SmartCAM V16 Turning From Solid Models
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SmartCAM V16: Turning From Solid Models

New solid machining functionality in SmartCAM Advanced Turning allows roughing and finishing toolpath to be created directly from solid model features.

Solid machining processes allow toolpath to be stored using associative process container elements which capture the specified parameters and geometry selections. Process elements can be easily recalled, modified, and regenerated at any time.

These new toolpath generation methods are accessed through the new Solids Machine toolbox and save time and simplify your work by eliminating the need to manually create and manage wireframe profiles and related additional geometry.

Automatic Part Profile Generation - New in V16.5

Each solid turning process provides the ability to specify the radial part position to use to generate the turning profile and which side of the part axis to cut the profile. The radial position can be specified using either an angle or point reference and can be varied from process to process.

This capability allows toolpath to be created for parts containing non-symmetrical features, or parts with profile interruptions such as flats, slots, or holes, regardless of the default radial orientation of the model relative to the ZX turning plane.

Radial/Point method used to define a part profile position that avoids the hole interruption
Radial/Point method used to define a part profile position that avoids the hole interruption.

 

Part Profile Extensions - New in V16.5

The solid turning processes include options to extend the start or end of the profile generated from the selected surfaces. This feature allows toolpath to be created in areas where the part surfaces do not fully define the machining region, for example facing to the center of a part containing a bore, or turning past the end of the part when machining from bar stock.

Profile Extensions used to extend face outward to stock diameter and inward to part center
Profile Extensions used to extend face outward to stock diameter and inward to part center.

 

Linear and Contour Roughing - New in V16.5

Linear and Contour roughing processes allow multi-pass toolpath to be generated for a variety of part features. The Linear process generates linear passes at a specified cut angle, and can be used to create cuts parallel to a diameter or face.

The Contour process generates a series of offset passes that follow the contour of the part profile and can be used when machining near net shape parts, for example castings or forgings.

Contour roughing process using a custom stock profile on cast part
Contour roughing process using a custom stock profile on cast part.

 

Profile Finishing - New in V16.5

The Profile process can be used to create finish and semi-finish passes. Lead in and lead out elements can be added to the ends of the toolpath to engage and retract the tool, and compensation codes can be output to support the machine controls tool radius compensation capabilities.

Finish turning using the Profile process.
Finish turning using the Profile process. Toolpath is stopped a specified distance away from avoidance shoulder surface, and lead moves and radius compensation are applied to the toolpath.

 

Groove Roughing and Finishing - New in V16.5

A Groove roughing process combined with a bi-directional Profile process allows ID, OD, and face groove features to be roughed and finished to size. A Profile bi-directional back-off distance can be used with a lead out line, to direct the tool to finish each side of the groove before retracting from the groove center.

Groove features rough with Groove process and finished with bi-directional Profile process
Groove features rough with Groove process and finished with bi-directional Profile process.