and create a Machining Process .
Insert the following operations:
2. In the Knowledge Advisor workbench, use the Parameters Explorer icon to create a "RoughingRadius" length type parameter for the "RoughingPocketing" operation.
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In the same way, create a "MacroRadius" length type parameter for the "FinishingProfileContouring" operation and set the value to 3mm.
These user parameters will enable you to set manufacturing parameters such as the "RoughingRadius" for the rework stages or the "Approach and retract tool path radius" for the finishing stage.
3. In the Prismatic Machining workbench, create a Prismatic Rework Area feature .
Set the "Tool radius" corresponding to the roughing radius before the rework stage to the "RoughingRadius" parameter of "RoughingPocketing" by using the Edit Formula contextual command inside the field.
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Check that the feature is included in the Manufacturing View .
Note: If the "ToolRadius" parameter is set to 0.0, it will be automatically computed when the machining process is applied.
4. Edit the "RoughingPocketing" operation in the Machining Process View and set "Offset on Contour" to 1mm.
5. Using the Edit Formula contextual command on "RoughingPocketing", set the "Roughing Radius" to half the End mill Nominal diameter which will be found when the MP is applied.
6. Edit the RoughingPocketing Tool Query: ● Set the Tool Diameter to be greater than 10mm.
● Set the Cutting length to be greater than the Depth of the "Prismatic Machining Area" feature which will be selected when the MP is applied.
● Choose the repository file for the Tool Query: ToolsSampleMP, for example.
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7. Edit the "ChannelReworkByPocketing" operation in the Machining Process View.
Select the previously created Prismatic Rework Area using the combo.
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Edit "Offset on Contour" using the Edit Formula contextual command, and set it to the same parameter of the "Roughing Pocketing" operation.
Note: If no Rework Area feature is assigned to a Pocketing operation identified as Channel, Corner and channel, or Channel rework, a new Prismatic Rework Area will be created when the MP is applied.
In this case, the "ToolRadius" parameter will be automatically computed and equal to half of nominal tool diameter of the operation which precedes the first operation referencing this Prismatic Rework Area.
8. Edit the ChannelReworkByPocketing Tool Query: ● Set the Tool Diameter to be less than 10mm.
● Set the Cutting Length to be greater than the Depth of the "Prismatic Machining Area" feature which will be selected when the MP is applied.
● Choose the repository file for the Tool Query: ToolsSampleMP, for example.
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9. Repeat the Edit Operation and Tool Query steps described above for the "CornerReworkByProfileContouring" operation.
10. Edit the "FinishingProfileContouring" operation in the Machining Process View.
In the Stepover tab page, set the Number of paths to 2.
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Edit the "Distance between paths" parameter using the Edit Formula contextual command, and set it to the "Offset on Contour" of "RoughingPocketing" divided by the Number of paths.
In the Macro tab page, assign a circular path on each macro, and set each "Radius" parameter to the "Macro Radius" parameter using the Edit Formula contextual command in the Edit Parameters pop-up.
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11. Using the Edit Formula contextual command on "FinishingProfileContouring", set the "MacroRadius" to a quarter of the End mill Nominal diameter which will be found for this operation when the MP is applied.
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12. Edit the FinishingProfileContouring Tool Query: ● Set the Tool Diameter to be less than 10mm.
● Set the Cutting Length to be greater than the Depth of the "Prismatic Machining Area" feature which will be selected when the MP is applied.
● Choose "Document" as repository file.
13. Click Close in the Machining Process View to store the machining process.
A sample StandardMPForPocketing machining process similar to the one just created is available in \Startup\Manufacturing\Processes\MP_Demo.catalog.
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NC Manufacturing EntitiesThe tasks for creating and managing the specific entities of the NC manufacturing environment are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
● Edit the Tool of a Machining Operation: Double click the machining operation in the program and select the Tool tab page to edit the tool characteristics or search for another tool.
● Edit a Tool in the Resource List: Double click a tool in the resource list and edit the tool characteristics in the Tool Definition dialog box.
● Edit a Tool Assembly in the Resource List: Double click a tool assembly in the resource list and edit the tool characteristics in the Tool Definition dialog box.
● Replace Tools in Resource List: Click the Replace Tools icon to rename tools already used in your document.
● Specify Tool Compensation Information: Double click a tool referenced in the program or resource list and specify the tool compensation information in the Compensation tab page of the Tool Definition dialog box.
● Create and Use Machining Patterns: Select Insert > Machining Feature > Machining Pattern then select a pattern of holes to be machined.
● Manufacturing View: Select a feature using the Manufacturing view and create operations based on this feature.
● Define Macros on a Milling Operation: Select the Macros tab page when creating or editing a milling operation, then specify the transition paths of the macros to be used in the operation.
● Define Macros on an Axial Machining Operation: Select the Macros tab page when creating or editing an axial machining operation, then specify the transition paths of the macros to be used in the operation.
● Build and Use a Macros Catalog.
● Manage the Status of Manufacturing Entities: Use the status lights to know whether or not your operation is correctly defined.
● Design or User Parameters in PP Instruction and APT Output.
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Verification, Simulation and Program OutputThe tasks for using capabilities such as tool path verification, material removal simulation, and production of NC output data are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Replay Tool Path: Select the Tool Path Replay icon then specify the display options for an animated tool path display of the manufacturing program or machining operation.Simulate Material Removal (P2 functionality): Select the desired icon in the Tool Path Replay dialog box to run a material removal simulation in Photo or Video mode.
● Generate APT Source Code in Batch Mode: Select the Generate NC Code in Batch Mode icon then select the manufacturing program to be processed and define the APT source processing options.
● Generate NC Code in Batch Mode: Select the Generate NC Code in Batch Mode icon then select the manufacturing program to be processed and define the NC code processing options.
● Generate Clfile Code in Batch Mode: Select the Generate NC Code in Batch Mode icon then select the manufacturing program to be processed and define the Clfile processing options.
● Generate a CGR File in Batch Mode (P2 functionality): Select the Generate NC Code in Batch Mode icon then select the manufacturing program to be processed and define the CGR file processing options.
● MfgBatch Utility that allows you to generate NC data files from a manufacturing program by
means of an executable program under Windows or a shell under UNIX.
Batch Queue Management: Manage tool path computation outside the interactive CATIA session, with the possibility of scheduling the execution of several batch jobs.Generate NC Code in Interactive Mode: Select the Generate NC Code Interactively icon to generate NC data for the current manufacturing program.Generate Documentation: Select the Generate Documentation icon to produce shop floor documentation in HTML format. Import an APT Source into the Program: Select the APT Import contextual command to insert an existing APT source into the current manufacturing program.
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Workbench DescriptionThis section contains the description of the menu commands and icon toolbars that are specific to the Prismatic Machining workbench, which is shown below.
Menu BarToolbars
Specification Tree
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Prismatic Machining Menu Bar The various menus and menu commands that are specific to Prismatic Machining are described below.
Start File Edit View Insert Tools Windows Help
Tasks corresponding to general menu commands are described in the CATIA Version 5 Infrastructure User's Guide.
Tasks corresponding to common NC Manufacturing menu commands are described in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Insert MenuCommand... Description...Machining Operations See Insert > Machining Operations
Auxiliary Operations Inserts Auxiliary Operations
Machining Features Inserts Machining Features: ● Prismatic Machining Area
● Prismatic Rework Area
● Machining Pattern
● Machining Axis System.
Insert > Machining Operations Command... Description...
Axial Machining Operations
Creates Axial Machining Operations
Pocketing Creates a Pocketing Operation
Facing Creates a Facing Operation
Profile Contouring Creates a Profile Contouring Operation
Curve Following Creates a Curve Following Operation
Groove Milling Creates a Groove Milling Operation
Point to Point Creates a Point to Point Operation
Prismatic Roughing Creates a Prismatic Roughing Operation.
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Prismatic Machining ToolbarsThe Prismatic Machining workbench includes specific icon toolbars:
● Machining Operations
● Machining Features.
The other toolbars in the workbench are common to all the NC Manufacturing products and are described in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Machining Operations Toolbar
This toolbar contains the commands for creating and editing 2.5 axis Milling and Axial Machining operations.
The icons for creating and editing 2.5 axis Milling operations are as follows.
See Create a Pocketing Operation
See Create a Facing Operation
See Create a Profile Contouring Operation
See Create a Curve Following Operation
See Create a Groove Milling Operation
See Create a Point to Point Operation
See Create a Prismatic Roughing Operation
The following toolbar is accessed from the drop-down icon in the Prismatic Operations toolbar.
It contains icons for creating and editing Axial Machining operations as follows.
See Create a Drilling Operation
See Create a Spot Drilling Operation
See Create a Drilling Dwell Delay Operation
See Create a Drilling Deep Hole Operation
See Create a Drilling Break Chips Operation
See Create a Tapping Operation
See Create a Reverse Threading Operation
See Create a Thread without Tap Head Operation
See Create a Boring Operation
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See Create a Boring and Chamfering Operation
See Create a Boring Spindle Stop Operation
See Create a Reaming Operation
See Create a Counterboring Operation
See Create a Countersinking Operation
See Create a Chamfering Two Sides Operation
See Create a Back Boring Operation
See Create a T-Slotting Operation
See Create a Circular Milling Operation
See Create a Thread Milling Operation
Machining Features Toolbar
This toolbar contains the commands for creating and managing machining features.
See Prismatic machining area.
See Create Operations for Channel and Corner Rework for information about how to use the Prismatic Rework Area feature.
See Machining Patterns
Machining Axis System
See Manufacturing View.
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Specification TreeHere is an example of a Process Product Resources (PPR) specification tree for Prismatic Machining.
Process List gives all the activities and machining operations required to transform a part from a rough to a finished state.
● Part Operation defines the manufacturing resources and the reference data.
● Manufacturing Program is the list of all of the machining operations, associated tool changes, and auxiliary operations. The example above shows that:
❍ Drilling.1 is complete and has not been computed
❍ Drilling.2 is complete but has been computed (by means of a replay)
❍ Drilling.3 does not have all of the necessary data (indicated by the exclamation mark symbol)
❍ Drilling.4 has been deactivated by the user (indicated by the brackets symbol)
❍ Drilling.5 has been modified and needs to be recomputed (indicated by the update symbol).
Product List gives all of the parts to machine as well as CATPart documents containing complementary geometry. Resources List gives all of the resources such as machine or tools that can be used in the program.
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CustomizingThe tasks for customizing your NC Manufacturing environment are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
NC Manufacturing Settings Build a Tools Catalog
Access External Tools CatalogsPP Word Syntaxes NC Documentation
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Customizing Settings for NC Manufacturing
This section describes how to customize settings for NC Manufacturing.
Before you start your first working session, you can customize the settings to suit your working habits. Your customized settings are stored in permanent setting files: they will not be lost at the end of your session.
1. Select Tools > Options from the menu bar: the Options dialog box appears.
2. Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing settings appear, organized in tab pages.
3. Select the tab corresponding to the parameters to be customized.
Parameters in this tab... Allow you to customize...
General general settings for all NC Manufacturing products
Resources tooling, feeds&speeds and resource files
Operation machining operations
Output PP files and NC data output
Program manufacturing programs (sequencing, and so on)
Photo / Video material removal simulation
4. Change theses options according to your needs.
5. Click OK to save the settings and quit the Options dialog box.
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Customize General Settings
This document explains how to customize General settings for NC Manufacturing products.
These settings are accessed as follows:● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing settings appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the General tab, which is divided up into areas.
Parameters in this area... Allow you to customize...
Performance settings for optimized performance
Trees Display display of the specification tree
Color and Highlight colors of displayed geometry and parameters
Tool Path Replay tool display during tool path replay
Complementary Geometry handling of geometry necessary for manufacturing
Design Changes use of the Smart NC mode and enhanced detection of design changes.
Performance
● Click the Optimize button in order to automatically set a number of the NC Manufacturing options for optimized performance. These options are listed in the Information dialog box that appears:
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If you click Yes, these options will be set as described in the dialog box. Note that, if needed, you may locally reset any of these options.If you click No, the options will remain with their current settings.
The Information box also lists some recommendations for manually setting other options that have an influence on performance.
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Tree Display
● Select the checkbox if you want the status of activities in the tree to be updated automatically.
● If this checkbox is not selected:
❍ you can update activity status manually in your workbench using the Update Status icon in the Auxiliary Commands toolbar.
❍ the status of the activity after a manual update is masked at the first action on the node (for example, edit, replay, collapse/expand of a parent node). To retrieve the status of the activity you
must select the Update Status icon again.
If this checkbox is not selected, performance is improved.
Color and Highlight
● Select the colors to be used to identify the various manufacturing entities by means of the combos. Note that for Geometry that is not found or not up to date, you can select the colors used to display the valuated parameters in the corresponding Operation or Feature dialog boxes.
● For certain entities, you can select the corresponding checkbox to use highlighting. Performance is improved when all the Highlight checkboxes are selected.
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Tool Path Replay
● Select the first checkbox if you want to display the tool near your cursor position on the trajectory during a tool path replay
● Select the second checkbox if you want to display the tool center point instead of the tool tip during a tool path replay
● Select the third checkbox if you want to display each circular trajectory as a circular arc instead of a set of discretization points. The extremities of the circular arc are indicated by means of 'O' symbols.This allows better control of the Point by Point replay mode, where it is necessary to make several interactions to replay a circle (because of its representation by a set of points). With the graphic representation as a circle, only one interaction is necessary to perform the replay.
Complementary Geometry
● Select the checkbox to create a CATPart dedicated to manufacturing-specific geometry in the Product List of the PPR tree.
Design Changes
● Select the first checkbox to activate the Smart NC mode. In this mode, an image of the geometry selected in machining operations is kept to allow analysis of design changes.Performance is improved when this checkbox is not selected.
● Select the second check box to enable a geometrical comparison mode in order to more precisely determine the design change status of machining operations.
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Customize Resource Settings
This document explains how to customize Resource settings for NC Manufacturing products.
These settings are accessed as follows:● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing settings appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the Resources tab, which is divided up into areas.
Parameters in this area... Allow you to customize...
Catalogs and Files the path name for resource files
Tool Selection the selection of tools
Automatic Compute from Tool Feeds and Speeds
the update of feeds and speeds according to tooling data
Tool Query Mode in Machining Processes Instantiation
tool queries in machining processes
Catalogs and Files
● Enter the path of the folder containing tool catalogs, PP tables, macros, and machining processes. You can choose a folder by clicking the [...] button.
You can concatenate paths using:❍ a semi colon (;) character for Windows NT platforms.
❍ a colon (:) character for UNIX platform.
For example, if the concatenated folders E:\DownloadOfCXR12rel\intel_a\startup and e:\users\jmn\NC in the figure above contain PP tables, then those PP tables will be available for selection in the Part Operation's Machine Editor dialog box.
Please note, however, that:● PP tables must be contained in folders named Manufacturing\PPTables
● tools must be contained in folders named Manufacturing\Tools.
Tool Selection
● Select the first checkbox if you want to to activate an automatic query after each modification of a tool parameter. Performance is improved when this checkbox is not selected.
● Select the second checkbox if you want to preview the tool after selection.
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Automatic Compute from Tool Feeds and Speeds
● Select the first checkbox if you want the Automatic Update of Feedrates option to be set by default in the Feeds and Speeds tab page of machining operations.This option allows feedrates of operations to be automatically updated whenever feedrate information on the tool is modified.
● Select the second checkbox if you want the Automatic Update of Speeds option to be set by default in the Feeds and Speeds tab page of machining operations.This option allows spindle speeds of operations to be automatically updated whenever speed information on the tool is modified.
Tool Query mode in Machining Processes Instantiation
select the type of Tool Query to be executed when a Machining Process is instantiated:● automatically computed Tool Query
● interactively defined Tool Selection in case of multiple results
● interactively defined Tool Selection if no tool is found.
Depending on the selected option, the Advanced tab page of the Search Tool dialog box shows the solved Tool Query for each operation in the Machining Process.
In the example below, you can choose one of the tools found in the ToolsSampleMP, or use the Look in combo to select a tool from the current document or another tool catalog.
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Customize Operation Settings
This document explains how to customize Operation settings for NC Manufacturing products.
These settings are accessed as follows:● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing settings appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the Operation tab, which is divided up into areas.
Parameters in this area... Allow you to customize...
Default Values the use of default values
After Creation or Machining process (MP) Instantiation
what happens after creating machining operations or machining processes
When Copying the duplication of geometry links
Display tool path displays of operations
User Interface dialog boxes of 3-axis surface machining operations.
Default Values
● Select the checkbox if you want operations to be created with the values used in the current program. The values and units of attributes at the creation step of an operation are set to the values and units of the last edited and validated operation whatever its type (that is, exit the operation definition dialog box using OK) .
Otherwise the default settings delivered with the application are used.
After Creation or Machining Process (MP) Instantiation
Select the desired checkboxes to specify conditions to be applied when you create machining operations or machining processes.
● Sequence machining operationsMachining operations are automatically sequenced in the current program after creation. Otherwise, sequencing can be managed in the feature view.
● Search compatible tool in previous operations
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When creating an operation, if a compatible tool exists in a previous operation of the current program, it will be set in the new operation. Otherwise, the operation will be incomplete.
● Use a default toolWhen creating an operation, a search is done in the document to find a compatible tool. If no compatible tool exists, a default one is created in the document and set in the created operation.If checkbox is not selected, no tool will be defined on the operation.
● Start edit mode (for machining operations only, not for machining processes)When creating an operation, Edit mode is automatically started to allow modifying parameters of the created operation.Otherwise, the operation is added to the program but the machining operation editor is not started.
When Copying
● Select the checkbox if you want geometry links to be duplicated in a copied operation.
Otherwise the geometry must be defined for the copied operation. Performance is improved when this checkbox is not selected.
Display
● Select the checkbox if you want to display tool paths of operations in the current Part Operation.
User Interface
● Select the checkbox if you want to have the possibility of simplifying the dialog boxes of machining operations (that is, you can display the minimum number of parameters necessary for a correct tool path). This setting is available for 3-axis surface machining operations only.
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Customize Output Settings
This document explains how to customize Output settings for NC Manufacturing products.
These settings are accessed as follows:● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing settings appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the Output tab, which is divided up into areas.
Parameters in this area... Allow you to customize...
Post Processor the type of PP files to be used for generating NC code output and the path where these files are located
Tool Path Storage the tool path storage capability
Tool Path Edition the tool path edition capability
During Tool Path Computation contact point storage
Tool Output Point type of tool output point
Tool Output Files ... Location default paths for NC output files storage.
Post Processor
Select the desired Processor option:● None: no Post Processor is defined. NC code output is not possible in this case
● Cenit: you can choose from among the Post Processor parameter files proposed by Cenit to generate your NC code
● IMS: you can choose from among the Post Processor parameter files proposed by Intelligent Manufacturing Software (IMS) to generate your NC code
● ICAM: you can choose from among the Post Processor parameter files proposed by ICAM Technologies Corporation (ICAM) to generate your NC code.
Enter the path of the folder containing Post processors. You can choose a folder by clicking the [...] button. File concatenation is possible.
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Tool Path Storage
Select the desired option to store tool path data either in the current document or in an external file (as a tpl file).
For operations with large tool paths (more than 100 000 points), tool path storage in an external file is recommended.
Tool Path Edition
Select the checkbox if you want to be able to edit tool paths even when the operation is locked.
This capability is available only for activities with a tool path node in the specification tree.
During Tool Path Computation
Select the checkbox if you want to store contact points in the tool path.
Performance is improved when this checkbox is not selected.
Tool Output Point
Select the desired option to select either the tool tip or tool center point as output point.
Performance is better when the Tool Tip option is selected.
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Default File Locations
Specify default locations for storing Tool Path files, NC Documentation, and NC Code output.
You can store tool paths files (tpl files) in the same folder as the CATProcess by selecting the checkbox. This allows you to store these files according to your CATProcess context. Otherwise, you can choose another location by clicking the [...] button.
For NC Documentation, and NC Code output you can choose a folder easily by clicking the [...] button.
You can customize the extension to be used for NC Code output (by default, the suffix used is CATNCCode).
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Customize Program Settings
This document explains how to customize Program settings for NC Manufacturing products.
These settings are accessed as follows:● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing settings appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the Program tab to customize program auto-sequencing rules and priorities. These settings are mainly intended for the administrator.
Make sure that the document in the sequencing rules path (AllSequencingRules.CATProduct in the example below) is accessible in Read/Write.
Auto Sequencing
Select the Access to sequencing rules settings checkbox to authorize user access to sequencing rules.
You can then specify the path for the rules base You can choose a rules base easily by clicking the [...] button.
Select the Display sequencing rules and priorities checkbox to authorize the display of sequencing rules and priorities in the user's view. In this case two more checkboxes can be selected in order to:
● allow the user to filter rules
● allow the user to modify rule priorities.
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Customize Photo and Video Settings
This document explains how to customize Photo / Video material removal simulation settings for NC Manufacturing products.
To access these settings:● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing settings appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the Photo /Video tab, which is divided up into areas.
Parameters in this area... Allow you to customize...
Simulation at material removal simulation at program of Part Operation level
Video Video material removal simulation options
Photo Photo material removal simulation options
Performance settings that influence performance
Color color during material removal simulation
Positioning Move allowed tool axis variation between two operations
Simulation at
● Select the desired option to perform material removal simulation at either Program or Part Operation level. Depending on the selected level, simulation begins either from the start of the manufaturing progam or from the start of the Part Operation. Best performance is obtained with Program level.
Video
● Select the Stop at tool change checkbox if you want the Video simulation to stop each time a tool change is encountered in the program.
● Select the desired Collisions detection option to: ❍ ignore collisions during the Video simulation
❍ stop the Video simulation at the first collision
❍ continue the Video simulation even when collisions are detected. In this case, you can consult the list of
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collisions at any time duing the simulation.
Best performance is obtained when collisions are ignored.
● Select the Touch is collision checkbox if you want touch (or contact) type of collision to be detected.
Photo
● Select the desired Fault box type for examining remaining material or gouges:❍ Transparent: to display a transparent bounding box
❍ Wireframe: to display a wireframe bounding box
❍ None: if no bounding box is required.
Best performance is obtained when no bounding box is required and the checkbox is not selected.
● Select the checkbox to compute all information at picked point.
Performance
● There are three methods of tool faceting used in Video simulation: Standard, Smaller and Larger. The number of facets for a tool representation is determined by the chord deviation that is set for the tool diameter (0.005% of the tool diameter).
❍ Smaller: The picture shows a rough approximation of a tool with six facets. Note that the chord deviation is always inside the actual circle, and that the points are always on the circle (accurate).
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This is the most accurate method for the Arc through Three Points command.
❍ Standard: The picture shows a rough approximation of a tool with six facets. Note that the chord deviation is partly inside and partly outside the actual circle, and that the points are not always on the circle.
This is the best method for material removal simulation. However, this is not suitable for the Arc through Three Points command.
❍ Larger: The picture shows a rough approximation of a tool with six facets. Note that the chord deviation is outside the actual circle, and that the points are not on the circle.
This is not suitable for the Arc through Three Points command.However, it can be useful for gouge detection.
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● Set the resolution for Photo simulation. Best performance is obtained when the resolution is set to 0. In this case, a detailed simulation of a portion of the part can be obtained using the Closeup command.Increasing the resolution improves machining accuracy and gives a very detailed simulation. However, this requires increased memory and computation time.
● Specify the maximum angle that the tool axis is allowed to vary between two consecutive points. Best performance is obtained for an angle of 10 degrees. Decreasing the angle improves the precision of the simulation. However, this requires increased memory and computation time.
● Set the Optimized rendering for Video checkbox to obtain an optimized rendering to improve Video simulation performance.Otherwise, more realistic colors are obtained with a slightly degraded performance.
Color
● Set the tool (and associated machined area) color to be the same as or different from the last tool, or have different colors for all tools. Best performance is obtained with same colored tools.
● Assign colors to the different tools using the associated color combo.
● Assign colors to tool holders, parts, and fixtures using the associated color combos.
Positioning Move
● Set the Maximum tool axis variation that is to be allowed between the end point of an operation and the start point of the next operation. If the tool axis varies by an amount greater than the specified value, then the tool is positioned at the start of the following operation.
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Reference InformationReference information that is specific to the Prismatic Machining product can be found in this section.
Pocketing OperationsProfile Contouring OperationsPrismatic Roughing Operations
Facing OperationsCurve Following OperationsGroove Milling OperationsPoint to Point Operations
Axial Machining OperationsMachining Patterns.
Essential reference information on the following topics is provided in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
NC Manufacturing ResourcesNC Macros
PP Tables and PP Word SyntaxesFeeds and Speeds
APT FormatsCLfile Formats
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Pocketing OperationsThe information in this section will help you create and edit pocketing operations in your NC manufacturing program.
Select the Pocketing icon then select the geometry to be machined .
A number of strategy parameters are available for defining:
● machining criteria
● radial stepover conditions
● axial stepover conditions
● finishing
● high-speed milling.
Specify the tool to be used , NC macros , and feeds and speeds as needed.
Pocketing Strategy Parameters
Pocketing Machining ParametersTool path styleIndicates the cutting mode of the operation:
● Inward helical: the tool starts from a point inside the pocket and follows inward paths parallel to the boundary.
● Outward helical: the tool starts from a point inside the pocket and follows outward paths parallel to the boundary.
● Back and forth: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next.
Direction of cutSpecifies how milling is to be done:
Climb milling or Conventional milling
In Climb, the front of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first
In Conventional, the rear of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first.
Machining toleranceSpecifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path. Fixture accuracySpecifies a tolerance applied to the fixture thickness. If the distance between the tool and fixture is less than fixture thickness minus fixture accuracy, the position is eliminated from the trajectory. If the distance is greater, the position is not eliminated.
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CompensationSpecifies the tool corrector identifier to be used in the operation.
The corrector type (P1, P2, P3, for example), corrector identifier and corrector number are defined on the tool. When the NC data source is generated, the corrector number can be generated using specific parameters.
Pocketing Radial Stepover ParametersRadial modeSpecifies how the distance between two consecutive paths is to be computed:
● Maximum distance between paths
● Tool diameter ratio
● Stepover ratio.
Distance between pathsDefines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy. Percentage of tool diameterDefines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy as a percentage of the nominal tool diameter. Depending on the selected Radial mode this value is used as
either Tool diameter ratio or Stepover ratio .
OverhangAllows a shift in the tool position with respect to the soft boundary of the machining domain.
Truncated transition pathsEnables the tool to follow the external profile more exactly by allowing the transition portion of the trajectory to be truncated (for pocketing using a Back and Forth tool path style).
Not truncated: Truncated:
Scallop passAllows a final machining pass around the exterior of the trajectory and islands for removing scallops (for pocketing using a Back and Forth tool path style). Scallop pass ratioFor pocketing using a Back and Forth tool path style, this parameter adjusts the position of the final pass for removing scallops. This is done by entering a percentage of the tool diameter (0 to 50). Always stay on bottomWhen machining a multi-domain pocket using a helical tool path style, this parameter forces the tool to remain in contact with the pocket bottom when moving from one domain to another. This avoids unnecessary linking transitions.
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Pocketing Axial Stepover ParametersAxial strategy modeSpecifies how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed:
● Maximum depth of cut
● Number of levels
● Number of levels without top.
Maximum depth of cutDefines the maximum depth of cut in an axial strategy. Number of levelsDefines the number of levels to be machined in an axial strategy. Automatic draft angleSpecifies the draft angle to be applied on the sides of the pocket. BreakthroughSpecifies the distance in the tool axis direction that the tool must go completely through the part. Breakthrough is applied on the bottom element, which must be specified as soft.
Pocketing Finishing ParametersFinishing modeIndicates whether or not finish passes are to be generated on the sides and bottom of the area to machine. Side finishing can be done at each level or only at the last level of the operation. Side finish thicknessSpecifies the thickness used for side finishing. Number of side finish paths per levelSpecifies the number of side finish paths for each level in a multi-pass operation.
This can help you reduce the number of operations in the program.
Side finish thickness on bottomSpecifies the thickness used for the last side finish pass at the end of the operation. Bottom finish thicknessSpecifies the thickness used for bottom finishing. Spring passIndicates whether or not a spring pass is to be generated on the sides in the same condition as the previous Side finish pass. The spring pass is used to compensate the natural `spring' of the tool. Avoid scallops on bottomDefines whether or not the distance between paths can be adjusted by the program in order to avoid scallops on the bottom. Available for single-level operations and multi-level operations with bottom finish pass.
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Output styleAllows you to manage the generation of Cutter compensation (CUTCOM) instructions for the pocketing operation's side finish pass.
The following options are proposed:● If 2D Radial profile is selected, both the tool tip and cutter profile will be visualized during tool path
replay. Cutter compensation instructions are automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.
● If 2D Radial tip is selected, the tool tip will be visualized during tool path replay. Cutter compensation instructions are automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.
● If None is selected, cutter compensation instructions are not generated in the NC data output. In this case, please refer to How to generate CUTCOM syntaxes.
Any user-defined PP words in macros are added to the cutter compensation instructions generated in the NC data output. Therefore you should be careful when specifying CUTCOM instructions in macros.
A negative Offset on contour (parameter in Geometry tab page) is possible for 2D radial profile output.
Pocketing High Speed Milling (HSM) ParametersHigh Speed MillingSpecifies whether or not cornering for HSM is to be done on the trajectory. Corner radiusSpecifies the radius used for rounding the corners along the trajectory of a HSM operation.
Value must be smaller than the tool radius.
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Limit angleSpecifies the minimum angle for rounding corners in the toolpath for a HSM operation.
Extra segment overlapSpecifies the overlap for the extra segments that are generated for cornering in a HSM operation. This is to ensure that there is no leftover material in the corners of the trajectory.
Cornering on side finish pathSpecifies whether or not tool path cornering is to be done on side finish path. Corner radius on side finish pathSpecifies the radius used for rounding the corners of the side finish path in a HSM operation. Value must be smaller than the tool radius. Limit angle on side finish pathSpecifies the minimum angle for rounding the corners of the side finish path in a HSM operation. Transition radiusSpecifies the radius at the start and end of the transition path when moving from one path to the next in a HSM operation.
Transition angleSpecifies the angle of the transition path that allows the tool to move smoothly from one path to the next in a HSM operation.
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Transition lengthSpecifies a minimum length for the straight segment of the transition between paths in a HSM operation.
Pocketing Geometry
A Pocketing operation can be created for machining: ● Closed pockets: the tool machines the area delimited by hard boundaries
● Open pockets: the tool machines the area that has a least one soft boundary.
You can specify the following Geometry:● Pocket Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom. Bottom may be Hard or Soft.
● Pocket Boundary (edges or sketch) with possible:
● Offset on Hard Boundary
● Offset on Soft Boundary
● Offset on Contour. If you specify an Offset on Contour, it is added to any defined Offset on Hard Boundary, Offset on Hard Boundary, and Offset on Island.
● Pocket Top plane with possible Offset on Top.
● Islands (defined by hard boundaries) with possible Offset on each island.
● Fixture or check elements with possible Offset on Check.
● Start and End points.
Specifying the Pocket Boundary
The pocket boundary must be closed. It can be specified in several ways:● if the Contour Detection contextual command is set, select the pocket bottom. The boundary of the selected
face will be proposed as pocket boundary.
● select edges. In this case the Edge Selection toolbar appears to help you specify the pocket boundary.
● select the By Belt of Faces or By Boundary of Faces contextual command. In this case the Face Selection toolbar appears to help you specify the pocket boundary.
● select the Sectioning contextual command. Please refer to Sectioning for details of how to use this capability.Please note that the sectioning selection method is not associative.
Specifying Start and End Points
You can select a Start point and an End point as preferential start and end positions for the operation. This allows better control for optimizing the program according to the previous and following operations.
Note that the Start point can be located outside an open pocket. In this case, you must specify a clearance with
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respect to the pocket boundary.
Pocketing Tools
Recommended tools for pocketing are End Mills, Face Mills and T-Slotters.
Pocketing Feeds and Speeds
In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, machining and finishing as well as a machining spindle speed.
Feedrates and spindle speed can be defined in linear or angular units.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.
Feedrate Reduction in Corners
You can reduce feedrates in corners encountered along the tool path depending on values given in the Feeds and Speeds tab page: reduction rate, maximum radius, minimum angle, and distances before and after the corner.
Feed reduction is applied to corners along the tool path whose radius is less than the Maximum radius value and whose arc angle is greater than the Minimum angle value.
For Pocketing, feedrate reduction applies to inside and outside corners for machining or finishing passes. It does not apply for macros or default linking and return motions.
Corners can be angled or rounded, and may include extra segments for HSM operations.
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Slowdown Rate
You can use Slowdown rate in the Feeds and Speeds tab page to reduce the current feedrate by a given percentage.
In Outward/Inward Helical Pocketing, the reduction is applied to the first channel cut.
In Back and Forth Pocketing, the reduction is applied to the first channel cut and to the transitions between passes.
Combining Slowdown Rate and Feedrate Reduction in Corners
If a corner is included in a Slowdown path, the general rule is that the lowest percentage value is taken into account.
For example, if the Slowdown rate is set to 70 % and Feedrate reduction rate in corners is set to 50%, the feedrate sequence is: 100%, 70% (entry in slowdown), 50% (entry in corner), 70% (end of corner, still in slowdown), 100% (end of slowdown).
If Feedrate reduction rate in corners is then set to 75%, the feedrate sequence is: 100%, 70% (entry in slowdown), 70% (entry in corner: 75% ignored), 70% (end of corner, still in slowdown), 100% (end of slowdown).
Pocketing NC Macros
You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC Macros. These transition paths are useful for providing approach, retract and linking motion in the tool path.
An Approach macro is used to approach the operation start point.
A Retract macro is used to retract from the operation end point.
A Return on Same Level macro is used in a multi-path operation to link two consecutive paths in a given level.
A Return between Levels macro is used in a multi-level machining operation to go to the next level.
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A Return to Finish Pass macro is used in a machining operation to go to the finish pass.
A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for example.
Specifying Ramping Approach Macros
When you edit a Ramping Approach macro in Pocketing, you can select the Parameter contextual command to access the parameters of the macro path.
If you select the Intermediate Levels checkbox, the approach macro is divided into 3 parts:● a ramping approach from the top of the pocket to the intermediate level
● a horizontal path, which is the same as the first path if the machining mode is Back and Forth or the first closed path if the machining mode is Helical
● a ramping approach from the intermediate level to the machining level.
The yellow path in the figure below illustrates an intermediate level for a ramping approach macro in a Back and Forth Pocketing operation.
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Pocketing P1/P2 Considerations
Note that P2 functionalities for Pocketing include Automatic Draft Angle, all Finishing parameters, and Sectioning for guiding element selection.To edit in P1 a Pocketing operation that was created in P2, the following parameter values must be set:
● Automatic draft angle = 0 deg
● Finishing Mode = No finish path
● Side finish thickness = 0.0 mm
● Side finish thickness on bottom = 0.0 mm
● Bottom finish thickness = 0.0 mm
● Spring pass = no
● Avoid scallops on bottom = no
● HSM Cornering on side finish path = no
● HSM Corner radius = 1 mm
● HSM Limit angle = 10 deg.
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Profile Contouring OperationsThe information in this section will help you create and edit 2.5 axis Profile Contouring operations in your NC manufacturing program.
Select the Profile Contouring icon then select the geometry to be machined .
A number of strategy parameters are available for defining:
● machining criteria
● axial and radial stepover conditions
● finishing
● high-speed milling.
Specify the tool to be used , NC macros , and feeds and speeds as needed.
Profile Contouring Strategy Parameters
Profile Contouring Machining ParametersTool path styleIndicates the cutting mode of the operation:
● Zig Zag: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next
● One way: the same machining direction is used from one path to the next.
Direction of cutSpecifies how machining is to be done. In Climb milling, the front of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first.
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In Conventional , the rear of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first.
Machining toleranceSpecifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path. Fixture accuracySpecifies a tolerance applied to the fixture thickness. If the distance between the tool and fixture is less than fixture thickness minus fixture accuracy, the position is eliminated from the trajectory. If the distance is greater, the position is not eliminated. Type of contourIndicates whether the contouring type of corners is: Circular: the tool pivots around the corner point, following a contour whose radius is equal to the tool radius
Angular: the tool does not remain in contact with the corner point, following a contour comprised of two line segments
Optimized: the tool follows a contour derived from the corner that is continuous in tangent
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Forced circular: the tool follows a near-circular contour comprised of line segments.
Close tool pathSpecifies whether or not the program must close the tool path.
Tool position ON guideSpecifies the position of the tool tip on the guiding elements. Offset on contour and driving mode are already taken into account. Percentage overlapSpecifies the amount that the tool must go beyond the end point of a closed tool path according to a percentage of the tool diameter.
Output typeAllows you to manage the generation of cutter compensation (CUTCOM) instructions in the NC data output in Between Two Planes machining mode.
The following options are proposed:● If 2D Radial profile is selected, both the tool tip and cutter profile will be visualized during tool path
replay. Cutter compensation instructions are automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.Example of generated APT source:
$$ Start generation of : Profile Contouring.1FEDRAT/ 1000.0000,MMPMSPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLWCUTCOM/LEFT$$ START CUTCOM PLANAR XP, YP, ZPGOTO / 100.00000, -115.00000, 10.00000
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GOTO / 0.00000, -115.00000, 10.00000CUTCOM/OFF$$ END CUTCOM PLANAR XP, YP, ZP $$ End of generation of : Profile Contouring.1
● If 2D Radial tip is selected, the tool tip will be visualized during tool path replay. Cutter compensation instructions are automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.Example of generated APT source:
$$ Start generation of : Profile Contouring.1FEDRAT/ 1000.0000,MMPMSPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLWCUTCOM/LEFT$$ START CUTCOM PLANAR XT, YT, ZTGOTO / 100.00000, -125.00000, 10.00000GOTO / 0.00000, -125.00000, 10.00000CUTCOM/OFF$$ END CUTCOM PLANAR XT, YT, ZT $$ End of generation of : Profile Contouring.1
● If None is selected, cutter compensation instructions are not automatically generated in the NC data
output. However, CUTCOM instructions can be inserted manually. For more information, please refer to How to generate CUTCOM syntaxes.
Any user-defined PP words in macros are added to the cutter compensation instructions generated in the NC data output. Therefore you should be careful when specifying CUTCOM instructions in macros.
A negative Offset on contour (parameter in Geometry tab page) is possible for 2D radial profile output.
CompensationSpecifies the tool corrector identifier to be used in the operation.
The corrector type (P1, P2, P3, for example), corrector identifier and corrector number are defined on the tool. When the NC data source is generated, the corrector number can be generated using specific parameters.
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Compensation application modeSpecifies how the corrector type specified on the tool (P1, P2, P3, for example) is used to define the position of the tool: Output point or Guiding point.
Profile Contouring Stepover ParametersSequencingSpecifies the order in which machining is to be done. Axial: axial machining is done first then radial
Radial: radial machining is done first then axial
Distance between pathsDefines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy.
Number of pathsDefines the number of tool paths in a radial strategy. Overhang for rework areasAllows a shift in the tool position with respect to the soft boundary of the rework area. Axial strategy modeDefines how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed:
● Maximum depth of cut
● Number of levels
● Number of levels without top.
Maximum depth of cutDefines the maximum depth of cut in an axial strategy.
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Number of levelsDefines the number of levels to be machined in an axial strategy. Automatic draft angleSpecifies the draft angle to be applied on the flanks between the top and bottom elements. BreakthroughSpecifies the distance in the tool axis direction that the tool must go completely through the part. Breakthrough is applied on the bottom element, which must be specified as soft. Only available in Between two planes mode.
Profile Contouring Finishing ParametersFinishing modeIndicates whether or not finish passes are to be generated on the sides and bottom of the area to machine. Side finishing can be done at each level or only at the last level of the operation. Side finish thicknessSpecifies the thickness used for side finishing.
Side finish thickness on bottomSpecifies the thickness used for the last side finish pass at the end of the operation.
Bottom finish thicknessSpecifies the thickness used for bottom finishing.
Bottom finish path styleDefines the bottom finish path style: Zig zag or One way. Spring passIndicates whether or not a spring pass is to be generated on the sides in the same condition as the previous Side finish pass. The spring pass is used to compensate the natural `spring' of the tool.
Profile Contouring High Speed Milling (HSM) Parameters
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In a Profile Contouring, cornering for HSM is available for Roughing and Finishing passes in the following guiding modes:
● Between 2 planes
● Between curve and surfaces
● Between two curves.
Cornering applies to inside corners for machining or finishing passes. It does not apply to:● outside corners (for example, produced by angular or optimized contouring mode).
● macros or default linking and return motions.
CorneringSpecifies whether or not cornering for HSM is to be done on the trajectory.
Corner radiusSpecifies the radius used for rounding the corners along the trajectory of a HSM operation. Value must be smaller than the tool radius.
Cornering on side finish pathSpecifies whether or not tool path cornering is to be done on the side finish path. Corner radius on side finish pathSpecifies the corner radius used for rounding the corners along the side finish path of a HSM operation. Value must be smaller than the tool radius.
Profile Contouring Geometry
A Profile Contouring operation can be created in one of the following Machining modes.
Between Two Planes
Tool follows contour between top and bottom planes while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
You can specify the following Geometry:● Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom. Bottom may be Hard or Soft.
● Guiding contour (edges or sketch) with possible Offset on Contour.
● Top plane with possible Offset on Top. Top may be Hard or Soft.
● Start and Stop Relimiting elements with possible Offsets.
● Fixture or check elements with possible Offset on Check.
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Between Two Curves (P2 functionality)
Tool follows trajectory defined by top and bottom guide curves while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
You can specify the following Geometry:● Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom. Bottom may be Hard or Soft.
● Top and Bottom Guiding contours (edges or sketch) with possible global radial Offset on Contour and an Axial Offset on each contour.
● Start and Stop Relimiting elements with possible Offsets.
● Fixture or check elements with possible Offset on Check.
You can restrict machining to a specific zone by specifying Minimum depth and Maximum depth values. The depths are taken from the top guiding contour. The Depth limitation checkbox must be activated in this case.
Between a Curve and Surfaces (P2 functionality)
Tool follows trajectory defined by a top guide curve and bottom surfaces while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
You can specify the following Geometry:● Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom.
● Guiding contour (edges or sketch) with possible radial Offset on Contour and Axial Offset.
● Start and Stop Relimiting elements with possible Offsets.
● Fixture or check elements with possible Offset on Check.
You can restrict machining to a specific zone by specifying Minimum depth and Maximum depth values. The depths are taken from the top guiding contour. The Depth limitation checkbox must be activated in this case.
By Flank Contouring (P2 functionality)
Tool flank machines vertical part surface while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
You can specify the following Geometry:● Guiding flank (face parallel to tool axis) with possible Offset on Contour.
● Possible Offset on Bottom.
● Start and Stop Relimiting elements with possible Offsets.
● Fixture or check elements with possible Offset on Check.
Specifying Guiding Contours
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Guiding contours can be specified in several ways:● if the Contour Detection contextual command is set in Between Two Planes mode, select the bottom
element. The boundary of the selected face will be proposed as guiding contour.
● select edges. In this case the Edge Selection toolbar appears to help you specify the guiding contour.
● select the By Belt of Faces or By Boundary of Faces contextual command. In this case the Face Selection toolbar appears to help you specify the guiding contour.
● select the Sectioning contextual command. Please refer to Sectioning for details of how to use this capability.Please note that the sectioning selection method is not associative.
Specifying Relimiting Elements
The guiding contour can be restricted by means of Start and Stop relimiting elements. The tool can be positioned In, On or Out with respect to a relimiting element. You can select a point or a curve as relimiting element.
A fast way to specify these elements is to select Relimitation point detection from the contextual menu. In this case the extremities of the contour are automatically selected as relimiting elements.
Machining Discontinuous Guiding Curves
You can machine several discontinuous groups of guiding elements in all Profile Contouring modes (except By Flank Contouring).
The order of selection of the geometric elements determines the order in which they will be machined.
Profile Contouring Tools
Recommended tools for Profile Contouring are End Mills, Face Mills, Conical Mills and T-Slotters.
Drills, Spot Drills, Center Drills, and Countersinks can also be used.
Profile Contouring Feeds and Speeds
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In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, machining and finishing as well as a machining spindle speed.
Feedrates and spindle speed can be defined in linear or angular units.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.
Feedrate Reduction in Corners
You can reduce feedrates in corners encountered along the tool path depending on values given in the Feeds and Speeds tab page: reduction rate, maximum radius, minimum angle, and distances before and after the corner.
Feed reduction is applied to corners along the tool path whose radius is less than the Maximum radius value and whose arc angle is greater than the Minimum angle value. Corners can be angled or rounded.
For Profile Contouring, feedrate reduction applies to inside corners for machining or finishing passes. It does not apply for macros or default linking and return motions.
If a cornering is defined with a radius of 5mm and the Feedrate reduction in corners set to a lower radius value, the feedrate will not be reduced.
Profile Contouring NC Macros
You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC Macros. These transition paths are useful for providing approach, retract and linking motion in the tool path.
An Approach macro is used to approach the operation start point.
A Retract macro is used to retract from the operation end point.
A Linking macro may be used in several cases, for example: ● to link two non consecutive paths
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● to access finish and spring passes.
A Return on Same Level macro is used in a multi-path operation to link two consecutive paths in a given level.
A Return between Levels macro is used in a multi-level machining operation to go to the next level.
A Return to Finish Pass macro is used in a machining operation to go to the finish pass.
A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for example.
Profile Contouring P1/P2 Considerations
Note that P2 functionalities for Profile Contouring include Automatic Draft Angle, all Finishing parameters, and Sectioning for guiding element selection. To edit in P1 a Profile Contouring operation that was created in P2, the following parameter values must be set:
● Automatic draft angle = 0 deg
● Finishing Mode = No finish path
● Side finish thickness = 0.0 mm
● Side finish thickness on bottom = 0.0 mm
● Bottom finish thickness = 0.0 mm
● Spring pass = no.
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Prismatic Roughing OperationsThe information in this section will help you create and edit Prismatic Roughing operations in your NC manufacturing program.
Select the Prismatic Roughing icon then the geometric components to be machined.
A number of strategy parameters are available for defining:● Machining criteria
● Radial stepover conditions
● Axial stepover conditions
● High speed milling.
Specify the tool to be used and speeds and feeds .
You can also define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC macros as needed.
Prismatic Roughing: Machining Strategy
Prismatic Roughing: Machining parametersTool path style Indicates the cutting mode of the operation.
● Helical: the tool moves in successive concentric passes from the boundary of the area to machine towards the interior. The tool moves from one pass to the next by stepping over.
● Back and forth: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next.
Machining tolerance Maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path. Consider the value to be the acceptable chord error.
Cutting mode Specifies the position of the tool regarding the surface to be machined. It can be:
Climb or Conventional.
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Machining mode Defines the type of area to be machined:
● By plane: the whole part is machined plane by plane
● By area: the whole part is machined area by area
then● Pockets only: only pockets on the part are machined
● Outer part: only the outside of the part is machined
● Outer part and pockets: the whole part is machined outer area by outer area and then pocket by pocket.
Helical movement This parameter is available when the tool path style is set to Helical. It specifies the way the tool moves in a pocket or an external zone. It can be:
● Inward: the tool starts from a point inside the zone and follows inward paths parallel to the boundary.
● Outward: the tool starts from a point inside the zone and follows outward paths parallel to the boundary.
● Both: For pockets, the tool starts from a point inside the pocket and follows outward paths parallel to the boundary. For external zones, the tool starts from a point on the rough stock boundary and follows inward paths parallel to the boundary.
Always stay on bottom This parameter is available when the tool path style is set to Helical. When this parameter is set, the linking path between two areas remains in the plane currently machined.
Part contouring With part contouring switched on, the tool machines the outside contour of the part before roughing.
Contouring pass ratio This parameter is available when the tool path style is set to Back and Forth. It adjusts the position of the final pass for removing scallops. This is done by entering a percentage of the tool diameter (0 to 50).
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Truncated transition paths This parameter is available when the tool path style is set to Back and Forth. It enables the tool to follow the external profile more exactly by allowing the transition portion of the trajectory to be truncated.
Not truncated: Truncated:
Prismatic Roughing: Radial parameters
Stepover, which can be defined by one of the following.
● Overlap ratio: the overlap between two passes, given as a percentage of the tool diameter
● Overlap length: given as the maximum distance between passes
● Stepover ratio: the stepover between two passes, given as a percentage of the tool diameter
● Stepover length: given as the maximum distance between passes.
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Prismatic Roughing: Axial parameters
Maximum cut depth Depth of the cut effected by the tool at each pass.
Prismatic Roughing: High Speed Milling parameters
The following parameters are available when the High speed milling checkbox is selected in the HSM tab page.
Corner radiusSpecifies the radius used for rounding the corners along the trajectory of a HSM operation. The tool path is rounded to give a smoother path that can be machined faster. The minimum value of the corner radius is the radius of the tool.
Corner radius on part contouring Specifies the radius used for rounding the corners along the Part contouring pass of a HSM operation. This radius must be smaller than the value set for the Corner radius parameter.
Prismatic Roughing: Geometry
You can specify the following geometry:
Part with possible offset.
Rough stock is required.
Check element with possible offset. The check element is often a clamp that holds the part and therefore is not an area to be machined.
Safety plane. The safety plane is the plane that the tool will rise to at the end of the tool path in order to avoid collisions with the part. You can also define a new safety plane with the Offset option in the safety plane contextual menu. The new plane will be offset from the original by the distance that you enter in the dialog box.
Top plane which defines the highest plane that will be machined on the part,
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Bottom plane which defines the lowest plane that will be machined on the part,
Imposed plane that the tool must pass through. Use this option if the part that you are going to machine has a particular shape (a groove or a step) that you want to be sure will be cut.
Note that if you wish to use all of the planar surfaces in a part as imposed planes, use the Search/View... contextual command to select them. When searching for planar surfaces, you can choose to find either:
● all of the planar surfaces in the part
● or only the planes that can be reached by the tool you are using.
When you are using planar surfaces in a part as imposed planes and you are using an offset on the part, select Offset contextual command and then enter an offset value that is the same as the offset on part value plus the machining tolerance value. For example, if the offset on part is 1mm and the machining tolerance is 0.1mm, give a value 1.1mm.
This ensures that the imposed planar surface is respected to within the offset and tolerance values.
Start point where the tool will start cutting. There are specific conditions for start points: ● They must be outside the machining limit. Examples of machining limits are the rough stock contour, a limit line, an
offset on the rough stock, an offset on the limit line, etc.
● They must be positioned so as to avoid collisions with either the part or the check element. If a start point for a given zone causes a collision, the tool will automatically adopt ramping approach mode.
● The distance between the start point and the machining limit must be greater than the tool radius plus the machining tolerance. If the distance between the start point and the machining limit is greater than the tool radius plus the safety distance, the start point will only serve to define the engagement direction.
● If there are several start points for a given area, the one that is used is the first valid one (in the order in which they were selected) for that area. If there are several possible valid points, the nearest one is taken into account.
● One start point may be valid and for more than one area.
● If a limit line is used, the tool will approach outer areas of the part and pockets in ramping mode. towards the outside of the contour. The tool moves from the outside towards the inside of this type of area. In this case, you must define the start point.
Note that if you use a limit line or if you use an inner offset on the rough stock, the start point may be defined inside the initial rough stock. The rules concerning the domain of the contour line or the offset on the rough stock contour line above must be applied.
Whenever possible, the end of the engagement associated to the start point corresponds to the beginning of the sweeping path. If this is not possible, the path will be cut to respect the constraint imposed by the start point.
Inner points (only active if the Drilling mode has been selected in the Macro tab). There are specific conditions for inner points:
● They are usable for pockets only.
● They must be positioned so as to avoid collisions with either the part or the check element. If an inner point for a given pocket causes a collision, the tool will adopt a new inner point generated automatically.
● The inner point must lie inside the pocket or inside the portion of the pocket that is machined.
● If there are several inner points for a given pocket, the one that is used is the first valid one (in the order in which they were selected) for that pocket.
● A point cannot be valid for several pockets.
Limiting contour which defines the machining limit on the part, with the Side to machine parameter.
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Automatic horizontal areas detection
When this option is inactive, the only way to ensure that a cutting plane corresponds with an horizontal area is to define an Imposed plane crossing the area. This means that you have to consider the offset on part. This plane applies to the whole part (which is not necessary). If there are several horizontal areas to consider at different levels you have to define all of the corresponding imposed planes.
Select this option to: ● detect automatically horizontal areas on the part
● limit the cutting plane effect to these areas
● apply a dedicated offset on the part for these areas.
Then enter the value of the offset to apply on the areas (Offset on areas) and define the Maximum angle that can be considered as horizontal. The angle is measured perpendicular to the tool path.
If the machining mode is By area, the tool path will look like this:
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If the machining mode is By plane, the tool path will look like this:
The cutting planes in green are the Standard roughing tool paths, the red ones are those computed for the horizontal areas detected.
The computation of horizontal areas is not possible if the part is made of a cloud of points (STL). This option is not compatible with the use of offset groups.
Horizontal areas are always defined as pockets (no distinction outer part/pocket). To mill Pocket only or Outer part areas, please use a limiting contour.
Offset Defines the distance that the tool can overshoot the Position. It is expressed as a percentage of the tool diameter. This parameter is useful in cases where there is an island near the edge of the part and the tool diameter is too wide to allow the area behind the island to be machined. This parameter can only be used if the Position is inside or outside.
Limit Definition Defines what area of the part will be machined with respect to the limiting contour(s). It can either be inside or outside. In the pictures below, there are three limiting contours on the rough stock. The yellow areas will be machined.
Side to machine: Inside Side to machine: Outside
Note that if you are using a limiting contour, you should define the start point so as to avoid tool-material collision.
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Prismatic Roughing: Tools
The only supported tools are End Mills.
Prismatic Roughing: Feeds and SpeedsIn the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, machining and finishing as well as a machining spindle speed.
Feedrates and spindle speed can be defined in linear or angular units.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.
Feedrate Reduction in Corners
You can reduce feedrates in corners encountered along the tool path depending on values given in the Feeds and Speeds tab page: reduction rate, maximum radius, minimum angle, and distances before and after the corner.
Feed reduction is applied to corners along the tool path whose radius is less than the Maximum radius value and whose arc angle is greater than the Minimum angle value.
For Pocketing, feedrate reduction applies to inside and outside corners for machining or finishing passes. It does not apply for macros or default linking and return motions.
Corners can be angled or rounded, and may include extra segments for HSM operations.
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Slowdown Rate
You can use Slowdown rate in the Feeds and Speeds tab page to reduce the current feedrate by a given percentage.
In Helical tool paths, the reduction is applied to the first channel cut.
In Back and Forth tool paths, the reduction is applied to the first channel cut and to the transitions between passes.
Combining Slowdown Rate and Feedrate Reduction in Corners
If a corner is included in a Slowdown path, the general rule is that the lowest percentage value is taken into account.
For example, if the Slowdown rate is set to 70 % and Feedrate reduction rate in corners is set to 50%, the feedrate sequence is: 100%, 70% (entry in slowdown), 50% (entry in corner), 70% (end of corner, still in slowdown), 100% (end of slowdown).
If Feedrate reduction rate in corners is then set to 75%, the feedrate sequence is: 100%, 70% (entry in slowdown), 70% (entry in corner: 75% ignored), 70% (end of corner, still in slowdown), 100% (end of slowdown).
Prismatic Roughing: Macro Data
The following types of macro can be defined on a Prismatic Roughing operation:● Automatic roughing
● Pre-motion
● Post-motion.
For more information on how to save or load an existing macro, please refer to Build and use a macros catalog.
Automatic Roughing Macros
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You must select one of the following approach modes to specify how the tool will engage the material:● Plunge: the tool plunges vertically.
● Drilling: the tool plunges into previously drilled holes. You can change the Drilling tool diameter, Drilling tool angle and Drilling tool length.
● Ramping: the tool moves progressively down at the Ramping angle. Ramping approach mode applies to pockets but also outer areas in given conditions:
❍ If a limit line is used, the tool will approach outer areas of the part and pockets in ramping mode.
❍ If a lateral approach is not possible (due to the check element), the approach is made in ramping mode.
● Helix: the tool moves progressively down at the ramping angle with its center along a (vertical) circular helix of Helix diameter.
Approach distanceEngagement distance for the selected approach mode.
Axial safety distanceMaximum distance that the tool will rise to when moving from the end of one pass to the beginning of the next.
Radial safety distance Distance that the tool moves horizontally before it begins its approach.
Optimize retract Selecting this checkbox optimizes tool retract movements. This means that when the tool moves over a surface where there are no obstructions, it will not rise as high as the safety plane because there is no danger of tool-part collisions. The result is a gain in time.
Note that in some cases (where areas of the part are higher than the zone you are machining and when you are using a safety plane), the tool may cut into the part. In this case, deselect the Optimize retract checkbox.
Pre-Motion Macros
These are macros that are built by the user using the elementary motions proposed in the Current Macro Toolbox. A pre-motion macro is applied between the rapid motion from safety plane and the automatic macro.
Post-Motion Macros
These are macros that are built by the user using the elementary motions proposed in the Current Macro Toolbox. The post-motion macro between the automatic macro and the rapid motion from safety plane.
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Facing Operations The information in this section will help you create and edit Facing operations in your NC manufacturing program.
Select the Facing icon then select the geometry to be machined.
A number of strategy parameters are available for defining:
● machining criteria
● radial stepover conditions
● axial stepover conditions
● finishing
● high-speed milling.
Specify the tool to be used , NC macros , and feeds and speeds as needed.
Facing Strategy Parameters
Facing Machining ParametersTool path styleIndicates the cutting mode of the operation:
● Inward helical: the tool starts from a point inside the area to machine and follows inward paths parallel to the boundary.
● One way: the same machining direction is used from one path to the next.
● Back and forth: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next.
Direction of cutSpecifies how milling is to be done in Inward helical:
Climb milling or Conventional milling
In Climb, the front of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first
In Conventional, the rear of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first.
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Machining toleranceSpecifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path. Fixture accuracySpecifies a tolerance applied to the fixture thickness. If the distance between the tool and fixture is less than fixture thickness minus fixture accuracy, the position is eliminated from the trajectory. If the distance is greater, the position is not eliminated. Type of contourIndicates the contouring type of corners in Inward helical:
● Circular: the tool pivots around the corner point, following a contour whose radius is equal to the tool radius
● Angular: the tool does not remain in contact with the corner point, following a contour comprised of two line segments
● Optimized: the tool follows a contour derived from the corner that is continuous in tangent
● Forced circular: the tool follows a near-circular contour comprised of line segments.
CompensationSpecifies the tool corrector identifier to be used in the operation.
The corrector type (P1, P2, P3, for example), corrector identifier and corrector number are defined on the tool. When the NC data source is generated, the corrector number can be generated using specific parameters.
Facing Radial Stepover ParametersRadial modeDefines how the distance between two consecutive paths is to be computed.
You should either set a Maximum distance between paths or give a Percentage of tool diameter to be used as:
either Tool diameter ratio or Stepover ratio .
Distance between pathsDefines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy. Percentage of tool diameterDefines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy as a percentage of the nominal tool diameter. End of pathDefines how the tool path is to start and end with respect to the boundary between two consecutive paths (In or Out). Parameter available in One way and Back and forth only.
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OverhangAllows a shift in the tool position with respect to the soft boundary of the machining domain.
Tool side approach clearanceSpecifies the clearance between the tool side and the part that must be respected when entering or leaving the material.
Facing Axial Stepover ParametersAxial strategy modeDefines how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed. Maximum depth of cutDefines the maximum depth of cut in an axial strategy. Number of levelsDefines the number of levels to be machined in an axial strategy.
Facing Finishing ParametersFinishing modeIndicates whether or not a finish pass is to be generated on the bottom of the area to machine. Bottom finish thicknessSpecifies the thickness used for bottom finishing.
Facing High Speed Milling (HSM) Parameters
For Facing operations using an Inward helical tool path style only.
High Speed MillingSpecifies whether or not cornering for HSM is to be done on the trajectory. Corner radiusSpecifies the radius used for rounding the corners along the trajectory of a HSM operation. Value must be smaller than the tool radius. Limit angleSpecifies the minimum angle for rounding corners in the toolpath for a HSM operation. Extra segment overlapSpecifies the overlap for the extra segments that are generated for cornering in a HSM operation. This is to ensure that there is no leftover material in the corners of the trajectory. Transition radiusSpecifies the radius at the start and end of the transition path when moving from one path to the next in a HSM operation. Transition angleSpecifies the angle of the transition path that allows the tool to move smoothly from one path to the next in a HSM operation.
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Transition lengthSpecifies a minimum length for the straight segment of the transition between paths in a HSM operation.
Facing Geometry
You can specify the following Geometry:● Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom
● Drive contour (edges or sketch) with possible Offset on Contour
● Top plane with possible Offset on Top
● Fixture or check elements with possible Offset on Check
● Start point (for Inward helical)
● Start and end points (for One way and Back and forth).
The drive contour must be closed. It can be specified in several ways:● if the Contour Detection contextual command is set, select the bottom face. The boundary of the
selected face will be proposed as drive contour.
● select edges. In this case the Edge Selection toolbar appears to help you specify the contour.
● select the By Belt of Faces or By Boundary of Faces contextual command. In this case the Face Selection toolbar appears to help you specify the contour.
● select the Sectioning contextual command. Please refer to Sectioning for details of how to use this capability.Please note that the sectioning selection method is not associative.
You can select start and end points as preferential start and end positions on the operation. This allows better control for optimizing the program according to the previous and following operations.
For One way and Back and forth tool path styles, you can select the Bounding envelope checkbox to machine the maximum bounding rectangle of the part. After selecting the geometry to be machined, this rectangle is computed after defining a machining direction.
The figures below illustrate how machining is done for different machining directions.
Facing Tools
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Recommended tools for Facing are End Mills, Face Mills and T-Slotters.
Facing Feeds and Speeds
In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, machining and finishing as well as a machining spindle speed.
Feedrates and spindle speed can be defined in linear or angular units.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.
Facing NC Macros
You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC Macros. These transition paths are useful for providing approach, retract and linking motion in the tool path.
An Approach macro is used to approach the operation start point.
A Retract macro is used to retract from the operation end point.
A Return on Same Level macro is used in a multi-path operation to link two consecutive paths in a given level.
A Return between Levels macro is used in a multi-level machining operation to go to the next level.
A Return to Finish Pass macro is used in a machining operation to go to the finish pass.
A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for example.
Facing P1/P2 Considerations
Note that P2 functionalities for Facing include all Finishing parameters and Sectioning for guiding element selection. To edit in P1 a Facing operation that was created in P2, the following parameter values must be set:
● Finishing Mode = No finish path
● Bottom finish thickness = 0.0 mm
● HSM Corner radius = 1 mm
● HSM Limit angle = 10 deg.
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Curve Following OperationsThe information in this section will help you create and edit Curve Following operations in your NC manufacturing program.
Select the Curve Following icon then select the geometry to be machined .
A number of strategy parameters are available for defining:
● machining criteria
● axial stepover conditions.
Specify the tool to be used , NC macros , and feeds and speeds as needed.
Curve Following Strategy Parameters
Curve Following: Machining ParametersTool path styleIndicates the cutting mode of the operation:
● Zig Zag: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next
● One way: the same machining direction is used from one path to the next.
Machining toleranceSpecifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path. Fixture accuracySpecifies a tolerance applied to the fixture thickness. If the distance between the tool and fixture is less than fixture thickness minus fixture accuracy, the position is eliminated from the trajectory. If the distance is greater, the position is not eliminated. CompensationSpecifies the tool corrector identifier to be used in the operation.
The corrector type (P1, P2, P3, for example), corrector identifier and corrector number are defined on the tool. When the NC data source is generated, the corrector number can be generated using specific parameters.
Curve Following: Axial Stepover ParametersMaximum depth of cutDefines the maximum depth of cut in an axial strategy. Number of levelsDefines the number of levels to be machined in an axial strategy.
Curve Following Geometry
You can specify the following Geometry:● Guiding contour (edges or sketch) with possible Axial Offset
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● Fixture or check elements with possible Offset on Check.
Guiding contour can be specified in several ways:● select edges. In this case the Edge Selection toolbar appears to help you specify the guiding contour.
● select the By Belt of Faces or By Boundary of Faces contextual command. In this case the Face Selection toolbar appears to help you specify the guiding contour.
● select the Sectioning contextual command. Please refer to Sectioning for details of how to use this capability.Please note that the sectioning selection method is not associative.
Curve Following Tool
Most Milling and Drilling tool types can be used for Curve Following.
Curve Following Feeds and Speeds
In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, and machining passes as well as a machining spindle speed.
Feedrates and spindle speed can be defined in linear or angular units.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.
Curve Following NC Macros
You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC Macros. These transition paths are useful for providing approach, retract and linking motion in the tool path.
An Approach macro is used to approach the operation start point.
A Retract macro is used to retract from the operation end point.
A Return between Levels macro is used in a multi-level machining operation to go to the next level.
A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for example.
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Groove Milling OperationsThe information in this section will help you create and edit 2.5 axis Groove Milling operations in your NC manufacturing program.
Select the Groove Milling icon then select the geometry to be machined .
Specify the tool to be used , NC macros , and feeds and speeds as needed.
A number of strategy parameters are available for defining:
● machining criteria
● axial and radial stepover conditions
● finishing.
The Machining direction (Top/Bottom, Bottom/Top) and Axial strategy (Standard, Middle, Middle alternate) parameters determine the tool path ordering for machining the groove as follows:
● The roughing pass ordering respects the Machining direction definition
● If Side finish pass is defined: a side finish pass is done for each roughing level
● If Top and/or Bottom finish passes are defined, Top and/or Bottom finish pass are done in order to minimize tool motion between levels. For example, in Top/Bottom machining with Top and Bottom finish passes, top finishing is done just after the first machining level and just before the second machining level.
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In Bottom/top machining with Top and Bottom finish passes, bottom finishing is done just after the first machining level and just before the second machining level.
● The tool compensation point is taken into account for each pass. This point is switched automatically during a Return between levels macro whenever the next level to machine requires a different compensation point.
Groove Milling Strategy Parameters
Groove Milling: Machining ParametersTool path styleIndicates the cutting mode of the operation:
● Zig Zag: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next
● One way: the same machining direction is used from one path to the next.
Direction of cutSpecifies how machining is to be done.
● In Climb milling, the front of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first.
● In Conventional , the rear of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first.
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Machining toleranceSpecifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path. Fixture accuracySpecifies a tolerance applied to the fixture thickness. If the distance between the tool and fixture is less than fixture thickness minus fixture accuracy, the position is eliminated from the trajectory. If the distance is greater, the position is not eliminated. Close tool pathSpecifies whether or not the program must close the tool path.
Percentage overlapSpecifies the amount that the tool must go beyond the end point of a closed tool path according to a percentage of the tool diameter.
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Output typeAllows you to manage the generation of Cutter compensation (CUTCOM) instructions.
The following options are proposed:● If 2D Radial profile is selected, both the tool tip and cutter profile will be visualized during tool
path replay. Cutter compensation instructions are automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.
● If 2D Radial tip is selected, the tool tip will be visualized during tool path replay. Cutter compensation instructions are automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.
● If None is selected, cutter compensation instructions are not generated in the NC data output. In this case, please refer to How to generate CUTCOM syntaxes.
Any user-defined PP words in macros are added to the cutter compensation instructions generated in the NC data output. Therefore you should be careful when specifying CUTCOM instructions in macros.
A negative Offset on contour (parameter in Geometry tab page) is possible for 2D radial profile output.
Compensation on top / Compensation on bottomSpecifies the tool corrector identifiers to be used in the operation. This point is switched automatically during a Return between levels macro whenever the next level to machine requires a different compensation point.
The corrector type (P1, P2, P3, for example), corrector identifier and corrector number are defined on the tool. When the NC data source is generated, the corrector number can be generated using specific parameters.
Groove Milling: Axial/Radial Stepover ParametersMachining directionDefines how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed:
● Top/Bottom
● Bottom/Top.
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Axial strategyDefines how the tool path is to be ordered for machining the groove:
● Standard
● MiddleExample: Middle axial strategy with Bottom/Top machining
Example: Middle axial strategy with Top/Bottom machining
● Middle alternateExample: Middle alternate axial strategy with Top/Bottom machining
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Axial modeDefines how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed:
● Maximum depth of cut
● Number of levels
● Number of levels without top.
Maximum depth of cutDefines the maximum depth of cut in an axial strategy. Number of levelsDefines the number of levels to be machined in an axial strategy. BreakthroughSpecifies the distance in the tool axis direction that the tool must go completely through the part. Breakthrough is applied on the bottom element, which must be specified as soft.
Distance between pathsDefines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy.
Number of pathsDefines the number of tool paths in a radial strategy.
Groove Milling Finishing Parameters
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Finishing modeIndicates whether or not finish passes are to be generated on the sides, top and bottom of the area to machine. Side finishing can be done at each level or only at the last level of the operation.For example, Top/Bottom machining with side, top and bottom bottom finish passes:
Side finish thicknessSpecifies the thickness used for finishing the flank of the groove.
Bottom finish thicknessSpecifies the thickness used for finishing the bottom of the groove.
Top finish thicknessSpecifies the thickness used for finishing the top of the groove.Top/bottom finish path styleDefines the finish path style for the top and bottom finish passes: Zig zag or One way. Spring passIndicates whether or not a spring pass is to be generated on the sides in the same condition as the previous Side finish pass. The spring pass is used to compensate the natural `spring' of the tool.
Groove Milling Geometry
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Tool follows a guiding contour between top and bottom of the groove while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
You can specify the following Geometry:● Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom. Bottom may be Hard or Soft.
● Top plane with possible Offset on Top. Top may be Hard or Soft.
● Open or closed guiding contour (edges or sketch) with possible Offset on Contour.
● Start and Stop Relimiting elements with possible Offsets.
● Fixture or check elements with possible Offset on Check.
Specifying Guiding Contours
Guiding contours can be specified in several ways:● if the Contour Detection contextual command is set, select the bottom element. The boundary of the
selected face will be proposed as guiding contour.
● select edges. In this case the Edge Selection toolbar appears to help you specify the guiding contour.
● select the By Belt of Faces or By Boundary of Faces contextual command. In this case the Face Selection toolbar appears to help you specify the guiding contour.
● select the Sectioning contextual command. Please refer to Sectioning for details of how to use this capability.Please note that the sectioning selection method is not associative.
Specifying Relimiting Elements
The guiding contour can be restricted by means of Start and Stop relimiting elements. The tool can be positioned In, On or Out with respect to a relimiting element. You can select a point or a curve as relimiting element.
A fast way to specify these elements is to select Relimitation point detection from the contextual menu. In this case the extremities of the contour are automatically selected as relimiting elements.
Groove Milling Tools
A Groove Milling operation uses a T-Slotter.
Groove Milling Feeds and Speeds
In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, machining and finishing as well as a machining spindle speed.
Feedrates and spindle speed can be defined in linear or angular units.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or
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Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.
Feedrate Reduction in Corners
You can reduce feedrates in corners encountered along the tool path depending on values given in the Feeds and Speeds tab page: reduction rate, maximum radius, minimum angle, and distances before and after the corner.
Feed reduction is applied to corners along the tool path whose radius is less than the Maximum radius value and whose arc angle is greater than the Minimum angle value. Corners can be angled or rounded.
For Groove Milling, feedrate reduction applies to inside corners for machining or finishing passes. It does not apply for macros or default linking and return motions.
If a cornering is defined with a radius of 5mm and the Feedrate reduction in corners set to a lower radius value, the feedrate will not be reduced.
Groove Milling NC Macros
You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC Macros. These transition paths are useful for providing approach, retract and linking motion in the tool path.
An Approach macro is used to approach the operation start point.
A Retract macro is used to retract from the operation end point.
A Linking macro may be used in several cases, for example: ● to link two non consecutive paths
● to access finish and spring passes.
A Return on Same Level macro is used in a multi-path operation to link two consecutive paths in a given level.
A Return between Levels macro is used in a multi-level machining operation to go to the next level.
A Return to Finish Pass macro is used in a machining operation to go to the finish pass.
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A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for example.
Groove Milling P1/P2 Considerations
Note that P2 functionalities for Groove Milling include all Finishing parameters, and Sectioning for guiding element selection.To edit in P1 a Groove Milling operation that was created in P2, the following parameter values must be set:
● Finishing Mode = No finish path
● Side finish thickness = 0.0 mm
● Top finish thickness = 0.0 mm
● Bottom finish thickness = 0.0 mm
● Spring pass = no.
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Point to Point Operations The information in this section will help you create and edit Point to Point operations in your NC manufacturing program.
Select the Point to Point icon then set the strategy parameters for defining:
● a sequence of elementary Goto Point, Goto Position and Go Delta tool motions
● machining conditions.
Specify the tool to be used, NC macros , and feeds and speeds as needed.
Point to Point Strategy Parameters
Point to Point Tool MotionsGoto PointA tool motion defined by the point the tool tip has to reach.
Geometry can be selected as follows:● Direct selection on the part (points, vertices, and so on)
● Direct indication in a pre-selected surface. Only selection done within the topological limits of the surface are taken into account.
● Indication of points to be projected onto a user-defined indication plane.This indication plane is considered as infinite (it has no topological limits). This allows point indication outside the part boundaries. It is a temporary element used as an aid for selection. It is not saved after operation edition.
Goto PositionA tool motion defined by positioning the tool in contact with a part element, a drive element and possibly a check element, while taking To / On / Past conditions into account. Go DeltaA tool motion defined by a displacement relative to a previous Point, Position or GoDelta motion location. Types of Go Delta motion are as follows. Components: relative motion defined by DX, DY, DZ displacements from previous motion location.
Along Y axis: relative motion along Y axis (current axis system) on a user specified Distance, from previous motion location.
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Along X axis: relative motion along X axis (current axis system) on a user specified Distance, from previous motion location.
Parallel to Line: relative motion on a user specified Distance, parallel to a user selected Line, from previous motion location.
Normal to Line: relative motion on a user specified Distance, normal to a user selected Line, from previous motion location. The tool motion is done in a plane perpendicular to the tool axis.
Angle to Line: relative motion on a user specified Distance, along a line computed from user defined Angle and Line. The tool motion is done in a plane perpendicular to the tool axis.
Point to Point Machining ParametersMachining toleranceSpecifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path. Offset along tool axisDefines an offset along the tool axis for all positions of the tool path (it is taken into account for all the positions of the operation). First compensationSpecifies the tool corrector identifier to be used in the operation.
The corrector type (P1, P2, P3, for example), corrector identifier and corrector number are defined on the tool. When the NC data source is generated, the corrector number can be generated using specific parameters.
Point to Point Tool
All Milling and Drilling tools can be used in this type of operation.
Point to Point Feeds and Speeds
In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract and machining as well as a machining spindle speed.
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Feedrates and spindle speed can be defined in linear or angular units.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.
In Point to Point operations, a local feedrate can be defined for all tool motions (except the first motion, which must be either RAPID or a specific feedrate). The local feedrate is applied instead of the machining feedrate during the tool motion to reach the tool position.
Point to Point NC Macros
You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC Macros. These transition paths are useful for providing approach and retract motion in the tool path.
● An Approach macro is used to approach the operation start point.
● A Retract macro is used to retract from the operation end point.
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2.5 to 5-axis Drilling OperationsThe information in this section will help you create and manage the drilling (or axial machining) operations in your NC manufacturing program. The following topics are dealt with:
● Axial Machining Strategy Parameters
● Axial Machining Geometry Considerations:
❍ Machining Patterns
■ Pattern Ordering Modes
■ Contextual Menu on 'No Points / x Points' Sensitive Text
■ Contextual Menu on Pattern Points
■ Inversing Pattern Ordering
❍ Overall Tool Axis Orientation
❍ Projection and Top Element Modes
❍ Origin Offset
❍ Jump Distance
❍ Holes at Different Levels
❍ Machining Different Depths
❍ Relimiting Hole Origins.
● Macros in Axial Machining Operations
● CYCLE Syntaxes in Axial Machining operations.
Note that the commands and capabilities included in the Geometry tab page of the Axial Machining Operation dialog box allow support of multi-axis as well as fixed axis drilling.
Axial Machining Strategy Parameters
Strategy parameters are managed in the Strategy tab page .
General ParametersApproach clearance (A)Defines a safety distance along the tool axis for approaching the hole reference.The manufacturing attribute is MFG_CLEAR_TIP. Approach clearance 2 (A2)Only for Boring and Chamfering, Chamfering Two Sides and Back Boring operations. Defines a safety distance along the tool axis for approaching the chamfering or back boring pass. The manufacturing attribute is MFG_CLEAR_TIP_2. Breakthrough (B)Defines the distance in the tool axis direction that the tool goes completely through the part.The manufacturing attribute is MFG_BREAKTHROUGH.
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Plunge modeAllows you to specify an axial plunge from the hole reference at plunge feedrate prior to machining.
The overall plunge distance is determined as follows: Approach clearance + (Plunge depth - Plunge offset)where Plunge depth is determined by a tool tip or tool diameter value.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_PLUNGE_MODE.
Plunge offset (Po)Specifies the plunge offset value.The manufacturing attribute is MFG_PLUNGE_OFFST. Plunge diameter (Pd)Specifies the plunge diameter value.The manufacturing attribute is MFG_PLUNGE_DIAMETER. Plunge tip (Pt)Specifies the plunge tip distance.The manufacturing attribute is MFG_PLUNGE_TIP. Depth modeDefines how the depth computation is to be done.Depending on the type of operation this can be done as a function of the tool tip, shoulder, diameter or a distance value. The manufacturing attribute is MFG_DEPTH_MODE. Dwell modeDefines the dwell by means of a number of revolutions or time duration.
● Revolutions: Specifies the number of revolutions for the dwell
● Time: Specifies the time duration of the dwell.
Shift modeSpecifies the shift mode used to offset the tool just before retracting.
● By linear coordinatesShift along X: Specifies the shift along X Shift along Y: Specifies the shift along Y Shift along Z: Specifies the shift along Z
● By polar coordinatesShift distance: Specifies the shift distance Shift angle: Specifies the shift angle
● None.
The values entered for the selected shift mode determine the angle at which the active part of the boring bar stops and the amount of the tool displacement.
For a shift defined by polar coordinates (90deg, 1.5mm), the tool is displaced 1.5mm as indicated by the arrow in the figure below.
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The same shift motion could be obtained by the linear coordinates (0mm, 1.5mm, 0mm).
Max depth of cut (Dc)Defines the maximum depth of cut for:
● each peck in a Drilling Deephole operation
● each break chips pass in a Drilling Break Chips operation.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_AXIAL_DEPTH.
RetractDefines the retract clearance after the machining pass in a Back Boring operation.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_RETRACT_CLEAR_TIP.
Retract offset (Or)Defines the value of:
● the back motion used to break chips after each drilling pass in a Drilling Break Chips operation
● the offset where machining feedrate starts before each new peck in a Drilling Deephole operation.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_OFFSET_RET.
Decrement rateDecreases the effective depth of cut at each new peck until the total depth is reached.
Depth of peck 1 = Max depth of cut (Dc)Depth of peck 2 = Dc * (1-Decrement rate)Depth of peck 3 = Dc * (1-2*Decrement rate)and so on.
If Decrement rate is equal to zero, the Maximum depth of cut is applied at each new peck as a constant step.The manufacturing attribute is MFG_DEPTH_DEC.
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Decrement limitCoefficient used to determine the maximum allowed depth of cut for a peck in a Drilling Deephole operation.
The depth of a new peck never becomes smaller than the Maximum depth of cut multiplied by the Decrement limit.
That is:Depth of current peck > Maximum depth of cut * Decrement limit.
When:Depth of current peck = Maximum depth of cut * Decrement limitthis depth is kept for all remaining pecks until the total depth is reached.
The value of Decrement limit must be greater than zero.The manufacturing attribute is MFG_DEPTH_LIM.
Example of Decrement rate and Decrement limit
A Drilling Deep Hole uses the following parameters:Maximum depth of cut = 10mmDecrement rate = 0.1Decrement limit = 0.8
Therefore, depth of current peck must always be greater than 8mm (that is, 10mm*0.8).
Depth of peck 1 = 10mmDepth of peck 2 = 9mmDepth of peck 3 = 8mmDepth of remaining pecks = 8mm.
Automatic ROTABLAllows the generation of rotation motions between drilling points.
Works with 3-axis milling machine with rotary table when ROTABL/ output is requested.Rotary motions are displayed during Replay.ROTABL/ instructions are generated in the output file.Facilitates environment setup by minimizing the requirement on post processors (avoids having to deal with X, Y, Z, I, J, K outputs for rotary tables).Provides the NC programmer with a more accurate tool path simulation for machine tools with rotary table.
Output CYCLE syntax Specifies how the NC output is to be generated: output in CYCLE mode or in GOTO mode.
If you want to generate CYCLE statements, you must select the Output CYCLE syntax checkbox in the Strategy tab page and set the Syntax Used option to Yes in the NC Output generation dialog box.Otherwise, GOTO statements will be generated.
Note that when several axis orientations are present in a machining pattern, output of the components of the tool axis orientation is possible whenever the NC data format is set to Axis (X, Y, Z, I, J, K) in the Part Operation's Machine Editor dialog box.
First compensationSpecifies the first tool compensation number for the operation. Second compensationSpecifies the second tool compensation number for the operation.Only for Boring and Chamfering and Chamfering Two Sides operations.
Circular Milling and Thread Milling ParameterMachining toleranceSpecifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path.
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Specific Circular Milling ParametersMachining modeSpecifies the machining mode: Standard or Helical. Distance between paths (Dp)Defines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy. Number of paths (Np)Defines the number of tool paths in a radial strategy. Axial modeDefines how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed.
Maximum depth of cut (Mdc)Defines the maximum depth of cut in an axial strategy. Number of levels (Nl)Defines the number of levels to be machined in an axial strategy.
Sequencing mode Specifies the order in which machining is to be done:
Axial: axial machining is done first then radialRadial: radial machining is done first then axial.
Direction of cutSpecifies how milling is to be done:
Climb milling: the front of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material firstConventional milling: the rear of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first
Percentage overlapSpecifies the percentage overlap. Automatic draft angleSpecifies the draft angle to be applied on the circular flank between the top and bottom of the hole. Helix modeDefines how the helix computation is to be done.The manufacturing attribute is MFG_HELIX_MODE.
Pitch (P): Specifies the helix pitchAngle (Ang): Specifies the helix angle.
Output styleAllows you to manage the generation of Cutter compensation (CUTCOM) instructions in the NC data output:
The following options are proposed:● If 2D Radial profile is selected, both the tool tip and cutter profile will be visualized during tool path
replay. Cutter compensation instructions are automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.
● If 2D Radial tip is selected, the tool tip will be visualized during tool path replay. Cutter compensation instructions are automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.
● If None is selected, cutter compensation instructions are not generated in the NC data output. In this case, please refer to How to generate CUTCOM syntaxes.
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Axial Machining Geometry Considerations
Geometry parameters are managed in the Geometry tab page .
Machining Patterns
A machining pattern comprises two sets of data:● Patten geometry: hole positions/axes, top element
● Pattern usage or technology data: Ordering mode, Jump distance, local entry/exit distances, local depth, activate/deactivate status.
When you create a new axial machining operation, the New Pattern command in the combo prompts you to create a machining pattern for the operation.
You can add positions to this new machining pattern by clicking the sensitive text (No Point or x Points). This opens the Pattern Selection dialog box that lists all available machining and design patterns. Just select one of the existing patterns and/or select geometry in the 3D view to define the hole positions.
The new machining pattern is created when you create the machining operation. The pattern geometry and technology data is stored and the new pattern is assigned an identifier Machining Pattern.x.
If there are already machining patterns on previous operations, the combo allows a quick selection of an existing pattern. If selected, the existing pattern is shared between the operations.
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You can also use the following commands in the combo for assigning a machining pattern to the operation.
Copy from Current: The machining pattern (geometry and technology data) is duplicated. The pattern cannot be shared. It is possible to modify the machining data in the current machining operation without impacting other operations.
New from Current (share geometry): The machining pattern (geometry and technology data) is duplicated. The pattern can be shared. If the pattern is modified, all operations using it will be impacted.
New Pattern: A new machining pattern is created with the geometry and technology data that you specify.
Modification of a machining pattern is possible using the Machining Pattern editor only. This editor can be opened by double-clicking the machining pattern in the manufacturing view. Please refer to Machining Patterns for more information.
Note that it is possible to reference in a machining pattern one or more 3D Wireframe features (that is, Projection, Symmetry, Rotation and Translation operators) containing at least one point.
Pattern Ordering Modes
Holes that are selected for a machining pattern can be ordered according to the following modes: ● Closest: to obtain the shortest possible tool path
● Manual: to obtain a user-defined numbered sequence
● By Band: to obtain a Zig Zag or One Way configuration according to a set of bands that have a user-defined width.
❍ Zig Zag ordering of a pattern of 40 points for a band width of 18mm is illustrated below:
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❍ One Way ordering of the same points and same band width is illustrated below:
● Reverse Ordering: Reverses the numbered sequence of pattern points (for example, points numbered 1 thru 10 will become numbered 10 thru 1).
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Pattern Point Management
Contextual Menu on 'No Points / x Points' Sensitive Text
A number of contextual commands are available for managing hole positions when you right click the 'No Points / x Points' sensitive text in the Geometry tab page.
● Remove All Positions: Removes all positions from the pattern.
● Remove: Displays a dialog box for removing selected positions from the pattern.
● Deactivate: Displays a dialog box for deactivating selected points of the pattern.
● Move After: Displays a dialog box for moving one or more positions after a specified position in the pattern. Only available when Pattern Ordering mode is set to Manual.
● Analyze: Displays the Geometry Analyser for consulting the status of the referenced geometry.
● Find Features Through Faces: Allows you to quickly locate circular edges in a selected face. Please refer to Select Hole Design Features for Machining.
Contextual Menu on Pattern Points
A number of contextual commands are available when you right-click a pattern point.
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● Deactivate the Point: Deactivates the selected point in the pattern. An O symbol indicates that the point is omitted from the pattern. A deactivated point can be activated in the pattern again.
● Invert Selection: All omitted points are retained in the pattern again; pattern points become omitted points.
● Select All: Allows you to include all omitted points in the pattern again.
● Set as Start Point: Allows you to choose the start point for the pattern.
● Renumber: Allows you to renumber points in the pattern. Only available when Pattern Ordering mode is set to Manual.
● Edit Entry Distance and Edit Exit Distance:Allows you to locally edit Entry and Exit distances at individual points in a hole pattern. This can be useful for locally specifying a clearance that is greater than the one defined by the jump distance/approach clearance discussed below.
● Edit Depth: Allows you to edit the depth of a pattern point.
● Restore Associativity: Restores the original values taken from the selected design feature if these were modified by the user, and so restore associativity with the feature.
● Edit Local Axis: Allows you to locally modify the tool axis at a point. Choose the method for defining tool axis orientation in the dialog box that appears:
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Manual. Choose one of the following: ❍ Coordinates to define the orientation by means of X, Y and Z components
❍ Angles to define the orientation by means of a rotation of the X, Y or Z axis. The rotation is specified by means of one or two angles.
Selection. If you select a line or linear edge, the tool axis will have the same orientation as that element. If you select a planar element, the tool axis will be normal to that element.
Points in the View. Just select two points to define the orientation.
The tool axis is visualized by means of an arrow. The direction can be reversed by clicking Reverse Direction in the dialog box. Just click OK to accept the specified tool axis orientation.
● Insert after Current Position: Allows you to insert one or more positions (or patterns) after the current point in the pattern. Only available when Pattern Ordering mode is set to Manual.
● Remove Current Position: Deletes the current point from the pattern.
● Remove Linked Positions: Deletes the current point and all linked positions from the pattern. Linked positions are points from the same design pattern, for example.
Inversing Pattern Ordering
A Inverse pattern ordering option is available in the Geometry tab page to allow an operation to locally override the ordering of the Machining Pattern by inversing it.
● If not selected, the Machining Pattern will be machined as defined (and as shown in the 3D view).
● If selected, the tool path computation will begin at the last point and finish at the first point.This will not modify the ordering on the Machining Pattern: the pattern numbers shown in the 3D View are not modified.
This option is useful in the following cases.● When machining symmetrical parts. Please refer to Opposite hand machining.
● To save machining time when managing two operations sharing the same Machining Pattern on a large part. The first operation can be set to machine from the first position to the last one, and the second operation can be set machine from the last position to the first one.
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Overall Tool Axis Orientation
Right click the Tool axis strategy sensitive text in the Geometry tab page and select one of the following options to specify the general tool axis orientation:
● Fixed Axis: the tool axis orientation is the same for all the selected points
● Variable Axis: the tool axis orientation can vary from one point to another
● Normal to PS Axis: the tool axis orientation is determined by the normal to the selected part surface.
Note that the tool axis orientation can be inverted by clicking the tool axis symbol in the Geometry tab page.
Projection and Top Element Modes
In the Geometry tab page you can choose between Projection and Top Element modes by clicking on the sensitive text.
The following figure illustrates Projection mode. The reference pattern points are projected onto the selected part surface. The projected points and the axes normal to the surface define the hole positions to be drilled.
The following figure illustrates Top Element mode. The reference pattern points define the hole positions to be drilled. The machining depth takes into account the normal distance between the reference points and the selected part surface.
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Origin Offset
You can specify an Origin Offset in order to shift the entire tool path by the specified amount.
Jump Distance
The jump distance allows an extra clearance for moving in Rapid motion between the holes to be drilled whenever this distance is greater than the approach clearance.For example, for an approach clearance of 2.5mm and a jump distance of 10mm, the extra clearance is 7.5mm.
Holes at Different Levels
For 2.5-axis operations, the program automatically manages holes at different levels using horizontal transition paths.
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Machining Different Depths
When dealing with design feature holes in design patterns, both the result and specification mode are taken into account (except spot drilling, counterboring, and countersinking operations).
Select the Machine different depths checkbox when you want the program to automatically manage different depths of holes in a pattern (result mode).
If the checkbox is not selected, the program uses the values specified in the Geometry tab page for the pattern holes (specification mode).
For threading operations, select the Machine different thread depths checkbox when you want the program to take the real thread depth of each selected pattern hole into account.
Relimiting Hole Origins
The Relimit hole origin and Machine different depths checkboxes can be used together to manage the machining strategy of different design hole configurations.
In the following figures the red star ( ) represents the origin of the selected design hole, and the green star
( ) represents the start of the tool path.
Relimit hole origin OffMachine different depths Off
Relimit hole origin OffMachine different depths On
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Relimit hole origin OnMachine different depths Off
Relimit hole origin OnMachine different depths On
Macros in Axial Machining Operations
The Macro tab page in the operation definition dialog box allows customized transitions paths for
approach, retract and linking. Refer to Define Macros on an Axial Machining Operation for more information.
All types of macros used in Drilling Operations are collision checked. If a check element is specified between two machined positions, a linking macro is applied to avoid collisions. Check (or fixture) elements as well as an associated Offset on Check can be specified in the Geometry tab page.
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Editing CYCLE Syntaxes in Axial Machining Operations
For all axial operations the Edit Cycle icon in the Axial Machining Operation dialog box allows you to:
● display the unresolved syntax of the NC Instruction of the operation. This is the syntax as specified in the PP table referenced by the current part Operation.
● display and, if needed, modify the syntax that is resolved either by geometric selection and user entries.
For example, the Cycle Syntax Edition dialog box appears when you select the Edit Cycle icon in the Boring
operation dialog box. It displays the default cycle syntax for the Boring operation.
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You can access all the CYCLE syntaxes contained in the current PP table for a Boring operation by means of the
PP instruction icon.
For example, if your PP Table contains the following NC Instructions for Boring operations:
/*START_NC_INSTRUCTION NC_BORING_1*START_SEQUENCECYCLE/BORE,%MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH,%MFG_CLEAR_TIP*END*END/*START_NC_INSTRUCTION NC_BORING_2*START_SEQUENCECYCLE/BORE,%MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH,%MFG_CLEAR_TIP,%MFG_BREAKTHROUGH*END*END/*START_NC_INSTRUCTION NC_BORING_3*START_SEQUENCECYCLE/BORE,%MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH,%MFG_PLUNGE_OFFST,%MFG_CLEAR_TIP,%MFG_FEED_MACH,%MFG_FEED_RETRACT*END*END/*START_NC_INSTRUCTION NC_BORING_4*START_SEQUENCE CYCLE/BORE,%MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH,%MFG_PLUNGE_OFFST,0,%MFG_CMP_DWL_TIME,%MFG_CLEAR_TIP,%MFG_FEED_MACH,%MFG_SPNDL_MACH,ON,0,0,%MFG_FEED_RETRACT *END*END
Then these syntaxes will be displayed in the PP Words Selection dialog box that appears:
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You can then select the desired syntax and click Apply to display it in the Cycle Syntax Edition dialog box. Just click OK to use the cycle syntax in the Boring operation being edited.
Note that in the example above, the PP Table contained several PP Instructions for the same operation type: NC_BORING_1 to NC_BORING_4.
Note that only one Cycle syntax (delimited by *START_SEQUENCE / *END keywords) is allowed for each PP Instruction.
In this way, a multiple choice of syntaxes is proposed at programming time.
For more information please refer to the Insert PP Instruction section.
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Machining PatternsThe information in this section will help you create and use machining patterns. It deals with the following topics:
● Pattern/Operation Data Hierarchy
● Pattern Data Edition
● Pattern Data Share.
Pattern/Operation Data Hierarchy
A machining pattern comprises two sets of data:● Pattern geometry: hole positions/axes, top element
● Pattern usage or technology data: Ordering mode, Jump distance, local entry/exit distances, local depth, activate/deactivate status.
Pattern geometry is visible in the User Interface and can be handled separately through its dedicated editor.
The share of information between Pattern geometry/technology data and machining operation is available in all pattern list views:
● Manufacturing View (by Patterns)
● Manufacturing View (by Machinable Features)
● Pattern Selection.
The presentation is similar in all views but properties associated to the elements differ:● Manufacturing View (by Patterns or Machinable Features): data edit/share functionalities at each
hierarchy level (mouse key 3)
● Pattern Selection: only Pattern geometry is selectable, other hierarchic data is shown for information.
The general presentation is as follows:
In the example above, the 3 machining operations share the same geometry but control it thru their own technology data (for example, specific Jump Distances).This is the way to overload technology data on the same position/axis data: this data will not be moved to the operation data structure.
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Pattern Data Edition
Edition Levels
All Pattern data is accessible thru the operation, when the data is not shared.
Pattern geometry and/or technology data is accessible depending on whether it is shared by other Pattern technology data and/or Operations.
The Pattern editor can be accessed as follows.● by double clicking a Pattern Geometry entity in Manufacturing View: edition at Geometry level. If the
Pattern geometry is shared, all modifications will be propagated. Pattern technology data is not shown.
● by double clicking a Machining Pattern entity in Manufacturing View: edition at technology data level. If the Pattern technology data is shared, all modifications will be propagated. If the underlying geometry is not shared, it may be modified here.
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If the geometry is shared, only Jump Distance and Pattern Ordering mode can be modified in the Machining Pattern dialog box. However, modifications could be done on the Pattern Geometry entity.
● when inserting a new Pattern: geometry and technology data is always accessible.
Selection of Design/ Machining Pattern Positions
Existing Design/Machining patterns can be used during geometry edition to add all their positions to the current Pattern Geometry.
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● Selection of a Design pattern: all positions of the Design pattern are referenced in current one.
● Selection of a Pattern geometry: all positions are copied from the selected one.
Pattern Data Share
Pattern Selection in Operation
The reference of the whole Machining pattern thru the combo list in the Machining Operation Editor implies its complete share.If another operation already references a Machining Pattern, all the pattern's technology data and geometry will be shared.
Copy/Paste of Patterns and Operations
Copy/Paste of a Machining Pattern or a Machining Operation not only duplicates the data of the current copied entity but also all the child entities.
A Copy from current command is also available in the Machining Operation Editor's list of Patterns combo.
There are other ways to invoke Operation Copy/Paste (key 3 in PPR view, for example).
New from Current of Patterns and Operations
In the Manufacturing View, sorted by Patterns or by Machinable Features, a local copy mode called New from current duplicates the data of the current entity and manages the share of its child/father entities:
● At pattern geometry level: copies it and creates a new father Pattern Definition
● At pattern definition level: copies it and shares the same child Pattern Geometry.
A New from current command is available in Machining Operation Editor's list of Patterns combo.
Pattern Data Share Examples
The various cases of pattern data share and duplication are detailed below.
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1. Manufacturing View: Copy/Paste Machining Pattern.1:
- Pattern Geometry.1 duplicated- Machining Pattern.1 duplicated - Original hierarchy kept- No pattern data share.
2. Machining Operation Editor: Copy from current (current = Machining Pattern.1):
- Pattern Geometry.1 duplicated- Machining Pattern.1 duplicated - Original hierarchy kept- No pattern data share.Allows modifying pattern data of current operation without impacting other operations.
3. Manufacturing View: Copy/Paste Drilling.1 Operation:
- Pattern Geometry.1 duplicated- Machining Pattern .1 duplicated - Operation Drilling.1 duplicated - Original hierarchy kept- No pattern data share.
4. Manufacturing View: New from current (current=Pattern Geometry.1):
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- Pattern Geometry.1 duplicated- new Pattern technology data created with default values (no isolated Pattern geometry in model)- No pattern data share.
5. Machining Operation Editor: New from current (current=Machining Pattern.1):
- Pattern Geometry.1 is shared- Machining Pattern.1 duplicated Allows modifying pattern technology data in current operation without impacting other operations.
6. Manufacturing View: New from current (current=Machining Pattern.1):
- Pattern Geometry.1 is shared- Machining Pattern.1 duplicated.
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MethodologyThis section provides methodology and conceptual information on the following Prismatic Machining topics.
How to Generate CUTCOM SyntaxesSelect Hole Design Features for Machining
Use Tolerances on Design Features for Machining
Methodology and conceptual information on the following topics is provided in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Machining ProcessesKnowledgeware in Machining Processes
CATProduct and CATProcess Document ManagementDesign Changes and Associativity Mechanisms
Part Operation and Set Up DocumentsOpposite Hand Machining
User Features for NC Manufacturing
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How to Generate CUTCOM SyntaxesThis document explains how to generate Cutter compensation (CUTCOM) instructions for Profile Contouring, Pocketing, and Circular Milling operations.
In the Strategy tab page of the machining operation editor, Output type allows you to manage the generation of CUTCOM instructions in the NC data output:
The following options are proposed:● 2D Radial profile: both the tool tip and cutter profile will be visualized during tool path replay. Cutter
compensation instructions are automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.
● 2D Radial tip: the tool tip will be visualized during tool path replay. Cutter compensation instructions are automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.
● None: cutter compensation instructions are not generated in the NC data output. In this case, the following method should be used.
Cutter Compensation on Prismatic Machining Operations
The activation/deactivation of cutter compensation is available by using NC macros on these operations.
For Profile Contouring operations, compensation can be defined on Approach, Retract, Return to finish pass, and Return between levels macros for each pass.
For Circular Milling operations, compensation can be defined on Approach, Retract, and Return between levels macros for each pass.
For Pocketing operations, compensation can be defined on Retract, Return to finish pass, and Return between levels macros on the side finish pass only.
This is done by insertion of a dedicated PP instruction in macro tool path. In the generated APT source CUTCOM syntaxes are inserted as follows:
● CUTCOM/LEFT or CUTCOM/RIGHT (from point where CUTCOM is activated).The valuation LEFT or RIGHT is automatically defined by the system in order to respect the machining side.
● CUTCOM/OFF (from point where CUTCOM is deactivated).
Methodology
Select position in macro for Cutter Compensation
In the Macro tab page of the Machining operation edition dialog box:
● Select the desired macro type (Approach, for example).
● Build a user macro or use a predefined macro.
● Right click the point where Cutter compensation is to be inserted in the macro path and select the PP Word List command.
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Insert CUTCOM PP word in the macro● The PP Word Selection dialog box appears.
Select the icon to access the PP word table.
Note that this icon is accessible only if a machine and an associated PP table are defined on the part operation.
● The PP Word Selection Assistant appears.Select the Major word CUTCOM in the list (Major words with parameters).
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● Select the appropriate NC_CUTCOM syntax: ❍ NC_CUTCOM_ON activates Compensation.
CUTCOM/LEFT or CUTCOM/RIGHT will be generated in the APT source.The valuation LEFT/RIGHT is automatically defined by the system in order to respect the machining side.
❍ NC_CUTCOM_OFF deactivates Compensation. CUTCOM/OFF will be generated in the APT source.
● Select Apply to add the syntax then Close to quit the dialog box.
● The PP Words Selection dialog box appears again.
Click OK to insert the NC_CUTCOM_ON PP word in macro tool path.
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Complete the machining operation definition
Define the other parameters of the operation (geometry, tool, and machining strategy).Click OK on the Machining operation edition dialog box to create the operation.
Shortcut with a Machining Process
To avoid defining each time macros with cutter compensation syntaxes, a template of the operation can be defined in a Machining Process.
This operation, which has macros but no geometry, can be instantiated from a catalog in the machining program. Then only the geometry and tool need to be selected to completely define the operation.
Refer to Create a Machining Process and Apply a Machining Process for more information.
Example of Generated APT Source
Here is an example of the type of APT source that can be obtained for a Contouring operation when a NC_CUTCOM_ON word was inserted in the approach macro and a NC_CUTCOM_OFF word was inserted in the retract macro.
$$ Start generation of : Profile Contouring.1FEDRAT/ 300.0000,MMPM
SPINDL/ 500.0000,SFM,CLW
GOTO / -110.00000, 80.00000, 10.00000GOTO / -110.00000, 80.00000, 0.00000CUTCOM/LEFTGOTO / -110.00000, 70.00000, 0.00000INTOL / 0.10000OUTTOL/ 0.00000AUTOPSINDIRV/ 0.00000, -1.00000, 0.00000TLON,GOFWD/ (CIRCLE/ -100.00000, 70.00000, 0.00000,$10.00000),ON,(LINE/ -100.00000, 70.00000, 0.00000,$
-100.00000, 60.00000, 0.00000)
))))))))))))
Approach macro:NC_CUTCOM_ON is generated as CUTCOM/LEFT
FEDRAT/ 1000.0000,MMPMGOTO / 100.00000, 60.00000, 0.00000INDIRV/ 1.00000, 0.00000, 0.00000TLON,GOFWD/ (CIRCLE/ 100.00000, 50.00000, 0.00000,$10.00000),ON,(LINE/ 100.00000, 50.00000, 0.00000,$110.00000, 50.00000, 0.00000)
GOTO / 110.00000, -50.00000, 0.00000
FEDRAT/ 200.0000,MMPMINDIRV/ 0.00000, -1.00000, 0.00000TLON,GOFWD/ (CIRCLE/ 120.00000, -50.00000, 0.00000,$10.00000),ON,(LINE/ 120.00000, -50.00000, 0.00000,$120.00000, -60.00000, 0.00000)CUTCOM/OFFGOTO / 130.00000, -60.00000, 0.00000
GOTO / 130.00000, -60.00000, 10.00000
))))))))
Retract macro:NC_CUTCOM_OFF is generated as CUTCOM/OFF
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Select Hole Design Features for MachiningThis task shows how to locate circular edges in a selected face. These edges may be included in mirror transformations, for example.
1. Select the Drilling icon .
The Drilling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page includes a
sensitive icon to help you specify the hole geometry to be machined.
2. Right click the No Points field and select the Find Features Through Faces contextual menu.
The following dialog box appears. It allows you to globally define a range of diameters for edges to be searched.
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The following tool bar also appears. It allows you to filter the search based on:● Design feature hole parameters
● Reference feature selection.
3.Select the Define Feature Query icon and define the following query.
Click OK.
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4. Select the face where the circular edges are to be searched.
5.Select the Choose Reference Feature icon , then select a reference feature.
6.Select the Search Circular Edges icon to start the search. The circular edges of holes identical to the reference feature are selected and highlighted in the part.
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7. Click OK in the tool bar to accept the selection. The No Points field in the Drilling dialog box is updated with the number of selected holes.You can then continue defining the machining operation to machine the selected holes.
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Use Tolerances on Hole Design Features for MachiningThis task shows how to use tolerances on hole design features to apply a Machining Process with tolerancing considerations such as:
● validate a Reaming operation for an H7 hole
● find a tool using a tolerance range
● parameterize Circular milling parameters according to minimum and maximum values.
This capability makes use of the Functional Tolerancing & Annotations TPSPackage Knowlegdeware package. You can load this package under Tools > Options > General > Parameters and Measures. In the Knowledge tab page, select the Load extended language libraries checkbox and choose TPSPackage as the package to load.See Functional Tolerancing & Annotations User's Guide for more information.
1. Select File -> Open then select the Tolerances.CATPart document.
The part is displayed in the Part Design workbench.
2. Double click a tolerance of one of the toleranced holes (for example, Diameter 10 H7).
The Limit of Size Definition dialog box appears.
For the selected Diameter 10 H7 tolerance, the tabulated values are set to H7 and 0 / 0.018mm as minimum / maximum values. Click OK to quit the dialog box.
These values can be accessed in Knowledgeware expressions using the following functions:● SemanticDimTabValue for the Hole quality (H7 in the example above)
● ToleranceMin (or SemanticDimLowerLimit) for the minimum value (0mm in the example above)
● ToleranceMax (or SemanticDimUpperLimit) for the maximum value (0.018mm in the example above).
These functions can also be used in Machining Processes (for example: ../startup/Manufacturing/Processes/MPWithToleranceControl.CATProcess).
The following steps are done in a NC manufacturing workbench.
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3. Checks Editor
An example of use of Hole Quality in checks is shown below. ● Select File > Open and select the MPWithToleranceControl.CATProcess document.
● Select the Machining Process View icon .
● Right click the Reaming operation and select Edit Checks.
● Enter the expression in the Checks Editor as shown below and click OK.Note that you must select the Diameter attribute before entering the SemanticDimTabValue="H7" string.
4. Tool Query
An example of use of Tolerance values for a Tool query is shown below. ● Select File > Open and select the MPWithToleranceControl.CATProcess document.
● Select the Machining Process View icon .
● Right click the Reaming operation's Tool Query and select Definition.
● Enter the expression in the Tool Query Definition dialog box as shown below and click OK.Note that you must select the Diameter attribute before entering the ToleranceMin or ToleranceMax string.
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5. Formula Editor
An example of use of Tolerance values in formulas is shown below. ● Select File > Open and select the MPWithToleranceControl.CATProcess document.
● Select the Machining Process View icon .
● Right click the Circular Milling operation and select Edit Formula.
● Enter the expression in the Formula Editor as shown below and click OK.Note that you must select the Diameter attribute before entering the ToleranceMin or ToleranceMax string.
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See Create a Machining Process for more information.
6. Save the Machining Process in a catalog (for example: ../startup/Manufacturing/Processes/MP_demo.catalog).
See Organize Machining Processes for more information.
7. Enter the desired NC Manufacturing workbench and apply the Machining Process on toleranced holes as desired.
See Apply a Machining Process for more information.
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For the Circular milling operation, the machining tolerance is parameterized as shown by the f(x) icon.
Click the f(x) icon to display the Formula Editor.
The hole diameter is parameterized as shown by the f(x) icon on the Edit Parameter dialog box.
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Click the f(x) icon to display the Formula Editor.
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Glossary
Aapproach macro
Motion defined for approaching the operation start point
auxiliary command
A control function such as tool change or machine table rotation. These commands may be interpreted by a specific post-processor.
axial machining operation
Operation in which machining is done along a single axis and is mainly intended for hole making (drilling, counter boring, and so on).
Bback and forth Machining in which motion is done alternately in one direction then the other.
Compare with one way.
bottom plane A planar geometric element that represents the bottom surface of an area to machine. It is normal to the tool axis.
Cclearance macro
Motion that involves retracting to a safety plane, a linear trajectory in that plane and then plunging from that plane.
climb milling Milling in which the advancing tool rotates down into the material. Chips of cut material tend to be thrown behind the tool, which results to give good surface finish. Compare with conventional milling.
conventional milling
Milling in which the advancing tool rotates up into the material. Chips of cut material tend to be carried around with the tool, which often impairs good surface finish. Compare with climb milling.
DDPM Digital Process for Manufacturing.
Eextension type
Defines the end type of a hole as being through hole or blind.
FFacing operation
A surfacing operation in which material is removed in one cut or several axial cuts of equal depth according to a pre-defined machining strategy. Boundaries of the planar area to be machined are soft.
Fault Types of faults in material removal simulation are gouge, undercut, and tool clash.
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feedrate Rate at which a cutter advances into a work piece. Measured in linear or angular units (mm/min or mm/rev, for example).
fixture Elements used to secure or support the workpiece on a machine.
Ggouge Area where the tool has removed too much material from the workpiece.
Hhard A geometric element (such as a boundary or a bottom face) that the tool cannot pass
beyond.
high speed milling (HSM)
Functionality that is supported for Pocketing and Facing operations in which corners and transitions in the tool path are rounded to ensure a smooth and continuous cutting effort.
Iinward helical Machining in which motion starts from a point inside the domain to machine and follows
paths parallel to the domain boundary towards the center of the domain. Compare with outward helical.
island Inner domain of a pocket that is to be avoided during machining. It has a closed hard boundary.
Llinking motion Motion that involves retracting to a safety plane, a linear trajectory in that plane and then
plunging from that plane.
Mmachine rotation
An auxiliary command in the program that corresponds to a rotation of the machine table.
machining axis system
Reference axis system in which coordinates of points of the tool path are given.
machining feature
A feature instance representing a volume of material to be removed, a machining axis, tolerances, and other technological attributes. These features may be hole type or milling type.
machining operation
Contains all the necessary information for machining a part of the workpiece using a single tool.
machining tolerance
The maximum allowed difference between the theoretical and computed tool path.
manufacturing process
Defines the sequence of part operations necessary for the complete manufacture of a part.
manufacturing program
Describes the processing order of the NC entities that are taken into account for tool path computation: machining operations, auxiliary commands and PP instructions.
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manufacturing view
The set of machining features defined in the part operation.
multi-level operation
Milling operation (such as Pocketing or Profile Contouring) that is done in a series of axial cuts.
Ooffset Specifies a virtual displacement of a reference geometric element in an operation (such as
the offset on the bottom plane of a pocket, for example).An offset value can be greater than, less than, or equal to zero. It is measured normal to the referenced geometry or in a specific direction such as axial or radial. For example, a 5mm Offset on Contour means that a virtual displacement is applied normal to the contour geometry. A 5mm Axial Part Offset means that a virtual displacement is applied to the part geometry along the tool axis direction.Compare with thickness.
one way Machining in which motion is always done in the same direction. Compare with zig zag or back and forth.
outward helical
Machining in which motion starts from a point inside the domain to machine and follows paths parallel to the domain boundary away from the center of the domain. Compare with inward helical.
Ppart operation Links all the operations necessary for machining a part based on a unique part registration
on a machine. The part operation links these operations with the associated fixture and set-up entities.
pocket An area to be machined that is defined by an open or closed boundary and a bottom plane. The pocket definition may also include a top plane and one or more islands.
Pocketing operation
A machining operation in which material is removed from a pocket in one or several axial cuts of equal depth according to a pre-defined machining strategy. The tool path style is either Inward helical, Outward helical or Back and forth.
Point to Point operation
A milling operation consisting of a sequence of elementary tool motions between points. A tool motion can be defined by:
● the point the tool tip has to reach (Goto Point motion)
● positioning the tool in contact with a part element, a drive element and possibly a check element, while taking To/On/Past conditions into account (Goto Position motion)
● a relative displacement (Go Delta motion).
PP instruction Instructions that control certain functions that are auxiliary to the tool-part relationship. They may be interpreted by a specific post processor.
PPR Process Product Resources.
Profile Contouring operation
A milling operation in which the tool follows a guide curve and possibly other guide elements while respecting user-defined geometric limitations and machining strategy parameters.
Rretract macro Motion defined for retracting from the operation end point
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return macro Motion for linking between paths or between levels. It involves retracting to a safety plane, a linear trajectory in that plane and then plunging from that plane.
Ssafety plane A plane normal to the tool axis in which the tool tip can move or remain a clearance
distance away from the workpiece, fixture or machine.
set up Describes how the part, stock and fixture are positioned on the machine.
soft A geometric element (such as a boundary or a bottom face) that the tool can pass beyond.
spindle speed The angular speed of the machine spindle. Measured in linear or angular units (m/min or rev/min, for example).
stock Workpiece prior to machining by the operations of a part operation.
Tthickness Specifies a thickness of material to be removed by machining. A thickness value must be
greater than zero and is measured normal to the machined geometry. For example, if a 5mm Finish Thickness is specified on an operation then 5mm of material will be removed during the finish pass. Compare with offset.
top plane A planar geometric element that represents the top surface of an area to machine. It is always normal to the associated tool's rotational axis.
tool axis Center line of the cutter.
tool change An auxiliary command in the program that corresponds to a change of tool.
tool clash Area where the tool collided with the workpiece during a rapid move.
tool path The path that the center of the tool tip follows during a machining operation.
total depth The total depth including breakthrough distance that is machined in a hole making operation.
Uundercut Area where the tool has left material behind on the workpiece.
Zzig zag Machining in which motion is done alternately in one direction then the other. Compare
with one way.
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Index
AActivate the Point contextual command Always stay on bottom
Pocketing parameter
Prismatic Roughing parameter
Analyze contextual command Approach clearance
Axial Machining parameter Approach clearance 2
Axial Machining parameter Approach distance
Prismatic Roughing parameter
approach macro
APT import
APT source generation Automatic draft angle
Axial Machining parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Automatic ROTABL
Axial Machining parameter
Auto-sequence operations
auxiliary command Auxiliary operation
COPY Operator
Copy Transformation
Machine Rotation
Machining Axis Change
PP Instruction
Tool Change
TRACUT Operator Avoid scallops on bottom
Pocketing parameter
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axial machining operation Axial Machining parameter
Approach clearance
Approach clearance 2
Automatic draft angle
Automatic ROTABL
Axial mode
Breakthrough
Decrement limit
Decrement rate
Depth mode
Direction of cut
Distance between paths
Dwell mode
First compensation
Helix angle
Helix mode
Helix pitch
Machining mode
Machining tolerance
Max depth of cut (Dc)
Maximum depth of cut (Mdc)
Number of levels (Nl)
Number of paths
Output CYCLE syntax
Output style
Percentage overlap
Plunge diameter
Plunge mode
Plunge offset
Plunge tip
Retract
Retract offset
Second compensation
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Sequencing mode
Shift mode Axial mode
Axial Machining parameter
Groove Milling parameter Axial safety distance
Prismatic Roughing parameter Axial strategy
Groove Milling parameter Axial strategy mode
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
Bback and forth
Back Boring command
Back Boring operation Between Curve and Surfaces
Profile Contouring mode Between Two Curves
Profile Contouring mode Between Two Planes
Profile Contouring mode
Boring and Chamfering command
Boring and Chamfering operation
Boring command
Boring operation
Boring Spindle Stop command
Boring Spindle Stop operation Bottom finish path style
Profile Contouring parameter Bottom finish thickness
Facing parameter
Groove Milling parameter
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Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Bounding envelope
Facing parameter Breakthrough
Axial Machining parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
By Band contextual command
By Belt of Faces contextual command
By Boundary of Faces contextual command By Flank Contouring
Profile Contouring mode
CCGR file generation
Chamfering Two Sides command
Chamfering Two Sides operation
Choose Reference Feature command
Circular Milling
Circular Milling operation
clearance macro
Clfile code generation
climb milling Close tool path
Groove Milling parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Closed Pocket
Pocketing style
Closest contextual command command
Back Boring
Boring
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Boring and Chamfering
Boring Spindle Stop
Chamfering Two Sides
Choose Reference Feature
Circular Milling
Counterboring
Countersinking
Curve Following
Define Feature Query
Drilling
Drilling Break Chips
Drilling Deep Hole
Drilling Dwell Delay
Facing
Groove Milling
Pocketing
Point to Point
Prismatic Machining Area
Prismatic Rework Area
Prismatic Roughing
Profile Contouring
Reaming
Reverse Threading
Search Circular Edges
Spot Drilling
Tapping
Thread Milling
Thread without Tap Head
T-Slotting Compensation
Curve Following parameter
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
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Compensation application mode
Profile Contouring parameter Compensation on bottom
Groove Milling parameter Compensation on top
Groove Milling parameter contextual command
Activate the Point
Analyze
By Band
By Belt of Faces
By Boundary of Faces
Closest
Contour Detection
Deactivate
Deactivate the Point
Edit Depth
Edit Entry Distance
Edit Exit Distance
Edit Local Axis
Find Features Through Faces
Insert after Current Position
Invert Selection
Island Detection
Manual
Move After
Offset on Island
Parameter (ramping macro)
Relimitation point detection
Remove
Remove All Positions
Remove Current Position
Remove Linked Positions
Renumber
Restore Associativity
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Reverse Ordering
Sectioning
Select All
Set as Start Point
Swap Hardness Mode
Contour Detection contextual command Contouring pass ratio
Prismatic Roughing parameter
conventional milling
COPY Operator
Copy-Transformation Instruction Corner radius
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Prismatic Roughing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Corner radius on part contouring
Prismatic Roughing parameter Corner radius on side finish path
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Cornering
Profile Contouring parameter Cornering on side finish path
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
Counterboring command
Counterboring operation
Countersinking command
Countersinking operation
Curve Following command
Curve Following operation Curve Following parameter
Compensation
Fixture accuracy
Machining tolerance
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Maximum depth of cut
Number of levels
Tool path style
CUTCOM Syntax Cutting mode
Prismatic Roughing parameter
DDeactivate contextual command
Deactivate the Point contextual command Decrement limit
Axial Machining parameter Decrement rate
Axial Machining parameter
Define Feature Query command Depth limitation
Profile Contouring parameter Depth mode
Axial Machining parameter Direction of cut
Axial Machining parameter
Facing parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
Distance after corner (feed reduction)
Distance before corner (feed reduction) Distance between paths
Axial Machining parameter
Facing parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
Documentation generation
Drilling Break Chips command
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Drilling Break Chips operation
Drilling command
Drilling Deep Hole command
Drilling Deep Hole operation
Drilling Dwell Delay command
Drilling Dwell Delay operation
Drilling operation Dwell mode
Axial Machining parameter
EEdit Depth contextual command
Edit Entry Distance contextual command
Edit Exit Distance contextual command
Edit Local Axis contextual command
Edit Parameter dialog box End of path
Facing parameter
End point
Entry distance
Exit distance Extra segment overlap
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
FFacing command
Facing operation Facing parameter
Axial strategy mode
Bottom finish thickness
Bounding envelope
Compensation
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Corner radius
Direction of cut
Distance between paths
End of path
Extra segment overlap
Finishing mode
Fixture accuracy
High Speed Milling
Limit angle
Machining tolerance
Maximum depth of cut
Number of levels
Overhang
Percentage of tool diameter
Radial mode
Stepover ratio
Tool diameter ratio
Tool path style
Tool side approach clearance
Transition angle
Transition length
Transition radius
Type of contour
Fault Feedrate reduction in corners
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Prismatic Roughing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
Find Features Through Faces contextual command Finishing mode
Facing parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
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Profile Contouring parameter First compensation
Axial Machining parameter
Point to Point parameter Fixture accuracy
Curve Following parameter
Facing parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
GGo Delta
Point to Point motion Goto Point
Point to Point motion Goto Position
Point to Point motion
gouge
Groove Milling command
Groove Milling operation Groove Milling parameter
Axial mode
Axial strategy
Bottom finish thickness
Breakthrough
Close tool path
Compensation on bottom
Compensation on top
Direction of cut
Distance between paths
Feedrate reduction in corners
Finishing mode
Fixture accuracy
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Machining direction
Machining tolerance
Maximum depth of cut
Number of levels
Number of paths
Output type
Percentage overlap
Side finish thickness
Spring pass
Tool path style
Top finish thickness
Top/bottom finish path style
Hhard geometric element Helical movement
Prismatic Roughing parameter Helix angle
Axial Machining parameter Helix mode
Axial Machining parameter Helix pitch
Axial Machining parameter High Speed Milling
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Prismatic Roughing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
high speed milling (HSM)
IInsert after Current Position contextual command
Inverse pattern ordering
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Invert Selection contextual command
Inward helical
Island
Island Detection contextual command
JJump distance
LLimit angle
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter Limit angle on side finish path
Pocketing parameter Limit Definition
Prismatic Roughing parameter linear coordinates
Shift mode
MMachine different depths
Machine different thread depths
Machine Rotation
Machining Axis Change
machining axis system
Machining direction
Groove Milling parameter
machining feature Machining mode
Axial Machining parameter
Prismatic Roughing parameter
machining operation
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Machining Pattern
Machining Patterns
Machining Process
Machining Process, Apply
Machining Process, Create Machining tolerance
Axial Machining parameter
Curve Following parameter
Facing parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Point to Point parameter
Prismatic Roughing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
machining tolerance (definition)
Macros
Manual contextual command
manufacturing process
Manufacturing Program
manufacturing view Max depth of cut (Dc)
Axial Machining parameter Maximum cut depth
Prismatic Roughing parameter Maximum depth of cut
Curve Following parameter
Facing parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Maximum depth of cut (Mdc)
Axial Machining parameter
Maximum radius (feed reduction)
milling operations
Minimum angle (feed reduction)
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Move After contextual command
NNC code generation Number of levels
Curve Following parameter
Facing parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Number of levels (Nl)
Axial Machining parameter Number of paths
Axial Machining parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Number of side finish paths per level
Pocketing parameter
OOffset
Prismatic Roughing parameter
offset Offset along tool axis
Point to Point parameter
Offset on Island contextual command
One way Open Pocket
Pocketing style
Opposite Hand Machining Optimize retract
Prismatic Roughing parameter Output CYCLE syntax
Axial Machining parameter Output style
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Axial Machining parameter
Pocketing parameter Output type
Groove Milling parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
Outward helical Overhang
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter Overhang for rework areas
Profile Contouring parameter
PParameter (ramping macro) contextual command Part contouring
Prismatic Roughing parameter
Part Operation Percentage of tool diameter
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter Percentage overlap
Axial Machining parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Plunge diameter
Axial Machining parameter Plunge mode
Axial Machining parameter Plunge offset
Axial Machining parameter Plunge tip
Axial Machining parameter
Pocketing command
Pocketing operation Pocketing parameter
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Always stay on bottom
Automatic draft angle
Avoid scallops on bottom
Axial strategy mode
Bottom finish thickness
Breakthrough
Compensation
Corner radius
Corner radius on side finish path
Cornering on side finish path
Direction of cut
Distance between paths
Extra segment overlap
Feedrate reduction in corners
Finishing mode
Fixture accuracy
High Speed Milling
Limit angle
Limit angle on side finish path
Machining tolerance
Maximum depth of cut
Number of levels
Number of side finish paths per level
Output style
Overhang
Percentage of tool diameter
Radial mode
Scallop pass
Scallop pass ratio
Side finish thickness
Side finish thickness on bottom
Slowdown rate
Spring pass
Stepover ratio
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Tool diameter ratio
Tool path style
Transition angle
Transition length
Transition radius
Truncated transition paths Pocketing style
Closed Pocket
Open Pocket
Point to Point command Point to Point motion
Go Delta
Goto Point
Goto Position
Point to Point operation Point to Point parameter
First compensation
Machining tolerance
Offset along tool axis polar coordinates
Shift mode
PP Instruction
PPR
Preview button
Prismatic Machining Area
Prismatic Machining Area command
Prismatic Rework Area
Prismatic Rework Area command
Prismatic Roughing command
Prismatic Roughing operation Prismatic Roughing parameter
Always stay on bottom
Approach distance
Axial safety distance
Contouring pass ratio
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Corner radius
Corner radius on part contouring
Cutting mode
Feedrate reduction in corners
Helical movement
High Speed Milling
Limit Definition
Machining mode
Machining tolerance
Maximum cut depth
Offset
Optimize retract
Part contouring
Radial safety distance
Slowdown rate
Stepover
Tool path style
Truncated transition paths
Process List
Product List
Profile Contouring command Profile Contouring mode
Between Curve and Surfaces
Between Two Curves
Between Two Planes
By Flank Contouring
Profile Contouring operation Profile Contouring parameter
Automatic draft angle
Axial strategy mode
Bottom finish path style
Bottom finish thickness
Breakthrough
Close tool path
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Compensation
Compensation application mode
Corner radius
Corner radius on side finish path
Cornering
Cornering on side finish path
Depth limitation
Direction of cut
Distance between paths
Feedrate reduction in corners
Finishing mode
Fixture accuracy
High Speed Milling
Machining tolerance
Maximum depth of cut
Number of levels
Number of paths
Output type
Overhang for rework areas
Percentage overlap
Sequencing
Side finish thickness
Side finish thickness on bottom
Spring pass
Tool path style
Tool position ON guide
Type of contour
Progression direction
RRadial mode
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
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Radial safety distance
Prismatic Roughing parameter
Reaming command
Reaming operation
Reduction rate (feed reduction)
Relimitation point detection contextual command
Remove All Positions contextual command
Remove contextual command
Remove Current Position contextual command
Remove Linked Positions contextual command
Renumber contextual command
Resources List
Restore Associativity contextual command Retract
Axial Machining parameter
retract macro Retract offset
Axial Machining parameter
return macro
Reverse Ordering contextual command
Reverse Threading command
Reverse Threading operation
SScallop pass
Pocketing parameter Scallop pass ratio
Pocketing parameter
Search Circular Edges command Second compensation
Axial Machining parameter
Sectioning contextual command
Select All contextual command Sequencing
Profile Contouring parameter
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Sequencing mode
Axial Machining parameter
Set as Start Point contextual command Shift mode
Axial Machining parameter
linear coordinates
polar coordinates Side finish thickness
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Side finish thickness on bottom
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
Simulate material removal Slowdown rate
Pocketing parameter
Prismatic Roughing parameter
soft geometric element
Spot Drilling command
Spot Drilling operation Spring pass
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
Start point Stepover
Prismatic Roughing parameter Stepover ratio
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Swap Hardness Mode contextual command
TTapping command
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Tapping operation
thickness
Thread Milling command
Thread Milling operation
Thread without Tap Head command
Thread without Tap Head operation
Tolerance on Hole
Tool Change
tool clash Tool diameter ratio
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Tool path replay Tool path style
Curve Following parameter
Facing parameter
Groove Milling parameter
Pocketing parameter
Prismatic Roughing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter Tool position ON guide
Profile Contouring parameter Tool side approach clearance
Facing parameter Top finish thickness
Groove Milling parameter Top/bottom finish path style
Groove Milling parameter
TRACUT Operator Transition angle
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter Transition length
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Transition paths Transition radius
293Page Prismatic Machining Version 5 Release 13
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter Truncated transition paths
Pocketing parameter
Prismatic Roughing parameter
T-Slotting command
T-Slotting operation Type of contour
Facing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
Uundercut
User Feature
ZZig zag
294Page Prismatic Machining Version 5 Release 13