Live Tool B-axis Positioning and C-axis Face Indexing Support in SmartCAM V18.5

SmartCAM Advanced Turning now provides support for multi-function lathes with B-axis configurations, and C-axis indexing capabilities of Advanced Turning have been extended.

Watch the "Programming B- and C-Axis and Live Tooling
in SmartCAM V18.5" Video

Live Tool B-axis Positioning Support - V18.5

Advanced Turning now provides basic support for multi-function lathes with B-axis configurations. New machine definition parameters allow the B-axis pivot location and angle reference to be defined, and Showpath and Showcut now display the tool pivoting into position. Workplane orientation rules have been established to ensure consistent and repeatable B axis output. This new capability allows features oriented on the side, face, or skewed planes to be machined by swinging the B-axis into position.

Milling tool b-axis rotated to machine inclined face.

Live Tool C-axis Face Indexing - V18.5

The C-axis indexing capabilities of Advanced Turning have been extended to include the ability to index user defined workplanes whose local Z axis is parallel to the world Z axis. This new capability allows machines with a Y axis to machine repetitive face features by indexing the C axis to each feature position then using XY motion to cut the feature. Each feature must be placed on a unique user defined workplane at the respective rotation angle.

Face features machined using a C-axis index and cut strategy. Each toolpath is placed on a user-defined, oriented face workplane. Note: Workplanes displayed offset from world Z axis for illustration clarity.