Solidcam - Integrated Cam Engine For Solidworks - Manual - Milling Book Vol2 Screen(1).pdf

SolidCAM MillingUser’s Guide Volume #2 ©1995-2005 SolidCAM LTD. All Rights Reserved. Contents SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 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 3 ............................52 11....62 12.........68 12........................................................................................................................5...................................... Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining (AFRM) 12.......5................2 Target model .......... 112 12...................6............................76 12.9........................................6..................................................70 12....................................................................3 Start Holes Recognition.........................9 Hole Features page .............2 Cone Hole Feature segment ....................................................70 12......................1 Creating Feature Sets ................................60 12...............................................................................................................................................5..3 Segments Union............................60 12.........................62 12.................................................................................................................................................................................6....................4 Planar Hole Feature segment ..................2...............65 12........................................................3 Chamfer Hole Feature segment ..............................................................................1 Cylindrical Hole Feature segment ...............................................................................................................................................4 Machinable Hole Features .......................... 112 4 ........6..........................76 12.............................................................................5........1 Undercut processing .............................................................................................5 Hole Feature Model .......2 Preparation to Holes Recognition ..................................69 12..........................5............................61 12...................................................................................8 Hole Feature Shapes and Groups .........................................................................................................................................5.....................7....................................................................91 12.......................................................66 12.........53 12...................................................................4 Holes Recognition User Interface..........................1 Definition of Homes .............................................60 12.................5 Parameters definition .......................................SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Contents 11...................67 12.........................7 Compound Holes processing ..................................5 Machinable Hole Feature conversion ...6 Preparing Hole Features for the machining ..................................5 Torus Hole Feature segment........................68 12...............................2....................................................................................................................6...........................71 12..........52 11................4 Job Points............ 100 12...............................................................................................................9....9...1 Holes Recognition Manager .........................................................4......................................................5......................................................4.................................................85 12......................................................................................................................................................6 Sphere Hole Feature segment .......................2 Holes Recognition Toolbar ....5..7 Feature Sets.................................................................78 12.........6..............57 12....................................................................5....................63 12..........2 Undercut substitution .......................................................82 12........1 Introduction and Basic Concepts ...6 Machinable Hole Feature Page ....................67 12.......................................3 Parameters Table................................... ..........................7.1 Global and Local Technology databases ............................................................................................ 168 5 ........................................................................... 121 12. 155 12..8............................... 136 12.............................................................................................................................. 140 12......................................................................... 150 12........................ 113 12.... 152 12.................................................. 145 12............................................................8 Defining a new Technology Solution .......8......10.....2 Choosing the tool .................................................................5 Solutions page ....7 Variables ................. 141 12....................................................................................................................... 149 12................................3 Technology Page ...............................5 Compatible/Incompatible Hole features................. 158 Index ..........................................................................................7..........................1 System settings .....................................................8 Technology ....................8..............................10............................... 139 12.................8......................3 Automatic Home Positions definition ..............................9 Generating Jobs ....10......... 143 12........................... 124 12......................................................... 123 12.....7 Defining the Home Position origin location for the Feature Set ... 118 12.................................................................................................................................10............................................4 Current Configuration ............................................................................11........................................ 125 12.......................... 131 12...... 138 12................................................................7................................................................................2 Part settings ...................................................................................................................................................... 116 12.10 Technology Database.......................................................................................7.1 Choosing a Technology Solution ............................................................... 142 12......4 Feature Sets page ..................................11.....6 Conditions ................................6 Operating Feature Sets . 119 12....................................................................... 114 12......................................10........................................3 Configurations page ...............10...........................10...........................4 Managing Technology ........................................................10.............. 133 12.....................................................................................................7...............2 Technology Database interface .........9 Holes Recognition Functions .............................................................Contents SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.................7.......................11 Holes Recognition Settings ....................................................... 156 12.......................10......................................................................2 Assigning Hole Features to Feature Sets ......................................................................................................... SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Contents 6 .  Machining Processes Table  Defining a new Machining Process  Job Templates  Default Sets  Parameters & Expressions  Using Machining Processes 11 .Machining Processes A 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. the Machining Processes can be used directly or adapted to the new situation by giving values to its parameters. In subsequent identical or similar situations. In subsequent identical or similar situations.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11.1. preliminary centering is made for the hole and a chamfer. 8 .1 Job templates A Job template is the parametric template of the single operation that is used within the Machining Process. the machining process templates can be either used directly or they can be adapted to the new situation by giving values to its parameters. Machining Processes 11.1 Introduction & Basic concepts SolidCAM enables you to automate repetitive tasks in CNC-Programming with the Machining Process feature. For example: geometry: To create a threaded countersink hole. we need three Jobs using the common • Centering At this stage. There can be one or several job templates in a Machining Process. Machining Process Job Templates Parameters 11. Machining Process (MP) is the structure of fully parameterized Job Templates. 9 SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide .11. the hole is drilled. • Threading At this stage. the threading is preformed. Machining Processes • Drilling At this stage. D_chamfer α H_center With a group of such Job templates.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) D_chamfer H_drill H_thread D_thread In the above example you can define the following expression for centering depth.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. Parameters and Expressions. you can define the universal Machining Process.1. H_center = D_chamfer / 2 tg (α/2) 10 . Machining Processes 11. 1. Default Set Parameters Job Templates Machining Process In the above example we can create default sets for each tap size (e. You can define a number of the default sets by attaching different specific values or expressions to parameters. M8 etc). You can use the default sets to adapt machining process to specific tasks. Machining Process 1 Machining Process 2 Machining Process 3 Machining Process N 11 Machining Processes Table . M6.11. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide 11.g.3 Default sets A Default set is a combination of parameters and expressions used for Job template customization. 11.4 Machining Process Table SolidCAM enables you to join your Machining Processes into the Machining Process Table.1. Default sets.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11.3.With this dialog you can define a new MP Table. For more information on this subject.6. please refer to the topic 11. please refer to the topic 11. 12 . For more information on this subject. For more information on this subject. • Machining Process Define Manager enables you to define components of the single Machining Process: Job Templates. SolidCAM also enables you to manage existing MP Tables. Machining Processes 11. Parameters and Expressions. • Machining Process Table Manager enables you to create and manage a single Machining Process in the Table. Creating Machining Process Table New Machining Process Table dialog Creating Machining Process Defining Machining Process components Machining Process Table Manager Machining Process Define Manager SolidCAM enables you to use three major interface tools for these tasks: • New Machining Process Table .4. please refer to the topic 11.2 Creating Machining Processes Three basic stages are needed to create a Machining Process. Enter a name for the Machining Process Table in the Table name field. 13 . In the SolidCAM manager. Confirm the Machining Process Table creation with the OK button. 2. Press the Add Mac File button to define the MAC file for your Machining Process Table. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide 11.3 Defining Machining Process Table The first stage of the Machining Process creation is the definition of the Machining Process Table.11. The dialog window. 1.Milling from the New sub menu. This will assure that only the options that are supported by your machine will be used. right click on Machining Process field to open the pull down menu and choose the type of the MP table . New Machining Process Table. will be displayed. you must also give the Mac file that you will be using. Since not all machines support all of the options in SolidCAM. 4. 3. SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. Machining Processes 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 your Machining Process. The MAC- file contains options oriented to the specific CNC Machine. This file enables 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. 14 11. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide • Adding similar MAC-files This option will add to the list any MAC file that is similar to the MAC file that you originally picked. The criteria of the similarity is the coincidence of the MAC-file options needed for Machining Processes. Please contact SolidCAM customer support for further details. 15 SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. Machining Processes 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). 16 you can define and use your own MP types. Click on the Browse MP Pictures. • Type For easier identification and classification of Machining Processes..11. • Description In this field you can enter text describing the Machining Processes.. 17 .bmp) in the browser window. button and choose a bitmap file (*. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide • MP Picture This option enables you to attach a picture to your MP. 4. 18 . Machining Processes 11.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11.1 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. • New With this option you can create a new MP Table.4). SolidCAM enables you to create the type of MP Table: Milling. The Browser Window will be displayed. 1. 2. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide • Open This option enables you to load an MP Table via the standard Windows Browser. 19 .mpt) The Machining Process Table will be loaded and the Machining Process Table Manager will be displayed.11. Select the Machining Process Table file (*. Right-click on the Machining Process field and choose Open from the submenu to load the Machining Process Table. 2. You can open the file by simply clicking on the file you want to open. In the left field of the dialog. Click on the Copy button to confirm the operation. Click on the Exit button to close the dialog. 5. 1. • Recent MP Tables This option displays a list of the last MP Tables that you loaded in SolidCAM. • Delete Choose this option to delete the MP Table via the standard Windows Browser. Choose the copy location in the right field.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. 4. Machining Processes • Copy This option enables you to copy the MP Table. The Copy Machining Process Table dialog will be displayed. You can icon to remove MP Tables. Click on the use the icon to move the MP Table in the copy-container field. 3. choose the MP Table you want. 20 . . The MP Group Types Manager will be loaded. Defining Group Types 1. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide • Group Types This option enables you to create your own MP Group Type. 21 . • Expressions This option enables you to create and manage your own list of expressions that will be available in each MP you design. you can define and use your own Machining Process Group Types.4. 11.2 Machining Process Group Types For easier identification and classification of Machining Processes. Right-click on the Machining Process field in the SolidCAM Manager and choose Group Types.11. from the pull down menu.. you can edit the name in the list directly without going to the Edit dialog. 22 . Change the MP Group Type name and confirm it with OK. • By double-clicking on the Group Type name in the list. Machining Processes • To add a new Group Type. The Edit dialog will be displayed. select the item and click on the Delete button. • To remove an existing Group Type from the list.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. • You can use the hotkey F2 to open the Edit dialog. • To edit the Group Type name. click on the icon in the name field and choose Edit-View. click on the Add button and type the name. 23 . • Edit This option enables you to edit components of the Machining Process in the Machining Process Define Manager (see the topic 11. 11.6).11. • Add This option enables you to add a new Machining Process to Machining Process Table. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide 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.5 Managing Machining Processes Right-click on the Machining Process name in the list to get the pull down menu of Machining Process operations. Machining Processes • Copy This option creates a copy of the current Machining Process. 3. You can insert Machining Processes from MP Tables defined with similar MAC files. • 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. Choose the Machining Process you want from the Manager and confirm the operation with the Export button. Right-click on the MachProcess field and choose Import from the pull down menu. The MP Export Table Manager will be displayed.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. 2. 24 . Choose the MP Table you want from the Browser. 1. 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. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide 11. 25 .6 Machining Process Define Manager 11.11. Note that some fields in the Job Templates are marked with the the following data: icon. mistake in expression etc. To edit this parametric field.6). In these fields you can enter • Variable • Expression • Value If a variable you entered does not exist. You can now fill the fields of the Job template like in a conventional Job.2 Define Job Template The Job template screen contains the same fields as the SolidCAM Job Screen. In the Job template.6. Machining Processes 11. you have to define the Geometry and the Tool. SolidCAM will mark this parametric field with the icon.6.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. 26 . SolidCAM adds it to the Used Parameter Table (see the topic 11.). These fields are parametric. If you entered wrong data in the parametric field (unacceptable type of variable. you can use the parametric field menu by clicking on the icon. 11. 27 . In addition to numerical values for the technology parameter definition you can use variables and expressions in the Job Templates. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide 11. 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.3 Managing Job Templates A Job Template is a parametrically defined single SolidCAM Job. Right-click on the Jobs field situated in the Job Templates tab. The corresponding Job Template screen will be displayed.6. 1. The pull down menu will be displayed: Choose the Job Template type from the menu. 11. the following menu will be displayed: 28 . When you click on the icon.4 Parametric field menu The parametric field menu enables you to choose parameters and expressions simply and effectively.6) will be displayed. The Part Tool Table dialog (see the topic 3. Machining Processes • Edit This option enables you to edit the Job Template. The corresponding Job Template screen will be displayed.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. • Delete • Change Tool This option enables you to change the tool used in the specific Job Template.6. You can open this list with the F6 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. You can open this list with the F5 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. • Expressions This option displays the list of defined expressions. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide • User Defined Parameters This option displays a list of existing User Defined Parameters.11. • Part’s parameters This option displays a list of existing Part’s Parameters. Choose the variable name you want from this list. Choose the variable name you want from this list. 29 . You can open this list with the F7 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. please refer to the topic 11.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. You can open this list with the F2 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.9) You can open this list with the F8 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.6. • Edit-View This option displays the parameter edit dialog. 30 . (For more information on this subject. In this dialog you can also use the operational menu by clicking on the icon. 2. Here you can see and edit the full parameter name or expression string. Machining Processes • Functions This option displays the list of standard SolidCAM functions. 1. • Rename This command enables you to rename the selected Default Set.5 Default Sets page In this page you can work with the set of Default Sets created in the actual Machining Process. You can create a number of Default Sets and assign the specific combination of values and expressions to the parameters in each of them. Parameters Default Set Default Set Default Set 31 . • Delete This command removes the selected Default Set. You can use the following operations to manage Default Sets: • Set as Current This operation activates the selected Default Set.6. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide 11. The Default Sets enables you to adapt the Machining Process to specific tasks.11. • Copy This command enables you to copy the selected Default Set. 3.6. Activate the created Default Set with the Current option. 32 . Machining Processes 1. Create a new Default Set via Copy operation. This area shows the table of parameters that were used in the Job Templates with the actual Default Set. 2.6 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.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. 11. Change parameters definition via Parameter Tables. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide This table contains the following columns: • Parameter . In this case the name will be updated in all Job Templates that use this parameter. • Expression . • Description . In this case the expression of this value will be the same in the all Default Sets.the „G“ letter is shown.shows the access status of the parameter.shows the status of the parameter.shows the result value returned by the parameter. If the status is Read-only.11. you can change the status of the parameter. To edit this parametric field you can use the parametric field menu available by clicking on the icon. In this case the parameter definition cannot be changed during Machining process insertion.shows the parameter name. In this field you can change the name of the parameter. By right clicking on this field. the „R/O“ letters are shown. • G . • Result value . If the status is Global . To edit the field you can use the context menu available by clicking on the 33 icon. you can change the read-only status of the parameter. .shows your own text description of the parameter. By right-clicking on this field. • R/O .shows the parameter definition as an expression or value. In this case the name will be updated in all Job Templates that use this parameter. • Expression . In this field you can change the name of the parameter. 2.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11.shows the result value returned by the parameter. The Delete button enables you to delete the selected parameter item from the Unused Parameters table. 11. 34 . • Result value .7 Adding a new Parameter This field enables you to add a new parameter. Click the Add button to enter the parameter to the table. Choose the new parameter type from the list.shows the parameter definition as either expressions or values.6. Type the parameter name. Machining Processes Unused Parameters Table This area shows the table of parameters that were not used in the Job Templates with the actual Default Set. To edit this parametric field. 3.shows the parameter name. 1. you can use the operational menu available by clicking on the icon. This table contains the following columns: • Parameter . SolidCAM supports the following types of variables: Profile Geometry variables Z-Value variables are stored in the Z-coordinate of the picked point. Distance Value variables String variables are Float variables are Integer variables are stored in the Profile Geometries. 35 . You can use the following symbols in expressions: • Addition (+) • Subtraction (-) • Multiplication (*) • Division (/) Parentheses are acceptable. You must follow the following rules when naming variables in SolidCAM: • You must use a letter as the first character. are stored in the distance between two picked points. stored in the string of symbols. User Defined Parameters You can define your own variables and use it in Job Templates definition. stored in the positive and negative floating-point numbers.8 Variables & expressions SolidCAM enables you to use variables and expressions in your Job templates. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide 11.6. are stored in the positive and negative whole numbers. Expressions SolidCAM enables you to use expressions for parameters definition. • 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.11. each operation is evaluated in order of appearance from left to right.9 SolidCAM standard functions sqrt() Returns a value specifying the square root of a number. each operation is evaluated as it occurs from left to right. The absolute value of a number is its unsigned magnitude. Parentheses can be used to override the order of precedence and force some CAM-Parts of an expression to be evaluated before others.6. cosine etc. tan() Returns a value specifying the tangent of an angle. Example: For the H_center variable in the following formula we can write the expression: H_center = D_chamfer / 2 tg (α/2) H_center=(D_chamfer/2)/(tan(Alpha/2)) 11. Operations within parentheses are always performed before those outside. Within parentheses. sin() Returns a value specifying the sine of an angle. however. abs(-1) and abs(1) both return 1.. operator precedence is maintained. 36 .SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. abs() Returns a value of the same type that is passed to it specifying the absolute value of a number. Machining Processes When multiplication and division occur together in an expression. in your formulas. For example. When addition and subtraction occur together in an expression.. cos() Returns a value specifying the cosine of an angle. SolidCAM enables you to use the set of the standard mathematical functions like sine. 3) returns 8. 37 . atan() Returns a value specifying the arctangent of a number.) Returns a value of the first argument raised to the power of the second argument. log10() Returns a value specifying the base-10 logarithms of a number. For example: pow(2. dist(.) Returns polar coordinates: distance and angle (in radians) of the point defined in Cartesian coordinates.) Returns a value specifying the arctangent of quotient first and second arguments. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide acos() Returns a value specifying the arccosine of a number.Y) 0 pow(. atan2(.11. dist(X.Y) ang(X.Y) (X.) and ang(. ln() Returns a value specifying the natural logarithm of a number. asin() Returns a value specifying the arcsine of a number. During the insertion. SolidCAM transforms each Job Template into a single Job. rad() Converts degrees to radians. ) Returns the sum value of three arguments.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. Machining Process Insert Manager Insertion Machining Process Job Templates CAM-Part Jobs The main interface tool to insert a Machining Process into a CAM-Part is through the Machining Process Insert Manager.7 Using the Machining processes You can use the defined Machining Process by inserting it into a CAM-Part. Machining Processes sum3( . 11. int() Returns the integer portion of a number. 38 . . deg() Converts radians to degrees. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide 11. When the CAM-Part and Machining Process are loaded. Load the CAM-Part where you want to use the technology defined in the Machining Process.11. Load the Machining Process Table 3. right-click on the Jobs field and choose Add Machining Process from the sub-menu. 2.8 Inserting The Machining Process Insert the Machining Process into your CAM-Part with the following steps. 1. 39 . The Machining Process Table Manager will be displayed. Select the Machining Process you want from the list. SolidCAM receives necessary information from the CAM-Part. Click on the Pick button.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. • If a tool with an identical shape and parameters is not found. With the Parameters Table fill all the blank expression fields. With the Default Sets page choose the Default Set you require. • The search criteria are the tool shape and parameters. 40 . Machining Processes 5. • SolidCAM searches the tool in the current tool table (if it was defined). SolidCAM will add a new tool with the first available tool number. SolidCAM chooses tools for the Machining Process. 2. 6. When the Machining Process is defined. 4. with an identical tool shape and parameter. 3. The Machining Process Insert Manager will be displayed. When the Insert Manager is loading. do the following steps: 1. Then SolidCAM receives expressions for other parameters from the current Default Set and calculates them. is chosen. The process of choosing is following: • SolidCAM searches the tool in the Part Tool table (from tools already used in the CAM-Part). The first found tool. click on the Insert button to insert the Machining Process into the current CAM-Part. You can also change all expressions that do not have Read-Only status. To prepare the Machining Process for insertion. The Jobs will be inserted into the CAM-Part. you can use the Undo button. 11. • The Simulate button enables you to simulate Jobs of the current CAM-Part.9 Machining Process Insert Manager 11. Machining Processes 5.11.1 Job Templates Page 41 SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide .9. • To undo the last insertion. you can see the list of parameters used in the selected Job template. 42 . The Job Template screen will be displayed. • To see the Job Template parameters and settings.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. right-click on the Job name in the list and choose the Show command from the list. Machining Processes This page displays the list of Job Templates that were inserted in the CAM-Part. • By clicking on the (+) sign near each Job Template. To edit the Job Template. This option opens the parameter edit dialog. go to the Machining Process Define Manager (see the topic 11. all parametric fields are marked with the icon. This dialog enables you to see and edit the full parameter name or expression string. The Parameters and values from the selected Default set will be shown in the Parameters Table.6).9. The Edit-View option is available in this menu. Click on this icon to see the parametric field menu. In the Job Template screen. 11.2 Default Sets Page Double-click on the Default Set name to make it current.11. 43 . Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide In this screen you cannot change the Job Template definition. shows the parameter name. Machining Processes 11. You can also edit all expressions that don‘t have Read-Only status.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. 11. In this field you have to define missed expressions for parameters. With the Show read only checkbox. • Result value . 44 .shows the result value returned by the parameter. • Expression .3 Parameters Table There are three columns in this table: • Parameter .9. you can allow or forbid showing parameters marked Read-Only.shows the parameter definition.9. The Show descriptions option enables you to show the parameter description instead of the parameter name in the Parameter column.4 Job Points This field contains buttons to define specific points of the job. You can also open this list with the F6 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide 11. Parametric field menu for Geometries • Geom Select This option displays a list of geometries that is defined in the CAM-Part. 45 . drill or chain geometry will be displayed in the active CAD window. • Geom Show With the Show command. You can also open this list with the F5 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. Choose the variable name you want from the list. the current 3D model.5 Parameters definition Click on the icon to display menus for each parametric field.11. • Geom Define This option enables you to define a geometry from the current model.9. You can also open this list with the F2 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. Machining Processes To exit from this mode. Pick the point you want on the model and click on the OK button to confirm the selection. The Pick Z-Value dialog will be displayed. 1. 2. Parameters of Z-value and Distance types. use the Exit button in the displayed Show Geometry dialog. • Edit-View This option displays the parameter edit dialog. 46 . In this dialog you can also use the operational menu by clicking on the icon. choose the Pick Z-value (F5) item from the parametric menu.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. SolidCAM enables you to define values by picking them from the active CAD-model. You can also open this list with the F7 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. This dialog enables you to see and edit the full parameter name or expression string. • To define the Z-value. For parameters of these types. 11. Machining Processes SolidCAM2005 User’s Guide • 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. 47 SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 11. Machining Processes 48 Automatic 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 SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 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. Solid Model SolidCAM Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Tool Path 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 recognized features 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. 50 Blind Simple Hole Feature 51 Through Simple Hole Feature . A Simple Hole can either be Blind or Through. The diameter of a Simple Hole can be constant or changing. A Simple Hole Feature is a cut in the solid body generated by the figure of revolution.12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Solid Model Holes Recognition Hole Features Conversion to Machinable Features Machinable Hole Features Machine Homes Distribution to Feature Sets Technology Database Feature Sets Feature based Machining Part Tool Table CAM-Part Jobs All the holes recognized by SolidCAM can be classified either as Simple Hole Features or as Compound Hole Features. SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining A Compound Hole Feature is also generated by the cut of the figure of revolution. The Compound Hole Feature can be only through. The diameter of the Compound Hole Feature is constant or decreasing at the start of the hole and increasing at the end of the hole. Blind Hole Feature with undercut Compound Hole Feature with undercut Through Hole Feature with undercut 52 . SolidCAM recognizes the holes with the undercuts. SolidCAM uses the Target model for the AFRM.2. you can start the Holes recognition process. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 53 .1 Definition of Homes You have to define a number of Machine Homes (see the topic 2.2 Target model The Target model (see the topic 2. The number of Machine Homes has to be enough to machine the part from all directions that you need. When the CAM-Part is defined and prepared.2 Preparation to Holes Recognition You have to prepare the CAM-Part before you activate the Holes recognition.2. 12.4) has to be defined. 12.12.2) corresponding to the setup positions of the part on the CNC machine. The preparation includes the Homes and Target model definition. 54 . SolidCAM displays the Holes Recognition Manager. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12. 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. When the recognition process will be finished.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.3 Start Holes Recognition To start the holes recognition process. SolidCAM parses the solid model in order to gather the information about all holes. The SolidCAM HR Manager consists of Toolbar.4.4 Holes Recognition User Interface 12. The SolidCAM Holes Recognition Manager is shown in the SolidWorks Feature Manager area.1 Holes Recognition Manager When the AFRM module is activated. the Holes Recognition Manager is displayed. a number of pages that can be controlled with the HR Manager Hole Features Page Machinable Features Page Jobs Page Feature Set Page Technology Page This toolbar enables you to switch between the various.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 55 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12. 9) displays Jobs generated by SolidCAM. Jobs Page 12.5.10). Machinable Hole Features Page • Feature Set page (see the topic 12.8.2 Holes Recognition Toolbar When the AFRM is activated. Technology DataBase Show Tool Table Settings Show Errors Show Picture Show Data • Technology DataBase This button enables you to display the Technology DataBase Manager (see the topic 12.6) displays all Machinable Hole Features converted from the Hole Features. Hole Features Page • Machinable Hole Features page (see the topic 12. • Show Picture This button enables you to display the schematic picture of the selected item. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining • Hole Features page (see the topic 12.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 56 . • Settings This button enables you to display the Holes recognition Settings dialog (see the topic 12.11).3) displays all the Technology solutions offered by SolidCAM for the machining of the current Feature Set.6. Feature Sets Page • Technology page (see the topic 12.4.4) displays all the Feature Sets. Technology Page • Jobs page (see the topic 12.9) displays all the Hole Features recognized in the solid model. the Holes Recognition toolbar is displayed.7. • Show errors This button enables you to display the Errors dialog which shows the errors that occurred during the AFRM process. 57 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide • Show Data This button enables you to display the Parameters dialog which displays the parameters of the selected item. • Show Tool Table This button enables you to display the Part Tool Table.12. Hole Feature segment composed from several faces Hole Feature segment composed from one face Types of Hole Segments: • Cylindrical • Cone • Chamfer • Planar • Torus • Sphere 58 . Each Hole Feature Segment is composed of one or more faces.5 Hole Feature Model SolidCAM analyzes the Solid model in order to recognize all the Hole features. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The Type of Hole Segment depends on the Face Surface Type. A Hole Feature recognized by SolidCAM consists of a number of Hole Feature segments. SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.5. Z Direction Hole Upper Plane Solid Model Origin Depth 12. • Diameter (D1) • Height (H1) 59 .1 Cylindrical Hole Feature segment Height (H1) Diameter (D1) This segment is formed by a cylindrical face. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM determines the total Depth. SolidCAM determines the geometry parameters of each Hole Feature segment. Hole Upper Plane and Direction of each Hole Feature. The Upper plane of the Hole Feature is the upper Z-level of the hole determined in compliance with the SolidWorks Part origin. 2 Cone Hole Feature segment Angle (A1) Diameter (D1) Height (H1) This segment is formed by a cone face.5.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.3 Chamfer Hole Feature segment Angle (A1) Upper Diameter (D1) Height (H1) Lower Diameter (D2) This segment is formed by a truncated conical face. • Angle (A1) 12. • Height (H1). • Diameter (D1).5. • Height (H1). • Upper diameter (D1). • Angle (A1) 60 . • Lower diameter (D2). • DC .Height of the center relative to the bottom of the torus.4 Planar Hole Feature segment This segment is formed by a planar face.Diameter of the center.5 Torus Hole Feature segment Upper Diameter (D1) Height (H1) Radius (R1) Lower Diameter (D2) • Upper Diameter (D1) • Lower Diameter (D2) • Height (H1) • Radius (R1) There are two parameters describing the location of the center of the generatrix circle: Radius (R1) Height of the center (HC) Diameter of the center (DC) • HC .5. 61 . A segment of this type has no parameters. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 12.12.5. 12. The center of the sphere is situated on the hole axis. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. A Closed Sphere segment has zero Lower Diameter (D2). When the Lower Diameter (D2) is greater than zero – the Sphere will be Open.5. • Upper Diameter (D1) • Lower Diameter (D2) • Height (H1) • Radius (R1) The Sphere segment can be either Open or Closed.6 Sphere Hole Feature segment Upper Diameter (D1) Height (H1) Radius (R1) Lower Diameter (D2) This segment is formed by a spherical face. Open Sphere (D2>0) Closed Sphere (D2<0) 62 . 8 Hole Feature Shapes and Groups The SolidCAM AFRM module classifies the Hole Features into Hole Feature Shapes and Hole Feature Groups.. Group #N 63 .5.. The Hole Features with the same type and sequence of segments will be included into one Hole Feature Shape.. Hole #N Group #2 Hole #1 Hole #2 .5. each Group includes the Hole Features with the same values for the segment parameters. Splitter Splitter 12. the Hole Features are grouped in Hole Feature Groups.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.12. Shape Group #1 Hole #1 Hole #2 . Hole #N . For each Hole Feature Shape... Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.. This enables you to machine the Compound Hole Feature from both sides using two Homes. SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. You can repeat the Holes recognition process with the Recognize command. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.9 Hole Features page The Hole Features page displays the list of all Hole Features recognized in the solid model. You can highlight the Hole Features. 64 . The Hole Features are classified into Shapes and Groups.5. Groups and Shapes in the graphic view by selecting the items in the list. 65 . 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. you have to edit the solid model and perform the Holes Recognition again. This dialog contains a number of pages. When the specific segment page is selected in the Topology Hole Parameters dialog. the corresponding segment will be highlighted in the Hole Picture. In order to change them. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide SolidCAM enables you to display the Hole Picture dialog with the Show Picture button located on the Holes Recognition toolbar.12. The parameters values displayed in the Topology Hole Parameters dialog cannot be changed. This dialog shows the schematic picture of the selected Shape. The Holes parameters page display the global Hole parameters: • Depth • Upper Plane • Direction Other pages display the geometry parameters of each Hole Feature segment. SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 66 . This operation is available only for Compound Holes. • Change direction to opposite This option changes the direction of all the Hole features in the specified Shape or Group. 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. Shapes and Groups with the right-click menu. 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. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Managing Hole Features SolidCAM enables you to manage the Hole Features. 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide • 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 or Through. 67 SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining • 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. 68 SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 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. An undercut 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 undercut initial diameter. Undercut Diameter (DU) Undercut Undercut Height (H ) U SolidCAM determines the Undercut Height (HU) as the sum of the height of all topology segments of the undercut. 69 • Undercut – Planar In this case Undercut finishes with the Planar Hole Feature segment (see the topic 12.5).5.3). Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM classifies undercuts depending on the last Hole Feature segment included in undercut.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The classification is as follows: • Undercut – None In this case the finish diameter of the last segment of the undercut is equal to the Undercut diameter.5.2).5.5. • Undercut – Sphere In this case Undercut finishes with the Sphere Hole Feature segment (see the topic 12. • Undercut – Torus In this case Undercut finishes with the Torus Hole Feature segment (see the topic 12.5. • Undercut – Chamfer In this case Undercut finishes with the Chamfer Hole Feature segment (see the topic 12. 70 .6). • Undercut – Cone In this case Undercut finishes with the Cone Hole Feature segment (see the topic 12.4). When a part of the lower undercut segment is less then the Undercut diameter.12. torus or sphere segment.2 Undercut substitution SolidCAM handles undercuts by substituting the undercut with a cylindrical segment depending on the undercut type. chamfer. The cylinder diameter is equal to the Undercut diameter (DU). Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Undercut substitution schemes: • Undercut – None segment substitution DU Diameter (D1) HU Height (H1) D1=DU H1=HU • Undercut – Planar segment substitution DU Diameter (D1) HU Height (H1) D1=DU H1=HU 71 .6. SolidCAM substitutes this part with a cone. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide • Undercut – Cone segment substitution DU Diameter (D1) Height (H1) HU Height (H2) Angle (A1) Angle (A1) D1=DU H1=HU-H2 H2=DU/(2*tg(A1/2)) • Undercut – Chamfer segment substitution DU Diameter (D1) Height (H1) HU Height (H2) Lower Diameter (D2) Lower Diameter (D2) Angle (A1) Angle (A1) D1=DU H1=HU-H2 H2=(DU-DU)/(2*tg(A1/2)) 72 .12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining • Undercut – Torus segment substitution Diameter (D1) DU Height (H1) HU HT Lower Diameter (D2) Height (H2) Lower Diameter (D2) R R DT UPPER D1=DU H1=HU-H2 DU H= DCENTER H2=HC-H H R R H2 73 HC R R2-((DU-DCENTER)/2)2 .SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 12.R2-D2/4 74 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide • Undercut – Sphere segment substitution Diameter (D1) DU Height (H1) HU HS Height (H2) R R D1=DU H1=HU-H2 H2= R. 3 Segments Union SolidCAM enables you to unite identical adjacent Hole Feature segments. 75 . There are the following cases for union: • Planar + Planar Planar 1 United Planar Planar 2 • Cylinder + Cylinder Cylinder 1 United Cylinder Cylinder 2 The diameter of the resulting cylinder will be the same as the diameter of the original cylinders.6. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12. The Height will be sum of the original cylinder heights.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The Angle of the resulting segment is equal to the Angle of the original cones.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining • Chamfer + Cone Chamfer United Cone 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 chamfers. The Height will be sum of the original chamfer heights. 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 cone heights. • Chamfer + Chamfer Chamfer 1 United Chamfer Chamfer 2 The Upper Diameter of the resulting chamfer segment will be the same as the Upper Diameter of the original upper chamfer. 76 . The Lower Diameter of the resulting sphere segment will be the same as the Lower Diameter of the original lower sphere. • Sphere + Sphere Sphere 1 United Sphere Sphere 2 The Upper Diameter of the resulting sphere segment will be the same as the Upper Diameter of the original upper sphere. The Lower Diameter of the resulting torus segment will be the same as the Lower Diameter of the original lower torus. 77 . The Height will be sum of the original torus heights. The Height will be sum of the original sphere heights. The Radius of the resulting segment is equal to the Radius of the original spheres.12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide • Torus + Torus United Torus Torus 1 Torus 2 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 Machinable Hole Feature consists of one or more Machinable Hole Feature segments that can be machined in one operation with the same tool.6.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.4 Machinable Hole Features SolidCAM converts Hole Features into the Machinable Hole Features in order to prepare them for machining. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12. Types of Machinable Hole Feature segments The following types of the Machinable Hole Feature segments exist: • Drill • Chamfer • Flat Cylinder • Flat Chamfer 78 . 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. the distance from the Segment Upper plane to the lower point of the Machinable Hole Feature segment. • hr_segm_depth This parameters is the distance from the Hole Upper Plane to the lower point of the Machinable Hole Feature segment. Origin hr_segm_upper_plane Hole Upper Plane Segment Upper Plane hr_segm_depth hr_segm_height 79 . • hr_segm_height This parameters is the Height of the segment. They will be used later for the technology definition.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Each Machinable Hole Feature segment has the following parameters that define the position of the segment 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). These parameters are called HR variables. SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 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_diameter • hr_segm_height • hr_segm_angle hr_segm_height hr_segm_angle Chamfer • hr_segm_diameter hr_segm_angle • hr_segm_angle • hr_segm_lower_diameter hr_segm_diameter hr_segm_height hr_segm_lower_diameter 80 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Flat Cylinder • hr_segm_diameter hr_segm_diameter • hr_segm_blind • hr_prev_segm_diameter hr_segm_height hr_segm_blind = true hr_segm_diameter hr_segm_height hr_prev_segm_diameter hr_segm_blind = false 81 .12. 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Flat Chamfer • hr_segm_diameter hr_segm_angle • hr_segm_angle • hr_segm_height hr_segm_diameter • hr_segm_lower_diameter • hr_segm_blind • hr_prev_segm_diameter hr_segm_height hr_segm_lower_diameter hr_segm_blind = true hr_segm_diameter hr_prev_segm_diameter hr_segm_blind = false 82 . the hr_segm_height is equal to the hr_segm_depth. Therefore. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide For the Machinable Hole Feature segments contain cylinder (Drill and Flat Cylinder) the Hole Upper Plane is coincide with the Segment Upper Plane.12. Origin hr_segm_upper_plane Segment Upper Plane = Hole Upper Plane hr_segm_height = hr_segm_depth 83 . Exception: When a pair consisting of Cylinder and Planar segments are converted into Flat Cylinder segment.5 Machinable Hole Feature conversion SolidCAM converts Hole Feature segments into Machinable Hole Features with the following rules: General Conversion Rules 1. Upper + Lower Hole Feature Segments Machinable Hole Feature segment Cylinder + None Drill Cylinder + Chamfer Drill Cylinder + Cone Drill 84 . All possible combinations with Upper segment – Cylinder are converted into the one Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.6. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 85 SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Cylinder + Torus (open Sphere) Drill Cylinder + Sphere Drill .12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 2.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Upper + Lower Hole Feature Segments Machinable Hole Feature segment Cylinder + Planar Flat Cylinder Chamfer + Planar Flat Chamfer 86 . Hole Feature segment Machinable Hole Feature segment Cone Drill Closed Sphere Drill 3. Cone and Closed Sphere segments are converted into a Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment. All possible combinations with Lower segment – Planar are converted into one Machinable Hole Feature segment. 87 Hole Feature segment Machinable Hole Feature segment Chamfer Chamfer Torus Chamfer Open Sphere Chamfer . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Torus/Open Sphere + Planar SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Flat Chamfer 4. Single segments like Torus. Chamfer and Open Sphere are converted into Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segments.12. • The diameter of the Cylinder (hr_segm_diameter) is the same as the diameter of the Hole Feature Segment. In the scheme below. the segments are represented as two cylinders surrounding the segments. • The resulting Machinable Hole Feature segment is extended upward till the Hole Upper Plane. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Conversion to Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment SolidCAM determines the following dimensions of the upper and lower Hole Feature segments of the pair. Hole Upper Plane Upper Plane D Depth Upper Segment H U H Lower Segment H L 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.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. • The Cone angle (hr_segm_angle) is 118°. 88 . according to the General conversion rules (see the topic 12.6. In this case the upper segment will be None and the segment Height will be 0.12. the upper segment is absent. Exception: In the case of translation of a through Cylindrical Hole Feature segment to a Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment.5) described earlier. the hr_segm_height parameter of the Drill will be the following: Hole Upper Plane H hr_segm_height hr_segm_angle D 89 hr_segm_diameter . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Hole Upper Plane hr_segm_height hr_segm_angle hr_segm_diameter In some cases. 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. In the scheme below.12. Hole Upper Plane • 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. the HL is 0. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Conversion to Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature segment SolidCAM determines the following dimensions of the upper and lower Hole Feature segments of the pair. the segments are represented as two cylinders surrounding the segments. Hole Upper Plane Upper Plane D Depth Upper Segment H U H Lower Segment H L If the lower Hole feature segment is Planar. hr_segm_height hr_segm_diameter 90 . 6. the scheme of input data for the conversion will be the following. Hole Upper Plane hr_segm_upper_plane hr_segm_depth hr_segm_diameter Lower Segment hr_segm_lower_diameter 91 hr_segm_height . • 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. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Conversion to Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment According to the General conversion rules explained earlier (see the topic 12. • The Chamfer Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be calculated automatically.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The major parameters of the converted Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment will be the same as in the original Hole Feature segment: Hole Upper Plane Upper Plane Depth DU Lower Segment H DL • The Upper diameter (hr_segm_diameter) of the Chamfer segment will be equal to the Upper diameter of the initial Hole Feature segment.5). 92 . • The Chamfer Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be calculated automatically. the scheme of the input data for the conversion will be the following.12. • The Lower diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) of the Chamfer segment will be equal to the Lower diameter of the initial Hole Feature segment. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Conversion to Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment According to the General conversion rules explained earlier (see the topic 12.6. • The converted Chamfer segment is situated at the same depth as the original Hole Feature segment. Hole Upper Plane Upper Plane Depth DU Lower Segment H DL 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 Hole Upper Plane hr_segm_upper_plane hr_segm_depth hr_segm_diameter Lower Segment hr_segm_height hr_segm_lower_diameter Upper diameter of the initial Hole Feature segment.5). • The Height (hr_segm_height) of the Chamfer segment will be equal to the Height of the initial Hole Feature segment. SolidCAM enables you to rebuild the Machinable Features. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 93 . The Rebuild operation is available either for all Machinable Hole Features or for the selected Machinable Hole Feature (Shape. The upper part displays the list of Machinable Hole Features.6. Group). SolidCAM enables you to display the Hole Picture dialog with the Show Picture button located on the Holes Recognition toolbar. When an item is selected in the Machinable Hole Features list.6 Machinable Hole Feature Page The Machinable Hole Features Page is divided to two parts. When the Hole Features were changed.12. classified into Shapes and Groups. the lower part of the page displays the segments of the selected item. This dialog schematically shows the segments of the selected Machinable Hole feature. The M-Feature segment type dialog will be displayed. This dialog enables you to change the type of the Machinable Hole Feature segment. The M-Feature segment type dialog will be displayed in order to choose the type of the segment.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The following operations are available: • Change type The Change type option enables you to change the type of the Machinable Feature Segment. • Insert Before / Insert After This option enables you to insert a new Machinable Hole Feature segment before or after the selected segment. 94 . • Delete This option enables you to delete a selected 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. Only the segments added by the user can be deleted. The segments automatically built by SolidCAM cannot be deleted. SolidCAM enables you to manage the Machinable Features segments with the right-click menu. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 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 specific order from the lower segment to upper. • Reset SolidCAM enables you to change the dimensions of the Machinable Hole Feature segment. 95 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 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. The Holes parameters page is displayed when the Machinable Hole Feature is selected.12. Upper Plane. Origin X/Y and Direction parameters cannot be changed. This dialog displays the parameters of the selected Machinable Hole feature or selected Machinable Hole Feature segment. This page displays the following parameters of the Machinable Hole feature: • Depth • Upper Plane • Origin X /Origin Y • Direction Origin X Home Upper Plane Origin Y Depth Home The Depth. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining When a segment is selected. When the new value is assigned to the parameter. SolidCAM enables you to assign a new value (User value) to parameters of the Machinable Hole Feature segments. the Machinable Hole Feature Parameters dialog displays the specific parameters of the selected segment. SolidCAM modifies the segment according to the specific rules. • Drill segment • Flat Cylinder segment • Chamfer segment • Flat Chamfer segment 96 .SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The height of the conical and cylindrical faces will be changed. The Cone corner will be fixed. The height of the conical and cylindrical faces will be changed. 97 . Changing Angle (hr_segm_angle) When the Angle changes. the Height (hr_segm_height) and Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) remains unchanged. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Modifying Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment hr_segm_diameter hr_segm_height hr_segm_angle Changing Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) When the Diameter changes. The Cone corner will be fixed.12. the Height (hr_segm_height) and Angle (hr_segm_ange) remain unchanged. Changing Upper Plane When the Upper Plane changes. So. the Height will be changed. the height of the cylindrical face will be changed. The Height of the Conical face will be the same. The Cone corner will be fixed.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Changing Height (hr_segm_height) When the Height changes. The Height of the Conical face will be the same. 98 . So. the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) remains unchanged. the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) will remain unchanged. the height of the cylindrical face will be changed. The Upper plane will be fixed. the Height (hr_segm_height) will be changed. the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) will remain unchanged. the Height (hr_segm_height) will remain unchanged. Changing Height (hr_segm_height) When the Height changes. The Upper plane will be fixed.12. 99 . The Upper plane will be fixed. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Modifying Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature segment hr_segm_diameter hr_segm_height Changing Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) When the Diameter changes. The Height (hr_segm_height) will be changed. The lower edge of the cylinder will be fixed.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 100 . the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) will remain unchanged. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Changing Upper Plane When the Upper plane changes. The Height and Upper Plane will stay the same. Changing Angle (hr_segm_angle) Changing the Angle causes the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) to change. It means that the second diameter will also be changed. the Angle (hr_segm_angle) parameter will remain unchanged. The Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) will be fixed.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 101 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Modifying Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment hr_segm_angle hr_segm_diameter hr_segm_height hr_segm_lower_diameter Changing Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) or Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) When the Diameter or Lower Diameter changes. The Height (hr_segm_height) and Upper plane will be the same. The Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) will be fixed. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Changing Height (hr_segm_height) Changing the Height (hr_segm_height) causes the Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) to change. Height (hr_segm_height) will be changed. The Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be unchanged. Changing Upper Plane Changing the Upper Plane causes the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) to change. So.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) will be fixed. The Upper Plane and Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be unchanged. 102 . The Height and Upper Plane will stay the same. The Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) will be fixed. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Modifying Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment hr_segm_angle hr_segm_diameter hr_segm_height hr_segm_lower_diameter 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. Changing Angle (hr_segm_angle) Changing the Angle causes the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) to change. It means that the second diameter will also be changed. The Height (hr_segm_height) and Upper plane will be the same. 103 .SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. So.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be unchanged. The Upper Plane and Angle (hr_segm_angle) will be unchanged. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Changing Height (hr_segm_height) Changing the Height (hr_segm_height) causes the Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) to change. 104 . The Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) will be fixed. Height (hr_segm_height) will be changed. The Lower Diameter (hr_segm_lower_diameter) will be fixed. Changing Upper Plane Changing the Upper Plane causes the Diameter (hr_segm_diameter) to change. 7 Feature Sets Feature Set is a number of Machinable Hole Features that will be machined within the same setup using one Machine Home. Machine Home #3 Feature Set Machine Home #N 105 . Feature Set Machine Home 12.1 Creating Feature Sets SolidCAM automatically creates a number of Feature Sets according to the Machine Homes defined in the current CAM-Part. CAM-Part Feature Set Machine Home #1 Feature Set Machine Home #2 Feature Set .. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12..12.7. Once used in a Feature Set. the Machine Home cannot be used in another Feature Set. Thus. 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. The order of the assignment depends on the Machine Home Number. if the Machinable Hole Feature is compatible to a number of Feature Sets. not considering the Axis number of the CAM-Part. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. • 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. Recognized Holes Holes Bank Recognized Holes Recognized Holes Incompatible Holes Compatibility Checker Axis type Compatible Holes Recognized Holes Incompatible Holes Compatibility Checker Axis type Feature Set #1 Machine Home #1 Compatible Holes Incompatible Holes Compatibility Checker Axis type Feature Set #2 Machine Home #2 Compatible Holes Feature Set #N Machine Home #N CAM-Part SolidCAM checks the compatibility of the Machinable Hole Features with the Feature Sets and assigns Holes to the Feature Sets. The Machinable Hole Features that were not assigned are stored in the bank of the Recognized Hole Features. The Machinable Hole Features included in the Feature Set will be machined according to this Axis number. the Axes number can be the same or less than Axis number of the CAM-Part.2 Assigning Hole Features to Feature Sets SolidCAM automatically distributes Hole Features to the Feature Sets. the Machinable Hole Feature will be assigned to the Feature Set using the Machine Home with the lowest number. Axis type enables you to limit the number of the axes used for the machining of the Machinable Hole Features in Feature Set. the Feature Set with the smaller Machine Home number will be filled with Machinable Hole Features first.7. 106 . 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. Feature Set Axis type Machine Home Hole Feature Direction Home Position The Z-axis of the defined Home Position is coincident with the Machinable Hole Feature direction. When the Machinable Hole Feature is accepted by the Compatibility Checker. SolidCAM defines a new one. If a suitable position is not found. SolidCAM enables you to automatically locate the origin of the created Home position in dependence of the Hole Recognition Settings. The Home Position is created according to the following data: • The Machine Home used in the Feature Set. • The Axis type of the Feature Set • The Direction of the Machinable Hole Feature. The origin of the Home position can be placed in the following locations: • The home position is placed in the position of Machine Home #1 107 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. the Hole Feature will be assigned to the Home Position. The direction of the X.and Y-axis is defined according to the Machine Home and Axis Type. 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.12.3 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.7. SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 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. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining • The home position can be placed in the corner of the model box. YMIN. Z Y X 108 . ZMAX). 7. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.12. 109 .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. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining The Feature Sets Page is divided into three areas. 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 The upper area displays the tree of the Feature Sets with their Hole Features.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 110 . The middle area displays Compatible Hole Features – the Holes that can be assigned to the current Feature Set. 7. 111 . depending on the current Feature Set.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. situated near each item in the Compatible Hole Features tree. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 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.12. Holes Bank Compatible Holes Incompatible Holes The Feature Sets Page displays both the Compatible and Incompatible Hole Features for the Current Feature Set. Compatible Holes Area Incompatible Holes Area The checkbox. enables you to select the item to move to the current Feature Set. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.7. The Add Feature Set dialog will be displayed.6 Operating Feature Sets SolidCAM enables you to manage your Feature sets with the right-click menu. This dialog enables you to set the Axis type of the Feature Set and assign the Machine Home to the Feature Set. Add This option enables you to add a new Feature Set. The content of the Compatible/Incompatible Features areas will be changed according to the current Feature Set. 112 . 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.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. SolidCAM enables you to define the Axis type of the Feature Set. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Edit This op tion displays the Edit Feature Set dialog. All the Machinable Features will be moved to the Holes bank.12. All the Machinable Features will be moved to the Holes bank. 113 . Delete This option enables you to delete the Feature Set. Remove All This option enables you to remove all Machinable Hole Features from the Feature Set. 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. 7. 114 .SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.7 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. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide • Home #1 The home position is placed in the position of Machine Home #1.12. 115 . 2) or defines a new tool.10). • A tool from the Part Tool Table (see the topic 3. SolidCAM chooses: • A suitable Technology Solution from the Technology DataBase (TDB) (see the topic 12. Machinable Hole Feature Segment Part Tool Table Technology solution Technology Database Jobs 116 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.8 Technology For the each segment of the Machinable Hole Feature. 8. It can be defined and edited by the user. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12. there is a number of technology solutions (each technology solution can belong to only one type of Machinable Hole Feature segment). Technology Database Drill Machinable Feature Segment Flat Cylinder Machinable Feature Segment Technology Solutions Technology Solutions Technology Solutions Chamfer Machinable Feature Segment Technology Solutions Flat Chamfer Machinable Feature Segment For each type of Machinable Hole Feature segment. it generates a number of Machining Processes. Technology Solution Technology Solutions 117 Algorythm . The Technology solutions can be either a user-defined Machining Process or built-in Algorithm. • A built-in Algorithm is hard-coded in SolidCAM. Parameters of the algorithm can be edited. • The user-defined Machining process contains Jobs templates with parametric technology data and parametric data of the tools. All the Technology Solutions are classified according to the type of Machinable Hole Feature segments.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.1 Choosing a Technology Solution SolidCAM stores all Technology Solutions in the Technology Database. 2 Choosing the tool When the technology solution is chosen from the TDB. SolidCAM differentiates between the following types of operations: • Drill Operation • Mill Operation • Center Drill Operation • Chamfer Drill Operation • Center-Chamfer Drill Operation 118 . When the condition is true.8. The choice of the Technology Solution is defined by the set of conditions. the current technology solution can be used to machine the Machinable Hole Feature segment. SolidCAM chooses the suitable Tool from the Part Tool Table. A Condition is a logical expression.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Technology Solutions use 12. SolidCAM automatically chooses the suitable Technology Solutions for the machining of the specified Machinable Hole Feature segment from the TDB. its result can be either true or false. The method of choosing the tools depends on the type of the operation where the tool is used. the first solution with a true condition will be chosen. SolidCAM checks the conditions of the technology solutions in sequence. 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining the dimensions of the Machinable Hole Feature Segments. Technology Solution Tool Type Tool Diameter Tool Angle Yes Does the Part Tool Table contain a suitable tool? Yes No Does the Current Tool Table contain a suitable tool? No Define a new tool Tool Technology Solution 119 .12. SolidCAM performs an additional search with the same criteria in the Current Tool Table. SolidCAM searches for the suitable tool in the Part Tool Table. If the search fails. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Choosing the tool for the Drill Operation SolidCAM searches for the tool according to the pre-defined tool type. SolidCAM defines a new tool according to the data of the Job Template. diameter and angle. If the tool is not found. These parameters are specified in the Job template of the specific Technology Solution. If the tool was not found in the Part Tool Table. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Choosing the tool for the Mill Operation SolidCAM searches for the tool according to the pre-defined tool type and corner radius.12. Hole Diameter In the case of the absence of a suitable tool. The search is 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. an error message will be displayed and the tool for the milling operation will have to be defined manually. Tool Diameter Range 0 < Tool Diameter < Hole Diameter + Constant Technology Solution Tool Type Corner Radius Tool Diameter Range Yes Does the Part Tool Table contain a suitable tool? Yes No Does the Current Tool Table contain a suitable tool? No Error Tool Technology Solution 120 . the search will be performed again in the Current Tool Table.9. The tool with the maximum diameter will be chosen. SolidCAM chooses the tool of any diameter with a pre-defined tool type and angle. an error message will be displayed and a tool for the center drilling operation will have to be defined manually. The search is performed in the Part Tool Table in the diameter range from the value of the sum of the Hole diameter and Constant endlessly. Hole Diameter Tool Diameter Range Hole Diameter + Constant < Tool Diameter Technology Solution Tool Type Tool Angle Tool Diameter Range Yes Does the Part Tool Table contain a suitable tool? Yes No Does the Current Tool Table contain a suitable tool? No Error Tool Technology Solution 121 .SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. In the case of the absence of a suitable tool. Constant is equal to 1. 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 tool with the maximum diameter will be chosen. If the tool with such diameter was not found. the search will be continued in the Current Tool Table. If the suitable tool does not exist in the Part Tool Table. the search will be continued in the Current Tool Table. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Choosing the tool for the Chamfer Drill Operation SolidCAM searches for the tool in compliance with the pre-defined tool type and angle. Technology Solution Tool Type Tool Angle Tool Diameter Range Yes Does the Part Tool Table contain a suitable tool? Yes No Does the Current Tool Table contain a suitable tool? No Define a new tool: tool diameter = hole diameter + constant Tool Technology Solution 122 .12. Hole Diameter Next Segment Diameter In the case of the absence of a suitable Tool Diameter Range tool. 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. angle + Constant . The Constant is equal to 1. If the suitable tool does not exist in the Part Tool Table. SolidCAM defines a new tool Hole Diameter + Next Segment Diameter < Tool Diameter < with the pre-defined tool type.Constant and minimum possible diameter (Hole diameter + Constant). Tool Diameter Range Hole Diameter + < Tool Diameter + Constant Technology Solution Tool Type Tool Angle Tool Diameter Range Yes Does the Part Tool Table contain a suitable tool? Yes No Does the Current Tool Table contain a suitable tool? No Error Tool Technology Solution 123 . The tool with the maximum diameter will be chosen. the search will be continued in the Current Tool Table. The Constant is equal to 1. an error message is displayed and the tool for the operation will have to be defined manually. If the suitable tool does not exist in the Part Tool Table.12.Chamfer Drill Operation SolidCAM searches for the tool in compliance with the pre-defined tool type and angle. If the tool with such diameter is not found. The search is performed in the Part Tool Table in the diameter range from the value of sum of hole diameter and Constant endlessly. SolidCAM chooses the tool of any diameter with a pre-defined tool type and angle. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Choosing the tool for the Center . Hole Diameter In the case of the absence of a suitable tool. 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.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. • Group . 124 .8. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.the set of Machinable Hole Features within the Technology with the same dimensions. • Technology – the set of Machinable Hole Features machined by the same Technology Solutions.3 Technology Page The Technology Page is divided into two parts. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide The lower part of the Technology Page displays technology solution and tools chosen for the machining of the specified Machinable Hole Feature.12. 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. 125 . 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 edit only parameters that were not marked as Read only in the Technology Database. • Find Tool The Find Tool command enables you to perform the tool search again for the selected item. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12. The technology solutions will be chosen again from the Technology database.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.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. • The Part Tool Table was updated. 126 . 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. • Find tool This command enables you to automatically find the suitable tool from the Part Tool Table for the selected Technology Solution. • Change This option enables you to change the Technology Solution. • The Part Tool Table was updated. 127 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 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. 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. 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. this dialog enables you to choose the necessary solution from the list of available Solutions for this type of Machinable Hole Feature segment. The Machining process list dialog will be displayed. This command displays the job screen with the parameters of the specified job.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 128 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 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. 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The Edit command is available for the Jobs in the right-click menu. This command enables you to display the Job screen.9 Generating Jobs When the Technology is defined. 129 . These Jobs are also available in the CAM-Manager. SolidCAM enables you to show the generated Jobs with the Jobs Page. SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 130 . 10 Technology Database The SolidCAM Technology Database (TDB) stores all the Technology Solutions available for the machining of the Machinable Hole Feature segments. Technology Database Drill Machinable Feature Segment Flat Cylinder Machinable Feature Segment Technology Solutions Technology Solutions Technology Solutions Chamfer Machinable Feature Segment Technology Solutions Flat Chamfer Machinable Feature Segment 131 .12. The Technology Solutions in TDB are classified according to types of Machinable Features Hole Feature segments. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. there is a number of connected technology solutions (each technology solution can belong to only one type of Machinable Hole Feature segment). For each type of Machinable Hole Feature segment. SolidCAM enables you to customize the Global TDB by adding and editing Technology Solutions. The Local TDB can be loaded with the related icon from the Holes Recognition toolbar. The Global Technology Database is unavailable when the Holes Recognition process is working. During the AFRM process. SolidCAM enables you to load the Global TDB with the Technology Database command from the SolidCAM menu. The Local TDB can be modified by the user for specific tasks in the context of the specific CAM-Part. The Technology Database Manager dialog will be dixsplayed containing the Global TDB. This copy is called the Local TDB. the Global TDB will be copied into the CAM-part folder. SolidCAM receives data only from the Local TDB. The Global TDB can be replaced with the Local TDB.10. When SolidCAM starts the AFRM process.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. In this case only the Local TDB can be edited. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12. The Local Technology Database can be loaded only when the Holes Recognition process is working. The Technology Database Manager dialog will be displayed containing the Local TDB. the Global Technology Database is also installed in the system folder of SolidCAM. 132 .1 Global and Local Technology databases When SolidCAM is installed. 2 Technology Database interface The Technology Database Manager dialog enables you to manage the Technology Database.12.10. Current Configuration Solutions/Configurations page 133 Conditions Area Variables Area . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The dialog contains the areas shown on the picture below. conditions and expressions of user-defined variables can be different within different User Configurations. • Set as Current This option enables you to make the specified configuration current. 134 . All the further operation will be performed for the Current Configuration. two basics configurations are implemented in SolidCAM: System Configuration and User Configuration.3 Configurations page SolidCAM enables you to use configurations in order to create multiple variations of a technology database suitable for different tasks. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. SolidCAM enables you to perform the following operations with the right-click menu.10. By default. All the content of the technology database can be edited within this configuration. It contains the set of technology solutions supplied by SolidCAM. The System Configuration cannot be changed. either Global or Local. Technology solutions will be the same in all User Configurations. SolidCAM enables you to create a number of user configurations. The Configurations Page of the TDB Manager enables you to manage configurations of TDB. The User configuration supplied by SolidCAM is a copy of the System configuration. The sequence of the Technology Solutions. 12.4 Current Configuration The Current Configuration combo box displays the name of the current configuration and enables you to switch quickly between configurations in TDB. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide • Rename This option enables you to change the name of the specified User Configuration. it only shows the name of the current configuration. The System Configuration cannot be renamed. • Delete This option enables you to remove the specified User Configuration. 12. Current Configuration and last User Configuration cannot be deleted. • Copy This option enables you to create a copy of the specified User Configuration.10. The System Configuration. 135 . The System Configuration cannot be copied. When the Configurations page is displayed. the Current Configuration combo box is disabled. Delete This option enables you to remove the specified Technology Solution from the TDB. SolidCAM enables you to perform the following operations with the Technology Solutions of a User Configuration. The Machining Process Define Manager will be displayed. The Machining Process Define Manager will be displayed. Edit This option enables you to edit the definition of the specified Technology Solution. 136 . refer to paragraph 10. (For a more detailed explanation. Add This option enables you to define a new Technology Solution within the specified Machinable Hole Feature segment.5 Solutions page The page displays all the Technology solutions classified by the Machinable Hole Feature segment type.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.10.3). Rename This option enables you to rename the specified Technology Solution.12. the copied Technology Solution can be used within all User Configurations. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Copy This option enables you to create a copy of the specified Technology Solution. • Copy To User Configurations This option enables you to copy the specified Technology Solution to the User Configurations. All the operations above are available only for Technology Solutions of a User Configuration. • View This option enables you to display the specified Technology Solution with the Machining Process View Manager. SolidCAM enables you to use the following right-click menu. 137 . For the Technology Solutions of the System Configuration. The displayed Solution cannot be edited. Since all the User Configurations use the same Technology Solutions. • < (less than). When the condition is true.6 Conditions SolidCAM enables you to define the following set of conditions. If these conditions are true. A Condition line is a comparison of two expressions. the first solution with a true condition will be chosen. The following comparison operators are acceptable in condition lines: • > (greater than). • = (equal). A Condition is a complex logical expression. 138 . The expression used in condition lines can include constants.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. SolidCAM checks the conditions of the Technology Solutions in a defined sequence.10. the technology solution is chosen. its result can be either true or false. A Condition consists of condition lines combined by logical operators AND and OR. • <= (less than or equal). For the each Expression field the parametric menu is available. • >= (greater than or equal). the current Technology Solution can be used. HR-variables and functions. user-defined variables and functions. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12. 139 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide User Defined Parameters This option displays a list of existing User Defined Parameters. You can open this list with the F5 hotkey when you are in the parametric field.12. These parameters can be used only for a Condition definition but cannot be used for the Technology Solution definition. 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. SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. You can use the following symbols in expressions: • Addition (+) • Subtraction (-) • Multiplication (*) • Division (/) Parentheses are acceptable. You can open this list with the F11 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Holes Recognition Functions This option displays a list of existing Holes Recognition Functions. SolidCAM enables you to use expressions for parameters definition. 140 . Expressions This option displays the list of defined expressions. however. You can open this list with the F7 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. You can open this list with the F8 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. each operation is evaluated as it occurs from left to right. You can open this list with the F2 hotkey when you are in the parametric field. Parentheses can be used to override the order of precedence and force some parts of an expression to be evaluated before others.12. When addition and subtraction occur together in an expression. each operation is evaluated in order of appearance from left to right. 141 . Operations within parentheses are always performed before those outside. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide When multiplication and division occur together in an expression. Within parentheses. Functions This option displays a list of existing Standard Functions. Edit-View This option displays the parameter edit dialog. operator precedence is maintained. Here you can see and edit the full parameter name or expression string. • Technology Solution This option enables you to display all the variables used in for the current Technology Solution. 142 . SolidCAM enables you to filter the variables used for the Condition definition with the following radio buttons.7 Variables The Variables area displays the list of variables and their expressions used in Conditions.10. • Technology Segment This option enables you to display all the variables used in the Technology Solutions of the Current Technology Segment. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12. • Data Base This option enables you to display all the variables used in the TDB.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The Machining Process Define Manager will be displayed. 143 .10. choose the Add option from the right click menu of the Solutions page in the TDB Manager.8 Defining a new Technology Solution SolidCAM enables you add a new Technology Solution to the User Configurations.12. expressions. To do it. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. standard functions for the parameters definition. HR variables. 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. When the Technology Solution will be applied. 144 .8. The tool with defined parameters will be chosen according to the specific algorithm. The expression for the tool parameters have to be defined.2).SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. When the tool is chosen. SolidCAM enables the parametric definition of the tool. The tools have to be defined according to the tool search algorithms (see the topic 12. expressions will be calculated and parameters used for the tool definition will get their values. For drilling operations. SolidCAM will choose the tool according to the built-in algorithm. the parameters will receive values offered by the tool search algorithm. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining Tool definition SolidCAM enables you to define tools for the Job Templates. For milling and chamfering operations SolidCAM enables the parametric definition of the tool but expressions for the tool parameters are unnecessary. ..9 Holes Recognition Functions hr_clear_offset(. This function receives the following parameters: • Diameter • Next_diameter • Tool_diameter • Overlap (%) diameter tool_diameter delta/2 next_diameter 145 .12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.) This function enables you to calculate the clear offset that have to be removed during the milling operation.10. 12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide The logic of this function is the following: diameter next_diameter tool_diameter overlap delta=diameter/next_diameter No delta>tool_diameter side_step=overlap*tool_diameter/100 No clear_offset=0 delta>side_step Yes clear_offset=(delta-tool_diameter)/2 Yes clear_offset=delta-side_step clear_offset 146 . 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.) This function enables you to calculate equal down steps in order to machine the specified depth.12. down_step hole_depth 147 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide hr_equal_down_step(. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 12.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. The Holes Recognition settings dialog structure has two tabs: • System. The system settings are stored in the registry and affect all CAM-Parts • Part. 148 .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 CAM-Part settings apply only to the current CAM-Part. 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.1 System settings The system settings are stored in the registry and affect all the CAM-Parts. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 149 .11.12. • Home #1 The Home positions will be automatically placed at the position of Machine Home #1. • Corner of Model Box The Home positions will be automatically placed at the corner of the box surrounding the model. SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 150 . Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 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 Hole Feature 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 HR Manager for the items changed or inserted by the user. Cutting Angle 151 .11.12. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12.2 Part settings Topology settings: Cutting angle The Cutting angle parameter defines the minimal value of the arc angle. If the angle of the section of the Hole Feature is less than the defined value. SolidCAM does not recognize this as a hole. Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining 152 .SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide 12. 101. 102 Changing Height 97.Index Index A Adding a new Parameter 34 Adding MAC file 14 AFRM 49 Algorithm 116 anaging Job Templates 27 Assigning Hole Features to Feature Sets 105 Automatic Home Positions definition 106 Axis type 105 B Blind Simple Hol Feature 50 C Chamfer Hole Feature segment 59 Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 77 Changing Angle 96. 100. 103 Choosing a Technology Solution 116 Choosing the tool 117 Choosing the tool for the Center .Chamfer Drill Operation 122 Choosing the tool for the Center Drill Operation 120 Choosing the tool for the Chamfer Drill Operation 121 Choosing the tool for the Drill Operation 118 Choosing the tool for the Mill Operation 119 Compatible Hole Features 110 Compound Holes processing 62 Compound Hole Features 50 Condition 117 Conditions 137 Cone Hole Feature segment 59 Configurations page 133 Conversion to Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 90 Conversion to Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment 87 Conversion to Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 91 Conversion to Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature segment 89 Creating Feature Sets 104 Creating Machining Processes 12 Current Configuration 134 Cutting angle 150 Cylindrical Hole Feature segment 58 D Default sets 11 Default Sets Page 43 153 SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide . 98. 100. 99. 101. 98. 102 Changing Diameter 96. 103 Changing Upper Plane 97. 139 F Feature Set 104 Feature Sets 49 Feature Sets page 108 Feature Set page 55 Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 77 Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature segment 77 Functions 30. 137 Expressions 10. 140 G Generating Jobs 128 Global TDB 131 Group Types 21 H Holes Recognition Functions 139. 63 Hole Feature Groups 62 Hole Feature Model 57 Hole Feature segments 57 Hole Feature Shapes 62 HR Manager Toolbar 54 I Incompatible Hole Features 110 Inserting The Machining Process 39 J Jobs page 55 Job Points 44 154 . 32. 54 Holes Recognition parameters 138 Holes Recognition Settings 147 Holes Recognition Toolbar 55 Hole Features 49 Hole Features filter 66 Hole Features page 55. 35.SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Index Default Sets page 31 Define Job Template 26 Defining a new Technology Solution 142 Defining Machining Process Table 13 Definition of Homes 52 Distance 47 Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment 77 E Expression 34. 144 Holes Recognition Manager 53. 13 Machining Process Table Manager 12. 25 Machining Process Group Types 21 Machining Process Insert Manager 41 Machining Process List 16 Machining Process Table 11. 32 Parameters definition 45 Parameters of Machinable Hole Feature segments 78 Parameters Table 44 Parametric field menu 28 Part settings 150 Planar Hole Feature segment 60 Preparation to Holes Recognition 52 155 SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide .Index Job Templates 8 Job Templates page 25 L Local TDB 131 M Machinable Hole Features 49. 77 Machinable Hole Features page 55 Machinable Hole Feature conversion 83 Machinable Hole Feature Page 92 Machining Process 8. 16 MAC file 14 Mac File 13 Managing Hole Features 65 Managing Machinable Hole Feature Segments 93 Managing Machining Processes 23 Managing Machining Process Tables 18 Managing Technology 125 Managing Technology Solutions 126 Modifying Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 100 Modifying Drill Machinable Hole Feature segment 96 Modifying Flat Chamfer Machinable Hole Feature segment 102 Modifying Flat Cylinder Machinable Hole Feature segment 98 Modifying Machinable Hole Feature segments 94 MP Picture 17 N New Machining Process Table 12 O Operating Feature Sets 111 P Parameter 34 Parameters 10. 116 Machining Process Define Manager 12. 130 Technology Database Manager dialog 132 Technology Page 123 Technology page 55 Technology Settings 149 Technology Solutions 116 Through Simple Hole Feature 50 Topology settings 148 Torus Hole Feature segment 60 U Undercut – Chamfer 69 Undercut – Cone 69 Undercut – None 69 Undercut – Planar 69 Undercut – Sphere 69 Undercut – Torus 69 Undercut processing 68 Undercut substitution 70 Unused parameters Table 34 Used Parameters Table 32 User Configuration 133 User Defined Parameters 35. 138 Using the Machining processes 38 V Variables 141 Variables & expressions 35 Z Z-value 46 Document Number: SCMUG2ENG05001 156 .SolidCAM2005 Milling User’s Guide Index R Result value 34 S Segments Union 74 Simple Hole Features 50 SolidCAM standard functions 36 Solutions page 135 Sphere Hole Feature segment 61 Start Holes Recognition 53 System Configuration 133 System settings 148 T Technology 115 Technology DataBase 115 Technology Database 49.