SolidCAM - Integrated CAM Engine for Solid Works - Manual - Milling Book Vol2 Screen
-
Upload
api-3714448 -
Category
Documents
-
view
2.517 -
download
6
Transcript of SolidCAM - Integrated CAM Engine for Solid Works - Manual - Milling Book Vol2 Screen
SolidCAM MillingUser’s Guide
©1995-2005 SolidCAM LTD.
All Rights Reserved.
Volume #2
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
3
Contents
Contents
Volume #2
11. Machining Processes
11.1 Introduction & Basic concepts ...............................................................................................................16
11.1.1 Job templates ...................................................................................................................................16
11.1.2 Parameters & Expressions ............................................................................................................18
11.1.3 Default sets ......................................................................................................................................19
11.1.4 Machining Process Table ...............................................................................................................19
11.2 Creating Machining Processes ................................................................................................................20
11.3 Defining Machining Process Table ........................................................................................................21
11.3.1 Adding MAC file(s) ........................................................................................................................22
11.4 Machining Process Table Manager ........................................................................................................24
11.4.1 Managing Machining Process Tables ...........................................................................................26
11.4.2 Machining Process Group Types .................................................................................................29
11.5 Managing Machining Processes ..............................................................................................................31
11.6 Machining Process Define Manager ......................................................................................................33
11.6.1 Job Templates page ........................................................................................................................33
11.6.2 Define Job Template ......................................................................................................................34
11.6.3 Managing Job Templates ...............................................................................................................35
11.6.4 Parametric field menu ....................................................................................................................36
11.6.5 Default Sets page ............................................................................................................................39
11.6.6 Parameters & Expressions Tables ................................................................................................40
11.6.7 Adding a new Parameter ...............................................................................................................42
11.6.8 Variables & expressions .................................................................................................................43
11.6.9 SolidCAM standard functions ......................................................................................................44
11.7 Using the Machining processes ..............................................................................................................46
11.8 Inserting The Machining Process ..........................................................................................................47
11.9 Machining Process Insert Manager .......................................................................................................49
11.9.1 Job Templates Page ........................................................................................................................49
11.9.2 Default Sets Page ............................................................................................................................51
ContentsSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
4
11.9.3 Parameters Table .............................................................................................................................52
11.9.4 Job Points .........................................................................................................................................52
11.9.5 Parameters definition .....................................................................................................................53
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining (AFRM)
12.1 Introduction and Basic Concepts ..........................................................................................................57
12.2 Preparation to Holes Recognition .........................................................................................................60
12.2.1 Definition of Homes ....................................................................................................................60
12.2.2 Target model ...................................................................................................................................60
12.3 Start Holes Recognition ...........................................................................................................................61
12.4 Holes Recognition User Interface ..........................................................................................................62
12.4.1 Holes Recognition Manager .........................................................................................................62
12.4.2 Holes Recognition Toolbar ...........................................................................................................63
12.5 Hole Feature Model .................................................................................................................................65
12.5.1 Cylindrical Hole Feature segment ................................................................................................66
12.5.2 Cone Hole Feature segment .........................................................................................................67
12.5.3 Chamfer Hole Feature segment ...................................................................................................67
12.5.4 Planar Hole Feature segment ........................................................................................................68
12.5.5 Torus Hole Feature segment .........................................................................................................68
12.5.6 Sphere Hole Feature segment .......................................................................................................69
12.5.7 Compound Holes processing .......................................................................................................70
12.5.8 Hole Feature Shapes and Groups ................................................................................................70
12.5.9 Hole Features page .........................................................................................................................71
12.6 Preparing Hole Features for the machining .........................................................................................76
12.6.1 Undercut processing ......................................................................................................................76
12.6.2 Undercut substitution ....................................................................................................................78
12.6.3 Segments Union ..............................................................................................................................82
12.6.4 Machinable Hole Features .............................................................................................................85
12.6.5 Machinable Hole Feature conversion ..........................................................................................91
12.6.6 Machinable Hole Feature Page .................................................................................................. 100
12.7 Feature Sets ............................................................................................................................................. 112
12.7.1 Creating Feature Sets .................................................................................................................. 112
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
5
Contents
12.7.2 Assigning Hole Features to Feature Sets ................................................................................. 113
12.7.3 Automatic Home Positions definition ..................................................................................... 114
12.7.4 Feature Sets page ......................................................................................................................... 116
12.7.5 Compatible/Incompatible Hole features ................................................................................. 118
12.7.6 Operating Feature Sets ............................................................................................................... 119
12.7.7 Defining the Home Position origin location for the Feature Set ......................................... 121
12.8 Technology ............................................................................................................................................. 123
12.8.1 Choosing a Technology Solution .............................................................................................. 124
12.8.2 Choosing the tool ........................................................................................................................ 125
12.8.3 Technology Page .......................................................................................................................... 131
12.8.4 Managing Technology ................................................................................................................. 133
12.9 Generating Jobs ..................................................................................................................................... 136
12.10 Technology Database .......................................................................................................................... 138
12.10.1 Global and Local Technology databases ............................................................................... 139
12.10.2 Technology Database interface ............................................................................................... 140
12.10.3 Configurations page .................................................................................................................. 141
12.10.4 Current Configuration .............................................................................................................. 142
12.10.5 Solutions page ............................................................................................................................ 143
12.10.6 Conditions .................................................................................................................................. 145
12.10.7 Variables ...................................................................................................................................... 149
12.10.8 Defining a new Technology Solution ..................................................................................... 150
12.10.9 Holes Recognition Functions .................................................................................................. 152
12.11 Holes Recognition Settings ................................................................................................................ 155
12.11.1 System settings ........................................................................................................................... 156
12.11.2 Part settings ................................................................................................................................ 158
Index ................................................................................................................................................................ 168
ContentsSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
6
11MachiningProcessesA Machining Process is comprised of a series of Jobs that are tied together through user-defined parameters. You can automate repetitive tasks in CNC-Programming with this new Machining Process feature.
In subsequent identical or similar situations, the Machining Processes can be used directly or adapted to the new situation by giving values to its parameters.
Machining Processes Table
Defining a new Machining Process
Job Templates
Default Sets
Parameters & Expressions
Using Machining Processes
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
8
11.1 Introduction & Basic concepts
SolidCAM enables you to automate repetitive tasks in CNC-Programming with the Machining Process feature. Machining Process (MP) is the structure of fully parameterized Job Templates. In subsequent identical or similar situations, the machining process templates can be either used directly or they can be adapted to the new situation by giving values to its parameters.
11.1.1 Job templates
A Job template is the parametric template of the single operation that is used within the Machining Process. There can be one or several job templates in a Machining Process.
For example: To create a threaded countersink hole, we need three Jobs using the common geometry:
• Centering
At this stage, preliminary centering is made for the hole and a chamfer.
Job Templates
MachiningProcess
Parameters
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
9
11. Machining Processes
• Drilling
At this stage, the hole is drilled.
• Threading
At this stage, the threading is preformed.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
10
11.1.2 Parameters & Expressions
Parameters can be given a constant value or an expression.
In the above sample the following parameters are needed:
• The tap size (D_thread)
• The tap depth (H_thread)
• The drill depth (H_drill)
• The chamfer diameter (D_chamfer)
In the above example you can define the following expression for centering depth.
With a group of such Job templates, Parameters and Expressions, you can define the universalMachining Process.
H_d
rill
D_chamfer
D_thread
H_t
hrea
d
D_chamfer
α H_c
ente
r
H_center = D_chamfer / 2
tg (α/2)
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
11
11. Machining Processes
11.1.3 Default sets
A Default set is a combination of parameters and expressions used for Job template customization. You can define a number of the default sets by attaching different specific values or expressions toparameters. You can use the default sets to adapt machining process to specific tasks.
In the above example we can create default sets for each tap size (e.g. M6, M8 etc).
11.1.4 Machining Process Table
SolidCAM enables you to join your Machining Processes into the Machining Process Table.
Default Set
Job Templates
Parameters
MachiningProcess
MachiningProcess
1
MachiningProcess
2
MachiningProcess
3
MachiningProcess
N
MachiningProcessesTable
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
12
11.2 Creating Machining Processes
Three basic stages are needed to create a Machining Process.
SolidCAM enables you to use three major interface tools for these tasks:
• New Machining Process Table - With this dialog you can define a new MP Table. SolidCAMalso enables you to manage existing MP Tables.
For more information on this subject, please refer to the topic 11.3.
• Machining Process Table Manager enables you to create and manage a single Machining Process in the Table.
For more information on this subject, please refer to the topic 11.4.
• Machining Process Define Manager enables you to define components of the singleMachining Process: Job Templates, Default sets, Parameters and Expressions.
For more information on this subject, please refer to the topic 11.6.
New Machining Process Table
dialog
Creating Machining Process Table
Creating Machining Process
Defining Machining Process components
Machining Process Table
Manager
Machining Process Define
Manager
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
13
11. Machining Processes
11.3 Defining Machining Process Table
The first stage of the Machining Process creation is the definition of the Machining Process Table.
1. In the SolidCAM manager, right click on Machining Process field to open thepull down menu and choose the type of the MP table - Milling from the New sub menu.
The dialog window, New Machining Process Table, will be displayed.
2. Enter a name for the Machining Process Table in the Table name field.
3. Press the Add Mac File button to define the MAC file for your Machining ProcessTable. Since not all machines support all of the options in SolidCAM, you must also give the Mac file that you will be using. This will assure that only the optionsthat are supported by your machine will be used.
4. Confirm the Machining Process Table creation with the OK button.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
14
11.3.1 Adding MAC file(s)
The Add MAC file(s) dialog enables you to choose a MAC-file or a set of similar MAC files for yourMachining Process. The MAC- file contains options oriented to the specific CNC Machine. This fileenables you to adapt your Machining Processes for your CNC Machines.
• Adding MAC file
1. Press the Add button to choose the suitable MAC file from the list.
2. In the dialog window displayed, pick the MAC file that you wish to work with and press OK.
The original dialog window will be displayed again with the chosen MAC file.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
15
11. Machining Processes
• Adding similar MAC-files
This option will add to the list any MAC file that is similar to the MAC file that youoriginally picked. The criteria of the similarity is the coincidence of the MAC-file optionsneeded for Machining Processes.
Please contact SolidCAM customer support for further details.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
16
11.4 Machining Process Table Manager
With the Machining Process Table Manager, SolidCAM enables you to control single Machining Processes in the Machining Process Table.
The Machining Process table dialog contains the following fields:
• Machining Process List
This field contains the list of all Machining Processes from the current table.
Double-click on the Machining Process name in the list to edit the MP in the Machining Process Define Manager (see the topic 11.6).
Right-click on the Machining Process name in the list to get the pull down menu of Managing Machining Processes (see the topic 11.5).
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
17
11. Machining Processes
• MP Picture
This option enables you to attach a picture to your MP.
Click on the Browse MP Pictures... button and choose a bitmap file (*.bmp) in the browser window.
• Type
For easier identification and classification of Machining Processes, you can define and useyour own MP types.
• Description
In this field you can enter text describing the Machining Processes.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
18
11.4.1 Managing Machining Process Tables
The Machining Process Tables contains the following options:
• Current
This option enables you to load the current MP Table in the Machining Process Table Manager (see the topic 11.4).
• New
With this option you can create a new MP Table. SolidCAM enables you to create the type of MP Table: Milling.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
19
11. Machining Processes
• Open
This option enables you to load an MP Table via the standard Windows Browser.
1. Right-click on the Machining Process field and choose Open from the sub-menu to load the Machining Process Table. The Browser Window will be displayed.
2. Select the Machining Process Table file(*.mpt)
The Machining Process Table will be loaded and the Machining Process Table Manager will be displayed.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
20
• Copy
This option enables you to copy the MP Table.
The Copy Machining Process Table dialog will be displayed.
1. In the left field of the dialog, choose the MP Table you want.
2. Click on the icon to move the MP Table in the copy-container field. You can
use the icon to remove MP Tables.
3. Choose the copy location in the right field.
4. Click on the Copy button to confirm the operation.
5. Click on the Exit button to close the dialog.
• Delete
Choose this option to delete the MP Table via the standard Windows Browser.
• Recent MP Tables
This option displays a list of the last MP Tables that you loaded in SolidCAM. You can open the file by simply clicking on the file you want to open.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
21
11. Machining Processes
• Group Types
This option enables you to create your own MP Group Type.
• Expressions
This option enables you to create and manage your own list of expressions that will be available in each MP you design.
11.4.2 Machining Process Group Types
For easier identification and classification of Machining Processes, you can define and use your ownMachining Process Group Types.
Defining Group Types
1. Right-click on the Machining Process field in the SolidCAM Manager and choose Group Types... from the pull down menu.
The MP Group Types Manager will be loaded.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
22
• To add a new Group Type, click on the Add button and type the name.
• To remove an existing Group Type from the list, select the item and click on the Delete button.
• To edit the Group Type name, click on the icon in the name field and choose Edit-View.
The Edit dialog will be displayed. Change the MP Group Type name and confirm it withOK.
• You can use the hotkey F2 to open the Edit dialog.
• By double-clicking on the Group Type name in the list, you can edit the name in the list directly without going to the Edit dialog.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
23
11. Machining Processes
Using Group Types
The Machining Process Table Manager enables you to assign the Group Type to the Machining Process by choosing it from the list.
11.5 Managing Machining Processes
Right-click on the Machining Process name in the list to get the pull down menu of Machining Process operations.
• Add
This option enables you to add a new Machining Process to Machining Process Table.
• Edit
This option enables you to edit components of the Machining Process in the Machining Process Define Manager (see the topic 11.6).
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
24
• Copy
This option creates a copy of the current Machining Process.
• Rename
This option enables you to rename the current Machining Process.
• Delete
This option enables you to remove the current Machining Process from the Machining Process Table.
• Import
This option enables you insert Machining Processes from another MP Table into the current MP Table.
You can insert Machining Processes from MP Tables defined with similar MAC files.
1. Right-click on the MachProcess field and choose Import from the pull down menu.
2. Choose the MP Table you want from the Browser. The MP Export Table Manager will be displayed.
3. Choose the Machining Process you want from the Manager and confirm theoperation with the Export button.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
25
11. Machining Processes
11.6 Machining Process Define Manager
11.6.1 Job Templates page
In this page you can work with the set of Job Templates in the same way as the conventional SolidCAM Jobs via the SolidCAM Manager.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
26
11.6.2 Define Job Template
The Job template screen contains the same fields as the SolidCAM Job Screen.
You can now fill the fields of the Job template like in a conventional Job. Note that some fields in theJob Templates are marked with the icon. These fields are parametric. In these fields you can enterthe following data:
• Variable
• Expression
• Value
If a variable you entered does not exist, SolidCAM adds it to the Used Parameter Table (see the topic 11.6.6).
To edit this parametric field, you can use the parametric field menu by clicking on the icon.
If you entered wrong data in the parametric field (unacceptable type of variable, mistake in expressionetc.), SolidCAM will mark this parametric field with the icon.
In the Job template, you have to define the Geometry and the Tool.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
27
11. Machining Processes
11.6.3 Managing Job Templates
A Job Template is a parametrically defined single SolidCAM Job. In addition to numerical values forthe technology parameter definition you can use variables and expressions in the Job Templates.
The following options enable you to manage your Job templates:
• Add
The process of the Job Template creation is the same as creating Jobs via the SolidCAM Manager.
1. Right-click on the Jobs field situated in the Job Templates tab. The pull down menu will be displayed:
Choose the Job Template type from the menu.
The corresponding Job Template screen will be displayed.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
28
• Edit
This option enables you to edit the Job Template.
The corresponding Job Template screen will be displayed.
• Delete
• Change Tool
This option enables you to change the tool used in the specific Job Template. The Part Tool Table dialog (see the topic 3.6) will be displayed.
11.6.4 Parametric field menu
The parametric field menu enables you to choose parameters and expressions simply and effectively.
When you click on the icon, the following menu will be displayed:
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
29
11. Machining Processes
• User Defined Parameters
This option displays a list of existing User Defined Parameters.
Choose the variable name you want from this list.
You can open this list with the F5 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
• Part’s parameters
This option displays a list of existing Part’s Parameters.
Choose the variable name you want from this list.
You can open this list with the F6 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
• Expressions
This option displays the list of defined expressions.
You can open this list with the F7 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
30
• Functions
This option displays the list of standard SolidCAM functions. (For more information on this subject, please refer to the topic 11.6.9)
You can open this list with the F8 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
• Edit-View
This option displays the parameter edit dialog.
Here you can see and edit the full parameter name or expression string.
1. You can open this list with the F2 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
2. In this dialog you can also use the operational menu by clicking on the icon.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
31
11. Machining Processes
11.6.5 Default Sets page
In this page you can work with the set of Default Sets created in the actual Machining Process.
You can use the following operations to manage Default Sets:
• Set as Current
This operation activates the selected Default Set.
• Rename
This command enables you to rename the selected Default Set.
• Copy
This command enables you to copy the selected Default Set.
• Delete
This command removes the selected Default Set.
You can create a number of Default Sets and assign the specific combination of values and expressionsto the parameters in each of them. The Default Sets enables you to adapt the Machining Process to specific tasks.
Parameters
Default Set
Default Set
Default Set
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
32
1. Create a new Default Set via Copy operation.
2. Activate the created Default Set with the Current option.
3. Change parameters definition via Parameter Tables.
11.6.6 Parameters & Expressions Tables
There are two specific areas in the Machining Process Define Manager that enable you to manage your parameters and expressions:
Used Parameters Table
This area shows the table of parameters that were used in the Job Templates.
This area shows the table of parameters that were used in the Job Templates with the actual Default Set.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
33
11. Machining Processes
This table contains the following columns:
• Parameter - shows the parameter name. In this field you can change the name of the parameter.In this case the name will be updated in all Job Templates that use this parameter.
• Expression - shows the parameter definition as an expression or value. To edit this parametric field you can use the parametric field menu available by clicking on the icon.
• Result value - shows the result value returned by the parameter.
• G - shows the status of the parameter. If the status is Global - the „G“ letter is shown. In this case the expression of this value will be the same in the all Default Sets.
By right-clicking on this field, you can change the status of the parameter.
• R/O - shows the access status of the parameter. If the status is Read-only, the „R/O“ letters are shown. In this case the parameter definition cannot be changed during Machining process insertion.
By right clicking on this field, you can change the read-only status of the parameter.
• Description - shows your own text description of the parameter. To edit the field you canuse the context menu available by clicking on the icon.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
34
Unused Parameters Table
This area shows the table of parameters that were not used in the Job Templates with the actual Default Set.
This table contains the following columns:
• Parameter - shows the parameter name. In this field you can change the name of the parameter.In this case the name will be updated in all Job Templates that use this parameter.
• Expression - shows the parameter definition as either expressions or values. To edit thisparametric field, you can use the operational menu available by clicking on the icon.
• Result value - shows the result value returned by the parameter.
11.6.7 Adding a new Parameter
This field enables you to add a new parameter.
1. Choose the new parameter type from the list.
2. Type the parameter name.
3. Click the Add button to enter the parameter to the table.
The Delete button enables you to delete the selected parameter item from the Unused Parameters table.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
35
11. Machining Processes
11.6.8 Variables & expressions
SolidCAM enables you to use variables and expressions in your Job templates.
User Defined Parameters
You can define your own variables and use it in Job Templates definition.
SolidCAM supports the following types of variables:
Profile Geometry variables are stored in the Profile Geometries.
Z-Value variables are stored in the Z-coordinate of the picked point.
Distance Value variables are stored in the distance between two picked points.
String variables are stored in the string of symbols.
Float variables are stored in the positive and negative floating-point numbers.
Integer variables are stored in the positive and negative whole numbers.
You must follow the following rules when naming variables in SolidCAM:
• You must use a letter as the first character.
• You can‘t use any characters except capital and lower-case English letters, numbers and underscore symbols (_)
• Names can‘t exceed 255 characters in length.
Expressions
SolidCAM enables you to use expressions for parameters definition.
You can use the following symbols in expressions:
• Addition (+)
• Subtraction (-)
• Multiplication (*)
• Division (/)
Parentheses are acceptable.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
36
When multiplication and division occur together in an expression, each operation is evaluated as it occurs from left to right. When addition and subtraction occur together in an expression, each operation is evaluated in order of appearance from left to right. Parentheses can be used to override the order of precedence and force some CAM-Parts of an expression to be evaluated before others. Operations within parentheses are always performed before those outside. Within parentheses, however, operator precedence is maintained.
SolidCAM enables you to use the set of the standard mathematical functions like sine, cosine etc... in your formulas.
Example:
For the H_center variable in the following formula H_center = D_chamfer / 2
tg (α/2)we can write the expression:
H_center=(D_chamfer/2)/(tan(Alpha/2))
11.6.9 SolidCAM standard functions
sqrt()
Returns a value specifying the square root of a number.
sin()
Returns a value specifying the sine of an angle.
cos()
Returns a value specifying the cosine of an angle.
tan()
Returns a value specifying the tangent of an angle.
abs()
Returns a value of the same type that is passed to it specifying the absolute value of a number.
The absolute value of a number is its unsigned magnitude. For example, abs(-1) and abs(1) both return 1.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
37
11. Machining Processes
acos()
Returns a value specifying the arccosine of a number.
asin()
Returns a value specifying the arcsine of a number.
atan()
Returns a value specifying the arctangent of a number.
atan2(,)
Returns a value specifying the arctangent of quotient first and second arguments.
dist(,) and ang(,)
Returns polar coordinates: distance and angle (in radians) of the point defined in Cartesiancoordinates.
pow(,)
Returns a value of the first argument raised to the power of the second argument.
For example: pow(2,3) returns 8.
log10()
Returns a value specifying the base-10 logarithms of a number.
ln()
Returns a value specifying the natural logarithm of a number.
(X,Y)
dist(X,Y)
0
ang(X,Y)
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
38
sum3( , , )
Returns the sum value of three arguments.
int()
Returns the integer portion of a number.
rad()
Converts degrees to radians.
deg()
Converts radians to degrees.
11.7 Using the Machining processes
You can use the defined Machining Process by inserting it into a CAM-Part. During the insertion,SolidCAM transforms each Job Template into a single Job.
The main interface tool to insert a Machining Process into a CAM-Part is through the Machining Process Insert Manager.
Machining Process Insert
Manager
MachiningProcess
CAM-Part
JobTemplates Jobs
Insertion
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
39
11. Machining Processes
11.8 Inserting The Machining Process
Insert the Machining Process into your CAM-Part with the following steps.
1. Load the CAM-Part where you want to use the technology defined in the MachiningProcess.
2. Load the Machining Process Table
3. When the CAM-Part and Machining Process are loaded, right-click on the Jobs field and choose Add Machining Process from the sub-menu.
The Machining Process Table Manager will be displayed.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
40
5. Select the Machining Process you want from the list.
6. Click on the Pick button. The Machining Process Insert Manager will be displayed.
When the Insert Manager is loading, SolidCAM receives necessary information from the CAM-Part. Then SolidCAM receives expressions for other parameters from the current Default Set and calculates them.
To prepare the Machining Process for insertion, do the following steps:
1. With the Default Sets page choose the Default Set you require.
2. With the Parameters Table fill all the blank expression fields. You can also changeall expressions that do not have Read-Only status.
3. When the Machining Process is defined, click on the Insert button to insert the Machining Process into the current CAM-Part.
4. SolidCAM chooses tools for the Machining Process. The process of choosing is following:
• SolidCAM searches the tool in the Part Tool table (from tools already used in the CAM-Part).
• SolidCAM searches the tool in the current tool table (if it was defined).
• The search criteria are the tool shape and parameters. The first foundtool, with an identical tool shape and parameter, is chosen.
• If a tool with an identical shape and parameters is not found, SolidCAM will add a new tool with the first available tool number.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
41
11. Machining Processes
5. The Jobs will be inserted into the CAM-Part.
• To undo the last insertion, you can use the Undo button.
• The Simulate button enables you to simulate Jobs of the current CAM-Part.
11.9 Machining Process Insert Manager
11.9.1 Job Templates Page
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
42
This page displays the list of Job Templates that were inserted in the CAM-Part.
• By clicking on the (+) sign near each Job Template, you can see the list of parameters used in the selected Job template.
• To see the Job Template parameters and settings, right-click on the Job name in the list and choose the Show command from the list. The Job Template screen will be displayed.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
43
11. Machining Processes
In this screen you cannot change the Job Template definition. To edit the JobTemplate, go to the Machining Process Define Manager (see the topic 11.6).
In the Job Template screen, all parametric fields are marked with the icon. Click on this icon to see the parametric field menu. The Edit-View option is available in this menu. This option opens the parameter edit dialog.
This dialog enables you to see and edit the full parameter name or expression string.
11.9.2 Default Sets Page
Double-click on the Default Set name to make it current. The Parameters and values from the selected Default set will be shown in the Parameters Table.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
44
11.9.3 Parameters Table
There are three columns in this table:
• Parameter - shows the parameter name.
• Expression - shows the parameter definition. In this field you have to define missedexpressions for parameters. You can also edit all expressions that don‘t have Read-Only status.
• Result value - shows the result value returned by the parameter.
With the Show read only checkbox, you can allow or forbid showing parameters marked Read-Only.
The Show descriptions option enables you to show the parameter description instead of the parameter name in the Parameter column.
11.9.4 Job Points
This field contains buttons to define specific points of the job.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
45
11. Machining Processes
11.9.5 Parameters definition
Click on the icon to display menus for each parametric field.
Parametric field menu for Geometries
• Geom Select
This option displays a list of geometries that is defined in the CAM-Part.
Choose the variable name you want from the list.
You can also open this list with the F5 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
• Geom Define
This option enables you to define a geometry from the current model.
You can also open this list with the F6 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
• Geom Show
With the Show command, the current 3D model, drill or chain geometry will be displayed in the active CAD window.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
46
To exit from this mode, use the Exit button in the displayed Show Geometry dialog.
You can also open this list with the F7 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
• Edit-View
This option displays the parameter edit dialog.
This dialog enables you to see and edit the full parameter name or expression string.
1. You can also open this list with the F2 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
2. In this dialog you can also use the operational menu by clicking on the icon.
Parameters of Z-value and Distance types.
For parameters of these types, SolidCAM enables you to define values by picking them from the activeCAD-model.
• To define the Z-value, choose the Pick Z-value (F5) item from the parametric menu.
The Pick Z-Value dialog will be displayed. Pick the point you want on the model and click on the OK button to confirm the selection.
SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide
47
11. Machining Processes
• To define the Distance, choose the Pick Distance (F5) item from the Parametric menu.
1. In the SolidWorks window, pick the first point.
2. Confirm the selection with the OK button in the Distance: Pick first point dialog.
3. Pick the second point and confirm it in the same way.
The Distance value will be calculated.
Other Parameters
For parameters of other types, the parametric field menu contains only one item: Edit-View (F2).
Choose it to edit the parameter definition in the Edit window.
11. Machining ProcessesSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
48
12Automatic Feature Recognition
and Machining (AFRM)
The SolidCAM Automatic Holes Feature Recognition and Machining (AFRM) module enables you to automatically recognize holes in the Solid model and generate the tool path for machining.
Hole Feature recognition
Preparing to machining
Feature Sets definition
Technology
Technology Database
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
50
12.1 Introduction and Basic Concepts
The SolidCAM Automatic Holes Feature Recognition and Machining (AFRM) module enables you to automatically recognize holes in the Solid model and generate the tool path for machining.
At the first stage of the AFRM process, SolidCAM recognizes all Hole Features (see the topic 12.5) from the solid model and classifies them. SolidCAM analyzes the manufacturability of the recognizedfeatures and converts the Hole Features into Machinable Hole Features (see the topic 12.6.4) by making the necessary changes of the Hole Feature components. SolidCAM distributes Machinable Hole Features to Feature Sets (see the topic 12.7) related to the previously defined Machine Homes (see the topic 12.7.3). For each Feature Set, SolidCAM searches for a suitable technology in the Technology Database (TDB) (see the topic 12.8) and for tools in the Part Tool Table (see the topic 3.2). The appropriate technology will be converted to SolidCAM Jobs.
SolidCAM Automatic Feature Recognition
and Machining
Solid Model
Tool Path
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
51
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
All the holes recognized by SolidCAM can be classified either as Simple Hole Features or as Compound Hole Features.
A Simple Hole Feature is a cut in the solid body generated by the figure of revolution. The diameterof a Simple Hole can be constant or changing. A Simple Hole can either be Blind or Through.
Blind Simple Hole Feature Through Simple Hole Feature
Solid Model
TechnologyDatabase
Part Tool Table
CAM-Part
Holes Recognition
Hole Features
Machinable HoleFeatures
Feature Sets
Jobs
Machine Homes
Conversion to Machinable Features
Distribution to Feature Sets
Feature based Machining
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
52
A Compound Hole Feature is also generated by the cut of the figure of revolution. The diameter ofthe Compound Hole Feature is constant or decreasing at the start of the hole and increasing at the end of the hole. The Compound Hole Feature can be only through.
SolidCAM recognizes the holes with the undercuts.
Blind Hole Feature with undercut
Compound Hole Feature with undercut Through Hole Feature with undercut
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
53
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.2 Preparation to Holes Recognition
You have to prepare the CAM-Part before you activate the Holes recognition. The preparation includes the Homes and Target model definition.
12.2.1 Definition of Homes
You have to define a number of Machine Homes (see the topic 2.2) corresponding to the setup positions of the part on the CNC machine. The number of Machine Homes has to be enough to machine the part from all directions that you need.
12.2.2 Target model
The Target model (see the topic 2.4) has to be defined. SolidCAM uses the Target model for theAFRM.
When the CAM-Part is defined and prepared, you can start the Holes recognition process.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
54
12.3 Start Holes Recognition
To start the holes recognition process, right click on the Jobs field in the SolidCAM Manager and choose the Holes Recognition item from the menu.
The Holes Recognition will be started. SolidCAM parses the solid model in order to gather the information about all holes. When the recognition process will be finished, SolidCAM displays theHoles Recognition Manager.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
55
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.4 Holes Recognition User Interface
12.4.1 Holes Recognition Manager
When the AFRM module is activated, the Holes Recognition Manager is displayed. The SolidCAM Holes Recognition Manager is shown in the SolidWorks Feature Manager area.
The SolidCAM HR Manager consists of a number of pages that can be controlled with the HR Manager Toolbar.
This toolbar enables you to switch between the various.
Hole Features Page
Machinable Features Page
Feature Set Page Technology Page
Jobs Page
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
56
Hole Features Page
Machinable Hole Features Page
Feature Sets Page
Technology Page
Jobs Page
• Hole Features page (see the topic 12.5.9) displays all the Hole Features recognized in the solid model.
• Machinable Hole Features page (see the topic 12.6.6) displays all Machinable Hole Features converted from the Hole Features.
• Feature Set page (see the topic 12.7.4) displays all the Feature Sets.
• Technology page (see the topic 12.8.3) displays all the Technology solutions offered by SolidCAM for the machining of the current Feature Set.
• Jobs page (see the topic 12.9) displays Jobs generated by SolidCAM.
12.4.2 Holes Recognition Toolbar
When the AFRM is activated, the Holes Recognition toolbar is displayed.
• Technology DataBase
This button enables you to display the Technology DataBase Manager (see the topic 12.10).
• Settings
This button enables you to display the Holes recognition Settings dialog (see the topic 12.11).
• Show Picture
This button enables you to display the schematic picture of the selected item.
Technology DataBase
Settings
Show Data
Show Errors
Show Tool Table
Show Picture
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
57
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
• Show Data
This button enables you to display the Parameters dialog which displays the parameters of the selected item.
• Show errors
This button enables you to display the Errors dialog which shows the errors that occurred during the AFRM process.
• Show Tool Table
This button enables you to display the Part Tool Table.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
58
12.5 Hole Feature Model
SolidCAM analyzes the Solid model in order to recognize all the Hole features. A Hole Feature recognized by SolidCAM consists of a number of Hole Feature segments. Each Hole Feature Segment is composed of one or more faces. The Type of Hole Segment depends on the Face Surface Type.
Hole Feature segment composed from several faces
Hole Feature segment composed from one face
Types of Hole Segments:
• Cylindrical
• Cone
• Chamfer
• Planar
• Torus
• Sphere
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
59
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
SolidCAM determines the total Depth, Hole Upper Plane and Direction of each Hole Feature.
SolidCAM determines the geometry parameters of each Hole Feature segment.
The Upper plane of the Hole Feature is the upper Z-level of the hole determined in compliance with the SolidWorks Part origin.
12.5.1 Cylindrical Hole Feature segment
This segment is formed by a cylindrical face.
• Diameter (D1)
• Height (H1)
Solid Model Origin
Z Direction Hole Upper Plane
Depth
Diameter (D1)
Height (H1)
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
60
12.5.2 Cone Hole Feature segment
This segment is formed by a cone face.
• Diameter (D1),
• Height (H1),
• Angle (A1)
12.5.3 Chamfer Hole Feature segment
This segment is formed by a truncated conical face.
• Upper diameter (D1),
• Lower diameter (D2),
• Height (H1),
• Angle (A1)
Diameter (D1)
Height (H1)
Angle (A1)
Upper Diameter (D1)
Lower Diameter (D2)
Height (H1)
Angle (A1)
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
61
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.5.4 Planar Hole Feature segment
This segment is formed by a planar face. A segment of this type has no parameters.
12.5.5 Torus Hole Feature segment
• Upper Diameter (D1)
• Lower Diameter (D2)
• Height (H1)
• Radius (R1)
There are two parameters describing the location of the center of the generatrix circle:
• HC - Height of the center relative to the bottom of the torus.
• DC - Diameter of the center.
Upper Diameter (D1)
Lower Diameter (D2)
Height (H1)
Radius (R1)
Diameter of the center (DC)
Height of the center (HC)Radius (R1)
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
62
12.5.6 Sphere Hole Feature segment
This segment is formed by a spherical face. The center of the sphere is situated on the hole axis.
• Upper Diameter (D1)
• Lower Diameter (D2)
• Height (H1)
• Radius (R1)
The Sphere segment can be either Open or Closed. A Closed Sphere segment has zero Lower Diameter (D2).
When the Lower Diameter (D2) is greater than zero – the Sphere will be Open.
Upper Diameter (D1)
Lower Diameter (D2)
Height (H1)
Radius (R1)
Open Sphere(D2>0)
Closed Sphere(D2<0)
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
63
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.5.7 Compound Holes processing
SolidCAM splits the Compound Hole into two Simple Hole Features: one above the splitter line and one below the splitter line. This enables you to machine the Compound Hole Feature from both sides using two Homes.
12.5.8 Hole Feature Shapes and Groups
The SolidCAM AFRM module classifies the Hole Features into Hole Feature Shapes and Hole Feature Groups.
The Hole Features with the same type and sequence of segments will be included into one Hole Feature Shape.
For each Hole Feature Shape, the Hole Features are grouped in Hole Feature Groups; each Group includes the Hole Features with the same values for the segment parameters.
Splitter Splitter
Shape
Group #1
Group #2
Hole #1Hole #2
...Hole #N
Hole #1Hole #2
...
...
Hole #N
Group #N
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
64
12.5.9 Hole Features page
The Hole Features page displays the list of all Hole Features recognized in the solid model. The Hole Features are classified into Shapes and Groups. You can highlight the Hole Features, Groups and Shapes in the graphic view by selecting the items in the list.
You can repeat the Holes recognition process with the Recognize command.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
65
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
SolidCAM enables you to display the Hole Picture dialog with the Show Picture button located on the Holes Recognition toolbar. This dialog shows the schematic picture of the selected Shape, Group or Hole Feature.
SolidCAM enables you to display the Topology Hole Parameters dialog with the Show Data button located on the Holes Recognition toolbar.
This dialog contains a number of pages.
The Holes parameters page display the global Hole parameters:
• Depth
• Upper Plane
• Direction
Other pages display the geometry parameters of each Hole Feature segment. When the specific segment page is selectedin the Topology Hole Parameters dialog, the corresponding segment will be highlighted in the Hole Picture.
The parameters values displayed in the Topology Hole Parameters dialog cannot be changed. In order to change them, you have to edit the solid model and perform the Holes Recognition again.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
66
Managing Hole Features
SolidCAM enables you to manage the Hole Features, Shapes and Groups with the right-click menu.
Shape or Group menu
The right-click menu for Shape and Group includes the following items:
• Split/Unsplit
This option enables you to split/unsplit all Compound Holes in the selected Shape or Group
This operation is available only if the Shape or Group contains only Compound Holes.
• Change direction to opposite
This option changes the direction of all the Hole features in the specified Shape orGroup.
Hole Feature menu
The right-click menu for the Hole Features includes the following items:
• Split/Unsplit
This option enables you to split/unsplit the selected Compound Hole.
This operation is available only for Compound Holes.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
67
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
• Change direction to opposite
This option changes the direction of the selected Hole Feature.
• Go to Opposite
This option enables you to jump in the list to the Opposite part of the Split Compound Hole.
This operation is available only for Split Compound Holes.
Hole Features filter
The filter capabilities enable you to display in the list only those Hole Features that correspond to a certain criterion.
• Direction filter
This filter enables you to display Hole Features with a specified direction only.
• Upper plane filter
This filter enables you to display Hole Features with a specified Upper Plane only.
The Upper Plane filter is active only for the specified direction.
• Hole type filter
This filter enables you to display Hole Features of a specified type: either Blind orThrough.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
68
• Compound Hole Only
This option enables you to display only the Compound holes.
• Split Hole Only
This option enables you to display only the Split Holes.
• Hole with Undercut Only
This option enables you to display only the Hole Features with undercut.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
69
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.6 Preparing Hole Features for the machining
There are following stages of preparing Hole Features for the machining:
• Undercut processing
• Segments Union
• Creating Machinable Hole Features
12.6.1 Undercut processing
SolidCAM recognizes undercuts in the Hole Feature model.
The SolidCAM AFRM Module analyzes Hole Feature segments in order to find an undercut. Anundercut is detected when the diameter increases during one topology segment. The Undercut consists of a number of segments and finishes when the current diameter is equal to the undercutinitial diameter.
SolidCAM determines the Undercut Height (HU) as the sum of the height of all topology segments of the undercut.
UndercutHeight (HU)
Undercut Diameter (DU)
Undercut
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
70
SolidCAM classifies undercuts depending on the last Hole Feature segment included in undercut. Theclassification is as follows:
• Undercut – None
In this case the finish diameter of the last segment of theundercut is equal to the Undercut diameter.
• Undercut – Planar
In this case Undercut finishes with the Planar Hole Feature segment (see the topic 12.5.4).
• Undercut – Cone
In this case Undercut finishes with the Cone Hole Feature segment (see the topic 12.5.2).
• Undercut – Chamfer
In this case Undercut finishes with the Chamfer Hole Feature segment (see the topic 12.5.3).
• Undercut – Torus
In this case Undercut finishes with the Torus Hole Feature segment (see the topic 12.5.5).
• Undercut – Sphere
In this case Undercut finishes with the Sphere Hole Feature segment (see the topic 12.5.6).
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
71
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.6.2 Undercut substitution
SolidCAM handles undercuts by substituting the undercut with a cylindrical segment depending on the undercut type. The cylinder diameter is equal to the Undercut diameter (DU). When a part of the lower undercut segment is less then the Undercut diameter, SolidCAM substitutes this part with a cone, chamfer, torus or sphere segment.
Undercut substitution schemes:
• Undercut – None segment substitution
• Undercut – Planar segment substitution
HU
H1=HU
D1=DU
Height (H1)
DU Diameter (D1)
HU
H1=HU
D1=DU
Height (H1)
DU Diameter (D1)
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
72
• Undercut – Cone segment substitution
• Undercut – Chamfer segment substitution
HU
H1=HU-H2H2=DU/(2*tg(A1/2))
D1=DU
Height (H1)
Height (H2)
DU Diameter (D1)
Angle (A1) Angle (A1)
HU
H1=HU-H2H2=(DU-DU)/(2*tg(A1/2))
D1=DU
Height (H1)
Height (H2)
DU Diameter (D1)
Angle (A1)
Lower Diameter (D2) Lower Diameter (D2)
Angle (A1)
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
73
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
• Undercut – Torus segment substitution
HU
HT
R
H1=HU-H2
H2=HC-H
H= R2-((DU-DCENTER)/2)2
D1=DU
Height (H1)
Height (H2)
DU Diameter (D1)
Lower Diameter (D2) Lower Diameter (D2)
R
DT UPPER
DU
R
R
R
DCENTER
H2
HC
H
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
74
• Undercut – Sphere segment substitution
HU
HS
R
H1=HU-H2
H2= R- R2-D2/4
D1=DU
Height (H1)
Height (H2)
DU Diameter (D1)
R
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
75
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.6.3 Segments Union
SolidCAM enables you to unite identical adjacent Hole Feature segments.
There are the following cases for union:
• Planar + Planar
• Cylinder + Cylinder
The diameter of the resulting cylinder will be the same as the diameter of the original cylinders. The Height will be sum of the original cylinder heights.
Planar 1
Planar 2
United Planar
Cylinder 1
Cylinder 2
United Cylinder
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
76
• Chamfer + Cone
The Diameter of the resulting cone will be the same as the Diameter of the original upper chamfer. The Angle of the resulting segment is equal to the Angle of the original cones. The Height will be sum of the original cone heights.
• Chamfer + Chamfer
The Upper Diameter of the resulting chamfer segment will be the same as the Upper Diameter of the original upper chamfer. The Angle of the resulting segment is equal to the Angle of the original chamfers. The Lower Diameter of the resulting chamfer segment will be the same as the Lower Diameter of the original lower chamfer. The Height will be sum of the original chamfer heights.
Chamfer
Cone
United Cone
Chamfer 1
Chamfer 2
United Chamfer
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
77
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
• Torus + Torus
The Upper Diameter of the resulting torus segment will be the same as the Upper Diameter of the original upper torus. The Radius of the resulting segment is equal to the Radius of the original torus. The Lower Diameter of the resulting torus segment will be the same as the Lower Diameter of the original lower torus. The Height will be sum of the original torus heights.
• Sphere + Sphere
The Upper Diameter of the resulting sphere segment will be the same as the Upper Diameter of the original upper sphere. The Radius of the resulting segment is equal to the Radius of the original spheres. The Lower Diameter of the resulting sphere segment will be the same as the Lower Diameter of the original lower sphere. The Height will be sum of the original sphere heights.
Torus 1
Torus 2
United Torus
Sphere 1
Sphere 2
United Sphere
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
78
12.6.4 Machinable Hole Features
SolidCAM converts Hole Features into the Machinable Hole Features in order to prepare them for machining. The Machinable Hole Feature consists of one or more Machinable Hole Feature segments that can be machined in one operation with the same tool.
Types of Machinable Hole Feature segments
The following types of the Machinable Hole Feature segments exist:
• Drill
• Chamfer
• Flat Cylinder
• Flat Chamfer
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
79
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Parameters of Machinable Hole Feature segments
SolidCAM calculates the values of the following parameters for the Machinable Hole Feature segments. These parameters are called HR variables. They will be used later for the technology definition.
Each Machinable Hole Feature segment has the following parameters that define the position of thesegment along the revolution axis:
• hr_segm_upper_plane
This parameters is the distance from the Solid Model Origin to the upper level of the Machinable Hole Feature segment (Segment Upper plane).
• hr_segm_depth
This parameters is the distance from the Hole Upper Plane to the lower point of the Machinable Hole Feature segment.
• hr_segm_height
This parameters is the Height of the segment; the distance from the Segment Upper plane to the lower point of the Machinable Hole Feature segment.
Segment Upper Plane
Hole Upper Plane
Origin
hr_segm_height
hr_segm_upper_plane
hr_segm_depth
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
80
In addition to the general parameters, SolidCAM determines the following parameters for each type of Machinable Hole Feature segment:
Drill
hr_segm_diameter
hr_segm_height
hr_segm_angle
• hr_segm_diameter
• hr_segm_height
• hr_segm_angle
Chamfer
hr_segm_height
hr_segm_diameter
hr_segm_angle
hr_segm_lower_diameter
• hr_segm_diameter
• hr_segm_angle
• hr_segm_lower_diameter
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
81
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Flat Cylinder
hr_segm_height
hr_segm_height
hr_segm_diameter
hr_segm_diameter
hr_prev_segm_diameter
hr_segm_blind = true
hr_segm_blind = false
• hr_segm_diameter
• hr_segm_blind
• hr_prev_segm_diameter
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
82
Flat Chamfer
hr_segm_height
hr_segm_diameter
hr_segm_diameter
hr_prev_segm_diameter
hr_segm_angle
hr_segm_blind = true
hr_segm_blind = false
hr_segm_lower_diameter
• hr_segm_diameter
• hr_segm_angle
• hr_segm_height
• hr_segm_lower_diameter
• hr_segm_blind
• hr_prev_segm_diameter
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
83
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
For the Machinable Hole Feature segments contain cylinder (Drill and Flat Cylinder) the Hole Upper Plane is coincide with the Segment Upper Plane. Therefore, the hr_segm_height is equal to the hr_segm_depth.
hr_segm_height = hr_segm_depth
Segment Upper Plane = Hole Upper Plane
hr_segm_upper_plane
Origin
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
84
12.6.5 Machinable Hole Feature conversion
SolidCAM converts Hole Feature segments into Machinable Hole Features with the following rules:
General Conversion Rules
1. All possible combinations with Upper segment – Cylinder are converted into the one Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment.
Exception: When a pair consisting of Cylinder and Planar segments are converted into Flat Cylinder segment.
Upper + Lower Hole Feature Segments Machinable Hole Feature segment
Cylinder + None Drill
Cylinder + Chamfer Drill
Cylinder + Cone Drill
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
85
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Cylinder + Torus (open Sphere) Drill
Cylinder + Sphere Drill
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
86
2. Cone and Closed Sphere segments are converted into a Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment.
Hole Feature segment Machinable Hole Feature segment
Cone Drill
Closed Sphere Drill
3. All possible combinations with Lower segment – Planar are converted into one Machinable Hole Feature segment.
Upper + Lower Hole Feature Segments Machinable Hole Feature segment
Cylinder + Planar Flat Cylinder
Chamfer + Planar Flat Chamfer
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
87
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Torus/Open Sphere + Planar Flat Chamfer
4. Single segments like Torus, Chamfer and Open Sphere are converted into Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segments.
Hole Feature segment Machinable Hole Feature segment
Chamfer Chamfer
Torus Chamfer
Open Sphere Chamfer
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
88
Conversion to Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment
SolidCAM determines the following dimensions of the upper and lower Hole Feature segments of the pair. In the scheme below, the segments are represented as two cylinders surrounding the segments.
The scheme of the Drill segment generation is the following:
• The vertex of the cone is located on the same depth (hr_segm_height) as the lower point of the lower segment of the initial Hole Feature.
• The diameter of the Cylinder (hr_segm_diameter) is the same as the diameter of the Hole Feature Segment.
• The resulting Machinable Hole Feature segment is extended upward till the Hole Upper Plane.
• The Cone angle (hr_segm_angle) is 118°.
UpperSegment
Hole Upper Plane
D
Upper Plane
DepthH
U
HL
H
LowerSegment
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
89
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
In some cases, according to the General conversion rules (see the topic 12.6.5) described earlier, the upper segment is absent. In this case the upper segment will be None and the segment Height will be 0.
Exception: In the case of translation of a through Cylindrical Hole Feature segment to a Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment, the hr_segm_height parameter of the Drill will be the following:
Hole Upper Plane
hr_segm_diameterhr_segm_angle
hr_segm_height
Hole Upper Plane
hr_segm_diameterD
hr_segm_angle
hr_segm_heightH
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
90
Conversion to Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature segment
SolidCAM determines the following dimensions of the upper and lower Hole Feature segments of the pair. In the scheme below, the segments are represented as two cylinders surrounding the segments.
If the lower Hole feature segment is Planar, the HL is 0.
The scheme of Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature generation is the following:
• The planar face is located on the same depth (hr_segm_diameter) as the lower point of the lower segment of the initial Hole Feature.
• The diameter of the Cylinder (hr_segm_height) is the same as the diameter of the Hole Feature Segment.
• The resulting segment is extended upward till the Hole Upper Plane.
UpperSegment
Hole Upper Plane
D
Upper Plane
DepthH
U
HL
H
LowerSegment
hr_segm_diameter
hr_segm_height
Hole Upper Plane
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
91
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Conversion to Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment
According to the General conversion rules explained earlier (see the topic 12.6.5), the scheme of input data for the conversion will be the following.
The major parameters of the converted Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment will be the same as in the original Hole Feature segment:
• The Upper diameter (hr_segm_diameter) of the Chamfer segment will be equal to the Upper diameter of the initial Hole Feature segment.
• The Lower diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) of the Chamfer segment will be equal to the Lower diameter of the initial Hole Feature segment.
• The Height (hr_segm_height) of the Chamfer segment will be equal to the Height of the initial Hole Feature segment.
• The converted Chamfer segment is situated at the same depth as the original Hole Feature segment.
• The Chamfer Angle (hr_segm_angle ) will be calculated automatically.
Depth
Upper Plane
Hole Upper Plane
H
DU
DL
LowerSegment
hr_segm_depth
hr_segm_upper_plane
Hole Upper Plane
hr_segm_heightLower
Segment
hr_segm_diameter
hr_segm_lower_diameter
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
92
Conversion to Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment
According to the General conversion rules explained earlier (see the topic 12.6.5), the scheme of the input data for the conversion will be the following.
The major parameters of the converted Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment will be the same as in the original Hole Feature segment:
• The Upper diameter (hr_segm_diameter) of the Chamfer segment will be equal to the
Upper diameter of the initial Hole Feature segment.
• The Lower diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) of the Chamfer segment will be equal to the Lower diameter of the initial Hole Feature segment.
• The Height (hr_segm_height) of the Chamfer segment will be equal to the Height of the initial Hole Feature segment.
• The converted Chamfer segment is situated at the same depth as the original Hole Feature segment.
• The Chamfer Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be calculated automatically.
Depth
Upper Plane
Hole Upper Plane
H
DU
DL
LowerSegment
hr_segm_depth
hr_segm_upper_plane
Hole Upper Plane
hr_segm_heightLower
Segment
hr_segm_diameter
hr_segm_lower_diameter
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
93
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.6.6 Machinable Hole Feature Page
The Machinable Hole Features Page is divided to two parts. The upper part displays the list of Machinable Hole Features, classified into Shapes and Groups. When an item is selected in theMachinable Hole Features list, the lower part of the page displays the segments of the selected item.
When the Hole Features were changed, SolidCAM enables you to rebuild the Machinable Features. The Rebuild operation is available either for all Machinable Hole Features or for the selected Machinable Hole Feature (Shape, Group).
SolidCAM enables you to display the Hole Picture dialog with the Show Picture button located on the Holes Recognition toolbar. This dialog schematically shows the segments of the selected Machinable Hole feature.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
94
Managing Machinable Hole Feature Segments
The lower part of the Machinable Hole Features page displays the list of the segments for the selected Machinable Hole Feature. The Machinable Hole Feature segments are situated in the list with specificorder from the lower segment to upper. SolidCAM enables you to manage the Machinable Features segments with the right-click menu.
The following operations are available:
• Change type
The Change type option enables you to change the type of the Machinable Feature Segment. The M-Feature segment type dialog will be displayed. This dialog enables you to change the type of the Machinable Hole Feature segment.
• Reset
SolidCAM enables you to change the dimensions of the Machinable Hole Feature segment. The Reset option enables you to reset the selected changed Machinable Hole Feature segment to its initial dimensions calculated by SolidCAM.
• Insert Before / Insert After
This option enables you to insert a new Machinable Hole Feature segment before or after the selected segment. The M-Feature segment type dialog will be displayed in order to choose the type of the segment.
• Delete
This option enables you to delete a selected Machinable Hole Feature segment.
Only the segments added by the user can be deleted. The segments automatically built by SolidCAM cannot be deleted.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
95
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Modifying Machinable Hole Feature segments
SolidCAM enables you to display the Machinable Hole Feature Parameters dialog with the Show Data button located on the Holes Recognition toolbar.
This dialog displays the parameters of the selected Machinable Hole feature or selected Machinable Hole Feature segment.
The Holes parameters page is displayed when the Machinable Hole Feature is selected. This page displays the following parameters of the Machinable Hole feature:
• Depth
• Upper Plane
• Origin X /Origin Y
• Direction
The Depth, Upper Plane, Origin X/Y and Direction parameters cannot be changed.
Upper Plane
Home
Home
Origin Y
Origin X
Depth
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
96
When a segment is selected, the Machinable Hole Feature Parameters dialog displays the specificparameters of the selected segment.
SolidCAM enables you to assign a new value (User value) to parameters of the Machinable Hole Feature segments.
When the new value is assigned to the parameter, SolidCAM modifies the segment according to thespecific rules.
• Drill segment
• Flat Cylinder segment
• Chamfer segment
• Flat Chamfer segment
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
97
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Modifying Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment
Changing Diameter (hr_segm_diameter)
When the Diameter changes, the Height (hr_segm_height) and Angle (hr_segm_ange) remain unchanged. The height of the conical and cylindrical faces will be changed. The Cone corner will be fixed.
Changing Angle (hr_segm_angle)
When the Angle changes, the Height (hr_segm_height) and Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) remains unchanged. The height of the conical and cylindrical faces will be changed. The Cone corner will be fixed.
hr_segm_height
hr_segm_diameter
hr_segm_angle
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
98
Changing Height (hr_segm_height)
When the Height changes, the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) remains unchanged. The Height of the Conical face will be the same; the height of the cylindrical face will be changed. So, the Height will be changed. The Upper plane will be fixed.
Changing Upper Plane
When the Upper Plane changes, the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) will remain unchanged. The Height of the Conical face will be the same; the height of the cylindrical face will be changed. So, the Height (hr_segm_height) will be changed. The Cone corner will be fixed.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
99
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Modifying Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature segment
Changing Diameter (hr_segm_diameter)
When the Diameter changes, the Height (hr_segm_height) will remain unchanged. The Upper plane will be fixed.
Changing Height (hr_segm_height)
When the Height changes, the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) will remain unchanged. The Upper plane will be fixed.
hr_segm_height
hr_segm_diameter
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
100
Changing Upper Plane
When the Upper plane changes, the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) will remain unchanged. The lower edge of the cylinder will be fixed. The Height (hr_segm_height) will be changed.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
101
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Modifying Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment
Changing Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) or
Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter)
When the Diameter or Lower Diameter changes; the Angle (hr_segm_angle) parameter will remain unchanged. It means that the second diameter will also be changed. The Height (hr_segm_height) and Upper plane will be the same.
Changing Angle (hr_segm_angle)
Changing the Angle causes the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) to change. The Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) will be fixed. The Height and Upper Plane will stay the same.
hr_segm_height
hr_segm_lower_diameter
hr_segm_diameter
hr_segm_angle
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
102
Changing Height (hr_segm_height)
Changing the Height (hr_segm_height) causes the Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) to change. The Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) will be fixed.The Upper Plane and Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be unchanged.
Changing Upper Plane
Changing the Upper Plane causes the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) to change. The Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be unchanged. The Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) will be fixed. So, Height (hr_segm_height) will be changed.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
103
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Modifying Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment
Changing Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) or
Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter)
When the Diameter or Lower Diameter changes; the Angle (hr_segm_angle) parameter will remain unchanged. It means that the second diameter will also be changed. The Height (hr_segm_height) and Upper plane will be the same.
Changing Angle (hr_segm_angle)
Changing the Angle causes the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) to change. The Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) will be fixed. The Height and Upper Plane will stay the same.
hr_segm_height
hr_segm_lower_diameter
hr_segm_diameter
hr_segm_angle
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
104
Changing Height (hr_segm_height)
Changing the Height (hr_segm_height) causes the Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) to change. The Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) will be fixed.The Upper Plane and Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be unchanged.
Changing Upper Plane
Changing the Upper Plane causes the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) to change. The Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be unchanged. The Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) will be fixed. So, Height (hr_segm_height) will be changed.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
105
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.7 Feature Sets
Feature Set is a number of Machinable Hole Features that will be machined within the same setup using one Machine Home. Once used in a Feature Set, the Machine Home cannot be used in another Feature Set.
12.7.1 Creating Feature Sets
SolidCAM automatically creates a number of Feature Sets according to the Machine Homes defined inthe current CAM-Part.
Feature Set
Machine Home
Feature Set
Machine Home #1
Feature Set
Machine Home #2
Feature Set
Machine Home #3
Feature Set
Machine Home #N
...
CAM-Part
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
106
12.7.2 Assigning Hole Features to Feature Sets
SolidCAM automatically distributes Hole Features to the Feature Sets.
SolidCAM checks the compatibility of the Machinable Hole Features with the Feature Sets and assigns Holes to the Feature Sets. The compatibility checker examines each Machinable Hole Feature according to the Machine Home (owned by the specific Feature Set) and the Axis type of the Feature Set.
Axis type enables you to limit the number of the axes used for the machining of the Machinable Hole Features in Feature Set; the Axes number can be the same or less than Axis number of the CAM-Part. The Machinable Hole Features included in the Feature Set will be machined according to this Axis number, not considering the Axis number of the CAM-Part.
Each Machinable Hole Feature can be assigned to a specific Feature Set if one of the following conditions is kept:
• The direction of the Machinable Hole Feature is parallel to the Z-axis of the Machine Home;
• It is possible to define a Home Position (according to the Axis Type) under the Machine Home with the Z-axis parallel to the direction of the Machinable Hole Feature.
The order of the assignment depends on the Machine Home Number; the Feature Set with the smaller Machine Home number will be filled with Machinable Hole Features first. Thus, if the MachinableHole Feature is compatible to a number of Feature Sets, the Machinable Hole Feature will be assigned to the Feature Set using the Machine Home with the lowest number.
The Machinable Hole Features that were not assigned are stored in the bank of the Recognized Hole Features.
RecognizedHoles
HolesBank
CAM-Part
CompatibilityChecker
CompatibilityChecker
CompatibilityChecker
Feature Set #1
Machine Home #1
Feature Set #2
Machine Home #2
Feature Set #N
Machine Home #N
Recognized Holes Recognized Holes Recognized Holes
IncompatibleHoles
Compatible Holes Compatible Holes Compatible Holes
IncompatibleHoles
IncompatibleHoles
Axis type Axis type Axis type
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
107
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.7.3 Automatic Home Positions definition
SolidCAM automatically defines Home Positions related to the Machine Home suitable to machine Machinable Hole Features of a specific Feature Set. The Home Position is created according to thefollowing data:
• The Machine Home used in the Feature Set,
• The Axis type of the Feature Set
• The Direction of the Machinable Hole Feature.
The Z-axis of the defined Home Position is coincident with the Machinable Hole Feature direction.The direction of the X- and Y-axis is defined according to the Machine Home and Axis Type.
When the Machinable Hole Feature is accepted by the Compatibility Checker, SolidCAM compares the direction of the Machinable Hole Feature with the Z-axis of the existing Home Positions related to the Machine Home of the Feature Set. If the direction and Z-axis of the Home Position are parallel, the Hole Feature will be assigned to the Home Position. If a suitable position is not found, SolidCAM defines a new one.
SolidCAM enables you to automatically locate the origin of the created Home position in dependence of the Hole Recognition Settings. The origin of the Home position can be placed in the following locations:
• The home position is placed in the position of Machine Home #1
Feature Set
Axis type Machine Home Direction
Hole Feature
Home Position
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
108
• The home position can be placed in the corner of the model box.
SolidCAM calculates the box surrounding the model (model box) in the coordinate system of the first Machine Home.
The Home Position will be located in the corner of the model box with the following coordinates (XMIN, YMIN, ZMAX).
YZ
X
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
109
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.7.4 Feature Sets page
The Feature Sets Page enables you to define and edit Feature Sets of the current CAM-Part and also to assign Hole Features to the Feature Sets.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
110
The Feature Sets Page is divided into three areas.
The upper area displays the tree of the Feature Sets with their Hole Features.
The middle area displays Compatible Hole Features – the Holes that can be assigned to the current Feature Set.
The lower area displays Incompatible Hole Features – the Holes that cannot be assigned to the current Feature Set.
Feature Sets Area
Compatible Holes Area
Incompatible Holes Area
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
111
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.7.5 Compatible/Incompatible Hole features
All the holes that are not distributed to the Feature Sets are located in the Holes Bank. In the Holes Bank holes are divided into two groups, depending on the current Feature Set.
The Feature Sets Page displays both the Compatible and Incompatible Hole Features for the Current Feature Set.
The checkbox, situated near each item in the Compatible Hole Features tree, enables you to select the item to move to the current Feature Set. The selected Compatible Features can be moved to the Current Feature Set by the Move to Current Set command available in the right-click menu in the Compatible Features area.
Holes Bank
CompatibleHoles
IncompatibleHoles
Compatible Holes Area
Incompatible Holes Area
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
112
12.7.6 Operating Feature Sets
SolidCAM enables you to manage your Feature sets with the right-click menu.
The following commands are available:
Set as Current
This option enables you to set a specific Feature Set as current. All other operations will be performed with the current Feature Set. The content of the Compatible/Incompatible Features areas will be changed according to the current Feature Set.
Add
This option enables you to add a new Feature Set. The Add Feature Set dialog will be displayed.
This dialog enables you to set the Axis type of the Feature Set and assign the Machine Home to the Feature Set. SolidCAM enables you to define the Axis type of the Feature Set.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
113
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Edit
This op tion displays the Edit Feature Set dialog.
This dialog enables you to edit the name and Axis type of the Feature Set and change the Machine Home assigned to t he Feature Set.
Remove All
This option enables you to remove all Machinable Hole Features from the Feature Set. All the Machinable Features will be moved to the Holes bank.
Delete
This option enables you to delete the Feature Set. All the Machinable Features will be moved to the Holes bank.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
114
12.7.7 Defining the Home Position origin location for the Feature Set
SolidCAM enables you to define the default location of the Home Position origin with the right click menu on the Machine Home of the specified Feature Set.
The Place Home origin to dialog will be displayed.
• Corner of Model Box
The home position can be placed in the corner of the model box.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
115
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
• Home #1
The home position is placed in the position of Machine Home #1.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
116
12.8 Technology
For the each segment of the Machinable Hole Feature, SolidCAM chooses:
• A suitable Technology Solution from the Technology DataBase (TDB) (see the topic 12.10).
• A tool from the Part Tool Table (see the topic 3.2) or defines a new tool.
Part Tool Table
Technology Database
Technology solution
Machinable HoleFeature Segment
Jobs
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
117
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.8.1 Choosing a Technology Solution
SolidCAM stores all Technology Solutions in the Technology Database. All the Technology Solutions are classified according to the type of Machinable Hole Feature segments.
For each type of Machinable Hole Feature segment, there is a number of technology solutions (each technology solution can belong to only one type of Machinable Hole Feature segment).
The Technology solutions can be either a user-defined Machining Process or built-in Algorithm.
• The user-defined Machining process contains Jobs templates with parametric technology data and parametric data of the tools. It can be defined and edited by the user.
• A built-in Algorithm is hard-coded in SolidCAM; it generates a number of Machining Processes. Parameters of the algorithm can be edited.
Technology Solutions
Technology Database
Drill MachinableFeature Segment
Flat Cylinder MachinableFeature Segment
Flat Chamfer MachinableFeature Segment
Chamfer MachinableFeature Segment
Technology Solutions
Technology Solutions
Technology Solutions
Technology Solutions
Technology Solution
Algorythm
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
118
Technology Solutions use the dimensions of the Machinable Hole Feature Segments.
SolidCAM automatically chooses the suitable Technology Solutions for the machining of the specifiedMachinable Hole Feature segment from the TDB. The choice of the Technology Solution is definedby the set of conditions. A Condition is a logical expression; its result can be either true or false. When the condition is true, the current technology solution can be used to machine the Machinable Hole Feature segment. SolidCAM checks the conditions of the technology solutions in sequence; the firstsolution with a true condition will be chosen.
12.8.2 Choosing the tool
When the technology solution is chosen from the TDB, SolidCAM chooses the suitable Tool from the Part Tool Table. The method of choosing the tools depends on the type of the operation where the tool is used. SolidCAM differentiates between the following types of operations:
• Drill Operation
• Mill Operation
• Center Drill Operation
• Chamfer Drill Operation
• Center-Chamfer Drill Operation
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
119
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Choosing the tool for the Drill Operation
SolidCAM searches for the tool according to the pre-defined tool type, diameter and angle. Theseparameters are specified in the Job template of the specific Technology Solution. SolidCAM searchesfor the suitable tool in the Part Tool Table. If the search fails, SolidCAM performs an additional search with the same criteria in the Current Tool Table. If the tool is not found, SolidCAM defines a new toolaccording to the data of the Job Template.
Does the Part Tool Tablecontain a suitable tool?
Does the Current Tool Tablecontain a suitable tool?
Technology Solution
Tool TypeTool Diameter
Tool Angle
Define a new tool
Technology Solution
Tool
Yes
Yes
No
No
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
120
Choosing the tool for the Mill Operation
SolidCAM searches for the tool according to the pre-defined tool type and corner radius. The searchis performed in the Part Tool Table in the diameter range from 0 till the product of Hole diameter and Constant. Constant is equal to 0.9. The tool with the maximum diameter will be chosen. If the tool was not found in the Part Tool Table, the search will be performed again in the Current Tool Table.
In the case of the absence of a suitable tool, an error message will be displayed and the tool for the milling operation will have to be defined manually.
Hole Diameter
Tool Diameter Range
0 < Tool Diameter < Hole Diameter + Constant
Does the Part Tool Tablecontain a suitable tool?
Does the Current Tool Tablecontain a suitable tool?
Technology Solution
Tool TypeCorner Radius
Tool Diameter Range
Error
Technology Solution
Tool
Yes
Yes
No
No
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
121
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Choosing the tool for the Center Drill Operation
SolidCAM searches for the tool in compliance with the pre-defined tool type and angle. The search isperformed in the Part Tool Table in the diameter range from the value of the sum of the Hole diameter and Constant endlessly. Constant is equal to 1. The tool with the maximum diameter will be chosen. If the tool with such diameter was not found, SolidCAM chooses the tool of any diameter with a pre-definedtool type and angle. If the suitable tool does not exist in the Part Tool Table, the search will be continued in the Current Tool Table.
In the case of the absence of a suitable tool, an error message will be displayed and a tool for the center drilling operation will have to be defined manually.
Does the Part Tool Tablecontain a suitable tool?
Does the Current Tool Tablecontain a suitable tool?
Technology Solution
Tool TypeTool Angle
Tool Diameter Range
Error
Technology Solution
Tool
Yes
Yes
No
No
Hole Diameter
Tool Diameter Range
Hole Diameter + Constant < Tool Diameter
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
122
Choosing the tool for the Chamfer Drill Operation
SolidCAM searches for the tool in compliance with the pre-defined tooltype and angle. The search is performed in the Part Tool Table in the diameter range from the value of sum of the Hole diameter and Constant till the difference between the next segment diameter and Constant. The Constant is equal to 1. If the suitable tool does not exist in the Part Tool Table, the search will be continued in the Current Tool Table.
In the case of the absence of a suitable tool, SolidCAM defines a new toolwith the pre-defined tool type, angleand minimum possible diameter (Hole diameter + Constant).
Next Segment Diameter
Tool Diameter Range
< Tool Diameter <Next Segment Diameter -- Constant
Hole Diameter ++ Constant
Hole Diameter
Does the Part Tool Tablecontain a suitable tool?
Does the Current Tool Tablecontain a suitable tool?
Technology Solution
Tool TypeTool Angle
Tool Diameter Range
Define a new tool:tool diameter = hole diameter + constant
Technology Solution
Tool
Yes
Yes
No
No
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
123
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Choosing the tool for the Center - Chamfer Drill Operation
SolidCAM searches for the tool in compliance with the pre-defined tool type and angle. The search is performedin the Part Tool Table in the diameter range from the value of sum of hole diameter and Constant endlessly. The Constant is equal to 1. The tool with the maximum diameter will be chosen. If the tool with such diameter is not found, SolidCAM chooses the tool of any diameter with a pre-defined tool type and angle. If the suitable tooldoes not exist in the Part Tool Table, the search will be continued in the Current Tool Table.
In the case of the absence of a suitable tool, an error message is displayed and the tool for the operation will have to be defined manually.
Tool Diameter Range
< Tool DiameterHole Diameter ++ Constant
Hole Diameter
Does the Part Tool Tablecontain a suitable tool?
Does the Current Tool Tablecontain a suitable tool?
Technology Solution
Tool TypeTool Angle
Tool Diameter Range
Error
Technology Solution
Tool
Yes
Yes
No
No
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
124
12.8.3 Technology Page
The Technology Page is divided into two parts.
The upper part displays the tree of all Machinable Hole Features of the Current Feature Set. The Machinable Hole Features are structured by Technologies and Groups.
• Technology – the set of Machinable Hole Features machined by the same Technology Solutions.
• Group - the set of Machinable Hole Features within the Technology with the same dimensions.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
125
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
The lower part of the Technology Page displays technology solution and tools chosen for the machining of the specified Machinable Hole Feature.
Activate the Hole Picture dialog with the Show Picture button located in the Holes Recognition toolbar to display the schematic picture illustrating the result of applying the technology solution.
SolidCAM enables you to display the Technology Hole Parameters dialog with the Show Data button located in the Holes Recognition toolbar.
This dialog enables you to edit the parameters of the specified Technology solution. SolidCAM enablesyou to edit only parameters that were not marked as Read only in the Technology Database.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
126
12.8.4 Managing Technology
The following operations are available in the upper part of the Technology Page with the right-click menu:
• Rebuild
This command rebuilds the technology for the selected item. The technology solutions will be chosen again from the Technology database.
• Find Tool
The Find Tool command enables you to perform the tool search again for the selected item.
This command is useful in the following cases:
• When the suitable tool was not found in the Part Tool Table and was not defined by SolidCAM.
• The Part Tool Table was updated.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
127
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Managing Technology Solutions
The lower part of the Technology Page displays the set of Technology Solutions necessary to the machining of the selected Machinable Hole Feature.
• Change
This option enables you to change the Technology Solution. The Machining process list dialog will be displayed; this dialog enables you to choose the necessary solution from the list of available Solutions for this type of Machinable Hole Feature segment.
• Find tool
This command enables you to automatically find the suitable tool from the Part Tool Tablefor the selected Technology Solution.
This command is useful in the following cases:
• When the suitable tool was not found in the Part Tool Table and was not defined by SolidCAM.
• The Part Tool Table was updated.
SolidCAM enables you to change the tool for the Technology Solution with the Change Tool option. The option is available with the right-click menu on the Tool item.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
128
The Part Tool Table dialog will be displayed in order to select a new tool.
The Show command is available with the right-click menu on the jobs of the Technology Solution.
This command displays the job screen with the parameters of the specifiedjob.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
129
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.9 Generating Jobs
When the Technology is defined, SolidCAM enables you to show the generated Jobs with the Jobs Page. These Jobs are also available in the CAM-Manager.
The Edit command is available for the Jobs in the right-click menu.
This command enables you to display the Job screen.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
130
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
131
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.10 Technology Database
The SolidCAM Technology Database (TDB) stores all the Technology Solutions available for the machining of the Machinable Hole Feature segments. The Technology Solutions in TDB are classifiedaccording to types of Machinable Features Hole Feature segments. For each type of Machinable Hole Feature segment, there is a number of connected technology solutions (each technology solution can belong to only one type of Machinable Hole Feature segment).
Technology Solutions
Technology Database
Drill MachinableFeature Segment
Flat Cylinder MachinableFeature Segment
Flat Chamfer MachinableFeature Segment
Chamfer MachinableFeature Segment
Technology Solutions
Technology Solutions
Technology Solutions
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
132
12.10.1 Global and Local Technology databases
When SolidCAM is installed, the Global Technology Database is also installed in the system folder of SolidCAM. SolidCAM enables you to customize the Global TDB by adding and editing Technology Solutions.
When SolidCAM starts the AFRM process, the Global TDB will be copied into the CAM-part folder. This copy is called the Local TDB. During the AFRM process, SolidCAM receives data only from the Local TDB. The Local TDB can be modified by the user for specific tasks in the context of thespecific CAM-Part.
The Global TDB can be replaced with the Local TDB.
SolidCAM enables you to load the Global TDB with the Technology Database command from the SolidCAM menu.
The Technology Database Manager dialog will be dixsplayed containing the Global TDB.
The Global Technology Database is unavailable when the Holes Recognition process is working. In this case only the Local TDB can be edited.
The Local Technology Database can be loaded only when the Holes Recognition process is working. The Local TDB can be loaded with the related icon from the Holes Recognition toolbar.
The Technology Database Manager dialog will be displayed containing the Local TDB.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
133
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.10.2 Technology Database interface
The Technology Database Manager dialog enables you to manage the Technology Database. The dialog contains the areas shown on the picture below.
Current Configuration
Solutions/Configurationspage
Conditions Area
Variables Area
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
134
12.10.3 Configurations page
SolidCAM enables you to use configurations in order to create multiple variations of a technologydatabase suitable for different tasks. By default, two basics configurations are implemented inSolidCAM: System Configuration and User Configuration.
The System Configuration cannot be changed. It contains the set of technology solutions supplied by SolidCAM.
The User configuration supplied by SolidCAM is a copy of the System configuration. All the content of the technology database can be edited within this configuration. SolidCAM enables you to createa number of user configurations. Technology solutions will be the same in all User Configurations. The sequence of the Technology Solutions, conditions and expressions of user-defined variables canbe different within different User Configurations.
The Configurations Page of the TDB Manager enables you to manage configurations of TDB, eitherGlobal or Local.
SolidCAM enables you to perform the following operations with the right-click menu.
• Set as Current
This option enables you to make the specified configuration current. All the furtheroperation will be performed for the Current Configuration.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
135
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
• Rename
This option enables you to change the name of the specified User Configuration.
The System Configuration cannot be renamed.
• Copy
This option enables you to create a copy of the specified User Configuration.
The System Configuration cannot be copied.
• Delete
This option enables you to remove the specified User Configuration.
The System Configuration, Current Configuration and last User Configurationcannot be deleted.
12.10.4 Current Configuration
The Current Configuration combo box displays the name of the current configuration and enablesyou to switch quickly between configurations in TDB.
When the Configurations page is displayed, the Current Configuration combo box is disabled; it only shows the name of the current configuration.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
136
12.10.5 Solutions page
The page displays all the Technology solutions classified by the Machinable Hole Feature segmenttype.
SolidCAM enables you to perform the following operations with the Technology Solutions of a User Configuration.
Edit
This option enables you to edit the definition of the specified Technology Solution. TheMachining Process Define Manager will be displayed.
Add
This option enables you to define a new Technology Solution within the specifiedMachinable Hole Feature segment. The Machining Process Define Manager will bedisplayed. (For a more detailed explanation, refer to paragraph 10.3).
Delete
This option enables you to remove the specified Technology Solution from the TDB.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
137
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
Copy
This option enables you to create a copy of the specified Technology Solution.
Rename
This option enables you to rename the specified Technology Solution.
All the operations above are available only for Technology Solutions of a User Configuration.
For the Technology Solutions of the System Configuration, SolidCAM enables you to use the following right-click menu.
• View
This option enables you to display the specified Technology Solution with the Machining Process View Manager. The displayed Solution cannot be edited.
• Copy To User Configurations
This option enables you to copy the specified Technology Solution to the User Configurations. Since all the User Configurations use the same Technology Solutions, thecopied Technology Solution can be used within all User Configurations.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
138
12.10.6 Conditions
SolidCAM enables you to define the following set of conditions. If these conditions are true, the technology solution is chosen.
A Condition is a complex logical expression; its result can be either true or false. When the condition is true, the current Technology Solution can be used. SolidCAM checks the conditions of the Technology Solutions in a defined sequence; the first solution with a true condition will be chosen.
A Condition consists of condition lines combined by logical operators AND and OR. A Condition line is a comparison of two expressions. The following comparison operators are acceptable in condition lines:
• > (greater than);
• < (less than);
• = (equal);
• <= (less than or equal);
• >= (greater than or equal);
The expression used in condition lines can include constants, user-defined variables and functions,HR-variables and functions.
For the each Expression field the parametric menu is available.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
139
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
User Defined Parameters
This option displays a list of existing User Defined Parameters. These parameters can be used only fora Condition definition but cannot be used for the Technology Solution definition.
You can open this list with the F5 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
Holes Recognition parameters
This option displays a list of existing Holes Recognition Parameters
You can open this list with the F9 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
140
Holes Recognition Functions
This option displays a list of existing Holes Recognition Functions.
You can open this list with the F11 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
Expressions
This option displays the list of defined expressions.
SolidCAM enables you to use expressions for parameters definition.
You can use the following symbols in expressions:
• Addition (+)
• Subtraction (-)
• Multiplication (*)
• Division (/)
Parentheses are acceptable.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
141
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
When multiplication and division occur together in an expression, each operation is evaluated as it occurs from left to right. When addition and subtraction occur together in an expression, each operation is evaluated in order of appearance from left to right. Parentheses can be used to override the order of precedence and force some parts of an expression to be evaluated before others. Operations within parentheses are always performed before those outside. Within parentheses, however, operator precedence is maintained.
You can open this list with the F7 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
Functions
This option displays a list of existing Standard Functions.
You can open this list with the F8 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
Edit-View
This option displays the parameter edit dialog.
Here you can see and edit the full parameter name or expression string.
You can open this list with the F2 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
142
12.10.7 Variables
The Variables area displays the list of variables and their expressions used in Conditions.
SolidCAM enables you to filter the variables used for the Condition definition with the following radiobuttons.
• Data Base
This option enables you to display all the variables used in the TDB.
• Technology Segment
This option enables you to display all the variables used in the Technology Solutions of the Current Technology Segment.
• Technology Solution
This option enables you to display all the variables used in for the current Technology Solution.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
143
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.10.8 Defining a new Technology Solution
SolidCAM enables you add a new Technology Solution to the User Configurations. To do it, choosethe Add option from the right click menu of the Solutions page in the TDB Manager.
The Machining Process Define Manager will be displayed.
The Machining Process Define Manager enables you to define the Machining Process as a Technology Solution. SolidCAM enables you to define parametric Job Templates and use CAM-Part parameters, HR variables, expressions, standard functions for the parameters definition.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
144
Tool definition
SolidCAM enables you to define tools for the Job Templates. The tools have to be defined accordingto the tool search algorithms (see the topic 12.8.2).
For drilling operations, SolidCAM enables the parametric definition of the tool. The expression forthe tool parameters have to be defined. When the Technology Solution will be applied, expressionswill be calculated and parameters used for the tool definition will get their values. The tool withdefined parameters will be chosen according to the specific algorithm.
For milling and chamfering operations SolidCAM enables the parametric definition of the tool butexpressions for the tool parameters are unnecessary. SolidCAM will choose the tool according to the built-in algorithm. When the tool is chosen, the parameters will receive values offered by the tool search algorithm.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
145
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.10.9 Holes Recognition Functions
hr_clear_offset(,,,)
This function enables you to calculate the clear offset that have to be removed during the milling operation.
This function receives the following parameters:
• Diameter
• Next_diameter
• Tool_diameter
• Overlap (%)
next_diameter
tool_diameterdelta/2
diameter
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
146
The logic of this function is the following:
diameternext_diametertool_diameter
overlap
delta=diameter/next_diameter
side_step=overlap*tool_diameter/100 clear_offset=(delta-tool_diameter)/2
clear_offset=0 clear_offset=delta-side_step
clear_offset
delta>tool_diameter
delta>side_step
No Yes
No Yes
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
147
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
hr_equal_down_step(,)
This function enables you to calculate equal down steps in order to machine the specifieddepth. The function receives the following values:
• wish_down_step
• hole_depth
The function returns the value of the equal down step closest to the wish_down_step parameter.down_step
hole_depth
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
148
12.11 Holes Recognition Settings
SolidCAM enables you to define the System and Part settings of the Holes Recognition with the Holes Recognition settings dialog.
The Holes Recognition settings dialog structure has two tabs:
• System. The system settings are stored in the registry and affect all CAM-Parts
• Part. The CAM-Part settings apply only to the current CAM-Part.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
149
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.11.1 System settings
The system settings are stored in the registry and affect all the CAM-Parts.
Topology settings
Place Home Origin at:
This option enables you to set the default location for the Home Position created by the AFRM at the stage of the Feature Sets definition.
• Corner of Model Box
The Home positions will be automatically placed at the corner of the box surrounding the model.
• Home #1
The Home positions will be automatically placed at the position of Machine Home #1.
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
150
Technology Settings
General
• Add Center Drill
This option enables SolidCAM to automatically perform the center drilling. The center drilling will be inserted before the machining of the first Machinable HoleFeature segment that will be machined with the drilling technology.
Colors
The Color Settings page enables you to define the colors that will be used in the HRManager for the items changed or inserted by the user.
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
151
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining
12.11.2 Part settings
Topology settings: Cutting angle
The Cutting angle parameter defines the minimal value of the arc angle. If the angle of the section ofthe Hole Feature is less than the defined value, SolidCAM does not recognize this as a hole.
Cutting Angle
12. Automatic Feature Recognition and MachiningSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
152
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
153
Index
Index
A
Adding a new Parameter 34Adding MAC file 14AFRM 49Algorithm 116anaging Job Templates 27Assigning Hole Features to Feature Sets 105Automatic Home Positions definition 106Axis type 105
B
Blind Simple Hol Feature 50
C
Chamfer Hole Feature segment 59Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 77Changing Angle 96, 100, 102Changing Diameter 96, 98, 100, 102Changing Height 97, 98, 101, 103Changing Upper Plane 97, 99, 101, 103Choosing a Technology Solution 116Choosing the tool 117Choosing the tool for the Center - Chamfer Drill Operation 122Choosing the tool for the Center Drill Operation 120Choosing the tool for the Chamfer Drill Operation 121Choosing the tool for the Drill Operation 118Choosing the tool for the Mill Operation 119Compatible Hole Features 110Compound Holes processing 62Compound Hole Features 50Condition 117Conditions 137Cone Hole Feature segment 59Configurations page 133Conversion to Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 90Conversion to Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment 87Conversion to Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 91Conversion to Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature segment 89Creating Feature Sets 104Creating Machining Processes 12Current Configuration 134Cutting angle 150Cylindrical Hole Feature segment 58
D
Default sets 11Default Sets Page 43
IndexSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
154
Default Sets page 31Define Job Template 26Defining a new Technology Solution 142Defining Machining Process Table 13Definition of Homes 52Distance 47Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment 77
E
Expression 34, 137Expressions 10, 32, 35, 139
F
Feature Set 104Feature Sets 49Feature Sets page 108Feature Set page 55Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 77Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature segment 77Functions 30, 140
G
Generating Jobs 128Global TDB 131Group Types 21
H
Holes Recognition Functions 139, 144Holes Recognition Manager 53, 54Holes Recognition parameters 138Holes Recognition Settings 147Holes Recognition Toolbar 55Hole Features 49Hole Features filter 66Hole Features page 55, 63Hole Feature Groups 62Hole Feature Model 57Hole Feature segments 57Hole Feature Shapes 62HR Manager Toolbar 54
I
Incompatible Hole Features 110Inserting The Machining Process 39
J
Jobs page 55Job Points 44
SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
155
Index
Job Templates 8Job Templates page 25
L
Local TDB 131
M
Machinable Hole Features 49, 77Machinable Hole Features page 55Machinable Hole Feature conversion 83Machinable Hole Feature Page 92Machining Process 8, 116Machining Process Define Manager 12, 25Machining Process Group Types 21Machining Process Insert Manager 41Machining Process List 16Machining Process Table 11, 13Machining Process Table Manager 12, 16MAC file 14Mac File 13Managing Hole Features 65Managing Machinable Hole Feature Segments 93Managing Machining Processes 23Managing Machining Process Tables 18Managing Technology 125Managing Technology Solutions 126Modifying Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 100Modifying Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment 96Modifying Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 102Modifying Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature segment 98Modifying Machinable Hole Feature segments 94MP Picture 17
N
New Machining Process Table 12
O
Operating Feature Sets 111
P
Parameter 34Parameters 10, 32Parameters definition 45Parameters of Machinable Hole Feature segments 78Parameters Table 44Parametric field menu 28Part settings 150Planar Hole Feature segment 60Preparation to Holes Recognition 52
IndexSolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide
156
R
Result value 34
S
Segments Union 74Simple Hole Features 50SolidCAM standard functions 36Solutions page 135Sphere Hole Feature segment 61Start Holes Recognition 53System Configuration 133System settings 148
T
Technology 115Technology DataBase 115Technology Database 49, 130Technology Database Manager dialog 132Technology Page 123Technology page 55Technology Settings 149Technology Solutions 116Through Simple Hole Feature 50Topology settings 148Torus Hole Feature segment 60
U
Undercut – Chamfer 69Undercut – Cone 69Undercut – None 69Undercut – Planar 69Undercut – Sphere 69Undercut – Torus 69Undercut processing 68Undercut substitution 70Unused parameters Table 34Used Parameters Table 32User Configuration 133User Defined Parameters 35, 138Using the Machining processes 38
V
Variables 141Variables & expressions 35
Z
Z-value 46
Document Number: SCMUG2ENG05001