Work NC

Training Guide
WorkNC V24
Training Guide Objectives
Training Guide Objectives

This manual presents the key concepts concerning the new WorkNC V24 version. The particular examples
given in the manual may not concern all users or applications of WorkNC. In fact, the main goal of this manual
is to provide users with the tools (knowledge and ideas) that may be applied to specific problems that they
may encounter when working with the new version.
FILES NEEDED FOR THE TRAINING GUIDE

Workzones CAD Files
Pump_body_restmat Plate_cover_roughing Trim_extend_curves.xdw

Plate_cover_v24 Plate_wing_v24 Circle.xdw
Pump_body_v24 Plate_holes Plate_cover.stl
STL_stock_export Z-level_v24
Import_stock Chaining_v24
Mouse_mold Machine_collision_v24
Z-level_overlap Collision_detection_v24
Contour_remachining Thread_milling_v24
Cylinderhead Hole_machining_v24
Hole_machining_examples Undercut_v24
Flats_walls_machining Auto5_slim_regions
Auto5_retracts Machining_context
Profile_shank_clearance Auto5_retracts2
Strategy Files Tool Definition FIles Holders/Cutter Profiles
Simple_training.fts Simple_training.ftt Fidia_HSC_Hydro_D6

Training_simple_strategy.fus Training_simple_strategy.fut thread_tapper_Ø30.wpc
Training_strategy.fus Training_strategy.fut
training_strategy_tapping_drilling.fus training_strategy_tapping_drilling.fut
Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional 1-1 SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24

Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1 CAD Functions 1-1
1.1 Extending/Trimming Curves 1-1
1.2 Creating a Text along a Curve 1-2
1.3 Managing STL Files 1-4
2 General Functions 2-1
2.1 Displaying the Rest Material Preview 2-1
2.2 Managing STL Stock Models 2-3
2.3 Defining Output Folders for the Workzone Documentation 2-5
2.4 Adding Machining Context Screenshots to the Workzone Documentation 2-7
2.5 Opening NC Files 2-9
3 3-Axis Roughing Toolpaths 3-1
3.1 Defining a Lead-in Distance for the Global/Rough/Rerough Toolpath 3-1
3.2 Using Small Tools in Roughing Strategies 3-3
3.3 Defining a Local Stock for the Global Roughing Toolpath 3-4
3.4 Forcing Machining to a Specified Z Plane 3-12
3.5 Parallel Roughing 3-16
3.6 Calculating the Recommended Safe Tool Length with a Roughing Toolpath 3-19
4 3-Axis Finishing Toolpaths 4-1
4.1 Defining Specific Parameters for the Between 2 Curves Finishing Toolpath 4-1
4.2 Defining an Overlapping Distance for the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath 4-4
4.3 Defining a Variable Z-Step for the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath 4-6
4.4 Linking Passes of the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath 4-7
4.5 Defining Remachining Parameters for the Contour Remachining Toolpath 4-9
4.6 Undercut Remachining 4-12
5 2 ½ - Axis Toolpaths 5-1
5.1 Simulating with Cutter Center with Minimal Compensation 5-1
6 Toolpath Edition 6-1
6.1 Transforming 3+2 Axis Toolpaths 6-1
7 Collision Detection 7-1
Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional i SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24

Table of Contents
7.1 Recalculating Lead-ins on Non-Colliding Sections 7-1
7.2 Defining Tool Holder Extensions 7-1
7.3 Detecting Cutter Collisions with Conical and Tapered Tools 7-5
7.4 Checking the Machine Limits before Detecting Machine Collisions 7-8
7.5 Defining Range Tolerance for Machine Collision Detection 7-11
7.6 Defining a Shank Clearance for a Cutter Profile 7-14
8 Hole Machining 8-1
8.1 Defining a Straight Lead-in Movement with the Tapping/Threading Toolpath 8-1
8.2 Defining a Final Diameter for Features 8-3
8.3 Automatic Hole Machining 8-5
8.3.1 Defining the Machining Method of an Automatic Hole Machining Toolpath 8-5
8.3.2 Defining a Left or Right Tapping Direction in the Automatic Hole Machining
Toolpath 8-10
8.4 Manual Hole Machining/Auto User Strategy 8-13
8.4.1 Defining the Machining Method and the Tapping Direction in the Manual
Hole Machining Toolpath 8-13
8.4.2 Adding/Removing Features from the Toolpath Parameters 8-14
8.4.3 Linking Tapping Feature Sub-Types to Tapping Tables 8-17
8.4.4 Using Filters to Search for Tools in the Auto User Strategy 8-19
8.4.5 Defining Priorities for Intersecting Deep Drilling 8-20
9 Assembled Toolpaths 9-1
9.1 Outputting 3+2 Axis Movements 9-1
10 Auto5 10-1
10.1 Adjusting Tilt Movements on Narrow Regions 10-1
10.2 Defining Advanced Parameters for the Machine Limit Check Function 10-3
SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24 ii Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional

CAD Functions
Extending/Trimming Curves
1
1 CAD Functions
1.1 Extending/Trimming Curves

You can extend/trim curves that are not on the same
plane.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the
trim_extend_curves.xdw CAD file.
This file contains 3 segments that are on different
planes.
1. Show a right view of the drawing.
Right View of the Drawing
We are going to trim the left vertical segment with the horizontal segment. Then we will extend the
right vertical segment to the horizontal segment.
2. Click on the icon on the left side of the user interface.
3. Select the limiting curve, in our example the horizontal segment, then right click to validate.
4. Click on the part of the left vertical segment that is above the horizontal segment.

CAD Functions
1 Creating a Text along a Curve
Segment to Trim
5. Click on the right vertical segment.
You should obtain the following result:
Extended/Trimmed Curves
1.2 Creating a Text along a Curve

You can position texts with respect to a curve (straight lines, circles, NURBS, ...).
You can access this function from the CAD and Preparation modes, and from the WorkNC CAD application.
Here we are going to use it from the CAD mode.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the circle.xdw CAD file. It is a basic drawing with a circle curve.
1. Press and hold down the mouse button on the icon on the left side of the user interface, then
release it on the icon.
2. Select the curve (in our case the circle curve) on which you want to create the text and right click to
validate.
The following dialog box is displayed:
SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24 1-2 Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional

CAD Functions
Creating a Text along a Curve
1
Text on Curve Dialog Box
3. Enter the text.
4. Use the various icons and options (see below) to adjust your text position, size, etc.
5. In the Destination Layer section, specify where you want to save the text : in the current layer (use the
icon to modify the current layer), in a new layer ( icon) or in the active layer ( icon).
For our example, select the Texts layer in the Destination Layer drop-down list..
6. Click OK to validate.
Text on Curve Example
DIALOG BOX DESCRIPTION

The drop-down list at the top of the dialog box allows you to select the font for your text.
This icon allows you to change the color of the text. By default, the color will the
color of the destination layer.
These icons allow you to flip the text horizontally or vertically : you can use them to
define the text direction (from left to right or from right to left) as well as its position
with respect to the curve.
These icons allow you to align the text (Left, Center, Right, Justify).
These icons allow you to position the text above the curve, in the curve or below
the curve.

CAD Functions
1 Managing STL Files
This icon allows you apply a uniform word distribution along the curve.
These icons allow you to change the font style of the text: bold, italic, underline or
strikethrough.
These icons allow you to respectively define an outline text or a stroke text.
Text Size You can use the fields of this section to adjust the height and/or the width of the
characters.
Text Offsetting You can use the fields of this section to move the text horizontally along the curve
and/or vertically with respect to the curve.
Align to View Activating this option allows you to align the text orientation according to the
current view.
Clicking on this icon allows you to select another text from the drawing and copy it
on the current curve.
Clicking on this icon allows you to cut the current text and copy it on another curve
you select.
CONVERTING THE TEXT INTO A CURVE
release it on the icon .
2. Select the text to convert.
The following dialog box is displayed.
Select Layer Dialog Box
3. Select the destination layer in the drop-down list, or use the icon to modify the current layer or the
icon to create a new layer.
1.3 Managing STL Files

You can create curves by selecting face boundaries in the Viewing Area.
You can apply a triangle decimation to simplify the model and reduce the number of triangles

CAD Functions
Managing STL Files
1
You can merge sub-meshes to simplify manipulation and selection.
To illustrate these functions, we are going to use the plate_cover.stl file.
For a better illustration of the triangle decimation, you have to configure the following paramaters:
1. Right click on the icon and activate the Show Tessellation option.
Display Configuration: Show Tessellation
2. Click on the Apply button, then on the OK button to validate.
3. Click on the icon to activate the Open GL Mode display.
You should obtain the following display on the part:
STL File in Open GL Mode
First you have to separate triangles:
1. Click on Transform in the text menu bar and select STL.

CAD Functions
STL Edition Dialog Box
2. Click on the icon.
3. Click on the STL model in the Viewing Area and validate.
Triangle Separation
4. Click on the Validate button.
DECIMATING
2. Enter the Tolerance value (for example 0.01) in the corresponding field.
3. Select the mesh entities to simplify. For our example, select the rounded boss.

CAD Functions
Managing STL Files
1
Before Decimation
4. Right click to validate your selection.
After Decimation
5. Click on the Validate button to apply the decimation.
T OLERANCE
Fewer triangles are displayed as the Tolerance value is increased. But this means that the surface quality
NOTE is low.
MERGING MESH ENTITIES
2. Select the mesh entities to merge.

For our example, select all the surfaces of the 3 bosses.
3. Right click to validate and merge the entities.

CAD Functions
Merged Entities
The 3 bosses are now displayed with the same color and can be selected all together.
CREATING CURVES BY SELECTING STL ENTITY BORDERS
2. Activate the Select Boundaries option.
3. Click on the STL entity borders that you want to save as curves.
STL Entity Border Selection
4. Right click to validate your selection
5. Save the extracted curves in the appropriate layer.

General Functions
Displaying the Rest Material Preview
2
2 General Functions
2.1 Displaying the Rest Material Preview

You can display precise information about the quantity of stock between the geometry and the Stock Model
(2D or 3D). You can display thickness ranges of remaining stock and limit the Rest Material calculation to a
user defined area of the part.
To illustrate this, we are going to the pump_body_restmat workzone. In this workzone, we have calculated a
series of toolpaths.
Workzone with Toolpaths for Rest Material Display
1. Click on the icon located on the right side of the interface.
Rest Material Preview Dialog Box
The Rest Material Color section allows you to define the thickness ranges. By default, there are 3
thickness ranges.
2. Enter the following values (2, 1.5 and 1) in the fields:

General Functions
2 Displaying the Rest Material Preview
New Thickness Range Values
These values represent the range minimum limits (in mm).
3. Click on the icon next to the lowest color button to add a thickness range. Enter 0.5 in the newly
displayed field.
4. Click again on the icon next to the lowest color button to add a thickness range. Enter 0 in the newly
displayed field.
5. Change the different colors by clicking on the colored buttons.
New Thickness Ranges Defined
You can click on the icon to restore the default ranges. You can click on the icon to save
the current ranges as default ranges. You can also click on the Parameters button to open the
WorkNC Parameters dialog box and define your own Rest Material default configuration.
6. Click on the Compute button.
You should obtain a result similar to the following result:

General Functions
Managing STL Stock Models
2
New Rest Material Display
You can click at any point on the simulated Rest Material to display the stock thickness at that point:
Remaining Stock Quantity Information
You can show/hide the simulated Rest Material by clicking on the icon in the Rest Material Preview
dialog box.
You can also offset the simulated Rest Material. To do so, enter the offset value in the Rest Material Offset
field and press [Enter]. The color display will be updated accordingly.
You can adjust the opacity of the simulated Rest Material by using the Opacity cursor.
Finally, you can define a range with a negative limit and activate the Compute Negative Rest Material option.
This can be useful for Engraving toolpaths or toolpath that allows defining negative offset.
2.2 Managing STL Stock Models

You can export the Stock Model from a workzone in the STL format and import it into another workzone.
S TOCK M ODEL S TATE /T YPE
Only the current calculated Stock Model can be exported. The Stock Model must be of the 3D type.
ATTENTION

General Functions
2 Managing STL Stock Models
EXPORTING THE STOCK MODEL IN THE STL FORMAT
1. Open the STL_stock_export workzone.
In this workzone, we have initialized a Stock Model from a CAD file. We have updated it with a Global
Rough/Rerough toolpath.
Stock Model State
2. Click on the Utilities in the text menu bar and select Export Current Stock as STL.
Utilities Menu: Export Current Stock Model as STL
A Windows Shell is displayed to indicate the export progress.
The Stock Model is then exported in the workzone directory, under the name of stock3dwnc.stl.
IMPORTING THE STL STOCK MODEL INTO ANOTHER WORKZONE
1. Open the Import_stock workzone.
This part in this workzone contains an insert with the same geometry than in the previous workzone.
Part for STL Stock Model Import

General Functions
Defining Output Folders for the Workzone Documentation
2
2. Click on Functions in the text menu bar and select Initialize in the Stock Model menu.
3. In the Stock Initialization tab of the Part Geometry dialog box, activate the 3D STL Model option.
4. Click on the Add button.
5. Browse the directory of the previous workzone, select the STL Stock Model and click Open.
Note that only one STL Stock Model can be imported.
Stock Initialization: STL Stock Model
6. Click OK to validate and run the calculations.
7. Activate the Stock Model display.
Imported STL Stock Model
2.3 Defining Output Folders for the Workzone Documentation

If you want to generate the workzone documentation outside the workzone directory, you have the possibility
to specify the output folder.
To illustrate this, you first to need to specify the HTML documentation directory in the environ.cfg file.
1. Create a Documentation folder on your computer, for example on a secondary Hard Disk.
2. Open the environ.cfg file with a text editor.

This file is located in the installation folder of the application: C\WorkNC**\Client\instsite\environ.cfg.
3. Enter the following variable:

WNC_DOC_HTML_OUT=D:\Documentation
In our example, we have specified a secondary hard disk, but you can choose your own directory.

General Functions
2 Defining Output Folders for the Workzone Documentation
Defining a New Folder for Documentation
4. Save your data.
5. Restart the application.
To generate the documentation, we are going to use the pump_body_v24 workzone.
1. Click on Utilities in the text menu bar and select Configure Documentation in the Workzone
Documentation menu.
2. Create a new documentation template.
3. Activate the Options tab.
4. Click on the Documentation Folder drop-down list.
The drop-down list allows you to specify how to generate the documentation.
Leave as is: the documentation is generated in the folder specified in the envrion.cfg file (in our
example D:\Documentation).
Append Workzone Name: the documentation is generated in a folder named after the workzone in the
folder specified in the envrion.cfg file (in our example D:\Documentation\pump_body_v24).
Append Relative Workzone Path: the documentation is generated in a folder named after the
workzone, but the complete access path to the workzone is added to the folder specified in the
envrion.cfg file (in our example
D:\Documentation\Workzones\V24_file_package\workzones\pump_body_v24).
Documentation Folder Drop-down List
5. For our example, try the 3 options and click on the Create button.
You should obtain the following results:
Leave as is:

General Functions
Adding Machining Context Screenshots to the Workzone Documentation
2
Append Workzone Name:
Append Relative Workzone Path:
2.4 Adding Machining Context Screenshots to the Workzone

Documentation
You can create various screenshots of the Machining Context. These screenshots are then added to the
workzone documentation.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the machine_collision_v24 workzone.
1. Activate the Machining Context of this workzone.
Machining Context Activated
release it on the icon.
Machining Context Image Dialog Box
3. Show an ISO view of the Machining Context.

General Functions
2 Adding Machining Context Screenshots to the Workzone Documentation
A new screenshot is added to the dialog box, with the name of the orientation and its preview:
New Screenshot
You can add a comment about the image on the Image Comment field.
5. Show a front view of the Machining Context and click again on the icon.
6. Define your own view of the part on the machine table and click again on the icon.
7. Add your own comment about this view.
New Screenshot with Comment
Note that this screenshot is named “User View”.
8. Click on this view in the list then click again on its name to rename it.

General Functions
Opening NC Files
2
Renamed View
You can use the or icon to change the screenshot positions in the list. This allows you to
define their positions in the workzone documentation.
You can delete a selected screenshot by clicking on the icon.
9. Click OK to validate and exit the dialog box.
10. Generate the HTML documentation for the workzone.
The screenshots are listed below the Machining Context section in the documentation.
You can click on each of them to visualize them:
Machining Context Screenshots in the Workzone Documentation
2.5 Opening NC Files

Once you have postprocessed toolpaths, you can open and modify NC files with the NC file editor, available
from within the application. This can be used for example to change dimensional units (mm <> inch) or
perform some arithmetic operations.

General Functions
2 Opening NC Files
NC FILE EDITOR CONFIGURATION
1. Click on Utilities in the text menu bar and select Software Configuration.
2. In the Parameters dialog box, click on the + symbol next to Preferences.
3. Click on Applications under the Preferences section.
NC File Editor Location
You can replace the editnc.exe file by your own editor.
The Options to Set before File Names and Options to Set after File Names fields allow you to add
prefixes and suffixes to the NC files in order to open them with other editors.
You can use the Application Type drop-down list to switch from the mono to multi-document mode if
required.
4. Select Multi-Document Application in the Application Type drop-down list.

This allows you to open several NC files in separate tabs of the NC File Editor.
5. Click on the Apply button, then on OK to exit the dialog box.
OPENING THE NC FILE EDITOR

If you have several toolpaths that have been postprocessed together or separately, you can open the NC files.
For separate postprocessed files:
1. In the Workzone Manager, select the toolpaths which have been postprocessed.
2. Right click on the P+ status symbol and select Open Postprocessed File(s).

General Functions
Opening NC Files
2
Opening the NC File Editor (Separate Postprocessed Files)
3. The NC files are displayed in separate tabs of the editor:
NC File Editor with Two NC Files
4. Make modifications as required and save your files.
For concatenated postprocessed files:
1. In the Workzone Manager, right click on the Concatenated Postprocess line and select Open
Postprocessed File(s).

General Functions
2 Opening NC Files
Opening the NC File Editor (Concatenated Postprocessed Files)
The NC file is displayed in the NC File Editor.
2. Make modifications as required and save your file.

3-Axis Roughing Toolpaths
Defining a Lead-in Distance for the Global/Rough/Rerough Toolpath
3
3 3-Axis Roughing Toolpaths
3.1 Defining a Lead-in Distance for the Global/Rough/Rerough Toolpath

You can define a Lead-in distance to make sure that the tool is not too close to the edge of the real stock for
the Lead-in movement. This allows you to avoid damaging the tool if the Stock Model definition was not
accurate.
Note this is only possible with the Global Rough/Rerough toolpath.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the plate_wing_v24 workzone.
1. Create a new Global Rough/Rerough toolpath with the following parameters:

Expand Window by: 50
Bull-nose cutter, Body Radius: 12, Corner Radius: 4
Stock Allowance: 2
Tolerance: 0.1
Stepover: 12
Z-Step: 5
M ACHINING Z ONE
If you do not sufficiently expand the Machining Zone, the Lead-in distance will not be applied and the
NOTE toolpath would start machining from the top of the part.
2. Click on one of the buttons in the Cutter Movements section.
The Cutter Movements dialog box is displayed:
Cutter Movements Dialog Box (Global Roughing)

3 Defining a Lead-in Distance for the Global/Rough/Rerough Toolpath
The Lead-ins at Edge of Stock section allows you to define a clearance from the edge of the Stock
Model. By default, the Auto option is activated, which means that the Clearance from Edge of Stock is
set to 0: no clearance is applied. If you deactivate the Auto option, the Clearance from Edge of Stock
value is equal to the Body Radius of the tool.
3. Enter 15 in the Clearance from Edge of Stock field.
Defining your own clearance value makes the Maximum Lead-in Length option available.
4. Activate the Maximum Lead-in Length option.
By default, the Auto option is activated, which allows you to apply a Maximum Lead-in Length that is 3
times the Clearance from Edge of Stock value.
Lead-ins at Edge of Stock Parameters Defined
5. Keep the default Maximum Lead-in Length and click OK to validate.
6. Validate the parameters.
7. Initialize a 3D Solid Block Stock Model and run calculations.
Clearance from Edge of Stock

Using Small Tools in Roughing Strategies
3
3.2 Using Small Tools in Roughing Strategies

You can use roughing strategies with cutters whose diameter is smaller than 1 mm. This makes machining
easier on small ribs on 3D and virtual stock models (this does not apply to 2D stock models). The minimum
cutter diameter is 0.2 mm. This applies to the following toolpaths:
 Global Roughing/Re-roughing
 Flat Surface Roughing/Re-roughing
 Adaptive Trochoidal Roughing
plate_cover_v24 workzone. In this workzone, we
have already calculated a Global Rough/Rerough
toolpath and updated the 3D stock model with it.
Let’s suppose that you want to machine the 2 ribs
that are highlighted in the opposite picture.

Bull-nose cutter, Body Radius: 0.5 – Corner Radius: 0.1
Stock Allowance: 0.3
Tolerance: 0.1
Stepover: 0.2
Z-Step: 1
Corner Smoothing Radius: 0.5
2. Click on the <None> button of the Boundary Curve option.
3. Create the following curve set and validate.
Curves on Edges of the Ribs
Note that in our case, there is a lot of remaining stock on the part, since we have only calculated one
toolpath for the first roughing stage. That is why we have to limit the machining zone of the Global
Rough/Rerough toolpath with boundary curves. It would not be necessary if the remaining stock was
located only on the ribs.
4. Validate the parameters and run the toolpath calculations.

3 Defining a Local Stock for the Global Roughing Toolpath
Global Roughing Toolpath with a Small Tool on Small Ribs
In the above picture, we have hidden surfaces of the part for better visibility.
5. Update the stock model with this toolpath.
6. Compare the stock model states between toolpath 1 and toolpath 2.

Before displaying both stock model states, right click on each of them activate the Use Precise Shading
option.
Stock State after Toolpath 1 Stock State after Toolpath 2
3.3 Defining a Local Stock for the Global Roughing Toolpath

You can use a local Stock Model with the Global Rough/Rerough toolpath instead of using the calculation
Stock Model. This allows you to obtain quicker calculation times and rough specific areas on the part.
You can specify a local Stock Model by using curves, by using the Machining Zone and a given Z-Level, by
selected surfaces or by a weld bead.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the pump_body_v24 workzone.
L OCAL S TOCK M ODEL AND G LOBAL S TOCK M ODEL
The local Stock Model is totally independent from the global Stock Model. Using a local Stock Model does
ATTENTION not require Stock Initialization calculations.
1. Create a new Global Rough/Rerough toolpath. Define a 5 mm Z-Step and keep the other default
parameters.

Defining a Local Stock for the Global Roughing Toolpath
3
2. Click on the button in the Stock Parameters section.
The Stock Parameters dialog box is displayed:
Stock Parameters Dialog Box
By default, this dialog box allows you to use the global Stock Model.
SPECIFIED BY CURVE
This option allows you to define a set of boundary curves. The height of the local stocks is defined by the
curve positions in the Z axis of the Machining UCS or defined by a given Z level.
We are going to machine the following areas of the part, by defining and offsetting a curve set:
Area to Machine
1. Activate the Specified by Curve option.
2. Click on the <None> button and create the following curve:
Curve Creation

3. Define a 100mm offset of the curve in the XY Machining Plane for the lower curve.
4. Click on the Preview button.
Offsetting the Curve
5. Deactivate the Keep Original option and click on the Validate Preview button.
6. Define a 130mm offset of the curve in the XY Machining Plane for the higher curve.
Offsetting the Curve
7. Deactivate the Keep Original option and click on the Validate Preview button.

3
You can now choose to use the Z-levels of the different curves or define one Z-level to determine the
height of the local stocks.
Local Stock Specified by Curve
9. For our example, make sure that the Use the Z-Level of the Curve option is activated and click OK to
validate.
Global Roughing on Local Stock Specified by Curve (Z-Levels of the Curves = Heights of the Local Stocks)
Now let’s define the same toolpath but define our own Z-level for the height of the local stock:
1. Create a new toolpath.
3. In the Stock Parameters dialog box, activate the Use the Given Z-Level option.
4. Enter 180 in the Max Z field.

Note that you can also click on the icon and then define a machine plane to determine the height of
the local stocks.
Note also that you cannot enter a Max Z value which is inferior to the Z-Level of the surfaces to machine.
Otherwise, no toolpath is generated.

Local Stock Specified by Curve with a Given Z-Level
Global Roughing on Local Stock Specified by Curve (Given Z-Level = Height of the Local Stocks)
SPECIFIED BY MACHINING ZONE

This option allows you to define a local stock whose height is determined by a given Z-Level and whose
dimensions are determined by the Machining Zone parameters of the toolpath.
2. Activate the Expand Window by Diam+Stock option.
4. In the Stock Parameters dialog box, activate the Specified by Machining Zone option.
Local Stock Specified by Machining Zone

3
You can then specify the height of the local stock by entering a value in the Max Z field of by using the
icon.
5. Click on the icon and click on the following flat surface and validate:
Machining Plane for the Height of the Local Stock Model
Global Roughing on Local Stock Specified by Machining Zone
SPECIFIED BY SELECTED SURFACES

This option allows you to select surfaces and offset them to define the height of the local stock.
S URFACE S ELECTION
You can use this option only on activated surfaces.

NOTE
We are going to use the surfaces of the small boss at the top of the part:
Surface Selection for Local Stock Definition

1. Create a new Global Rough/Rerough toolpath.
3. In the Stock Parameters dialog box, activate the Specified by Selected Surfaces option.
Local Stock Specified by Selected Surfaces
4. Click on the button of the Surface Selection option.
The Create a New Surface List Group dialog box is displayed.
6. Make your surface selection and click on the icon to validate.
7. In the Create a New Surface List Group dialog box, right click on the Value field and enter 20.
Offset Value for Surface Selection
Note the default prefix name for the list is “Local_Stock_”. You can change it in the Name field.

3
Global Roughing on Local Stock Specified by Surface Selection
SPECIFIED BY WELD BEAD

This option allows you to simulate a 2D Stock around a user-defined curve.
We are going to machine the fillets around the following curve:
Curve for Weld Bead

Stock Allowance: 0.5
Stepover: 1
Z-Step: 1
3. In the Stock Parameters dialog box, activate the Specified by Weld Bead option.
Local Stock Specified by Weld Bead
4. Click on the <None> button in the Weld Bead section.
5. Create the following curve and validate.

3 Forcing Machining to a Specified Z Plane
Curve for Weld Bead
6. Enter 3 in the Radius field. This value represents the radius of a virtual cylinder, whose center is the
curve, which will simulate the local stock.
Global Roughing on Local Stock Specified by Weld Bead
3.4 Forcing Machining to a Specified Z Plane

You can force a roughing toolpath to finish on a given Z plane. It is especially useful for the Adaptive
Trochoidal Roughing toolpath, but it also works with the Global Rough/Rerough, Flat Surface Rough/Rerough
and Spiral Core Roughing toolpaths.

plate_cover_roughing workzone.
In this workzone, we have calculated an Adaptive
Trochoidal Roughing toolpath with a flat cutter and a
15mm Fixed Z-Steps. If you show a right view of the
part, you should see the flat surface on this side of
the part is not machined.
We are going to force the toolpath to finish on this
surface.
2. Click on one of the 3 icons in the Machining Zone section.
3. In the Machining Zone dialog box, activate the Over Surfaces and Holes option.

Forcing Machining to a Specified Z Plane
3
4. Activate the Force Final Z option.

This option is only available when the Over Surfaces and Holes option is activated.
You can now choose to make the toolpath start at the highest Z level of the Stock Model or start at a
given Z level.
5. For our example, make sure that the Start at High Z of Stock option is activated.
6. Click on the icon, then click on the surface on which you want the toolpath to finish and validate.
Machining Zone: Force Final Z Parameters
If you now look at the Z-Step parameters, you should see that it is Adjusted (instead of Fixed).

3 Forcing Machining to a Specified Z Plane
Toolpath Parameters: Adjusted Z-Step
8. Click on the Adjusted button.
The Z-Step dialog box is displayed:
Adjusted Z-Step: Adjust First Two Z-Steps
The Adjusted option allows you to Adjust the First Two Z-Steps, Adjust the Last Two Z-Steps or Adjust
all Z-Steps so that the toolpath finishes on the specified Z plane.
9. Make sure that the Adjust the First Two Z-Steps option is activated and click OK to validate.
10. Validate the parameters and run the toolpath calculation.

Forcing Machining to a Specified Z Plane
3
First Two Z-Steps Adjusted
The first two Z-Steps are different from the others (which are 15 mm) and the toolpath performs the final pass
on the selected surface.
3. Activate the Adjust Last Two Z-Steps option and click OK to validate.
Adjusted Z-Step: Adjust Last Two Z-Steps
Last Two Z-Steps Adjusted

3 Parallel Roughing
The last two Z-Steps are different from the others (which are 15 mm) and the toolpath performs the final pass
on the selected surface.
3. Activate the Adjust All Z-Steps option and click OK to validate.
Adjusted Z-Step: Adjust All Z-Steps
All Z-Steps Adjusted
All Z-Steps are the same and have been slightly reduced (inferior 15 mm) and the toolpath performs the final
pass on the selected surface.
3.5 Parallel Roughing

This toolpath is used for soft material prototype parts. It is normally used with ball-end cutters and a Box or
Lace machining cycle.

Parallel Roughing
3
3.5.1 Programming a Parallel Roughing Toolpath

To illustrate this toolpath, we are going to use the
Contour_remachining workzone.
In this workzone, we have imported a STL Stock
Model.
Part with Imported STL Stock Model
2. Click on the Type button in the Toolpath Parameters menu.
Select the Parallel Roughing toolpath in the Specialized Roughing section and click OK to validate.
Parallel Roughing in the Toolpath Strategy Dialog Box
3. Define the following standard parameters:

Ball-end cutter, Body Radius: 5
Lace cycle, Parallel to X direction
Stock Allowance: 1
Tolerance: 0.05
Stepover: 5
Z-Step: 5 (Fixed)
Note that the Surface Selection parameter is unavailable for this toolpath and that you can only use
Vertical lead-in movements.
4. Leave the default settings for the Specify the Start Point parameter.
5. Activate the Use Stock Model option.

This allows you to take the Stock Model into account.
6. Enter 5 in the Lead-in Security Distance parameter.

The tool will start machining at 5 mm from the edge of the Stock Model.

3 Parallel Roughing
Parallel Roughing Parameters: Use Stock Model
7. Validate the parameters and run the toolpath calculations
S TOCK M ODEL I NITIALIZATION
When no Stock Model has been initialized on the workzone, if you activate the Use Stock Model option,
NOTE the application asks you to initialize the Stock Model when validating the toolpath parameters.
Parallel Roughing Toolpath on Stock Model
8. Update the Stock Model with this toolpath.

Calculating the Recommended Safe Tool Length with a Roughing Toolpath
3
Updated Stock Model
9. Create a new Parallel Roughing toolpath and deactivate the Use Stock Model option.
Parallel Roughing Toolpath without Stock Model
When deactivating the Use Stock Model option, the toolpath takes the surfaces into account and uses the
highest Z-level of the part to determine the height of the Machining Zone.
3.6 Calculating the Recommended Safe Tool Length with a Roughing

Toolpath
You can calculate the recommended safe tool length when using the Holder Collision Avoidance function on a
roughing toolpath.

Expand Window by Diam+Stock: activated
Bull-nose cutter, Body Radius: 12, Corner Radius: 4
Stepover: 10
Z-Step: 5
2. Click on the Straight button.
3. In the Define Cutter dialog box, enter 100 in the Length field and validate.

3 Calculating the Recommended Safe Tool Length with a Roughing Toolpath
Cutter Length Defined
4. Click on the button in the Holder Collision Avoidance section.
5. Activate the Perform Tool Holder Collision Detection during Calculation option.
6. Activate the Cylindrical Holder option.
7. Enter 20 in the Holder Radius field.
8. Enter 0.3 in the Clearance between Holder and Surface + Stock field.
Holder Collision Avoidance Parameters Defined
9. Validate the parameters and run the calculations.
You should obtain a green H+ status symbol next to the toolpath in the Workzone Manager, meaning
that no collision has been found on the toolpath:

Calculating the Recommended Safe Tool Length with a Roughing Toolpath
3
Holder Collision Avoidance Status Symbol: no Collision
The recommended safe tool length is indicated in the Tool Holder Collision Detection Parameters
dialog box:
Recommended Safe Tool Length
In this case, you can use a smaller tool which allows you to increase the tool life.
This information is also indicated in the workzone documentation:

3 Calculating the Recommended Safe Tool Length with a Roughing Toolpath
Recommended Safe Tool Length in Documentation

3-Axis Finishing Toolpaths
Defining Specific Parameters for the Between 2 Curves Finishing Toolpath
4
4 3-Axis Finishing Toolpaths
4.1 Defining Specific Parameters for the Between 2 Curves Finishing

Toolpath
The Curve Definition and the Drive Direction parameters are grouped together in a
single dialog box.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the Mouse_mold workzone.
Let’s suppose that you want to machine the top surface of the part.
 Create a Between 2 Curves toolpath with the following parameters:

Ball cutter, Body Radius:2
Stock Allowance: 0
Tolerance: 0.01
Stepover: 2
DEFINING CURVES AND DRIVE DIRECTION
1. Click on the button in the Curves/Direction section.
Between 2 Curves Dialog Box
2. Click on the <None> button of the First Curve option and define the following curve:
First Curve
3. Click on the <None> button of the Second Curve option and define the following curve:

4 Defining Specific Parameters for the Between 2 Curves Finishing Toolpath
Second Curve
4. Activate the Parallel option in the Drive Direction section.
Between 2 Curves: Parallel Direction
Let’s see how to program a perpendicular drive direction:
1. Make a copy of the toolpath and open the Toolpath Parameters menu.
3. Activate the Perpendicular option in the Drive Direction section.

Note that you can define a Pass Extension value allowing the toolpath to extend beyond the reference
curves.
Between 2 Curves: Perpendicular Drive Direction

Defining Specific Parameters for the Between 2 Curves Finishing Toolpath
4
Between 2 Curves: Perpendicular Direction
Let’s see how to program a spiral drive direction:
1. Make a copy of the toolpath and open the Toolpath Parameters menu.
3. Activate the Spiral option in the Drive Direction section.

Note that is option is unavailable when you select open curves.
Note also that you can activate/deactivate the Perform Pass on Curves option if you want the toolpath to
perform a complete pass on the reference curves or not.
Between 2 Curves: Spiral Drive Direction

4 Defining an Overlapping Distance for the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath
Between 2 Curves: Spiral Direction
4.2 Defining an Overlapping Distance for the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath

You can extend the Z-Level Finishing toolpath along the machining axis. This allows you to ensure improved
surface finishing in toolpath crossover areas when generating two toolpaths in opposite machining directions.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the Z-

level_overlap workzone.
Let’s suppose that you want to program a machining
strategy on both sides of the part.
1. Program a Z-Level Finishing toolpath with the following parameters:

Expand Window by Radius + Stock: activated
Ball cutter, Body Radius: 2
Stock Allowance: 0
Tolerance: 0.01
Z-Step: 0.5 (Fixed)
Vertical lead-ins
2. Program a second Z-Level Finishing toolpath in the opposite machining direction, by defining a View.
3. Display both toolpaths with different colors.
If you show a left view of the part and zoom, you will see that passes have not been generated on
crossover areas:
Toolpaths with Missing Passes
4. Open the Toolpath Parameters menu of the first toolpath.
5. Click on one of the 3 icons in the Machining Zone section.
6. In the Machining Zone dialog box, activate the Extend Path along Machining Axis option.

Defining an Overlapping Distance for the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath
4
Machining Zone: Extend Path along Machining Axis
E XTEND P ATH ALONG M ACHINING A XIS
This option is available when the None or Over Surfaces options are activated in the Areas to Apply
NOTE section of the dialog box.
8. Activate the Extend Path along Machining Axis option for the second toolpath.
If you now show both toolpaths, you will see that additional passes have been generated to fully machine the
part:
Extended Toolpaths

4 Defining a Variable Z-Step for the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath
4.3 Defining a Variable Z-Step for the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath

You can adapt the Z-Step according to surface slope angles. This improves surface finish quality by
determining the maximum cusp height allowed for the toolpath.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the Z-level_v24 workzone.

In this workzone, we have already calculated a Z-Level Finishing toolpath
with a fixed Z-Step of 1mm.
1. Create a new Z-Level Finishing toolpath.
2. Click on the Fixed button of the Z-Step paramaters.
3. In the Z-Step dialog box, activate the Auto Variable option.
Z-Step Dialog Box: Auto Variable Option
4. Define the following parameters:
Cusp Height (see below): determines the maximum cusp height between successive passes.
For our example, enter 0.03 in the Cusp Height field.
Max Z-Step (see below): defines the maximum Z-Step height between any 2 passes.
For our example, enter 1 in the Max Z-Step field.
Min Z-Step (see below): defines the minimum Z-Step height on the last pass of the toolpath.
For our example, enter 0.025 in the Min Z-Step field.
Variable Z-Step Parameter Examples

Linking Passes of the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath
4
Auto Variable Z-Step Defined
Z-Level Finishing with Adjusted Z-Steps
The Z-Step is adjusted according to the different slope angles. Note that this parameter is not suitable for
complex geometry forms.
4.4 Linking Passes of the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath

You can define a Mixed machining order that allows you to chain passes of the Z-Level Finishing toolpath on
specific areas and therefore reduce the number of retracts.

Chaining_v24 workzone.
In this workzone, we assume that you only need to
machine the blue surfaces of the part. We have
calculated 2 Z-Level Finishing toolpaths on the blue
surfaces, the first with a machining order by zone
and the other with a machining order by level.

4 Linking Passes of the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath
Machining Order by Zone Machining Order by Level
Let’s suppose that you want to chain the lower passes of the toolpath without machining the gray surfaces:
2. In the Toolpath Parameters menu, click on the button of the Machining Order parameter.
3. In the Machining Order dialog box, activate the Mixed option.
Mixed Machining Order
Some passes of the toolpath are chained and there are fewer retracts on the toolpath. The lower passes of the
toolpath are not chained. This can be corrected by increasing the Slope Link Distance value:
2. Enter 50 in the Slope Link Distance field.
Slope Link Distance Increased

Defining Remachining Parameters for the Contour Remachining Toolpath
4
Mixed Machining Order with Higher Slope Link Distance
This time, all passes are chained. The toolpath now only retracts at the end of each pass.
S LOPE L INK D ISTANCE
This distance is not measured on a straight line between the passes but along the intervening surfaces
ATTENTION (as illustrated below). It may be difficult to set the appropriate value.
Slope Link Distance Measurement
4.5 Defining Remachining Parameters for the Contour Remachining

Toolpath
The specific parameters are grouped together in a single dialog box. You can define an Evolving Stepover
which allows to apply a Morphing strategy. You can also cut steep areas (determined by the Minimum Slope
parameter) in Z-Level mode.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the Contour_remachining workzone.
Part for Contour Remachining
1. Program a Contour Remachining toolpath with the following parameters:

Stock Allowance: 0
Tolerance: 0.005

4 Defining Remachining Parameters for the Contour Remachining Toolpath
Stepover: 0.2
Vertical lead-ins
2. Click on the button in the Remachining Parameters section.
The Remachining Parameters dialog box is displayed:
Remachining Parameters Dialog Box
This dialog box allows you to define the remachining reference and morphing parameters.
Here we assume that we have already programmed a finishing toolpath with a ball-end cutter with a 4
mm Body Radius
3. Make sure that the Reference Cutter and Ball-end Cutter options are activated.
4. Enter 4 in the Body Radius field.
5. Deactivate the Evolving Stepover and Machine Steep Areas by Z-Level options.
Remachining Parameters Defined
Contour Remachining Toolpath

Defining Remachining Parameters for the Contour Remachining Toolpath
4
EVOLVING STEPOVER
This parameter allows you to define a Morphing strategy and improve the surface finish quality.
1. Create a new Contour Remachining toolpath.
3. Activate the Evolving Stepover option.
Remachining Parameters: Evolving Stepover
If you compare boths toolpath on specific areas of the part, you will see that the trajectories with the Evolving
Stepover give better results:
Evolving Stepover Deactivated Evolving Stepover Activated
MACHINE STEEP AREAS BY Z-LEVEL

This parameter allows you to machine steep areas whose slope angles are above the Minimum Slope value
by Z-level. This way you reduce the load on the tool and increase tool life.
1. Create a new Contour Remachining toolpath.
3. Activate the Machine Steep Areas by Z-Level option.
4. Enter 30 in the Minimum Slope field.

4 Undercut Remachining
Remachining Parameters: Machine Steep Areas and Minimum Slope
If you compare toolpath 2 and 3 on specific areas of the part, you should see the difference on steep areas:
Machine Steep Areas by Z-Level Deactivated Machine Steep Areas by Z-Level Activated
4.6 Undercut Remachining

You can define several passes for this toolpath, consider the Stock Model for calculations, detect the flat
surfaces, use the Auto5 strategies and machine from high to low direction or from low to high direction.

undercut_v24 workzone. In this workzone, we have
already calculated a basic Undercut Remachining
toolpath with a T-Slot cutter.
DEFINING SEVERAL PASSES FOR THE TOOLPATH
2. Click on the button in the Undercut Remachining Parameters section.
The Undercut Remachining Parameters dialog box is displayed.

Undercut Remachining
4
3. Activate the Multipass option.
4. Enter 8 in the Lateral Step field.
The Smoothing Radius value must be at least equal to the Lateral Step value and cannot exceed half
of the Maximum Undercut value.
5. Enter 8 in the Smoothing Radius field.
Lateral Step Options Defined
6. Validate the parameters and run the toolpath calculations
Undercut Remachining Toolpath with Multiple Passes
USING THE STOCK MODEL
3. Activate the Use Stock Model option.

Use Stock Model Option Activated
The Stock Initialization tab of the Part Geometry dialog box is displayed.
5. Activate the User Block option and define the following Stock Model:
Stock Model Definition for Undercut Remachining
6. Validate the Stock Model and run the toolpath calculations.

4
Undercut Remachining Toolpath on Stock Model
The toolpath has only machined the areas included in the Stock Model definition.
MACHINING FLAT SURFACES
1. Right click on the first toolpath and select Same Toolpath.
3. Activate the Machine Flat Surfaces option.
Machine Flat Surfaces Option Activated
5. Display this toolpath together with the first toolpath (with different colors).

Machine Flat Surfaces
In our example, you can see the passes added by the new toolpath on 2 flat surfaces.
USING THE AUTO5 STRATEGIES
2. Define a Ball cutter with a 5mm Body Radius.
4. Activate the Auto5 option.
5. Click on the None button of the Auto5 Parameters option.
6. Select the Vertical strategy.
7. Click on the button of the Tool Holder option and select the Fidia_HSC_Hydro_D6 tool holder.
Auto5 and Max Undercut Parameters

4
8. Enter 25 in the Maximum Undercut field. We assume that you machine all the following surfaces:
Surfaces to Machine
Undercut Remachining with Auto5 Parameters
DEFINING THE MACHINING DIRECTION
3. Activate the Low to High option in the Machining Direction section.
Machining Direction: From Low to High

5. Simulate the toolpath.
Machining From Low to High Direction

2 ½ - Axis Toolpaths
Simulating with Cutter Center with Minimal Compensation
5
5 2 ½ - Axis Toolpaths
5.1 Simulating with Cutter Center with Minimal Compensation

When using Minimal Compensation with a Tangent to Curve or a Curve Remachining toolpath, you can
choose to display either the cutter profile or the cutter center.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the flats_walls_machining workzone. In this

workzone, we have created a curve to machine the following walls:
1. Create a new Tangent to Curve toolpath with the following parameters:

Flat cutter, Body Radius: 5
Lateral Stock Allowance: 0
Tolerance: 0.01
Lead-in Radius: 10
2. Click on the button in the Curve Selection section.
The Curve Selection dialog box is displayed:
3. Click on the <None> button in the Curve Definition section, then select the appropriate curve.
Curve Defined
5. Click on the button in the Cutter Compensation section.
6. Activate the Minimal Compensation option.
Cutter Compensation: Minimal Compensation

2 ½ - Axis Toolpaths
5 Simulating with Cutter Center with Minimal Compensation
7. Activate the Display Cutter Center (Offset) option.
Tangent to Curve with Minimal Compensation and Cutter Center
Note that handling the cutter center is available for toolpath simulation, stock model update and tool holder
collision detection.
P OSTPROCESSING
The profile toolpath is taken into account for postprocessing. When you activate the Display Cutter Center
ATTENTION option, the application generates a file called outil*.prof which is used by the postprocessor.
In our example, we are going to check for tool holder collision on the toolpath:
2. Define a cylindrical tool holder with 10 mm radius.
3. Activate the Calculate the Recommended Safe Tool Length and Create Collision Curve and Ranges
options.
Collisions should be detected.
5. Click on the icon again.
You should see the following collision curve on the tool holder:
Collision Curve with Cutter Center
6. Create the same toolpath but this time activate the Display Profile (no Offset) option.
You should see the following collision curve on the tool holder:
Collision Curve with Profile

Toolpath Edition
Transforming 3+2 Axis Toolpaths
6
6 Toolpath Edition
6.1 Transforming 3+2 Axis Toolpaths

You can apply translation, rotation and symmetry to existing 3+2 axis toolpaths. Transformed toolpaths are
created as sub-toolpaths of the original 3+2 axis toolpath.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the cylinderhead workzone.
Duplicated Part with 3+2 Axis Toolpaths
In this workzone, we have calculated 2 inclined 3D Finishing toolpath. We have also made a copy of the
original part and created a UCS between them.
We are going to apply rotations, translations and symmetries to machine similar areas on both parts.
ROTATION
1. Select the first toolpath in the Workzone Manager.
2. Press and hold the mouse button on the icon on the left side of the user interface, then release it
on the icon.
3+2 Axis Toolpath Transformation Command

Toolpath Edition
6 Transforming 3+2 Axis Toolpaths
3+2 Toolpath Transformation Dialog Box
3. Activate the Rotation tab.
Rotation Tab

Toolpath Edition
6
We are going to use the Z axis of the Machine Axis, which is located at the center of the part, as
rotation axis. We are going to make 2 copies of the toolpath in order to machine the 2 identical
surfaces on the first part.
4. Make sure that the Pre-defined Axis option is activated.
This option allows you to select the rotation axis (X,Y,Z) on the active UCS.
Once you have selected the rotation axis (X,Y or Z), you can select another origin point by defining its
coordinates in the X,Y and Z Origin fields or by clicking on the icon (next to the Origin field) and
selecting a point in the Viewing Area.
5. Click on the Z Axis button.
The rotation axis is displayed. You can hide it by deactivating the Display Rotation Axis option.
6. Enter -90 in the Angle field.
Note that you can also define an angle by clicking on the icon (next to the Angle field) and select
2 points in the Viewing Area : the angle is then calculated between these 2 clicked points ( and
below) from the origin point of the rotation axis ( below).
Angle by 2 Points
7. Enter 2 in the Number field.
The bounding boxes of the future copies are displayed on the part.

Toolpath Edition
Rotation Axis and Bounding Boxes for the Rotation
8. Click on the Apply button.
Toolpath Rotation Preview
You can hide the rotation preview by deactivating the TP Preview option.
The transformation previews are also listed and grouped by type (rotation, translation and symmetry) in the
Copies section of the dialog box. You can click on the + symbol next to the Rotation line to display the copies:
List of Copies in the Dialog Box
You can click on each copy in the list to highlight it in the Viewing Area:

Toolpath Edition
6
Copy Highlighted in the Viewing Area
You can deactivate a copy in the list. To do so, either double click on it or right click on it and select Deactivate
that Copy. The copy is then displayed in red and its preview does not appear anynore in the Vewing Area. At
this stage, if you click OK to validate, the removed copy will not be applied.
To add a copy back to the list of applicable modifications, either double on it or right click on it and select
Activate that Copy.
This is a recursive function, therefore as many transformation commands as required can be performed on the
original toolpath before validating and quitting the dialog box.
TRANSLATION
Now, we are going to apply a translation to this transformed toolpath in order to machine the identical surfaces
of the second part
1. Activate the Translation tab.
You can apply a translation distance to an axis of the active Axis System. You can define a translation
vector by defining 2 points, which is the method we are going to use here.
2. Activate the 2 Points option.
You can enter the coordinates of the vector points in the Point 1 and Point 2 fields or you can pick
points in the Viewing Area. Here, we are going to pick the central point at the top of each part.
3. Click on the Pick 3D Points to define the Translation Vector button.
4. Using the End option of the OSnap utility, click on the highest central point at the top of the first part, then
on the highest central point at the top of the second part.

Toolpath Edition
Translation Vector and Bounding Boxes for the Translation
The translation vector is displayed. You can hide it by deactivating the Display Translation Vector
option. The bounding boxes of the future copies are displayed on the part.
Toolpath Translation Preview
You can hide the translation preview by deactivating the TP Preview option.
The translation previews have also been added to the Copies section of the dialog box. You can click
on the + symbol next to the Translation line:
Translation Copies in the Dialog Box
5 sub-toolpaths has been generated under the initial toolpath:
Sub-Toolpaths
No calculations are run, toolpaths are reproduced according to transformation parameters and views created
according to these parameters.

Toolpath Edition
6
SYMMETRY
Now, we are going to apply a symmetry to the second toolpath, in order to machine the identical surfaces of
the second part. We are going to use the XZ plane of the Transformation UCS available in the workzone.
1. Activate the Transformation UCS.
New UCS Activated
2. Select the second toolpath in the Workzone Manager.
3. Press and hold the mouse button on the icon on the left side of the user interface, then release it
on the icon.
4. Activate the Symmetry tab.
Symmetry Tab
5. Make sure that the Pre-defined Planes option is activated and click on the XZ Plane button.
The symmetry plane is displayed. You can hide it by deactivating the Display Symmetry Plane option.
The bounding box of the future copy is displayed on the part.

Toolpath Edition
Symmetry Plane and Bounding Box for the Symmetry
Toolpath Symmetry Preview
You can hide the symmetry preview by deactivating the TP Preview option.
The symmetry preview has also been added to the Copies section of the dialog box. You can click on
the + symbol next to the Symmetry line:
Symmetry Copy in the Dialog Box
A sub-toolpath has been generated under the initial toolpath:
Sub-Toolpath
EDITING THE SUB-TOOLPATHS

You can use the Toolpath Edition function (Remove, Isolate, Offset, Invert, New Rate) on the sub-toolpaths
and modify them in the Viewing Area.
You cannot edit the original toolpath unless you delete all sub-toolpaths:
 Right click on the original toolpath and select Delete Sub-toolpaths Resulting from a 3+2
Transformation.

Collision Detection
Recalculating Lead-ins on Non-Colliding Sections
7
7 Collision Detection
7.1 Recalculating Lead-ins on Non-Colliding Sections

This option is available when you activate the Save Non-Collided only option in the Tool Holder Collision
Detection Parameters dialog box. It allows optimized, automatic recalculation of Lead-ins/outs on the non-
colliding sections of a toolpath after collision detection calculations.
Recalculate Lead-ins on Non-Colliding Section
7.2 Defining Tool Holder Extensions

You can add a tool holder extension component to an assembly. This tool holder extension is taken into
account by the Tool Holder Collision Detection function, with a clearance value that may be different from the
tool holder clearance.
You can access this function:
 From the Toolpath Parameters menu by clicking on the Cutter Library button and then
activating the Holder tab.
 From the Tool Holder Collision Detection Parameters dialog box.
 From the Tool Library and the Tool Holder Library.
1. Create a new Planar Finishing toolpath with the following parameters:


Collision Detection
7 Defining Tool Holder Extensions
Stock Allowance: 0
Tolerance: 0.01
Stepover: 5
Corner Smoothing Radius: 0
Before calculating the toolpath, we are going to run the Tool Holder Collision Detection function and
add a tool holder extension.
3. Select the toolpath in the Workzone Manager and click on the icon on the left side of the user
interface.
4. In the Tool Holder Collision Detection Parameters dialog box, activate the Holder Profile Filename option
and click on the <None> button.
5. In the Tool Holder Library, click on the icon and draw the following holder component:
New Holder Component
Now you need to specify that this holder component is a tool extension.
6. On the right side of the Tool Holder Library, select the holder component in the Details tab, then click on
the Properties button.
Holder Component Selection and Properties Button

Collision Detection
Defining Tool Holder Extensions
7
7. In the Edit Component dialog box, click on the drop-down list on the right side and select Extension.
Note that the color of the component in the preview is now light gray.
Edit Component: Extension
Now we are going to add a tool holder component to the assembly.
9. Click on the Assembly tab.
10. Select the Fidia_HSC_Hydro_D6 holder and click on the icon.
Tool Holder Component Added to the Assembly
11. Define the clearance value for the extension.

For our example, enter 0.5 in the Extension Clearance field at the bottom of the Tool Holder Library.
12. Give a name to your new holder and save it.
14. In the Tool Holder Collision Detection Parameters dialog box, activate the Calculate Recommended Safe
Tool Length only and Create Collision Curve and Ranges options.

Collision Detection
7 Defining Tool Holder Extensions
Tool Holder Collision Detection Parameters: Different Clearance Values
Note that the holder and extension clearances values can also be modified from this dialog box.
Collisions should be detected.
16. Open the Tool Holder Collision Detection Parameters dialog box again.
The extension has been taken into account by Tool Holder Collision Detection
function. The collision curve appears on both the tool holder and the tool
extension.

Collision Detection
Detecting Cutter Collisions with Conical and Tapered Tools
7
7.3 Detecting Cutter Collisions with Conical and Tapered Tools

When using conical and/or tapered tools, you can activate cutter collision detection. The toolpath is not
modified but you obtain the safe Length to Cone value to use.
1. Program a Planar Finishing toolpath with the following parameters:
Stock Allowance: 0
Tolerance: 0.1
Stepover: 5
Corner Smoothing Radius: 0
2. Click on the Straight button in the Cutter Details section.
3. In the Define Cutter dialog box, define a tapered ball-end cutter with the following parameters:
Tapered Ball-end Cutter
6. Make a copy of the calculated toolpath and open the Toolpath Parameters menu.
7. Activate the Calculate as a Straight Cutter option in the Cutter Details section.
Calculate as a Straight Cutter Option

Collision Detection
7 Detecting Cutter Collisions with Conical and Tapered Tools
If you display the toolpath, you can see that the tapered shank is in collision with the part on the
vertical areas.
Moreover, the status icon of the toolpath is red ( ) and a red C+ status symbol is displayed next to the
toolpath in the Workzone Manager.
Tapered Cutter Calculated as a Straight Cutter
9. Click on the red status icon ( ) of the second toolpath in the Workzone Manager.
The Cutter Collision Check Resolution dialog box is displayed:
Cutter Collision Check Resolution Dialog Box
This dialog box offers 3 possibilities:
Use Auto5 to Avoid Collisions: click on this button to launch Auto5 and define a 3 to 5-Axis strategy in
order to avoid collisions.
Avoid Collisions by Increasing the Cutter Cylindrical Length: click on this button to open the Tool
Library and modify/save the tool dimensions.
Modify the Toolpath Parameters: click on this button to open the Toolpath Parameters menu and
modify the parameters.
10. For our example, click on the Avoid Collisions by Increasing the Cutter Cylindrical Length button.
11. Activate the Shank tab in the Tool Library.
A collision curve is now displayed on the cutter preview, and the safe Length to Cone value is
indicated:

Collision Detection
Detecting Cutter Collisions with Conical and Tapered Tools
7
Collision Curve and Recommended Safe Length to Cone
At this stage, you can keep the cutter parameters and use the Auto5 module to modify the initial
toolpath. You can also enter a Length to Cone value that is higher than the recommended value. In
this case, the toolpath needs to be recalculated.
12. For our example, enter 50 in the Length to Cone field.

Adjust the Length of the cutter (70) in the Tip tab.
13. Click OK to validate and exit the Tool Library.

For our example, do not save the cutter modifications.
No More Cutter Collision
The are no more cutter collision.
This option is available for the following 3-axis finishing and 2D toolpaths: Z-Level Finishing, Planar Finishing,
Between 2 Curves, Variable Step Finishing, 3D Drive Curve Finishing, Combined Z-Level Finishing +
Optimization, Continuous Finishing, 3D Finishing, Optimized Z-Level Finishing, Optimized Planar Finishing, Z-
Collision Detection
7 Checking the Machine Limits before Detecting Machine Collisions
Level Remachining, Planar Remachining, Contour Remachining, 3D Pencil Trace, Parallel Pencil Trace, 2D
Drive Curve Finishing, Spiral/Radial Finishing, On-curve Engraving, Die Flat Finishing.
7.4 Checking the Machine Limits before Detecting Machine Collisions

The Machine Collision Detection dialog box allows you to only check the machine limits or to check the
machine limits and then collisions.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the machine_collision_v24 workzone.
In this workzone, we have calculated a Planar Finishing toolpath, converted it with Auto5 and defined a
Machining Context (dmu50 machine).
1. Select the toolpath in the Workzone Manager and click on the icon on the left side of the user
interface.
The Machine Collision Detection dialog box is displayed:
Machine Collision Detection Dialog Box
You can check machine limits only, by activating the Check Limits option in the Parameters section of
the dialog box. The pre-calculation status is displayed as L- in the toolpath line.
You can also check limits first and then check for collisions if no out-of-limit conditions occur, by
activating the Check Limits then Collisions option. The pre-calculation status is displayed as M- in the
toolpath line.
2. Four our example, activate the Check Limits then Collisions option.
3. Click on the (Re)Calculate button.
A message informs you that out-of-limit conditions have been detected. Therefore, the application has
not run the collision detection calculations. A red L+ status symbol is now displayed next to the

Collision Detection
Checking the Machine Limits before Detecting Machine Collisions
7
Out-of-Limit Status Symbol
The Machine Collision Detection dialog box displays the detection results:
Machine Collision Detection Results: Rotational Limits Exceeded
The rotational limits of the machine have been exceeded (C Angle). In our case, this is due to the
Auto5 strategy we have applied. We are going to remove it.
5. Click on the Cancel button to close the dialog box.
6. Open the Auto5 module and click on the Exclude button.
This time, there are no more out-of-limit conditions and the collision detection calculations have been
run. A message informs you that collisions have been detected. A red M+ status symbol is now
displayed next to the toolpath in the Workzone Manager.
Machine Collision Status Symbol

Collision Detection
7 Checking the Machine Limits before Detecting Machine Collisions
The Machine Collision Detection dialog box displays the detection results:
Machine Collision Detection Results: Collisions Detected
Since we have not defined any clamping system, collisions have not been checked for this element.
There are collisions between the part and the machine.
If you simulate the toolpath, you will see that collisions have been detected due to the high Machine
Proximity value.
9. Right click on the Machining Context in the Workzone Manager and select Modify Machining Context.
Note that you can also click with the mouse wheel button on the Machining Context name in the
Workzone Manager to modify it.
10. In the Machining Context Edition dialog box, activate the Part Model tab ( ).
11. Enter 10 in the Machine Proximity field.
Machining Context Edition: Machine Proximity

Collision Detection
Defining Range Tolerance for Machine Collision Detection
7
The Workzone Manager now displays a M- symbol as the Machine Collision Detection function needs
to be recalculated.
13. Run the calculations.
This time, no collision has been detected. A black M+ status symbol is now displayed next to the
Collision Free Status Symbol
14. Open the Machine Collision Detection dialog box again.
Machine Collision Detection Results
STATUS SYMBOLS FOR COLLISION AND OUT-OF-LIMIT CONDITIONS

L+ (Black): No out-of-limit conditions.
L+ (Red): Out-of-limit conditions have been detected.
M+ (Black): No out-of-limit or machine collisions detected.
M+ (Red): Machine collisions detected.
7.5 Defining Range Tolerance for Machine Collision Detection

The Machine Collision Detection dialog box allows you to define a box tolerance for 3-axis and 3+2-axis
toolpaths when detecting collisions.
When using this box tolerance, the application checks a single toolpath point within a defined cubic volume. If
a collision is detected at that point, all points within that volume are considered as being in collision.

Collision Detection
7 Defining Range Tolerance for Machine Collision Detection

Collision_detection_v24 workzone.
In the opposite picture, we have hidden most of the
Machining Context components to show only the
machine table and the clamps.
1. Select the toolpath in the Workzone Manager.
The Machine Collision Detection dialog box is displayed:
Machine Collision Detection Dialog Box
3. Enter 15 in the Range Tolerance for 3-Axis Toolpaths field.

Collision Detection
Defining Range Tolerance for Machine Collision Detection
7
Range Tolerance for 3-Axis Toolpaths Defined
5. Run the calculations
R ANGE T OLERANCE AND C ALCULATION T IME
The higher the tolerance value is, the faster are calculations. But collision ranges are less accurate and
NOTE more important.
Collisions are detected with the clamping system, for which the clearance (Clamping System
Proximity) has been set to 5.
If you display the toolpath and the collisions ( ), you should obtain the following result:
Collision Ranges with a 15 Box Tolerance
6. Open the Machine Collision Detection again.
7. Enter 0.5 in the Range Tolerance for 3-Axis Toolpaths field.

Collision Detection
7 Defining a Shank Clearance for a Cutter Profile
9. Run the calculations
Collision Ranges with a 0.5 Box Tolerance
7.6 Defining a Shank Clearance for a Cutter Profile

When importing a cutter profile, you can define a Shank Clearance value. This clearance is applied on the
section of the profile whose dimensions exceed the ’straight’ part of the cutter.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the profile_shank_clearance

workzone.
In this workzone, we have calculated a Planar Finishing toolpath with a
custom cutter profile and detected collisions with both the tool holder and
the tool.
1. Open the Toolpath Parameters menu and click on the Custom Profile button.
2. In the Define Cutter dialog box, click on the Profile tab.

You can see that we have defined a Shank Clearance value of 2 mm.
Shank Clearance 2 on Profile Cutter

Collision Detection
Defining a Shank Clearance for a Cutter Profile
7
3. Close the dialog box and the Toolpath Parameters menu.
In the Tool Holder Collision Detection Parameters dialog box, you can see that we have activated the
Include Cutter in Collision Detection Operation option. This allows taking the Shank Clearance value
into consideration when detecting collisions.
Collision Detection with Cutter: Shank Clearance Taken into Account
Moreover, you can see the collision curve on the profile and the shank clearance preview.
5. Close the dialog box.
6. Activate the toolpath display and click on the highest point in collision, which is in the encircled area
below:
Toolpath with Collisions

Collision Detection
7 Defining a Shank Clearance for a Cutter Profile
Collision Point with Respect to Shank Clearance
The selected point in the above image corresponds to the highest collision point on the wall shown in the
previous image. This point is considered as being in collision because the distance between the part and the
shank is less than the defined clearance value of 2mm.

Hole Machining
Defining a Straight Lead-in Movement with the Tapping/Threading Toolpath
8
8 Hole Machining
8.1 Defining a Straight Lead-in Movement with the Tapping/Threading

Toolpath
You can choose to apply a radial or a straight lateral Lead-in movement. This choice is only possible when the
Thread Milling method is activated.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the thread_milling_v24 workzone:
Thread Milling Toolpath
1. Open the Toolpath Parameters menu of the toolpath.

Note that we have activated the Thread Milling method.
Thread Milling Toolpath Parameters
2. Click on one of the three buttons in the Cutter Movements section.
The Cutter Movements dialog box is displayed.
3. Activate the Straight option in the Lateral section.

Hole Machining
8 Defining a Straight Lead-in Movement with the Tapping/Threading Toolpath
Straight Lateral Movement
Toolpath with Straight Lateral Movement
Note that the straight movement is particularly recommended for internal threads with cutters like the
following:

Hole Machining
Defining a Final Diameter for Features
8
Example of Cutter for Straight Lateral Movement
8.2 Defining a Final Diameter for Features

If you use decimals in feature diameter values to type them (e.g. 19.10 for drills, 19.20 for bore drills, etc.), you
can enter the Final Diameter of the features, i.e. the real diameter that will be considered by the generated
toolpath.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the plate_holes workone:
Part with 4 Bore Drills
In this workzone, we have recognized 4 bore drills, with a 19.05 diameter. In our example, we assume that the
real diameter of these features is 19 mm.
1. Open the Drilling Manager and click on the Parameters button.
2. In the Drilling Function Parameters dialog box, click on the Recognition Options tab.
3. Activate the Assign Specific Diameter in Rule Definition option, then click on the Save button.

Hole Machining
8 Defining a Final Diameter for Features
Assign Specific Diameter in Rule Definition Option
4. Click on the Rules Definition button.
5. In the Type Rule Definition dialog box, enter the real diameter (19) in the Final Diameter field.
Final Diameter Defined
6. Click on the Save button, then on the OK button to exit the dialog box.
7. Click OK in the Drilling Function Parameters dialog box.
8. In the Drilling Manager, select the 4 features, then click on the Automatic Typing button.
The Final Diameter value (19 instead of 19.05) is applied to the features.

Hole Machining
Automatic Hole Machining
8
You can select one of the features and position your cursor over its diameter value to see the initial
definition values in a tooltip:
Final Diameter Applied - Tooltip with Initial Definition
You can now select your machining strategy.
You can restore the initial definition. To do so, right click on the feature selection, and select Return to Initial
Definition.
Restoring Initial Definition
8.3 Automatic Hole Machining
8.3.1 Defining the Machining Method of an Automatic Hole Machining

Toolpath
You can specify the machining method (climb or conventional) for all Automatic Hole Machining operations.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the hole_machining_examples workzone.
Features to Machine with Conventional Method
We are going to program an Automatic Hole Machining toolpath on the 110mm Counterboring features, using
the conventional machining method.

Hole Machining
8 Automatic Hole Machining
To do so, we are going to use the simple_training.fts Strategy File. This file has to be copied in the following
directory:
C\WorkNC**\standard\2dseq\
1. Open the Drilling Manager.
2. Select the 110mm Counterboring features.
Feature Selection
3. Click on the Automatic button.
4. In the Toolpath Parameters menu, click on the drop-down list in the Machine Selection section and select
the simple_training Strategy File.
5. Click on the Edit button.

Hole Machining
8
Toolpath Parameters: Edit Strategy File
6. In the Feature File Editor, select the first operation in the Counterboring section and click on the Edit
button.
Feature File Editor: Edit Counterboring Operation

Hole Machining
7. In the Edit a Strategy dialog box, select the Counterboring by Contouring operation in the Find Tool
section and click on the Edit button.
Edit a Strategy: Counterboring by Contouring
8. In the Edit a Find Tool Declaration dialog box, click on the icon.
9. In the Add a Find Tool Parameter dialog box, click on the Parameter drop-down list and select Machining
Method.
10. Enter 2 in the Value field to define a Conventional method.
Machining Method: Conventional
Counterboring by Contouring: Conventional Method Defined
12. Click OK in Edit a Find Tool Declaration dialog box, then in the Edit a Strategy dialog box.

Hole Machining
8
New Strategy Defined
13. Save your modifications and close the Feature File Editor.
15. In the Drilling Manager, click on the Save button, then on the Close button.
16. Run the toolpath calculations.
Automatic Hole Machining Toolpath
17. Simulate the Contour Counterbore sub-toolpath.

Hole Machining
Toolpath with Conventional Machining Method
8.3.2 Defining a Left or Right Tapping Direction in the Automatic Hole

Machining Toolpath
You can define a left or right tapping direction for the Tapping operations in the Automatic Hole Machining
toolpath.
Features to Machine with Left Tapping Direction
We are going to program an Automatic Hole Machining toolpath on the 70 mm Tap Drill features, using a left
tapping direction.
To do so, we are going to use the simple_training.ftt Tool Definition File. This file has to be copied in the
following directory:
2. Select the 70mm Tap Drill features.

Hole Machining
8
Feature Selection
3. Click on the Automatic button.
4. In the Toolpath Parameters menu, click on the drop-down list in the Tool Selection section and select the
simple_training Tool Definition File.
5. Click on the Edit button.
Toolpath Parameters: Edit Tool Definition File
6. In the Feature File Editor, select the tool number 85 in the Tapping by Contouring section and click on
the Edit button.

Hole Machining
Feature File Editor: Edit Tapping by Contouring Tool
7. In the Edit a Tool dialog box, click on the icon.
8. In the Add a Tool Parameter dialog box, click on the Parameter drop-down list and select Tapping
Direction.
9. Enter 1 in the Value field to define a Left tapping direction.
Tapping Direction: Left
11. Save your modifications and close the Feature File Editor.
13. In the Drilling Manager, click on the Save button, then on the Close button.

Hole Machining
Manual Hole Machining/Auto User Strategy
8
Automatic Hole Machining Toolpath
15. Simulate the Contour Tapping sub-toolpath.
Left Tapping Direction
8.4 Manual Hole Machining/Auto User Strategy
8.4.1 Defining the Machining Method and the Tapping Direction in the
Manual Hole Machining Toolpath
You can define the machining method (Climb or Conventional) for the following Manual Hole Machining
operations:
 Counterboring
 Thread Milling by Contouring
 Cone Machining
You can define the tapping direction (Left or Right) for the following Manual Hole Machining operations:
 Thread Milling by Contouring

 Tapping
Hole Machining
8 Manual Hole Machining/Auto User Strategy
Counterboring Tapping
Thread Milling by Contouring Cone Machining
8.4.2 Adding/Removing Features from the Toolpath Parameters

Once you have calculated Manual Hole Machining toolpaths (using the Manual and/or Auto User strategies),
you can add or remove features from the Toolpath Parameters dialog box.
R ECOGNIZED F EATURES
This function only allows you to add recognized features. Features that are undefined cannot be added to
ATTENTION a toolpath.

Hole Machining
8
Calculated Toolpath: 4 Holes Missing
In this workzone, we have calculated a Manual Hole Machining toolpath, but we have forgotten to include 4
simple drill features, as illustrated in the above picture.
1. Click on the icon next to the toolpath in Workzone Manager.

Or click with the mouse wheel button on the toolpath name.
2. Activate the Feature Selection tab in the Toolpath Parameters dialog box.
Toolpath Parameters: Feature Selection Tab
In the Show Features section of the dialog box, the from toolpath option is activated, which means that
you can only see the features machined by the selected toolpath in the Viewing Area.
These features are also listed in the dialog box.

Hole Machining
You can remove features by selecting them (in the Viewing Area or in the dialog box) and clicking on
the Remove button.
3. For our example, select the first feature in dialog box and click on the Remove button.
The selected feature is grayed out and removed from the selection. If you validate, you will have to
recalculate the toolpath.
Toolpath Parameters: Deactivated Feature
At this moment, you can put this feature back to selection and avoid recalculating the toolpath.
4. Select the deactivated feature and click on the Restore button.
Now let’s add the 4 holes to be included in the toolpath.
5. Activate the to add option.
The Viewing Area does not show the features machined by the toolpath anymore. It now displays the
recognized features that can be selected.
6. Click on the Add button.
Once the Add button is activated, every feature on which you click is added to the Added Holes section
in the dialog box.
7. Click successively on the features you wish to add.
Features in the Added Holes Section

Hole Machining
8
9. Click on Yes to confirm the feature list modification.
Added Features Machined
8.4.3 Linking Tapping Feature Sub-Types to Tapping Tables

You have the possibilities to create sub-types for the Tapping feature and linking them with a tapping table.
First, you have to activate the appropriate parameters.
2. In the Parameters dialog box, click on the + symbol next to CAM Toolpath Commands.
3. Click on Drilling Manager under the CAM Toolpath Commands section.
4. In the Tapping section, activate the Automatically Launch Tapping Qualification and Automatically Use
Sub-Types to Qualify options.
Tapping Sub-Types and Qualification Parameters
Now you have to define the Tapping sub-types:

Hole Machining
2. In the Drilling Manager, click on the Parameters button.
3. In the Drilling Function Parameters dialog box, activate the Colors tab.
4. Right click on the Tap Drill line and select Add a New Sub-Type.
Tap Drill Operation: Add a Sub-Type
5. Right click on the new sub-type and select Rename.

Change the name of the sub-type: for our example enter Tapping Fine Pitch.
6. Right click on the color symbol next to the sub-type and select Change Color.
Change the color of the symbol.
Tapping Sub-Type Defined
7. Click on the Save button.
8. Activate the Tapping tab.
9. Right click on the ISO Metric (fine pitch) tapping table and select the new sub-type in the Add a Link to a
Sub-Type menu.

Hole Machining
8
Adding a Link to a Sub-Type
The color symbol of the corresponding sub-type is displayed next to the tapping table:
Sub-Type Linked to the Tapping Table
8.4.4 Using Filters to Search for Tools in the Auto User Strategy
New filters have been added to search for tools when programming an Auto User Strategy.
2. Activate the Stacks and Strategies tab.
3. Select a group of stacks to which no strategy has been assigned.
4. Click on the icon in the Strategy section of the dialog box.
5. In the Toolpath Parameters dialog box, add the following operation: Tap Drill, Center Drill, Counter Bore,
Thread Milling by Contouring and Conical Drill.
6. Click on each operation and open the Tool tab.
You can see the following filters:
Center Drill Operation Counter Bore and Conical Drill Operations

Hole Machining
Tap Drill Operation Thread Milling by Contouring Operation
To use a filter, proceed as follows:
In our example, we have selected a Thread Milling by Contouring operation:
1. Activate the checkbox corresponding to the filter that you want to use.
In our example, we have activated the Check Thread Pitch filter.
If the appropriate tool is found in the Tool Library, then the Search Tool Filter drop-down list is
displayed with a blinking green background.
3. Click on the Search Tool Filter drop-down list and select the appropriate tool.
Tool Found in the Tool Library
On the contrary, if no tool has been found in the Tool Library, then the Search Tool Filter drop-down
list is displayed with a blinking red background:
No Tool Found
8.4.5 Defining Priorities for Intersecting Deep Drilling

You can determine a priority on drilling movements in case of intersecting deep hole drilling operations. This
way, slow-down phases only apply at potential intersecting points on existing deep drilled holes.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the hole_machining_v24 workzone, which contains toolpaths calculated
with the following strategy and tool definition files:
 deep_drill.fus and deep_drill.fut

 deep_drill_through.fus and deep_drill_through.fut
Hole Machining
8
These files have to be copied in the following directory:
In this workzone, we have already programmed a

series of toolpath to machine the 3 groups of holes.
The default order is indicated in the opposite picture:
Let’s suppose that you want to change the order to

machine the 3 groups in the following order:
First, you have to activate the appropriate parameters.
2. In the Parameters dialog box, click on the + symbol next to CAM Toolpath Commands.
3. Click on Drilling Manager under the CAM Toolpath Commands section.
4. In the Stacks and Strategies section, activate the Manage Secant Stack Group and Manage Machining
Priority on a Stack options.
Priority Parameters for Intersecting Holes
5. Click on the Apply button, then click OK to exit the dialog box.

Hole Machining
Now let’s create the new set of toolpaths:
2. Activate the Stacks and Strategies tab.
Drilling Manager: 4 Groups of Stacks
When you have several groups of stacks on the list, you can filter them and displays only the secant
groups.
3. Click on the icon to search for secant groups.
4. Click on the drop-down list next to icon.
Filtering Drop-down List
This drop-down list allows you to display the non-secant groups or the different sets of intersecting
holes.
In our example, there is only one set of intersecting holes.
5. Right click on the third group and select Modify Machining Priority.

Hole Machining
8
Modify Machining Priority
6. In the Input Priority dialog box, enter 1 in the field (1 being the highest priority) and click OK to validate.
Input Priority: 1
7. Define the priority numbers for the first group (2) and the second group (3).
Note that you can reset the priorities by entering a 0 value in the Input Priority dialog box.
8. Click on the Save button.
9. Select the 3 groups of stacks in the list.
10. Click on the Auto User Strategy button.
11. Click on the Close button and run the toolpath calculations.
You should obtain 3 new toolpaths that follow the machining order you have defined.

Hole Machining
New Toolpaths with New Machining Order

Assembled Toolpaths
Outputting 3+2 Axis Movements
9
9 Assembled Toolpaths
9.1 Outputting 3+2 Axis Movements

If you do not have 5-Axis indexed machining centers, you can generate link movements in 3+2 axis mode.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the Machining_context workzone.
1. Right click on the Machining Context line in the Workzone Manager and select New Assembled Toolpath.
2. In the Toolpath Linking dialog box, activate the Output 3+2 Axis Movements instead of 5-Axis
Movements option.
Toolpath Linking Dialog Box: Outputting 3+2 Axis Movements
You should obtain an assembled toolpath that you can postprocess and send to the machine.

Auto5
Adjusting Tilt Movements on Narrow Regions
10
10 Auto5
10.1 Adjusting Tilt Movements on Narrow Regions

You can indicate that the regions to be machined by the toolpath are narrow to
obtain smaller tilt movements. This function is available for all 3 to 5-axis strategies
of Auto5.
This is particularly useful on machines with inclinable tables (rotation around A axis)
to avoid the tool to be heavily tilted and reduce the risk of tool breakage.
To illustrate this, we are going to use the Auto5_slim_regions workzone.
In this workzone, we have calculated a Z-Level Finishing toolpath on a specific level
of the part (defined with a variable Z-Step) and added a cylindrical holder. We have
also defined a Machining Context with a C600U machine with an inclinable table.
1. Make a copy of the toolpath.
2. Select the second toolpath and click on the icon.
3. Select the Vertical strategy.
4. Click on the Advanced tab.
The Geometric Regions to be Machined and Expected Tilting section allows you to specify how narrow
is the area to be machined and adjust the tilt movements accordingly.
Geometric Regions to be Machined and Expected Tilting
5. For our example, leave the Standard (Default) option activated.

Auto5
10 Adjusting Tilt Movements on Narrow Regions
6. Click OK to validate and run calculations.
Default Tilting Parameters
Now let’s define very small tilt movements:
1. Make a copy of the second toolpath.
2. Select the new toolpath and click on the icon.
3. Click on the Recalculate button.
4. Click on the Advanced tab.
5. Activate the Extremely Narrow Regions option.
Extremely Narrow Regions Option Activated
6. Click OK to validate and run calculations.

Auto5
Defining Advanced Parameters for the Machine Limit Check Function
10
Small Tilt Movements
If you activate the Machining Context display and simulate both toolpaths, you should see the differences in
the tilt movements (A angle of the machine table) between the toolpath with the Standard option activated
( ) and the toolpath with the Extremely Narrow Regions option activated ( ):
Toolpath Comparison
10.2 Defining Advanced Parameters for the Machine Limit Check Function
In the Machine Limit Check section, the Advanced tab contains parameters which allows Auto5 to recalculate
the retracts.
Machine Limit Check: Advanced Tab

Auto5
10 Defining Advanced Parameters for the Machine Limit Check Function
To illustrate this, we are going to compare the various toolpaths in the Auto5_retract workzone.
RETRACT MODIFICATION
 Display and compare toolpaths #2 and #3. Both are copies of toolpath #1 which have been
recalculated with the Machine Limit Check function.
Toolpath #3 uses the orignal retracts: the Use Auto5 Retracts option has been deactivated.
Toolpath 3: Original Retracts
For toolpath #2, the Use Auto5 Retracts option has been activated.
Toolpath 2: Auto5 Retracts
5-axis users prefer to avoid the machine being heavily tilted when the cutter is close to the part geometry.
Some machines are also very slow if retract movements are continuously moved and tilted, therefore Auto5
retracts are rectangular.
REFERENCE SYSTEM FOR RETRACT MOVEMENTS

These options allow you to define retracts movments according to a View or a Machining Context.

Auto5
Defining Advanced Parameters for the Machine Limit Check Function
10
 Display and compare toolpaths #4 and #5.
The retracts of toolpath #4 follow the View direction:
Retracts Following View Direction
The retracts of toolpath #5 follow the Z axis of the Machining Context:
Retracts Along Machining Context Z-Axis Direction
Usually the main retract direction is parallel to the view. However, in some situations and because of specific
kinematics, it is preferable to perform retracts differently.
MOVEMENTS BETWEEN 2 POSITIONS

These options allows you to define how the angle transition between two tilts is performed. They are
particularly useful to optimize retracts when having high spindle movements. Their effects highly depend on
the type of machine you are using.

Auto5
10 Defining Advanced Parameters for the Machine Limit Check Function
Spherical Movements
In the above example which uses the Spherical Movement option, the A angle is maintained and the C angle
evolves. This is usually the preferred movement as C angle rotation is more rapid. It is therefore
recommended for movements on machine tables.
In the Direct Movement example shown below, the first movement is made to a position which is parallel to the
Z-axis of the reference system and the translation is then performed.
Direct Movement
To illustrate this, we are going to use the Auto5_retracts2 workzone.
It is located in the Auto5_retracts2 folder of the file package for this training session. This folder contains data
related to the machines in this workzone.
1. Copy the machine data in the following directory:

C\WorkNC**\pospro\5axismachines.
2. Open the workzone.
3. Check the parameters of the different toolpaths.
4. Activate the various Machining Contexts and simulate the toolpaths to compare the movements of the
machine during retracts.

Index
Index
2 Defining Specific Parameters for the Between 2 Curves Finishing

2 ½ - Axis Toolpaths, 6-1 Toolpath, 5-1
3 Defining the Machining Method and the Tapping Direction in the
3-Axis Finishing Toolpaths, 5-1 Manual Hole Machining Toolpath, 9-20
3-Axis Roughing Toolpaths, 4-1 Defining the Machining Method of an Automatic Hole Machining
A Toolpath, 9-8
Adding Machining Context Screenshots to the Workzone Defining Tool Holder Extensions, 8-1
Documentation, 3-10 Detecting Cutter Collisions with Conical and Tapered Tools, 8-7
Adding/Removing Features from the Toolpath Parameters, 9-21 Displaying the Rest Material Preview, 3-1
Adjusting Tilt Movements on Narrow Regions, 11-1 E
Assembled Toolpaths, 10-1 Extending/Trimming Curves, 2-1
Auto5, 11-1 F
Automatic Hole Machining, 9-8 Forcing Machining to a Specified Z Plane, 4-22
C G
CAD Functions, 2-1 General Functions, 3-1
Calculating the Recommended Safe Tool Length with a Roughing H
Toolpath, 4-33 Hole Machining, 9-1
Checking the Machine Limits before Detecting Machine L
Collisions, 8-11 Linking Passes of the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath, 5-12
Collision Detection, 8-1 Linking Tapping Feature Sub-Types to Tapping Tables, 9-25
Creating a Text along a Curve, 2-3 M
D Managing STL Files, 2-6
Defining a Final Diameter for Features, 9-4 Managing STL Stock Models, 3-5
Defining a Lead-in Distance for the Global/Rough/Rerough Manual Hole Machining/Auto User Strategy, 9-20
Toolpath, 4-1 O
Defining a Left or Right Tapping Direction in the Automatic Hole Opening NC Files, 3-15
Machining Toolpath, 9-15 Outputting 3+2 Axis Movements, 10-1
Defining a Local Stock for the Global Roughing Toolpath, 4-7 P
Defining a Shank Clearance for a Cutter Profile, 8-21 Parallel Roughing, 4-29
Defining a Straight Lead-in Movement with the Tapping/Threading Programming a Parallel Roughing Toolpath, 4-29
Toolpath, 9-1 R
Defining a Variable Z-Step for the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath, 5-9 Recalculating Lead-ins on Non-Colliding Sections, 8-1
Defining Advanced Parameters for the Machine Limit Check S
Function, 11-5 Simulating with Cutter Center with Minimal Compensation, 6-1
Defining an Overlapping Distance for the Z-Level Finishing T
Toolpath, 5-7 Toolpath Edition, 7-1
Defining Output Folders for the Workzone Documentation, 3-8 Transforming 3+2 Axis Toolpaths, 7-1
Defining Priorities for Intersecting Deep Drilling, 9-30 U
Defining Range Tolerance for Machine Collision Detection, 8-17 Undercut Remachining, 5-19
Defining Remachining Parameters for the Contour Remachining Using Filters to Search for Tools in the Auto User Strategy, 9-28
Toolpath, 5-15 Using Small Tools in Roughing Strategies, 4-4
Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional i SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24

(c) Copyright 1998-2015 Sescoi International. All rights reserved.
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It is protected in France by the intellectual property Code and, abroad, by the international conventions on
copyright. Any copyright infringement of this work is a counterfeiting offense and it is liable to punishment in
France under the article 335-2 of the intellectual property Code and to imprisonment and/or payment of a fine.
The APP is appointed by the holder of the rights to apply sanctions for any unauthorized copy and/or use.
Use of the WorkNC software program is subject to the terms and conditions of the License Agreement.
This software can only be used on or from the computer and at or from the address defined on the License
Agreement.
It is prohibited to move, copy, resell, disassemble, decompile, reverse engineer or modify this software.
The user is authorized to make a single backup copy of the software.
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Sescoi and WorkNC are registered trademarks of Sescoi International.
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Training Guide

Training Guide Objectives

FILES NEEDED FOR THE TRAINING GUIDE

Pump_body_restmat Plate_cover_roughing Trim_extend_curves.xdw

Strategy Files Tool Definition FIles Holders/Cutter Profiles

Simple_training.fts Simple_training.ftt Fidia_HSC_Hydro_D6

Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional 1-1 SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24

1 CAD Functions 1-1

1.1 Extending/Trimming Curves 1-1

1.2 Creating a Text along a Curve 1-2

1.3 Managing STL Files 1-4

2 General Functions 2-1

2.1 Displaying the Rest Material Preview 2-1

2.2 Managing STL Stock Models 2-3

2.3 Defining Output Folders for the Workzone Documentation 2-5

2.4 Adding Machining Context Screenshots to the Workzone Documentation 2-7

2.5 Opening NC Files 2-9

3 3-Axis Roughing Toolpaths 3-1

3.1 Defining a Lead-in Distance for the Global/Rough/Rerough Toolpath 3-1

3.2 Using Small Tools in Roughing Strategies 3-3

3.4 Forcing Machining to a Specified Z Plane 3-12

3.5 Parallel Roughing 3-16

4 3-Axis Finishing Toolpaths 4-1

4.4 Linking Passes of the Z-Level Finishing Toolpath 4-7

4.6 Undercut Remachining 4-12

5 2 ½ - Axis Toolpaths 5-1

5.1 Simulating with Cutter Center with Minimal Compensation 5-1

6 Toolpath Edition 6-1

6.1 Transforming 3+2 Axis Toolpaths 6-1

7 Collision Detection 7-1

Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional i SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24

7.1 Recalculating Lead-ins on Non-Colliding Sections 7-1

7.2 Defining Tool Holder Extensions 7-1

7.5 Defining Range Tolerance for Machine Collision Detection 7-11

7.6 Defining a Shank Clearance for a Cutter Profile 7-14

8 Hole Machining 8-1

8.2 Defining a Final Diameter for Features 8-3

8.3 Automatic Hole Machining 8-5

8.4 Manual Hole Machining/Auto User Strategy 8-13

9 Assembled Toolpaths 9-1

9.1 Outputting 3+2 Axis Movements 9-1

10.1 Adjusting Tilt Movements on Narrow Regions 10-1

SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24 ii Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional

1.1 Extending/Trimming Curves

1. Show a right view of the drawing.

Right View of the Drawing

2. Click on the icon on the left side of the user interface.

Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional 1-1 SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24

5. Click on the right vertical segment.

You should obtain the following result:

1.2 Creating a Text along a Curve

release it on the icon.

The following dialog box is displayed:

SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24 1-2 Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional

Text on Curve Dialog Box

3. Enter the text.

Text on Curve Example

DIALOG BOX DESCRIPTION

Copyright 2015 © Sescoi Internatuional 1-3 SESINT_EN_UPDV24 2015-06-16 - WorkNC V24

CONVERTING THE TEXT INTO A CURVE

release it on the icon .

2. Select the text to convert.

The following dialog box is displayed.