05 Prismatic Machining

Prismatic Machining Version 5 Release 11 Page 1
Prismatic Machining
Preface
What's New?
Getting Started
Enter the Workbench

Create a Pocketing Operation
Replay the Toolpath
Create a Contouring Operation
Create a Drilling Operation
Assign a Macro
Assign a Tool
Generate NC Code
Basic Tasks
Milling Operations
Closed Pocketing
Open Pocketing
Prismatic Roughing
Facing
Profile Contouring: Between Two Planes
Profile Contouring: Between Two Curves
Profile Contouring: Between Curve and Surfaces
Profile Contouring: Flank Contouring
Point to Point
Curve Following
Axial Machining Operations
Spot Drilling
Drilling
Drilling Dwell Delay
Drilling Deep Hole
Drilling Break Chips

Reaming
Counterboring
Boring
Boring Spindle Stop
Boring and Chamfering
Back Boring
Tapping
Reverse Threading
Thread without Tap Head
Thread Milling
Countersinking
Chamfering Two Sides
T-Slotting
Circular Milling
Auxiliary Operations
Machining Features
Create and Use a Prismatic Machining Area

Create a Prismatic Rework Area for Reworking Corners and
Channels
Part Operations, Programs and Processes
Create Machining Process for Prismatic Features

Auto-Sequence Operations in a Program
Managing Manufacturing Entities

Verification, Simulation and Program Output
Advanced Tasks
Workbench Description
Menu Bar
Toolbars
Specification Tree
Customizing
Reference Information
Pocketing Operations
Profile Contouring Operations
Prismatic Roughing
Facing Operations
Curve Following Operations
Point to Point Operations
2.5 to 5-axis Drilling Operations Operations
Methodology
How to Generate CUTCOM Syntaxes

Select Hole Design Features for Machining
Use Tolerances on Design Features for Machining
Glossary
Index
Preface
Prismatic Machining enables you to define and manage NC programs dedicated to
machining parts designed in 3D wireframe or solids geometry using 2.5 axis machining
techniques.
It offers an easy-to-use and easy-to-learn graphic interface that makes it suitable for shop
floor-oriented use. Moreover, its leading edge technologies together with a tight integration
with Version 5 design methodologies and DELMIA's digital manufacturing environment, fully
satisfy the requirements of office programming. Prismatic Machining is a unique solution that
reconciliates office and shop floor activities.
It is integrated to a Post Processor Access execution engine, allowing the product to cover
the whole manufacturing process from tool trajectory (APT source) to NC code.
This product is particularly adapted for tooling and simple machined parts, and is also an
ideal complement to other manufacturing applications.
Prismatic Machining offers the following main functions:
2.5 axis milling and drilling capabilities

Management of tools and tool catalogs
Flexible management of the manufacturing program with intuitive and easy-to-learn
user interface based on graphic dialog boxes
Tight interaction between tool path definition, verification and generation
Seamless NC data generation thanks to an integrated Post Processor Access
solution
Automatic shop floor documentation in HTML format
High associative level of the manufacturing program ensures productive design
change management thanks to the integration with Version 5 modeling capabilities
Based on the Process Product Resources (PPR) model, the manufacturing
applications are integrated with Digital Process for Manufacturing (DPM).
Certain portions of this product contain elements subject to copyright owned by the following entities:
© Copyright LightWork Design Ltd., all rights reserved.

© Copyright Deneb Robotics Inc., all rights reserved.
© Copyright Cenit, all rights reserved.
© Copyright Intelligent Manufacturing Software, all rights reserved.
© Copyright WALTER Informationssysteme GmbH, all rights reserved.
© Copyright ICAM Technologies Corporation, all rights reserved.
What's New?
New Functionalities
Prismatic Roughing operation
New operation that allows you to quickly rough machine the part in a single operation.
Geometry considerations include:
Required Stock and Part
Optional Check and Limit elements
Top, Bottom, and Intermediate planes
Horizontal areas detection
Offsets on Part, Check, and Horizontal areas.
Machining Strategy parameters include:
Helical strategy (climb/conventional)

Machining mode by plane/by pocket
High Speed milling capabilities.
Enhanced Functionalities
Milling Operations
Multiple side finish paths per level for Pocketing operation

Supports high speed milling constraints and reduces number of operations in
program.
Insert Line capabilities for contour selection
New options in Edge Selection toolbar provide more flexibility for multi-selection of
contours as well as management of guiding elements, limiting contours, and
boundaries
ROTABL output between points for Axial machining operations

Allows the generation of rotation motions between drilling points.
Relimit hole origin for Axial machining operations
Along with Machine different depths, allows you to manage the machining strategy
of different design hole configurations.
Extended support of Milling and Drilling cutters in axial machining operations
Conical Mill tool can now be used in Countersinking and Spot Drilling operations.
General Functions
Support Boring Bar tool in material removal simulation
Only cutting motion (at machining feedrate) is taken into account for Boring, Boring
Spindle Stop and Back Boring operations.
Enhancements brought to the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure
This product benefits from enhancements to the infrastructure's general functions (NC
data output, Tool catalogs customization, and so on).
Getting Started
Before getting into the detailed instructions for using Prismatic Machining, this tutorial is
intended to give you a feel of what you can accomplish with the product.
It provides the following step-by-step scenario that shows you how to use some of the key
functionalities.
Enter the Workbench

Replay the Toolpath
Create a Contouring Operation
Assign a Macro
Assign a Tool
Generate NC Code
Entering the Workbench

This first task shows you how to open a part and enter the Prismatic Machining workbench.
1. Select File -> Open then select the GettingStartedPrismaticMachining.CATPart document.
2. Select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from the Start menu.
The Prismatic Machining workbench appears.
The part is displayed in the Setup Editor window along with the manufacturing specification tree.
3. Select Manufacturing Program.1 in the tree to make it the current entity.

To insert program entities such as machining operations, tools and auxiliary commands you can
either:
make the program current before clicking the insert program entity command
click the insert program entity command then make the program current.

This task shows you how to insert a pocketing operation in the program.
As this operation will use the default tool and options proposed by the program, you
just need to specify the geometry to be machined.
1. Select the
Pocketing icon
.
A Pocketing.1
entity along with
a default tool is
added to the
program.
The Pocketing
dialog box
appears directly
at the Geometry
tab page .
The red status

light on the tab
indicates that
you must select
the pocket
geometry in
order to create
the operation.
The Geometry
page includes
an icon
representing a
simple pocket.
There are
several sensitive
areas and texts

in the icon to
help you specify
the pocket
geometry.
Sensitive areas
that are colored
red indicate
required
geometry.
2. Right click the

red Bottom in
the icon and
select Contour
Detection from
the contextual
menu.
Click the red

Bottom area.
The dialog box

is reduced
allowing you to
select the
corresponding
part geometry.
3. Select the
bottom of the
pocket.
The boundary of
the selected
pocket bottom is
automatically
proposed as
drive element for
the operation
thanks to the
Contour
Detection setting
The dialog box

reappears.
The bottom and

sides of the
pocket in the
icon are now
colored green,
indicating that
the
corresponding
geometry is
defined for the
operation. The
tab status is now
green .
4. Click OK to create the operation.

Replay the Tool Path

This task shows you how to replay the tool path of the pocketing operation.
1. Select the pocketing

operation in the tree
then select the Replay
Tool Path icon .
The tool path is

computed and the
Replay dialog box
appears.
2. Choose the Point by
Point replay mode by
means of the drop
down icon .
You can set the

number of computed
points to be replayed at
each step of the
verification by means of
the spinner.
3. Click the button to

position the tool at the
start point of the
operation.
4. Click the button to

start the replay and
continue to click that
button to move the tool
along the computed
trajectory.
5. Click OK to quit the

replay mode.
Create a Profile Contouring Operation

This task shows you how to insert a profile contouring operation in the program.
Make sure that the pocketing operation is the current entity in the program.
1. Select the Profile

Contouring icon .
The Profile
Contouring dialog
box appears directly
at the Geometry
page .
Make sure the

Contouring mode is
set to Between Two
Planes.
2. Click the Bottom:
Hard text in the
sensitive icon to
switch the type of
bottom to Soft.
3. Click the Bottom
plane then select the
corresponding part
geometry (that is, the
underside of the
part).
The closed external

contour of the bottom
is proposed as Guide
element for the
operation.
Make sure that the arrow on the Guide element is pointing away from the part.
4. Click the Top plane in the icon, then select the corresponding part geometry.
5. Double click Offset
on Contour in the
icon.
Set this value to 1mm

in the Edit Parameter
dialog box and click
OK.
6. Select the Strategy
tab page and
set the parameters
as shown.
7. If needed, you can change the tool axis orientation. Just click the Tool Axis symbol then click the
Reverse Direction button in the Tool Axis dialog box.
You can display the tool with the specified orientation by selecting the Display tool checkbox.
8. Click Preview in the dialog box to request that the program verifies the parameters that you have
specified.
A message box appears giving feedback about this verification.

9. Click Replay in the dialog box to visually check the operation's tool path.
At the end of the replay click OK to return to the Profile Contouring dialog box.

This task shows you how to insert a drilling operation in the program.
1. Select the Drilling icon .
The Drilling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry page .

The program is updated
to include a Drilling
operation.
The Drilling dialog box

appears.
2. Select the red hole depth

representation in the
sensitive icon.
The Pattern Selection

dialog box appears to
help you specify the
pattern of holes to be
machined.
3. Select the cylindrical

feature of the first hole.
4. Select the second hole

feature, then double click
to end hole selection.
The Drilling dialog box

replaces the Pattern
Selection dialog box.
The icon is updated with

geometric information
about the first selected
hole of the pattern.
5. Double click the Jump

distance parameter in
the sensitive icon, then
enter a value of 5mm in
the Edit Parameter
dialog box.
6. Click Replay to replay the operation as described previously.
Click OK to return to the Drilling dialog box.
7. Click OK to create the Drilling operation in the program.

Assign a Macro
This task shows you how to assign a circular approach macro to the Profile
Contouring operation.
1. Double click the Profile
Contouring operation in the
program, then select the
Macro tab page .
2. Select the Approach

checkbox.
3. Click the Circular Approach
icon
An icon representing the

approach motion is
displayed.
Default values are displayed

on the individual paths of
the macro.
4. Double click the circular

path in the icon.
A dialog box appears

allowing you to specify the
desired parameters of the
circular path.
5. Enter values in the dialog

box as shown and click OK.
6. Click Replay in the Profile

Contouring dialog box to
verify the approach motion.
At the end of the replay click

OK to return to the Profile
Contouring dialog box.
7. Click OK to assign the

specified macro to the
operation.
Assign a Tool
This task shows you how to assign another tool to an operation.
1. Double click the Profile Contouring operation in the program, then select the Tool
tab page .
2. Enter a name of the new tool (for example, 16mm Flat Milling Tool).
3. Double click the D
(nominal diameter)
parameter in the icon, then
enter 16mm in the Edit
Parameter dialog box.
The tool icon is updated to

take the new value into
account.
4. Double click the Rc

(corner radius) parameter
in the icon, then enter
0mm in the Edit Parameter
dialog box.
Set the db (body diameter)

parameter to 24mm in the
same way.
The Tool number is set to

2.
5. Click OK to accept the
new tool.
The program is automatically updated.
You can modify the tools of the other operations in the same way. For example,
you may want to replace the End Mill by a Drill in the Drilling operation.
Generate NC Code
This task shows you how to generate the NC code from the program.
1. Use the right mouse key on the Manufacturing Program.1 entity in the tree to
select Manufacturing Program.1 object > Generate NC Code
Interactively.
The Generate NC Output Interactively dialog box appears.
2. Select APT as the desired NC data type.

3. Click the Output File button to select the folder where you want the file to be
saved and specify the name of the file.
4. Click Execute to generate the APT source file.
An extract from a typical APT source file is given below.
$$ -----------------------------------------------------------------
$$ Generated on Thursday, May 10, 2001 04:58:20 PM
$$ -----------------------------------------------------------------
$$ Manufacturing Program.1
$$ Part Operation.1
$$*CATIA0
$$ Manufacturing Program.1
$$ 1.00000 0.00000 0.00000 0.00000
$$ 0.00000 1.00000 0.00000 0.00000
$$ 0.00000 0.00000 1.00000 0.00000
PARTNO PART TO BE MACHINED
COOLNT/ON
CUTCOM/OFF
PPRINT OPERATION NAME : Tool Change.1
$$ Start generation of : Tool Change.1
TLAXIS/ 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
$$ TOOLCHANGEBEGINNING
RAPID
GOTO / 0.00000, 0.00000, 100.00000
CUTTER/ 10.000000, 2.000000, 3.000000, 2.000000, 0.000000$
, 0.000000, 100.000000
TOOLNO/1, 10.000000
TPRINT/T1 End Mill D 10
LOADTL/1
$$ End of generation of : Tool Change.1
PPRINT OPERATION NAME : Pocketing.1
$$ Start generation of : Pocketing.1
FEDRAT/ 1000.0000,MMPM
SPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLW
GOTO / 30.61644, 2.50000, 5.00000
GOTO / 17.50000, 2.50000, 5.00000
...
GOTO / 30.61644, 35.00000, 5.00000
$$ End of generation of : Pocketing.1
RAPID
GOTO / 0.00000, 0.00000, 100.00000
CUTTER/ 16.000000, 0.000000, 8.000000, 0.000000, 0.000000$
, 0.000000, 100.000000
TOOLNO/2, 16.000000
TPRINT/16 Flat Milling Tool
LOADTL/2
PPRINT OPERATION NAME : Profile Contouring.1
$$ Start generation of : Profile Contouring.1
GOTO / -69.00000, 40.00000, 46.00000
...
GOTO / -69.00000, 50.00000, 0.00000
$$ End of generation of : Profile Contouring.1
RAPID
GOTO / 0.00000, 0.00000, 100.00000
CUTTER/ 9.000000, 0.000000, 4.500000, 2.598076, 30.000000$
, 0.000000, 100.000000
TOOLNO/3, 9.000000
TPRINT/9mm Drill
LOADTL/3
PPRINT OPERATION NAME : Drilling.1
$$ Start generation of : Drilling.1
LOADTL/3,1
RAPID
GOTO / -40.00000, -30.00000, 25.00000
RAPID
GOTO / -40.00000, -30.00000, 21.00000
CYCLE/DRILL, 10.000000, 1.000000, 1000.000000,MMPM
GOTO / -40.00000, -30.00000, 20.00000
GOTO / -40.00000, 30.00000, 20.00000
CYCLE/OFF
RAPID
GOTO / -40.00000, 30.00000, 21.00000
RAPID
GOTO / -40.00000, 30.00000, 25.00000
$$ End of generation of : Drilling.1
SPINDL/OFF
REWIND/0
END
Basic Tasks
The basic tasks you will perform in the Prismatic Machining workbench involve creating,
editing and managing machining operations and other entities of the NC manufacturing
process.
Milling Operations
Machining Features
Part Operations, Programs and Processes
Verification, Simulation and Program Output
Milling Operations
The tasks in this section show you how to create 2.5 axis milling operations in your NC
manufacturing program.
Select the Pocketing icon then select the geometry to be machined (open or closed
pocket, islands, and so on). Specify the tool to be used.
Set parameters for axial and radial machining and other criteria such as finishing and
high-speed milling. Set feeds and speeds and NC macros as needed.
A Pocketing operation can be created for machining:
Closed pockets
Tool machines the area delimited by hard boundaries
Open pockets
Tool machines the area that has a least one soft boundary.
Prismatic Roughing Operations

Create a Prismatic Roughing Operation: Select the Prismatic Roughing icon then
select the geometry to be rough machined and specify the tool to be used.
Set parameters for axial and radial machining and other criteria such as high-speed
milling. Set feeds and speeds and NC macros as needed.
Facing Operations
Create a Facing Operation: Select the Facing icon then select the geometry to be
machined and specify the tool to be used.
high-speed milling. Set feeds and speeds and NC macros as needed.

Select the Profile Contouring icon then select the geometry to be machined and
specify the tool to be used.
high-speed milling.
Set feeds and speeds and NC macros as needed.
A Profile Contouring operation can be created for machining:
Between two planes

Tool follows contour between top and bottom planes while respecting user-
defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
Between two curves (P2 functionality)
Tool follows trajectory defined by top and bottom guide curves while
respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy
parameters.
Between a curve and surfaces (P2 functionality)
Tool follows trajectory defined by a top guide curve and bottom surfaces while
respecting user-defined geometry limitations and machining strategy
parameters.
By flank contouring (P2 functionality)
Tool flank machines vertical part surface while respecting user-defined
geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.

Create a Point to Point Operation: Select the Point to Point icon then define a
sequence of elementary Goto Point, Goto Position and Go Delta tool motions.
Specify the tool to be used, machining parameters, NC macros, and feeds and
speeds as needed.

Create a Curve Following Operation: Select the Curve Following icon then select the
geometry to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining
parameters and feeds and speeds as needed.

for Machining Closed Pockets
This task shows how to insert a Pocketing operation in the program when the pocket to be
machined comprises hard boundaries only (that is, a closed pocket).
To create the operation you must define:
the Pocketing mode as Closed Pocket

the geometry of the pocket to be machined
the tool that will be used
the parameters of the machining strategy
the feedrates and spindle speeds
the macros (transition paths) .
Open the PrismaticMilling01.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing >
Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current
in the specification tree.
1. Select the Pocketing
icon .
A Pocketing entity
along with a default
tool is added to the
program.
The Pocketing dialog

at the Geometry tab
page .
This tab page
includes a sensitive
icon to help you
specify the geometry
to be machined.
The bottom and

flanks of the icon are
colored red
indicating that this
geometry is required
for defining the
pocket.
All other pocket
geometry is
optional.
Make sure that the

Pocketing style is set
to Closed Pocket.
2. Right click the red
Bottom in the icon
and select Contour
Detection from the
contextual menu.
Click the red Bottom

then select the
desired pocket
bottom in the 3D
window.
The pocket
boundary is
automatically
deduced thanks to
the Contour
Detection setting.
This is indicated by
the highlighted Drive
elements.
The bottom and

flanks of the icon are
now colored green
geometry is now
defined.
For parts containing

islands, you can
right click the red
Bottom in the icon
and select Island
Detection from the
contextual menu.
This allows island
boundaries to be
deduced
automatically.
3. Click the Top Plane

in the icon then
select the desired
top element in the
3D window.
4. Set the following offsets:
1.5mm on hard boundary
0.25mm on bottom.
If your part includes islands, you can specify different offsets on individual islands using
the Offset on Island contextual command (right click the Island label in the 3D window).
5. Select the Strategy tab page and choose the desired tool path style: Inward
helical, Outward helical or Back and forth.
You can then use the tab pages to set parameters for:
Machining such as machining tolerance

Radial strategy
Axial strategy (number of levels = 3, for example)
Finishing
High speed milling.
A tool is proposed by default when you create a machining operation. If the proposed
tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to
use.
This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.

6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle
speeds for the operation.
7. Select the Macros
tab page to
specify the
operation's transition
paths (approach and
retract motion, for
example).
Select the
Approach
checkbox
Select an
Approach
macro icon to
specify the
desired type
of approach
motion (linear,
for example).
A sensitive
icon appears
with a
representation
of the macro.
Double click
the distance
parameter in
the sensitive
icon and enter
the desired
value in the
pop-up dialog
box.
Repeat this
procedure to
specify the
Retract
motion.
See Define Macros of an Operation for another example of specifying transition paths
on a machining operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.


for Machining Open Pockets
This task shows how to insert a Pocketing operation in the program when the pocket to be
machined comprises at least one soft boundary (that is, an open pocket).
the Pocketing mode as Open Pocket

the geometry of the pocket to be machined
Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current
in the specification tree.
icon .
A Pocketing entity
along with a default
tool is added to the
program.
The Pocketing dialog

at the Geometry tab
page .
This tab page
includes a sensitive
icon to help you
specify the geometry
to be machined.
The bottom and flanks of the icon are colored red indicating that this geometry is
required for defining the pocket. All other pocket geometry is optional.
Make sure that the Pocketing style is set to Open Pocket.

2. Right click the red Bottom in the icon and select Contour Detection from the contextual
menu.
Click the red Bottom then select the desired pocket bottom in the 3D window.
The pocket
boundary is
automatically
deduced thanks to
the Contour
Detection setting.
This is indicated by
the highlighted Drive
elements.
Hard boundaries are

shown by full lines
and soft boundaries
by dashed lines.
For edge selection

only, you can
change a boundary
segment from hard
to soft (or from soft
to hard) by selecting
the corresponding
edge.
The bottom and flanks of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is
now defined.
For parts containing islands, you can right click the red Bottom in the icon and select
Island Detection from the contextual menu. This allows island boundaries to be
deduced automatically.
3. Click the Top Plane in the icon then select the desired top element in the 3D window.
4. Set the following offsets:
1.5mm on hard boundary
0.25mm on bottom.
If your part includes islands, you can specify different offsets on individual islands using
the Offset on Island contextual command (right click the Island label in the 3D window).
5. Select the Strategy tab page and choose the desired tool path style: Inward
helical, Outward helical or Back and forth.
Machining such as machining tolerance

Radial strategy (overhang = 50, for example)
Axial strategy (number of levels = 3, for example)
Finishing
High speed milling.
For Back and forth, you can modify the proposed machining direction and progression
direction that are symbolized by arrows next to the machining axis system.
Clicking the Machining direction arrow displays a dialog box for specifying the direction
of paths.
Clicking the Progression direction arrow reverses the overall direction of progression of
the paths.
6. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the
proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you
want to use.

8. Select the Macros

tab page to
specify the
operation's transition
paths (approach and
retract motion, for
example).
Select the
Approach
checkbox
Select an
Approach
macro icon to
specify the
desired type
of approach
motion (linear,
for example).
A sensitive
icon appears
with a
representation
of the macro.
Double click
the distance
parameter in
the sensitive
icon and enter
the desired
value in the
pop-up dialog
box.
Repeat this
procedure to
specify the
Retract
motion.
See Define Macros of an Operation for another example of specifying transition paths
9. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.

Create a Prismatic Roughing Operation

This task shows how to insert a Prismatic Roughing operation in the program. This type of
operation allows you to quickly rough machine a part in a single operation. This is particularly
useful for parts that include drafted pockets or multiple bottom pockets.
the geometry to be rough machined

Open the Prismatic_Roughing01.CATProcess document, then select NC Manufacturing >
Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in
the specification tree.
1. Select the Prismatic Roughing icon .
A Prismatic Roughing entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Prismatic Roughing dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page .
This tab page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the operation's required and
optional geometry.
The Part and Rough stock areas of the icon are colored red indicating that this geometry is
required. All other geometry is optional.
2. Click the red Part area then select PartBody either in the specification tree or in the 3D
window.
3. Click the red Rough stock area in the icon then select Rough Stock.1 either in the
specification tree or in the 3D window.
4. Set a 1.0mm offset on part.
The Part and Rough stock areas are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now
defined.
5. Select the Strategy tab page .
Machining
Radial strategy
Axial strategy
High speed milling.
A tool is proposed by default when you create a machining operation. If the proposed tool is
not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use. This is
described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
Only end mills are available for Prismatic Roughing operations.

6. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds
for the operation.
7.
Select the Macros tab page to specify the operation's transition paths (approach and
retract motion, for example).

Create a Facing Operation

This task shows how to insert a Facing operation in the program.
the geometry to be machined

the parameters of the machining strategy :
the proposed tool path styles are: Inward helical, Back and forth, and One way
Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in
the specification tree.
1. Select the Facing icon .
A Facing entity along with a

default tool is added to the
program.
The Facing dialog box

appears directly at the
Geometry tab page .
This tab page includes a

sensitive icon to help you
specify the geometry to be
machined.
The part bottom and flanks in
the icon are colored red
indicating that this geometry is
required for defining the
operation.
All other geometry is optional.
2. Right click the red Bottom in

the icon and select Contour
Detection from the contextual
menu.
Click the red Bottom then

select the underside of the
part in the 3D window.
The part boundary is

automatically deduced thanks
to the Contour Detection
option. This is indicated by the
highlighted Drive elements.
The bottom and flanks of the

icon are now colored green
indicating that this geometry is
now defined.
3. Select the Strategy tab page
and choose the desired
tool path style: Inward helical,
Back and forth, or One way.
You can then use the tab

pages to set parameters for:
Machining such as
machining tolerance
Radial strategy (see
example)
Axial strategy (number
of levels = 1, for
example)
Finishing
High speed milling (for
Inward helical tool path
style only).
4. Select the Tool tab page to replace the default tool by a more suitable one.
5. Select the Face Mill icon.
A 50mm diameter face mill is proposed. You can adjust the parameters as required.
See Edit the Tool of an Operation for more information about selecting tools.
for the operation.
7. Select the Macros tab page
to specify a return
macro, which is necessary for
the One Way mode.
Select the Return in a
level checkbox.
Select one of the macro
icons to specify the
desired type of retract
motion (linear, for
example). A sensitive
icon appears with a
representation of the
path.
Double click the
distance parameter in
the sensitive icon and
enter the desired value
in the pop-up dialog
box.
Select the Return in a
level - Approach in the
combo, the repeat the
procedure to specify the
approach motion.
See Define Macros of an

Operation for another example
of specifying transition paths

In this scenario the operation used the default start point (that is, the origin of the absolute
axis system).
If you want to define a different start point, you can click the start point symbol in the
sensitive icon then select a point.
Please note that the exact position of operation's start point may be different from your
selected point. The program will choose the nearest point from a number of possible start
positions.

Between Two Planes
This task shows how to insert a 'Between Two Planes' Profile Contouring operation in the program.
the Contouring mode as Between two planes

Open the PrismaticMilling01.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing workbench
from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Profile Contouring icon .
The Profile Contouring dialog box

appears directly at the Geometry tab
page .
This page includes a sensitive icon to
help you specify the geometry to be
machined.
Right click the Contouring mode text

and select Between Two Planes.
The part bottom and flanks in the icon

are colored red indicating that this
geometry is required for defining the
operation.
All other geometry is optional.
2. Click the red bottom in the icon, then
select the underside of the part in the
3D window.
3. Set the Bottom type to Soft by clicking
the text, then set the Offset on Bottom
to -5mm.
4. Click the red flank in the icon, then select the profile along the front edge of the part in the 3D window.
5. Right click Start to set this condition to Out.
Click the first relimiting element in the icon, then select the horizontal edge at one end of the contour profile
in the 3D window.
6. Right click Stop to set this condition to Out.
Click the second relimiting element in the icon, then select the horizontal edge at the other end of the
contour profile in the 3D window.
7. Click the check element in the icon, then select the top face of the green fixture in the 3D window.
The bottom, guide, limit and check elements of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry
is now defined. These are also indicated on the part.
8. Select the Strategy tab page and

choose the desired tool path style.
You can then use the tab pages to set

parameters for:
Machining such as machining

tolerance
Stepover (see example)
Finishing
High Speed Milling.
You can choose between the standard tip output and a cutter profile output by means of the Output type
option in the Machining tab page.
If Standard output is selected, please refer to How to generate CUTCOM synatxes.
If a Cutter Profile style is selected, both the tip and cutter profile will be visualized during tool path replay.
For cutter profile, cutter compensation instructions are generated in the NC data output. In this case, an
approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.
Any user defined PP words in macros are added to the cutter compensation instructions generated in the
NC data output. Therefore you should be careful when specifying CUTCOM instructions in macros.
9. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed tool is not
suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.

10. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for the
operation.
11. Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.
The specified operation uses a default linking macro to avoid collision with the selected fixture.
You can optimize the linking macro and add approach and retract macros to the operation in the Macros
tab page . This is described in Define Macros of a Milling Operation.


Between Two Curves
This task shows how to insert a 'Between Two Curves' Profile Contouring operation in the
program.
the Contouring mode as Between Two Curves

This task also illustrates the capability to machine a discontinuous guiding curve.
Open the PrismaticMilling02.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing
workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the
specification tree.
Contouring icon .
The Profile Contouring

dialog box appears
directly at the Geometry
tab page .
This page includes a
specify the geometry to
be machined.
Right click the

Contouring mode text
and select Between
Two Curves.
The top guiding curve in

the icon is colored red
geometry is required for
defining the operation.
All other geometry is
optional.
2. Click the top guiding curve in the icon, then in the 3D window:
select the three continuous edges on the top of the part as shown (Guide 1 in figure
below)
select the three continuous edges of the downward slope on the other side of the part
as shown (Guide 2 in figure below).
During the selection, answer No to the question about inserting a line.
3. Click the bottom guiding curve in the icon, then in the 3D window:
select the three continuous edges of the downward slope the part as shown (Auxiliary
Guide in figure below)
select the three continuous bottom edges on the other side of the part as shown.
During the selection, answer No to the question about inserting a line.
4. If needed, set offsets on the geometric elements.

The guide and limit elements of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry
5. Select the Strategy tab

page and choose
the desired tool path
style.

pages to set parameters
for:
Machining such
as machining
tolerance
Stepover (see
example)
Finishing
High Speed
Milling.
6. In the Macros tab page you should add an appropriate Linking macro that will allow the
tool to retract and approach the discontinuous guiding curves.
This is described in Define Macros of an Operation.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed
tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.
This procedure for this is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.

7. If needed, select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle
Please note that the tool tip is shifted below the guiding curves by a distance equal to the tool
corner radius. If you want the tool tip to exactly follow the guiding curves you should enter an
appropriate Offset on Contour value.


Between a Curve and Surfaces
This task shows how to insert a 'Between Curve and Surfaces' Profile Contouring operation in the
program.
the Contouring mode as Between Curve and Surfaces

workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification
tree.
Contouring icon .

dialog box appears directly
at the Geometry tab page
.
machined.
Right click the Contouring

mode text and select
Between Curve and
Surfaces.
The top guiding curve and

part bottom in the icon are
colored red indicating that
this geometry is required
for defining the operation.
optional.
2. Click the red bottom in the

icon, then select the
bottom surface of the part
in the 3D window.
3. Click the top guiding curve
in the icon, then select the
top edge of the part in the
3D window.
4. Click the first relimiting element in the icon, then select a vertical edge at one end of the part in
the 3D window.
5. Click the second relimiting element in the icon, then select the vertical edge at the other end of
the part in the 3D window.
The guide and limit elements of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is
now defined. These are also indicated on the part.

page and choose the
desired tool path style.

pages to set parameters
for:
Machining such as
machining
tolerance
Stepover (see
example)
Finishing
High Speed Milling.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed
tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.

8. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
You can add approach and retract motions to the operation in the Macros tab page . This
is described in Define Macros of an Operation.


for Flank Contouring
This task shows how to insert a 'Flank Contouring' Profile Contouring operation in the
program.
the Contouring mode as Flank Contouring

workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the
specification tree.
Contouring icon .

dialog box appears
directly at the Geometry
tab page .
sensitive icon to help
you specify the
geometry to be
machined.
Right click the

Contouring mode text
and select By Flank
Contouring.
The guiding element in

the icon is colored red
optional.
2. Click the guiding
element in the icon,
then select the vertical
face of the part in the
3D window.
3. Click the first relimiting element in the icon, then select a vertical edge at one end of the part
in the 3D window.
4. Click the second relimiting element in the icon, then select the vertical edge at the other end
of the part in the 3D window.
The guide and limit elements of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry
page and choose
the desired tool path
style.
You can then use the

tab pages to set
parameters for:
Machining such
as machining
tolerance
Stepover (see
example)
Finishing.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the
proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want
to use.

for the operation.
You can add approach and retract motions to the operation in the Macros tab page
. This is described in Define Macros of an Operation.

Create a Point to Point Operation

This task shows how to insert a Point to Point operation in the program.
a sequence of elementary tool motions and machining strategy parameters

Open the PrismaticMilling02.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic
Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Point to Point icon .
A Point to Point entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Point to Point dialog box appears directly at the Strategy tab page .
This Motions tab allows you to define the elementary Goto Point, Goto Position and Go Delta
motions making up the machining operation.
2. Click the Goto Point icon , then select a corner point on the underside of the part.
Just double-click to end point selection. The first tool motion is defined and appears in the list in the
dialog box.
3. Click the Goto Position icon . A dialog box appears to help you specify the part, drive and check
elements as well as positioning conditions (To / On / Past).
4. Just click OK when you have specified the desired elements and conditions. The second tool motion
is defined and appears in the list in the dialog box.
5. Add other Goto Point, Goto Position and Go Delta motions as shown in the figure below.
In this dialog box you can:
add PP words to the list by clicking on the PP words icon and specifying the desired syntax.
move motions up or down the list by the Arrow icons or remove motions by means of the
Remove icon.
edit the properties of a motion by clicking the Properties icon.
6. Select the Strategy tab to specify machining parameters.
If needed, double click the sensitive text in the icon to specify an offset along the tool axis.
Define the tool axis direction by first selecting the axis representation in the sensitive icon then
specifying the direction in the dialog box that appears.
7. Select the Tool tab page to replace the default tool by a more suitable one.
Select the Face Mill icon. A 50mm diameter face mill is proposed. You can adjust the parameters as
required.
See Edit the Tool of an Operation for more information about selecting tools.
Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.
operation.
9. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros tab page
to specify the desired transition paths.
The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Operation.

You can use the contextual menu commands to insert or remove points and to assign local
feedrates.
By selecting a circle, its center is taken as the point to machine.
Points of an associated sketch can also be selected.
Points can be defined by indicating on a user-defined plane.
Points can be defined by means of X, Y, Z coordinates in the machining axis sysstem.
Create a Curve Following Operation

This task shows how to insert a Curve Following operation in the program.

Open the PrismaticMilling02.CATPart document, then select the desired NC
Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing
Program current in the specification tree.
1. Select the Curve Following
icon .
The Curve Following dialog

box appears directly at the
Geometry tab page .
machined.
The guiding curve in the

icon is colored red
optional.
2. Click the guiding curve in
the icon, then select the
desired curve in the 3D
window.
3. If needed, set an axial offset on the guiding curve.
The guide element of the icon is now colored green indicating that this geometry is
now defined. It is also indicated on the part.

page to specify
parameters for:
Machining
Stepover.
Set the main strategy

parameters as shown.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the
proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool
you want to use.

You can add approach and retract motions to the operation in the Macros tab page
. This is described in Define Macros of an Operation.

2.5 to 5-axis Drilling Operations

The drilling (or axial machining) operations described in this section are intended to cover
the hole making activities in your NC manufacturing program.
Spot Drilling Operation

Create a Spot Drilling Operation: Select the Spot Drilling icon then select the
positions to be spot drilled and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode
(By Tip or By Diameter). Finally, set the other machining parameters, macros, and
feeds and speeds as needed.
Drilling Operations
Create a Drilling Operation: Select the Drilling icon then select the hole or hole
pattern to be drilled and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode (By
Tip or By Shoulder). Finally set the other machining parameters, macros, and
Create a Drilling Dwell Delay Operation: Select the Drilling Dwell Delay icon then
select the hole or hole pattern to be drilled and specify the tool to be used. Specify
the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder) and the dwell duration. Finally set the
other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Drilling Deep Hole Operation: Select the Drilling Deep Hole icon then
select the hole or hole pattern to be drilled and specify the tool to be used. Specify
the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally set the other machining
parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Drilling Break Chips Operation: Select the Drilling Break Chips icon then
select the hole or hole pattern to be drilled and specify the tool to be used.
Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally set the other machining
Hole Finishing Operations
Create a Reaming Operation: Select the Reaming icon then select the hole or hole
pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth mode
(By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally set the other machining parameters, macros, and
Create a Counterboring Operation: Select the Counterboring icon then select the
hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the
depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally set the other machining parameters,
macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Boring Operations
Create a Boring Operation: Select the Boring icon then select the hole or hole
Create a Boring Spindle Stop Operation: Select the Boring Spindle Stop icon then
select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used.
Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder) and the amount of tool shift away
from the bored hole. Finally set the other machining parameters, macros, and
Create a Boring and Chamfering Operation: Select the Boring and Chamfering
icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be
used. Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally, for the boring and
chamfering phases set the machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds
as needed.
Create a Back Boring Operation: Select the Back Boring icon then select the hole
or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify the depth
mode (By Tip or By Shoulder) and the amount of tool shift for back boring. Finally
set the other machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Threading Operations
Create a Tapping Operation: Select the Tapping icon then select the hole or hole
Create a Reverse Threading Operation: Select the Reverse Threading icon then
select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used.
Specify the depth mode (By Tip or By Shoulder). Finally set the other machining
Create a Thread without Tap Head Operation: Select the Thread without Tap
Head icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool
to be used. The By Tip depth mode is imposed for this operation. Finally set the
Create a Thread Milling Operation: Select the Thread Milling icon then select the
hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Finally set the
Countersinking and Chamfering Operations
Create a Countersinking Operation: Select the Countersinking icon then select the
depth mode (By Distance or By Diameter). Finally set the other machining
Create a Chamfering Two Sides Operation: Select the Chamfering Two Sides icon
then select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be
used. The By Tip depth mode is imposed for this operation. Finally set the other
machining parameters, macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
T-Slotting and Circular Milling
Create a T-Slotting Operation: Select the T-Slotting icon then select the hole or
hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. The By Tip depth
mode is imposed for this operation. Finally set the other machining parameters,
macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Circular Milling Operation: Select the Circular Milling icon then select the
machining mode (Standard or Helical). Finally set the other machining
Create a Spot Drilling Operation

This task shows how to insert a Spot Drilling operation in the program.
the geometry of the holes to be machined

Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC Manufacturing
workbench from the Start menu.
Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.

1. Select the Spot Drilling icon .
A Spot Drilling entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Spot Drilling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page includes
an icon representing a simple hole. There are several hot spots in the icon.
2. Select red hole depth representation, then select the points to be spot drilled.
You can do this by selecting the circular edges of holes.
In this case, the circle centers are taken as the points to be spot drilled.
Just double click to end your selections.
3. If needed, click on the tool axis symbol to select a tool axis direction.
4. Select the Strategy tab page to specify the
following machining parameters:
approach clearance
depth mode: by diameter
The diameter value used is the one specified in
the geometry tab page.
dwell
compensation number depending on those
available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this case.
5. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
Drills, Multi-diameter Drills, Spot Drills, and Center Drills can be used.
Conical Mills can also be used.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to
use.

operation.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as follows:
Motion at machining feedrate from 1 to 2

Dwell for the specified duration
Retract at retract feedrate from 2 to 3.
The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Axial Machining Operation.
8. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Spot Drilling operations:
CYCLE / SPDRL, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT,

%MFG_CLEAR_TIP, DWELL, %MFG_DWELL_REVOL
A typical NC data output is as follows:
CYCLE/SPDRL, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described in the
NC_SPOT_DRILLING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.

This task shows how to insert a Drilling operation in the program.

Open the HoleMakingOperations.CATPart document, then select the desired NC
Manufacturing workbench from the Start menu.

A Drilling entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Drilling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab
page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry of the hole or
hole pattern to be machined.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the pattern of 10 holes as
shown below. Just double click to end your selections.
The sensitive icon is updated

with the following information:
depth and diameter of

the first selected feature
hole extension type:
through hole
number of points to
machine.
3. If needed, you can define the tool axis direction by first selecting the axis
representation in the sensitive icon then specifying the direction by means of the
dialog box that appears.
4. If needed, you can define a clearance by first double clicking the Jump Distance
parameter in the sensitive icon then specifying a value in the Edit Parameter
dialog box that appears.

to specify the following
machining parameters:
Approach clearance
Depth mode: by tip
The depth value used is
the one specified in the
Geometry tab page.
Breakthrough distance
Compensation number
depending on those
The other parameters are

optional in this case.
A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify
the tool you want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.
Remember that you can make use of the hole diameter found on the selected hole
feature to select an appropriate tool.
Note that in the Drilling tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is
as follows:
machining feedrate from 1 to 2

retract or rapid feedrate from 2 to 3.
7. If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the
Macros tab page to specify the desired transition paths.
The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Axial

Machining Operation.
Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool
path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Drilling operations:
CYCLE/DRILL, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE,

&MFG_FEED_UNIT,
%MFG_CLEAR_TIP
CYCLE/DRILL, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are
described in the NC_DRILLING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's
Guide.
Create a Drilling Dwell Delay Operation

This task shows how to insert a Drilling Dwell Delay operation in the program.

1. Select the Drilling Dwell Delay icon .
A Drilling Dwell Delay entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Drilling Dwell Delay dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page
. This tab page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry of the
hole or hole pattern to drill.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the hole feature as shown.
Just double click to end your selection.
The sensitive icon is updated with the

following information:
depth and diameter of the selected

hole
hole extension type: blind.
3. If needed, you can define the tool axis direction by first selecting the axis representation
in the sensitive icon then specifying the direction by means of the dialog box that
appears.
4. Select the Strategy tab page to
specify the following machining
parameters:
Approach clearance
Depth mode: by shoulder
The depth value used is the one
specified in the Geometry tab
page.
Dwell delay
Compensation number depending
on those available on the tool.
The other parameters are optional in this

case.
If the proposed tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool
you want to use.
Remember that you can make use of the hole diameter found on the selected hole
feature to select an appropriate tool.

machining feedrate from 1 to 2

dwell for the specified duration
retract or rapid feedrate from 2 to 3.
6 If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the Macros
tab page to specify the desired transition paths.
The general procedure for this is described in Define Macros of an Axial Machining
Operation.

Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Drilling Dwell Delay
operations:
CYCLE / DRILL, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE,

&MFG_FEED_UNIT,
CYCLE/DRILL, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
The parameters available for PP word syntaxes for this type of operation are described
in the NC_DRILLING_DWELL_DELAY section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure
User's Guide.
Create a Drilling Deep Hole Operation

This task shows how to insert a Drilling Deep Hole operation in the program.

1. Select the Drilling Deep Hole icon .
A Drilling Deep Hole entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Drilling Deep Hole dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page
includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry of the hole or hole pattern to be machined.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the hole features as shown below.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following

information:
depth and diameter of the first selected hole

hole extension type: through
number of points to machine.
3. If needed, you can define the tool axis direction by first selecting the axis representation in the
sensitive icon then specifying the direction by means of the dialog box that appears.
Approach clearance
Depth mode: by tip
The depth value used is the one specified in
the Geometry tab page.
Maximum depth of cut and retract offset
Decrement rate and Decrement limit
Dwell mode
Compensation number depending on those
use.
Remember that you can make use of the hole diameter found on the selected hole feature to select
an appropriate tool.

operation.

Dwell for specified duration
Retract at retract feedrate from 2 to 3
Motion at rapid rate from 3 to 4
Motion at rapid rate from 6 to 7
Distance (1,2) = A + Dc
Distance (3,4) = A + Dc - Or
Distance (4,5) = Or + Dc*(1 - decrement rate)
Distance (7,8) = Or + Dc*(1 - 2*decrement rate).
Also note that:

Depth of current peck > Maximum depth of cut * Decrement limit.
For more information see Example of Decrement rate and Decrement limit.
7. Before accepting the operation, check its validity by replaying the tool path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Drilling Deep Hole operations:
CYCLE/DEEPHL,%MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH,INCR,%MFG_AXIAL_DEPTH,%MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE,
&MFG_FEED_UNIT,%MFG_CLEAR_TIP,DWELL,%MFG_DWELL_REVOL
CYCLE/DEEPHL, 25.000000, INCR, 5.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000,

DWELL, 3
NC_DEEPHOLE section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Create a Drilling Break Chips Operation

This task shows how to insert a Drilling Break Chips operation in the program.

1. Select the Drilling Break Chips icon .
A Drilling Break Chips entity along with a default tool is added to the program.
The Drilling Break Chips dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page
includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry of the hole or hole pattern to be machined.
2. Select the red hole depth representation then select the hole feature as shown below.
The sensitive icon is updated with the following

information:
depth and diameter of the selected hole

hole extension type: through.
3. If needed, you can define the tool axis direction by first selecting the axis representation in the
sensitive icon then specifying the direction by means of the dialog box that appears.
Approach clearance
Depth mode: by tip
The depth value used is the one specified in
the geometry tab page.
Maximum depth of cut and retract offset
Dwell
Compensation number depending on those
use.
Remember that you can make use of the hole diameter found on the selected hole feature to select
an appropriate tool.

operation.

Distance (1,2) = A + Dc
Distance (2,3) = Distance (4,5) = Or
Distance (3,4) = Distance (5,6) = Or + Dc

Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Drilling Break Chips operations:
CYCLE/BRKCHP,%MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH,INCR,%MFG_AXIAL_DEPTH,%MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE,
&MFG_FEED_UNIT,
%MFG_CLEAR_TIP,DWELL,%MFG_DWELL_REVOL
CYCLE/BRKCHP, 25.000000, INCR, 5.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000,

DWELL, 3
NC_BREAK_CHIPS section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Create a Reaming Operation

This task shows how to insert a Reaming operation in the program.

1. Select the Reaming icon .
A Reaming entity along with a

program.
The Reaming dialog box appears

directly at the Geometry tab page
. This tab page includes a
sensitive icon to help you specify
the geometry of the hole or hole
pattern to be machined.

representation then select the
pattern of 10 holes.
Just double click to end your
selections.
The sensitive icon is updated with

the following information:
depth and diameter of the

first selected feature

through hole
number of points to
machine.
3. If needed, select the tool axis direction.
Approach clearance
Depth mode: by shoulder
Geometry tab page.
Dwell (in seconds)
Compensation number
depending on those
The other parameters are optional

in this case.
the tool you want to use.

Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is at:


path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Reaming

operations:
CYCLE/REAM, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE,

&MFG_FEED_UNIT,
CYCLE/REAM, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
described in the NC_REAMING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's
Guide.
Create a Counterboring Operation

This task shows how to insert a Counterboring operation in the program.

1. Select the Counterboring icon .
A Counterboring entity along with a

program.
The Counterboring dialog box

appears directly at the Geometry
tab page .

representation then select hole
geometry in the 3D window.
selection.
3. If needed, select the tool axis

direction.

and specify the following machining
parameters:
Approach clearance
Depth mode: by tip
The depth value used is the
one specified in the
Geometry tab page.
Dwell
Compensation number
depending on those

in this case.

Note that in the toolpath represented in the strategy page, tool motion is at:


path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Counterboring

operations:
CYCLE/CBORE, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE,

&MFG_FEED_UNIT,
CYCLE/CBORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
described in the NC_COUNTERBORING section of the Manufacturing
Infrastructure User's Guide.
Create a Boring Operation

This task shows how to insert a Boring operation in the program.


1. Select the Boring icon .
A Boring entity along with a

program.
The Boring dialog box appears

.
pattern of 10 holes.
selections.


first selected feature
through hole
number of points to
machine.

approach clearance
depth mode: by tip
Geometry tab page
breakthrough distance
dwell
compensation number
depending on those

in this case.
5 A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.

Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as
follows:


8. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool
path.
Note that Boring Bars are supported for Photo and Video material removal
simulations.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Boring operations:
CYCLE/BORE, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE,

&MFG_FEED_UNIT,
CYCLE/BORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
described in the NC_BORING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's
Guide.
Create a Boring Spindle Stop Operation

This task shows how to insert a Boring Spindle Stop operation in the program.


1. Select the Boring Spindle Stop
icon .
A Boring Spindle Stop entity along

with a default tool is added to the
program.
The Boring Spindle Stop dialog

Geometry tab page .
hole geometry in the 3D window.
selections.


first selected hole
through
number of points to
machine.

4. A boring bar tool is proposed by default for this operation.

approach clearance
depth mode: by tip
Geometry tab page.
shift: by linear coordinates
or polar coordinates
dwell
compensation number
depending on those

in this case.
Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion with a
boring bar is as follows:

Spindle stop
Shift motion at retract feedrate from 2 to 3
Shift motion at retract feedrate from 4 to 1.

path.
Note that Boring Bars are supported for Photo and Video material removal
simulations.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Boring Spindle Stop
operations:

&MFG_FEED_UNIT,
%MFG_CLEAR_TIP, ORIENT, %MFG_XOFF, DWELL,
%MFG_DWELL_REVOL
CYCLE/BORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, ORIENT,

1.000000, DWELL, 3
described in the NC_BORING_SPINDLE_STOP section of the Manufacturing
Create a Boring and Chamfering

Operation
This task shows how to insert a Boring and Chamfering operation in the program.

1. Select the Boring and Chamfering

icon .
A Boring and Chamfering entity

along with a default tool is added
to the program.
The Boring and Chamfering dialog

Geometry tab page .

selections.

depth, diameter, conterbore

depth and angle of the first
selected feature
number of points to
machine.
3. If needed, select tool axis direction.
to specify the following machining
parameters:
approach clearances 1 and
2
depth mode: by shoulder
Geometry tab page
dwell
first compensation number
depending on those
available on the tool for
boring
second compensation
number depending on those
chamfering.

You can specify a machining feedrate for the boring phase of the operation and a
chamfering feedrate for the chamfering phase.
Similarly, you can specify a machining spindle speed for the boring phase and a
smaller spindle speed for the chamfering phase.
follows:
Boring
Motion at machining feedrate from 1 up to the position where hole is to be

bored
Possibly, activation of second tool compensation number
Rapid feedrate up to a clearance position before start of chamfering.
Chamfering
Motion at chamfering feedrate from clearance position to 2

Possibly, activation of first tool compensation number

path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Boring and
Chamfering operations:

%MFG_CHAMFERFEED_VALUE,
&MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_SPINDLE_MACH_VALUE,
%MFG_SPINDLE_LOW_VALUE,
&MFG_SPNDL_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP, DWELL,
%MFG_DWELL_REVOL
CYCLE/BORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, 150.000000, MMPM,

70.000000, 40.000000, RPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
described in the NC_BORING_AND_CHAMFERING section of the Manufacturing
Create a Back Boring Operation

This task shows how to insert a Back Boring operation in the program.


1. Select the Back Boring icon .
A Back Boring entity along with a

program.
The Back Boring dialog box

tab page .
2. Select the top plane
representation then select the top
of the part.
representation then specify the
hole pattern to be machined by
selecting the two counterbored
features in the 3D window.

selections.
The Geometry page is updated

with information about the first
selected feature.
5. A boring bar tool is proposed by default for this machining operation.

approach clearances A
and A2
depth mode: by tip
Geometry tab page
shift: by polar coordinates
or linear coordinates
dwell
compensation number
depending on those
follows:
Shift motion at rapid feedrate from 1 to 2

Motion at rapid feedrate from 2 to 3
Shift motion at rapid feedrate from 3 to 4
Motion at retract feedrate from 5 to 6
Shift motion at retract feedrate from 6 to 7
Shift motion at retract feedrate from 8 to 9.

path.
Note that Boring Bars are supported for material removal simulations in Video
mode.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Back Boring
operations:

&MFG_FEED_UNIT,
%MFG_CLEAR_TIP, ORIENT, %MFG_XOFF, DWELL,
%MFG_DWELL_REVOL
CYCLE/BORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, ORIENT,

1.000000, DWELL, 3
described in the NC_BACK_BORING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure

User's Guide.
Create a Tapping Operation

This task shows how to insert a Tapping operation in the program.

1. Select the Tapping icon .
A Tapping entity along with a

program.
The Tapping dialog box appears

.
This tab page includes an icon

representing a simple hole. There
are several hot spots in the icon.
representation then select a
threaded hole feature in the 3D
window.
selection.

the following:
thread depth and thread

diameter
hole extension type
thread pitch
thread direction.
You can modify this data.

Other values are shown for
information only.
3. If needed, select tool axis direction.
parameters:
approach clearance
Geometry tab page.
compensation number
depending on those

in this case.

follows:

Reverse spindle rotation
Retract at machining feedrate from 2 to 3
Reverse spindle rotation.
If you want to specify approach and retract motion for the operation, select the

path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Tapping operations:
CYCLE/TAP, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE,

&MFG_FEED_UNIT, %MFG_CLEAR_TIP
CYCLE/TAP, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
described in the NC_TAPPING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure User's
Guide.
Create a Reverse Threading Operation

This task shows how to insert a Reverse Threading operation in the program.

1. Select the Reverse Threading icon

.
A Reverse Threading entity along

with a default tool is added to the
program.
The Reverse Threading dialog box

tab page .

window.
selection.

the following:

diameter
hole extension type
thread pitch
thread direction.

information only.
parameters:
approach clearance
Geometry tab page.
compensation number
depending on those

in this case.

Note that in the tool path represented in the strategy page, tool motion is at:

Spindle off then reverse spindle rotation
Retract at machining feedrate from 2 to 3.

path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Reverse Threading
operations:

CYCLE/TAP, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
described in the NC_REVERSE_THREADING section of the Manufacturing
Create a Thread without Tap Head

Operation
This task shows how to insert a Thread without Tap Head operation in the program.

1. Select the Thread without Tap

Head icon .
A Thread without Tap Head entity

to the program.
The Thread without Tap Head

dialog box appears directly at the
Geometry tab page .

window.
selection.

the following:

diameter
hole extension type
thread pitch
thread direction.

information only.
and specify the following
approach clearance
breakthrough
compensation number
depending on those

in this case.

Note that in the toolpath represented in the strategy page, tool motion is as
follows:

Spindle stop

path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Thread without Tap
Head operations:

CYCLE/TAP, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
described in the NC_THREAD_WITHOUT_TAP_HEAD section of the
Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Create a Thread Milling Operation

This task shows how to insert a Thread Milling operation in the program.

1. Select the Thread Milling icon

.
A Thread Milling entity along with

a default tool is added to the
program.
The Thread Milling dialog box

tab page .

window.
selection.
The sensitive icon is updated

with the following:

diameter
hole extension type
thread pitch
thread direction.

information only.
3. If needed, enter offset values for
the Bottom and Contour.
and set the following
Approach clearance
Breakthrough
Machining tolerance
Plunge mode
Compensation number
depending on those
Output style: standard tip
or cutter profile.


Motion at feedrates defined on macros from 2 to 3 and 3 to 4
7. Select the Macros tab page to specify the operation's transition paths
(approach and retract motion, for example).
path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Thread Milling
operations:

CYCLE/TAP, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
described in the NC_THREAD_MILLING section of the Manufacturing
Create a Countersinking Operation

This task shows how to insert a Countersinking operation in the program.


1. Select the Countersinking icon .
A Countersinking entity along with

a default tool is added to the
program.
The Countersinking dialog box

tab page .

selections.


parameters:
Approach clearance
Depth mode: by distance
Geometry tab page.
Dwell
Compensation number
depending on those

in this case.
5. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation.
Countersinks, Drills, Multi-diameter Drills, Spot Drills, Center Drills, and Two Sides
Chamfering tools can be used.
Conical Mills can also be used.
For more information, please refer to Edit the Tool of an Operation.


Increment at finishing feedrate from 2 to 3

path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Countersinking

operations:
CYCLE/CSINK, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH, %MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE,

&MFG_FEED_UNIT,
CYCLE/CSINK, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
described in the NC_COUNTERSINKING section of the Manufacturing
Create a Chamfering Two Sides

Operation
This task shows how to insert a Chamfering Two Sides operation in the program.

1. Select the Chamfering Two Sides

icon .
A Chamfering Two Sides entity

to the program.
The Chamfering Two Sides dialog

Geometry tab page .

representation then select the hole
selections.


parameters:
approach clearances 1 and
2
depth mode: by tip
dwell in seconds
first compensation number
depending on those
available on the tool for top
chamfering
second compensation
number depending on those
bottom chamfering.
Please note that the depth value

and chamfer diameter are
retrieved from your geometry
selections.

follows:

Possibly, activation of second tool compensation number (output point
change)
Motion at approach feedrate from 2 to 3
Possibly, activation of first tool compensation number (output point change)

path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Chamfering Two
Sides operations:

&MFG_FEED_UNIT,
CYCLE/BORE, 25.000000, 500.000000, MMPM, 5.000000, DWELL, 3
described in the NC_TWO_SIDES_CHAMFERING section of the Manufacturing
Create a T-Slotting Operation

This task shows how to insert a T-Slotting operation in the program.

1. Select the T-Slotting icon .
A T-Slotting entity along with a

program.
The T-Slotting dialog box appears

.

desired hole geometry in the 3D
window.
selections.
The sensitive icon is updated the

depth and diameter of the selected
feature.
In this example, the slot diameter
(78mm) was entered manually


parameters:
Approach clearance
Depth mode: by tip
Geometry tab page.
Dwell
Compensation number
depending on those

in this case.

Motion at approach feedrate from 1 to 2


path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for T-Slotting

operations:

CYCLE/TAP, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
described in the NC_T_SLOTTING section of the Manufacturing Infrastructure
User's Guide.
Create a Circular Milling Operation

This task shows how to insert a Circular Milling operation in the program.

1. Select the Circular

Milling icon .
A Circular Milling entity

along with a default tool
is added to the
program.
The Circular Milling

dialog box appears
directly at the
Geometry tab page
.
2. If needed, enter Offset

values for the Bottom
and Contour.
3. Select the red hole
depth representation
then select hole
geometry in the 3D
window.
Just double click to end
your selections.
4. If needed, select the

tool axis direction.
page and choose
the machining mode:
Standard
Helical.
6. Specify the machining
strategy parameters.
The following are
common to the two
machining modes:
Approach
clearance
Plunge mode
Machining
tolerance
Direction of cut
Percentage
overlap
Compensation
number
depending on
those available
on the tool
Output style:
standard tip or
cutter profile.
Standard machining stepover parameters:
Breakthrough
Number of paths and Distance between paths
Axial mode: Maximum depth of cut or Number of levels (with or without top)
Sequencing mode: Axial first or Radial first
Automatic draft angle.
Helical machining stepover parameters:
Breakthrough
Helix mode: By Angle or By Pitch
Angle or Pitch value.
the tool you want to use. This is described in Edit the Tool of an Operation.

Motion at feedrates defined on macros from 2 to 3, 3 to 4, 4 to 2', 2' to 3' and
3' to 4'
Retract at retract feedrate from 4' to 5.
8. Select the Macros tab page to specify the operation's transition paths
(approach and retract motion, for example).
path.
Example of output
If your PP table is customized with the following statement for Circular Milling
operations:
CYCLE/CIRCULARMILLING, %MFG_TOTAL_DEPTH,
%MFG_FEED_MACH_VALUE, &MFG_FEED_UNIT,
%MFG_CLEAR_TIP
CYCLE/CIRCULARMILLING, 38.500000, 500.000000, MMPM, 2.500000
described in the NC_CIRCULAR_MILLING section of the Manufacturing
The tasks for inserting auxiliary operations in the manufacturing program are documented in
the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Insert Tool Change: Select the Tool Change icon then select the tool type to be
referenced in the tool change.
Insert Machine Rotation: Select the Machine Rotation icon then specify the tool
rotation characteristics.
Insert Machining Axis System or Origin: Select the Machining Axis or Origin icon
then specify the characteristics of the machining axis system or origin.
Insert PP Instruction: Select the PP Instruction icon then enter the syntax of the PP
instruction.
Insert Copy Transformation Instruction (P2 functionality): Select the Copy
Transformation icon then select the reference operation. You can then specify the
number of copies and the characteristics of the transformation.
Machining Features
The tasks for creating and using prismatic machining features are described in this guide.
See Create and Use Prismatic Machining Areas.

Corners and channels left unmachined by Pocketing or Profile Contouring operations
can be identified thanks to a Prismatic Rework Area. This feature can then be used to
Create operations for reworking corners and channels.
The tasks dealing with the following machining feature capabilities are documented in the
NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
See Machining Patterns
Machining Axis System
See Manufacturing View.
Create a User Feature for NC Manufacturing (P2 functionality).

Create and Use Prismatic Machining Areas

This task shows how to create a prismatic machining area and then use this feature in Pocketing and Profile
Contouring operations.
Open the Rework01.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from
the Start menu.
1. Select the Prismatic Machining Area icon .
2. Click the red Bottom in the icon then select the pocket bottom in the 3D window.
The pocket boundary (Guide.1) is automatically deduced from the pocket bottom.
Click OK to create the feature called Prismatic machining area.1. This feature references the selected
pocket geometry.
3. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree, then select the Pocketing icon .
4. In the Pocketing dialog box select the Prismatic machining area.1 feature using the Feature combo.
The operation's geometry is initialized with the pocket bottom and guide elements referenced by the feature.
5. Select the Tool tab page to specify a tool with nominal diameter = 16mm.
You can refer to Edit the Tool of an Operation for more information.
6. Select the Macros tab page to specify a Retract macro with a linear Retract path of 50mm.
You can refer to Define Macros of an Operation for more information.
7. Check the Pocketing operation by replaying the tool path in Video mode .
Select the Analyze icon to analyze the result of the simulation.
You can see that in the corners the pocketing operation leaves some unmachined material.
Close the Analyze and Replay dialog boxes.
Click OK to create the Pocketing operation.
8. Select the Profile Contouring icon .

9. In the Profile Contouring dialog box select the Prismatic machining area.1 feature using the Feature combo.
The operation's geometry is initialized with the pocket bottom and guide elements referenced by the feature.
You can refer to Edit the Tool of an Operation for more information.
11. Select the Macros tab page to specify an Approach macro with a linear Approach path of 50mm.
You can refer to Define Macros of an Operation for more information.
12. Check the Profile Contouring operation by replaying the tool path in Video mode .
Select the Analyze icon to analyze the result of the simulation.

You can see that in the remaining material has now been machined by the Profile Contouring operation.
Close the Analyze and Replay dialog boxes.
Click OK to create the Profile Contouring operation.
13. Select the Manufacturing View icon to display the Manufacturing View.
Use the Sort by Machinable Features contextual command to see how the Prismatic machining area is
referenced by the Pocketing and Profile Contouring operations.
In addition to Pocketing and Profile Contouring operations, Prismatic Machining Areas can also be used on
Prismatic Rework Areas.
Create a Prismatic Rework Area

for Reworking Corners and Channels
This task shows how to create operations for reworking corners and channels by
making use of prismatic rework areas. The areas to be reworked are identified by
means of a Rework feature.
You will first create a Pocketing operation to rough cut the part. Then, you will see
how corners and channels can be quickly identified and then reworked using different
operations.
Open the Rework01.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing >
Prismatic Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program
current in the specification tree.
icon .
2. Click the red Bottom in
the icon then select the
pocket bottom in the 3D
window.
3. Select the Tool tab
page to specify a
tool with nominal
diameter = 40mm.
You can refer to Edit

the Tool of an
Operation for more
information.
4. Select the Macros tab
page to specify a
Return in a Level macro
with linear Approach
and Retract paths of
50mm.
You can refer to Define

Macros of an Operation
for more information.
5. Check the Pocketing

operation by replaying
the tool path in Video
mode.
You can see that the

pocket is rough cut by
this operation.
Close the dialog box to

exit the replay mode.
Rename the operation

Rough Pocketing then
click OK to create it.
6. Select the Prismatic

Rework Area icon .
In the dialog box that

appears, click Load
From then select the
Pocketing operation
that you have just
created.
The Rework feature is

initialized with the
geometry and other
characteristics of the
defined operation.
You can rename this

feature (for example,
ReworkPocket.1).
7. Click Compute to
visualize the areas to
rework.
Here you can identify 6

corners and one
channel to rework.
8. Select the Pocketing icon to create an operation to machine the channel left
by the first operation.
9. Select the ReworkPocket.1 feature using the combo in the Geometry tab page.
The dialog box is then updated with information from the feature.
Choose Channel from the Rework Area Type combo.

11. Select the Strategy tab page and set the Overhang value to 100.
12. Select the Macros tab page to specify:
an Approach macro with linear Approach path of 50mm
a Return in a Level macro with linear Approach and Retract paths of 50mm
a Retract macro with linear Retract path of 50mm.
13. Check the operation by

replaying the tool path
in Video mode.

channel is machined by
this operation.
14. Rename the operation Channel Rework then click OK to create it.
15. Select the Profile Contouring icon to create an operation to machine the
corners left by the first operation.
Select the ReworkPocket.1 feature using the combo in the Geometry tab page.
The dialog box is then updated with information from the feature.
17. Select the Strategy tab page and set:
Overhang for Rework Areas to 100
Distance between paths to 2mm.
18. Select the Macros tab page to specify:
an Approach macro with linear Approach path of 50mm
a Return in a Level macro with linear Approach and Retract paths of 50mm
a Retract macro with linear Retract path of 50mm.
19. Check the operation by

replaying the tool path
in Video mode.

corners are machined
by this operation.
20. Rename the operation Corner Rework then click OK to create it.
This user task illustrates the Load From capability in which the Rework feature is
initialized with the geometric and other characteristics of a machining operation.
You can also set the characteristics of the Rework feature manually by means of
the dialog box.
This capability can be use with Pocketing and Profile Contouring operations.
Part Operations, Manufacturing

Programs and Machining Processes
The following Prismatic Machining tasks are described in this guide:
Create a Machining Process for Prismatic Features (P2 functionality): Create a

Machining Process dedicated to machining a Prismatic Machining Area including
rework operations.
Auto-sequence Operations in a Program (P2 functionality): Verify the
administrator's settings for sequencing rules and priorities. If you are authorized,
you can adjust these settings before applying the Auto-sequencing to your program.
The tasks for creating and managing Part Operations, Manufacturing Programs and
Machining Processes are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Create and Edit a Part Operation: Select the Part Operation icon then specify the
entities to be referenced by the part operation: machine tool, machining axis
system, tool change point, part set up, and so on.
Create and Edit a Manufacturing Program: Select the Manufacturing Program icon
to add a program to the current part operation then insert all necessary program
entities: machining operations, tool changes, PP instructions, and so on.
Create a Machining Process (P2 functionality): Select the Machining Process icon
to create a machining process, which will be stored in a CATProcess document and
then as a catalog component.
Apply a Machining Process (P2 functionality): Select the Open Catalog icon to
access the machining process to be applied to selected geometry.
Create a Machining Process

for Prismatic Features
This task shows how to create a Machining Process (MP) dedicated to machining a Prismatic Machining Area including
rework operations.
The objective of the MP is to machine a prismatic pocket by :
a roughing stage using a Pocketing operation

a channel rework stage using a Pocketing operation
a corner rework stage using a Profile Contouring operation
a finishing stage using a Profile Contouring operation.
Start the Prismatic Machining workbench.
1. Display the Machining Process view and create a Machining Process .

Insert the following operations:
2. In the Knowledge Advisor workbench, use the Parameters Explorer icon to create a "RoughingRadius" length type
parameter for the "RoughingPocketing" operation.
Similarly, create a "MacroRadius" length type parameter for the "FinishingProfileContouring" operation and set the
value to 3mm.
These user parameters will enable us to set manufacturing parameters such as the "RoughingRadius" for the rework
stages or the "Approach and retract tool path radius" for the finishing stage.
3. In the Prismatic Machining workbench, create a Prismatic Rework Area feature .
Set the "Tool radius" corresponding to the roughing radius before the rework stage to the "RoughingRadius"
parameter of "RoughingPocketing" by using the Edit Formula contextual command inside the field.
Check that the feature is included in the Manufacturing View .
Note: If the "ToolRadius" parameter is set to 0.0, it will be automatically computed when the machining process is
applied.
4. Edit the "RoughingPocketing" operation in the Machining Process View and set "Offset on Contour" to 1mm.
5. Using the Edit Formula contextual command on "RoughingPocketing", set the "Roughing Radius" to half the End mill
Nominal diameter which will be found when the MP is applied.
6. Edit the RoughingPocketing Tool Query:

Set the Tool Diameter to be greater than 10mm.
Set the Cutting length to be greater than the Depth of the "Prismatic Machining Area" feature which will be
selected when the MP is applied.
Choose the repository file for the Tool Query: ToolsSampleMP, for example.
7. Edit the "ChannelReworkByPocketing" operation in the Machining Process View.
Select the previously created Prismatic Rework Area using the combo.
Edit "Offset on Contour" using the Edit Formula contextual command, and set it to the same parameter of the
"Roughing Pocketing" operation.
Note: If no Rework Area feature is assigned to a Pocketing operation identified as Channel, Corner and channel, or
Channel rework, a new Prismatic Rework Area will be created when the MP is applied.
In this case, the "ToolRadius" parameter will be automatically computed and equal to half of nominal tool diameter
of the operation which precedes the first operation referencing this Prismatic Rework Area.
8. Edit the ChannelReworkByPocketing Tool Query:

Set the Tool Diameter to be less than 10 mm
Set the Cutting Length to be greater than the Depth of the "Prismatic Machining Area" feature which will be
Choose the repository file for the Tool Query: ToolsSampleMP, for example
9. Repeat the Edit Operation and Tool Query steps described above for the "CornerReworkByProfileContouring"
operation.
10. Edit the "FinishingProfileContouring" operation in the Machining Process View.
In the Stepover tab page, set the Number of paths to 2.
Edit the "Distance between paths" parameter using the Edit Formula contextual command, and set it to the "Offset on
Contour" of "RoughingPocketing" divided by the Number of paths.
In the Macro tab page, assign a circular path on each macro, and set each "Radius" parameter to the "Macro Radius"
parameter using the Edit Formula contextual command in the Edit Parameters pop-up.
11. Using the Edit Formula contextual command on "FinishingProfileContouring", set the "MacroRadius" to a quarter of
the End mill Nominal diameter which will be found for this operation when the MP is applied.
12. Edit the FinishingProfileContouring Tool Query:

Set the Tool Diameter to be less than 10mm.
Set the Cutting Length to be greater than the Depth of the "Prismatic Machining Area" feature which will be
Choose "Document" as repository file.
13. Click Close in the Machining Process View to store the machining process.
A sample StandardMPForPocketing machining process similar to the one just created is available in
\Startup\Manufacturing\Processes\MP_Demo.catalog.
Auto-Sequence Operations in a Program
This task shows how to optimize the order of operations in a program according to pre-
defined sequencing rules.
The Sequencing rules have been set up by the administrator. The Program settings under
Tools > Options > NC Manufacturing are as follows:
Make sure that the document in the sequencing rules path is accessible in Read/Write.
A sample sequencing rules document is delivered with the product at the following location:
../startup/Manufacturing/samples/AutoSequence/AllSequencingRules.CATProduct.
Please refer to NC Manufacturing Settings for more information.
1. Select the Rules Manager icon to visualize the administrator's sequencing rule
settings.
Then click the [...] button to visualize the sequencing priority between operations.
2.
3. Create a program containing the following operations.

Select the Rules Manager icon to change the administrator's sequencing rule settings
as follows:
de-select all rules except for Sort by operation type and Sort by increasing tool
diameter
make Facing the highest priority machining operation in the list by assigning a
priority of 50. Spot drilling remains unchanged at 40 and Drilling remains unchanged
at 25.
4. Select the Auto Sequence icon to display

the Auto Sequence dialog box.
Click the Select All button to select all the

operations of the program.
Click Apply to sequence the operations

according to the defined rules and priorities.
5. The program is re-sequenced as follows.
You can click Undo if you want to cancel the auto-sequence results.
Auto-sequencing applies to prismatic machining operations only.

The tasks for creating and managing the specific entities of the NC manufacturing
environment are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Select or Create a Tool: Double click the machining operation in the program and
select the Tool tab page to edit the tool characteristics or search for a new tool.
Edit a Tool Referenced in the Program: Double click a tool referenced in the program
or resource list and edit the tool characteristics in the Tool Definition dialog box.
Specify Tool Compensation Information: Double click a tool referenced in the
program or resource list and specify the tool compensation information in the
Compensation tab page of the Tool Definition dialog box .
Create and Use Machining Patterns: Select Insert > Machining Feature > Machining
Pattern then select a pattern of holes to be machined.
Feature Based Programming: Select a feature using the Manufacturing view and
create operations based on this feature.
Define Macros on a Milling Operation: Select the Macros tab page when creating or
editing a milling operation, then specify the transition paths of the macros to be used
in the operation.
Define Macros on an Axial Machining Operation: Select the Macros tab page when
creating or editing an axial machining operation, then specify the transition paths of
the macros to be used in the operation.
Manage the Status of Manufacturing Entities: Use the status lights to know whether
or not your operation is correctly defined.
Verification, Simulation and Program

Output
The tasks for using capabilities such as tool path verification, material removal simulation,
and production of NC output data are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure
User's Guide.
Replay Tool Path: Select the Tool Path Replay icon then specify the display options
for an animated tool path display of the manufacturing program or machining
operation.
Simulate Material Removal (P2 functionality): Select the desired icon in the Tool
Path Replay dialog box to run a material removal simulation in Photo or Video mode.
Generate APT Source Code in Batch Mode: Select the Generate NC Code in Batch
Mode icon then select the manufacturing program to be processed and define the
APT source processing options.
Generate NC Code in Batch Mode: Select the Generate NC Code in Batch Mode
icon then select the manufacturing program to be processed and define the NC code
processing options.
Generate Clfile Code in Batch Mode: Select the Generate NC Code in Batch Mode
icon then select the manufacturing program to be processed and define the Clfile
processing options.
Generate a CGR File in Batch Mode (P2 functionality): Select the Generate NC
Code in Batch Mode icon then select the manufacturing program to be processed
and define the CGR file processing options.
Batch Queue Management: Manage tool path computation outside the interactive
CATIA session, with the possibility of scheduling the execution of several batch jobs.
Generate APT Source Code in Interactive Mode: Select the Generate NC Code
Interactively icon to generate APT source code for the current manufacturing
program.
Generate Documentation: Select the Generate Documentation icon to produce shop
floor documentation in HTML format.
Import an APT Source into the Program: Select the APT Import contextual
command to insert an existing APT source into the current manufacturing program.
Advanced Tasks
The tasks dealing with specific NC Manufacturing processes are documented in the NC
Design Changes
Set Up and Part Positioning
Workbench Description
This section contains the description of the menu commands and icon toolbars that are specific to the Prismatic Machining
workbench, which is shown below.
Menu Bar
Toolbars
Specification Tree
Prismatic Machining Menu Bar

The various menus and menu commands that are specific to Prismatic Machining are
described below.
Start File Edit View Insert Tools Windows Help
Tasks corresponding to general menu commands are described in the CATIA Version 5
Tasks corresponding to common NC Manufacturing menu commands are described in the

NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Insert Menu
Command... Description...
Machining
See Insert > Machining Operations
Operations
Auxiliary
Inserts Auxiliary Operations
Operations
Machining Inserts Machining Features:
Features Prismatic Machining Area
Prismatic Rework Area
Machining Pattern
Machining Axis System.
Insert > Machining Operations
Command... Description...
Axial Creates Axial Machining Operations
Machining
Operations
Pocketing Creates a Pocketing Operation
Facing Creates a Facing Operation
Profile Creates a Profile Contouring
Contouring Operation
Curve Creates a Curve Following Operation
Following
Point to Point Creates a Point to Point Operation
Prismatic Machining Toolbars

The Prismatic Machining workbench includes specific icon toolbars:
Prismatic Operations
Machining Features
Manufacturing Program Optimization.
The other toolbars in the workbench are common to all the NC Manufacturing products and are described
in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Prismatic Operations Toolbar

This toolbar contains the commands for creating and editing 2.5 axis Milling and Axial Machining
operations.
The icons for creating and editing 2.5 axis Milling operations are as follows.
See Create a Pocketing Operation

See Create a Facing Operation
See Create a Profile Contouring Operation
See Create a Curve Following Operation
See Create a Point to Point Operation
See Create a Prismatic Roughing Operation
The following toolbar is accessed from the drop-down icon in the Prismatic Operations toolbar.
It contains icons for creating and editing Axial Machining operations as follows.
See Create a Drilling Operation

See Create a Spot Drilling Operation
See Create a Drilling Dwell Delay Operation
See Create a Drilling Deep Hole Operation
See Create a Drilling Break Chips Operation
See Create a Tapping Operation
See Create a Reverse Threading Operation
See Create a Thread without Tap Head Operation
See Create a Boring Operation
See Create a Boring and Chamfering Operation
See Create a Boring Spindle Stop Operation
See Create a Reaming Operation
See Create a Counterboring Operation
See Create a Countersinking Operation
See Create a Chamfering Two Sides Operation
See Create a Back Boring Operation
See Create a T-Slotting Operation
See Create a Circular Milling Operation
See Create a Thread Milling Operation
Machining Features Toolbar

This toolbar contains the commands for creating and managing machining features.
See Prismatic machining area.

See Create Operations for Channel and Corner Rework for
information about how to use the Prismatic Rework Area feature.
See Machining Patterns
Machining Axis System
See Manufacturing View.
Manufacturing Program Optimization Toolbar

This toolbar contains the commands for optimizing the order of operations in the program according to pre-
defined sequencing rules.
See Auto-sequence operations of a program according to pre-

defined rules
Specification Tree
Here is an example of a Process Product Resources (PPR) specification tree for Prismatic
Machining.
Process List gives all the activities and machining operations required to transform a part
from a rough to a finished state.
Part Operation defines the manufacturing resources and the reference data.
Manufacturing Program is the list of all of the machining operations, associated
tool changes, and auxiliary operations. The example above shows that:
Drilling.1 is complete and has not been computed
Drilling.2 is complete but has been computed (by means of a replay)
Drilling.3 does not have all of the necessary data (indicated by the
exclamation mark symbol)
Drilling.4 has been deactivated by the user (indicated by the brackets symbol)
Drilling.5 has been modified and needs to be recomputed (indicated by the
update symbol).
Product List gives all of the parts to machine as well as CATPart documents containing
complementary geometry.
Resources List gives all of the resources such as machine or tools that can be used in the
program.
Customizing
The tasks for customizing your NC Manufacturing environment are documented in the NC
NC Manufacturing Settings
Build a Tools Catalog
Access External Tools Catalogs
PP Word Syntaxes
NC Documentation
Reference Information
Reference information that is specific to the Prismatic Machining product can be found in this
section.
Facing Operations
Axial Machining Operations.
Essential reference information on the following topics is provided in the NC Manufacturing

NC Manufacturing Resources
NC Macros
PP Tables and PP Word Syntaxes
Feeds and Speeds
APT Formats
CLfile Formats
The information in this section will help you create and edit pocketing operations in your NC manufacturing
program.
Select the Pocketing icon then select the geometry to be machined .
A number of strategy parameters are available for defining:
machining criteria
radial stepover conditions
axial stepover conditions
finishing
high-speed milling.
Specify the tool to be used , NC macros , and feeds and speeds as needed.
Pocketing Strategy Parameters
Pocketing Machining Parameters
Tool path style

Indicates the cutting mode of the operation:
Inward helical: the tool starts from a point inside the pocket and follows inward paths parallel to the
boundary.
Outward helical: the tool starts from a point inside the pocket and follows outward paths parallel to the
boundary.
Back and forth: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next.
Direction of cut
Specifies how milling is to be done:
Climb milling or Conventional milling
In Climb, the front of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first
In Conventional, the rear of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first.
Machining tolerance
Specifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path.
Fixture accuracy
Specifies a tolerance applied to the fixture thickness. If the distance between the tool and fixture is less than
fixture thickness minus fixture accuracy, the position is eliminated from the trajectory. If the distance is
greater, the position is not eliminated.
Compensation
Specifies the tool corrector identifier to be used in the operation.
The corrector type (P1, P2, P3, for example), corrector identifier and corrector number are defined on the
tool. When the NC data source is generated, the corrector number can be generated using specific
parameters.
Pocketing Radial Stepover Parameters
Radial mode
Specifies how the distance between two consecutive paths is to be computed:
Maximum distance between paths
Tool diameter ratio
Stepover ratio.
Distance between paths
Defines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy.
Percentage of tool diameter
Defines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy as a
percentage of the nominal tool diameter. Depending on the selected Radial mode this value is used
as
either Tool diameter ratio or Stepover ratio .
Overhang
Allows a shift in the tool position with respect to
the soft boundary of the machining domain.
Center path overlap

Specifies the tool overlap in the center path of a helical trajectory.
Truncated transition paths
Enables the tool to follow the external profile more exactly by allowing the transition portion of the
trajectory to be truncated (for pocketing using a Back and Forth tool path style).
Not truncated: Truncated:
Scallop pass
Allows a final machining pass around the exterior of the trajectory and islands for removing scallops
(for pocketing using a Back and Forth tool path style).
Scallop pass ratio
Adjusts the position of the final pass for removing scallops (for pocketing using a Back and Forth tool
path style).
Always stay on bottom
When machining a multi-domain pocket using a helical tool path style, this parameter forces the tool to
remain in contact with the pocket bottom when moving from one domain to another. This avoids
unnecessary linking transitions.
In this case, you can also select Inward/outward mix to authorize changing tool path style (inward
helical to outward helical, or inversely) from one domain to another in the pocket.
Pocketing Axial Stepover Parameters
Axial strategy mode

Specifies how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed:
Maximum depth of cut
Number of levels
Number of levels without top.
Defines the maximum depth of cut in an axial strategy.
Number of levels
Defines the number of levels to be machined in an axial strategy.
Automatic draft angle
Specifies the draft angle to be applied on the sides of the pocket.
Breakthrough
Specifies the distance in the tool axis direction that the tool must go completely through the part.
Breakthrough is applied on the bottom element, which must be specified as soft.
Pocketing Finishing Parameters
Finishing mode
Indicates whether or not finish passes are to be generated on the sides and bottom of the area to machine.
Side finishing can be done at each level or only at the last level of the operation.
Side finish thickness
Specifies the thickness used for side finishing.
Number of side finish paths per level
Specifies the number of side finish paths for each
level in a multi-pass operation.
This can help you reduce the number of operations

in the program.
Side finish thickness on bottom

Specifies the thickness used for the last side finish pass at the end of the operation.
Bottom finish thickness
Specifies the thickness used for bottom finishing.
Spring pass
Indicates whether or not a spring pass is to be generated on the sides in the same condition as the previous
Side finish pass. The spring pass is used to compensate the natural `spring' of the tool.
Avoid scallops on bottom
Defines whether or not the distance between paths can be adjusted by the program in order to avoid scallops
on the bottom. Available for single-level operations and multi-level operations with bottom finish pass.
Output style
Specifies the way the NC output is to be generated for the side finish pass: Standard tip output or Cutter
Profile output.
A negative Offset on contour (parameter in Geometry tab page) is possible for Cutter Profile output.
Pocketing High Speed Milling (HSM) Parameters
High Speed Milling

Specifies whether or not cornering for HSM is to be done on the trajectory.
Corner radius
Specifies the radius used for rounding the corners
along the trajectory of a HSM operation.
Value must be smaller than the tool radius.
Limit angle
Specifies the minimum angle for rounding corners in
the toolpath for a HSM operation.
Extra segment overlap

Specifies the overlap for the extra segments that are
generated for cornering in a HSM operation. This is to
ensure that there is no leftover material in the corners
of the trajectory.
Cornering on side finish path

Specifies whether or not tool path cornering is to be done on side finish path.
Corner radius on side finish path
Specifies the radius used for rounding the corners of the side finish path in a HSM operation. Value must be
smaller than the tool radius.
Limit angle on side finish path
Specifies the minimum angle for rounding the corners of the side finish path in a HSM operation.
Transition radius
Specifies the radius at the start and end of the
transition path when moving from one path to the next
in a HSM operation.
Transition angle
Specifies the angle of the transition path that allows
the tool to move smoothly from one path to the next in
a HSM operation.
Transition length
Specifies a minimum length for the straight segment of
the transition between paths in a HSM operation.
Pocketing Geometry
A Pocketing operation can be created for machining:
Closed pockets
Tool machines the area delimited by hard boundaries
Open pockets
Tool machines the area that has a least one soft boundary.
You can specify the following Geometry:
Pocket Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom. Bottom may be Hard or Soft.
Pocket Boundary (edges or sketch) with possible:
Offset on Hard Boundary
Offset on Soft Boundary
Offset on Contour
Pocket Top plane with possible Offset on Top.
Islands (defined by hard boundaries) with possible Offset on each island.
Fixture or check elements with possible Offset on Check.
Start and End points.
If you specify an Offset on Contour, it is added to any defined Offset on Hard Boundary, Offset on Hard Boundary,
and Offset on Island.
You can select a Start point and an End point as preferential start and end positions for the operation. This
allows better control for optimizing the program according to the previous and following operations.
Note that the Start point can be located outside an open pocket. In this case, you must specify a clearance with
respect to the pocket boundary.
Pocketing Tools
Recommended tools for pocketing are End Mills, Face Mills and T-Slotters.
Pocketing Feeds and Speeds

In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, machining and finishing as
well as a machining spindle speed.
Feedrates and spindle speed can be defined in linear or angular units.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC data
file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or
Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.
Feedrate Reduction in Corners
You can reduce feedrates in corners encountered along the tool path depending on values given in the Feeds
and Speeds tab page: reduction rate, maximum radius, minimum angle, and distances before and after the
corner.
Feed reduction is applied to corners along the tool path whose radius is less than the Maximum radius value and
whose arc angle is greater than the Minimum angle value.
For Pocketing, feedrate reduction applies to inside and outside corners for machining or finishing passes. It does
not apply for macros or default linking and return motions.
Corners can be angled or rounded, and may include extra segments for HSM operations.
Slowdown Rate
You can use Slowdown rate in the Feeds and Speeds tab page to reduce the current feedrate by a given
percentage.
In Outward/Inward Helical Pocketing, the reduction is applied to the first channel cut.
In Back and Forth Pocketing, the reduction is applied to the first channel cut and to the transitions between
passes.
Combining Slowdown Rate and Feedrate Reduction in Corners
If a corner is included in a Slowdown path, the general rule is that the lowest percentage value is taken into
account.
For example, if the Slowdown rate is set to 70 % and Feedrate reduction rate in corners is set to 50%, the
feedrate sequence is:
100%, 70% (entry in slowdown), 50% (entry in corner), 70% (end of corner, still in slowdown), 100% (end of
slowdown).
If Feedrate reduction rate in corners is then set to 75%, the feedrate sequence is:
100%, 70% (entry in slowdown), 70% (entry in corner: 75% ignored), 70% (end of corner, still in slowdown),
100% (end of slowdown).
Pocketing NC Macros
You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC Macros. These transition paths are
useful for providing approach, retract and linking motion in the tool path.
An Approach macro is used to approach the operation start point.

A Retract macro is used to retract from the operation end point.
A Return on Same Level macro is used in a multi-path operation to link two consecutive paths in a given
level.
A Return between Levels macro is used in a multi-level machining operation to go to the next level.
A Return to Finish Pass macro is used in a machining operation to go to the finish pass.
A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for example.
Pocketing P1/P2 Considerations

Note that P2 functionalities for Pocketing include Automatic Draft Angle, all Finishing parameters, and
Sectioning for guiding element selection.
To edit in P1 a Pocketing operation that was created in P2, the following parameter values must be set:
Automatic draft angle = 0 deg

Finishing Mode = No finish path
Side finish thickness = 0.0 mm
Side finish thickness on bottom = 0.0 mm
Bottom finish thickness = 0.0 mm
Spring pass = no
Avoid scallops on bottom = no
HSM Cornering on side finish path = no
HSM Corner radius = 1 mm
HSM Limit angle = 10 deg.

The information in this section will help you create and edit 2.5 axis Profile Contouring operations
in your NC manufacturing program.
Select the Profile Contouring icon then select the geometry to be machined .
machining criteria
axial and radial stepover conditions
finishing
high-speed milling.
Specify the tool to be used , NC macros , and feeds and speeds as needed.
Profile Contouring Strategy Parameters
Profile Contouring Machining Parameters
Tool path style

Zig Zag: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next
One way: the same machining direction is used from one path to the next.
Direction of cut
Specifies how machining is to be done.
In Climb milling, the front of the
advancing tool (in the machining
direction) cuts into the material first
In Conventional , the rear of the

advancing tool (in the machining
direction) cuts into the material first.
Machining tolerance
Fixture accuracy
Specifies a tolerance applied to the fixture thickness. If the distance between the tool and
fixture is less than fixture thickness minus fixture accuracy, the position is eliminated from the
trajectory. If the distance is greater, the position is not eliminated.
Type of contour
Indicates whether the contouring type of corners is:
Circular: the tool pivots around the
corner point, following a contour whose
radius is equal to the tool radius
Angular: the tool does not remain in

contact with the corner point, following a
contour comprised of two line segments
Optimized: the tool follows a contour

derived from the corner that is
continuous in tangent
Forced circular: the tool follows a near-

circular contour comprised of line
segments.
Close tool path

Specifies whether or not the program must close the tool path.
Tool position ON guide

Specifies the position of the tool tip on the guiding elements. Offset on contour and driving
mode are already taken into account.
Percentage overlap
Specifies the amount that the tool must go
beyond the end point of a closed tool path
according to a percentage of the tool diameter.
Output type
Specifies the way the NC output is to be generated: Standard tip output or Cutter Profile output.
A negative Offset on contour (parameter in Geometry tab page) is possible for Cutter Profile
output.
Compensation
The corrector type (P1, P2, P3, for example), corrector identifier and corrector number are
defined on the tool. When the NC data source is generated, the corrector number can be
generated using specific parameters.
Compensation application mode
Specifies how the corrector type specified on the tool (P1, P2, P3, for example) is used to
define the position of the tool: Output point or Guiding point.
Profile Contouring Stepover Parameters
Sequencing
Specifies the order in which machining is to be done.
Axial: axial machining is done first then
radial
Radial: radial machining is done first

then axial

Defines the maximum distance between two
consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy.
Number of paths
Defines the number of tool paths in a radial strategy.
Overhang for rework areas
Allows a shift in the tool position with respect to the soft boundary of the rework area.
Axial strategy mode
Defines how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed:
Number of levels
Number of levels without top.
Number of levels
Specifies the draft angle to be applied on the flanks between the top and bottom elements.
Breakthrough
Specifies the distance in the tool axis direction that the tool must go completely through the
part. Breakthrough is applied on the bottom element, which must be specified as soft.
Only available in Between two planes mode.
Profile Contouring Finishing Parameters
Finishing mode
Indicates whether or not finish passes are to be generated on the sides and bottom of the area
to machine. Side finishing can be done at each level or only at the last level of the operation.
Specifies the thickness used for side
finishing.

Specifies the thickness used for the last
side finish pass at the end of the
operation.

Specifies the thickness used for bottom
finishing.
Bottom finish path style

Defines the bottom finish path style: Zig zag or One way.
Spring pass
Indicates whether or not a spring pass is to be generated on the sides in the same condition as
the previous Side finish pass. The spring pass is used to compensate the natural `spring' of the
tool.
Profile Contouring High Speed Milling (HSM) Parameters
In a Profile Contouring, cornering for HSM is available for Roughing and Finishing passes in the
following guiding modes:
Between 2 planes
Between curve and surfaces
Between two curves.
Cornering applies to inside corners for machining or finishing passes. It does not apply to:
outside corners (for example, produced by angular or optimized contouring mode).

macros or default linking and return motions.
Cornering
Corner radius
Specifies the radius used for rounding the
corners along the trajectory of a HSM
operation. Value must be smaller than the tool
radius.

Specifies whether or not tool path cornering is to be done on the side finish path.
Specifies the corner radius used for rounding the corners along the side finish path of a HSM
operation. Value must be smaller than the tool radius.
Profile Contouring Geometry

A Profile Contouring operation can be created in one of the following Machining modes.
Between Two Planes
Tool follows contour between top and bottom planes while respecting user-defined geometry
limitations and machining strategy parameters.
Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom. Bottom may be Hard or
Soft.
Guiding contour (edges or sketch) with possible Offset on Contour:
Top plane with possible Offset on Top. Top may be Hard or Soft.
Two Relimiting elements with possible Offsets.
Between Two Curves (P2 functionality)
Tool follows trajectory defined by top and bottom guide curves while respecting user-defined
geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom. Bottom may be Hard or
Soft.
Top and Bottom Guiding contours (edges or sketch) with possible Offset on Contour:

Two Axial Offsets.
Between a Curve and Surfaces (P2 functionality)
Tool follows trajectory defined by a top guide curve and bottom surfaces while respecting user-
defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.
Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom.

Axial Offset.
By Flank Contouring (P2 functionality)
Tool flank machines vertical part surface while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and
machining strategy parameters.
Possible Offset on Bottom.

Relimiting elements with possible Offsets.
Machining Discontinuous Guiding Curves
You can machine several discontinuous groups of guiding elements in all Profile Contouring
modes (except By Flank Contouring).
The order of selection of the geometric elements determines the order in which they will be
machined.
Profile Contouring Tools

Recommended tools for Profile Contouring are End Mills, Face Mills, Conical Mills and T-Slotters.
Drills, Spot Drills, Center Drills, and Two Sides Chamfering tools can also be used.
Profile Contouring Feeds and Speeds

In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, machining and
finishing as well as a machining spindle speed.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the
generated NC data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is
not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the
Rough or Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on
You can reduce feedrates in corners encountered along the tool path depending on values given in
the Feeds and Speeds tab page: reduction rate, maximum radius, minimum angle, and distances
before and after the corner.
Feed reduction is applied to corners along the tool path whose radius is less than the Maximum
radius value and whose arc angle is greater than the Minimum angle value. Corners can be angled
or rounded.
For Profile Contouring, feedrate reduction applies to inside corners for machining or finishing
passes. It does not apply for macros or default linking and return motions.
If a cornering is defined with a radius of 5mm and the Feedrate reduction in corners set to a lower
radius value, the feedrate will not be reduced.
Profile Contouring NC Macros

You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC Macros. These
transition paths are useful for providing approach, retract and linking motion in the tool path.

A Linking macro may be used in several cases, for example:
to link two non consecutive paths

to access finish and spring passes.
A Return on Same Level macro is used in a multi-path operation to link two consecutive
paths in a given level.
A Return between Levels macro is used in a multi-level machining operation to go to the
next level.
A Return to Finish Pass macro is used in a machining operation to go to the finish pass.
A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for example.
Profile Contouring P1/P2 Considerations

Note that P2 functionalities for Profile Contouring include Automatic Draft Angle, all Finishing
parameters, and Sectioning for guiding element selection.
To edit in P1 a Profile Contouring operation that was created in P2, the following parameter values
must be set:
Automatic draft angle = 0 deg
Side finish thickness = 0.0 mm
Side finish thickness on bottom = 0.0 mm
Spring pass = no.
Prismatic Roughing Parameters

The information in this section will help you create and edit Prismatic Roughing operations in your NC
Select the icon then the geometric components to be machined.
Machining criteria
Radial stepover conditions
Axial stepover conditions
High speed milling.
Specify the tool to be used (only end mills are available for this operation) and speeds and feeds
You can also define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC macros as
needed.
Only the geometry is required, all of the other requirements have a default value.
Prismatic Roughing: Machining Strategy tab
Prismatic Roughing: Machining parameters
Tool path style
Helical: the tool moves in successive concentric passes

from the boundary of the area to machine towards the
interior. The tool moves from one pass to the next by
stepping over.
Machining tolerance
Maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path. Consider the value to be the
acceptable chord error.
Cutting mode
Specifies the position of the tool regarding the surface to be machined. It can be:
Climb or Conventional.
Machining mode
Defines the type of area to be machined:
By plane: the whole part is machined plane by plane,

By area: the whole part is machined area by area,
then
Pockets only: only pockets on the part are machined,

Outer part: only the outside of the part is machined,
Outer part and pockets: the whole part is machined outer area by outer area and then pocket by
pocket.
Helical movement
Specifies the way the tool moves in a pocket or an external

zone. It can be:
Inward: the tool starts from a point inside the zone and
follows inward paths parallel to the boundary.
Outward: the tool starts from a point inside the zone

and follows outward paths parallel to the boundary.
Both:
for pockets, the tool starts from a point inside
the pocket and follows outward paths parallel to
the boundary.
for external zones, the tool starts from a point
on the rough stock boundary and follows inward
paths parallel to the boundary.
This option becomes available when the tool path style is set to Helical. When this option is checked, the
linking path between two areas remains in the plane currently machined.
Prismatic Roughing: Radial parameters
Stepover
It can be defined by:
the Overlap ratio, i.e. the overlap between two passes, given as a percentage of the tool diameter,
the Overlap length between two passes,
the Stepover ratio, i.e. the stepover between two passes, given as a percentage of the tool
diameter,
the Stepover length between two passes.
Prismatic Roughing: Axial parameters
Axial strategy/Maximum cut depth
Depth of the cut effected by the tool at each pass.
Prismatic Roughing: High Speed Milling parameters
The HSM tab defines the parameters for High speed milling
Corner radius
Specifies the radius used for rounding the corners along the trajectory of a HSM operation. . The tool path
is rounded to give a smoother path that is machined much faster.
Prismatic Roughing: Geometry

You can specify the following geometry:
Part with possible offset.

Rough stock is required.
Check element with possible offset. The check element is often a clamp that holds the part and
therefore is not an area to be machined.
Safety plane. The safety plane is the plane that the tool will rise to at the end of the tool path in
order to avoid collisions with the part. You can also define a new safety plane with the Offset
option in the safety plane contextual menu. The new plane will be offset from the original by the
distance that you enter in the dialog box.
Top plane which defines the highest plane that will be machined on the part,
Bottom plane which defines the lowest plane that will be machined on the part,
Imposed plane that the tool must obligatorily pass through. Use this option if the part that you are
going to machine has a particular shape (a groove or a step) that you want to be sure will be cut.
If you wish to use all of the planar surfaces in a part as imposed surfaces, use the
Search/View ... option in the contextual menu to select them.
When searching for planar surfaces, you can choose to find either:
all of the planar surfaces in the part,

or only the planes that can be reached by the tool you are using.
When you are using planar surfaces in a part as imposed surfaces and you are using an offset on the
part, select Offset in the contextual menu and then enter an offset value that is the same as the offset on
part value plus the machining tolerance value. For example, if the offset on part is 1mm and the machining
tolerance is 0.1mm, give a value 1.1mm.
This ensures that the imposed planar surface is respected to within the offset and tolerance values.
Start point where the tool will start cutting. There are specific conditions for start points:
They must be outside the machining limit. Examples of machining limits are the rough stock
contour; a limit line, an offset on the rough stock, an offset on the limit line, etc.
They must not be positioned so as to cause collisions with either the part or the check
element. If a start point for a given zone causes a collision, the tool will automatically adopt
ramping approach mode.
The distance between the start point and the machining limit must be greater than the tool
radius plus the machining tolerance. If the distance between the start point and the
machining limit is greater than the tool radius plus the safety distance, the start point will only
serve to define the engagement direction.
If there are several start points for a given area, the one that is used is the first valid one (in
the order in which they were selected) for that area. If there are several possible valid points,
the nearest one is taken into account.
One start point may be valid and for more than one area.
If a limit line is used, the tool will approach outer areas of the part and pockets in ramping
mode. towards the outside of the contour. The tool moves from the outside towards the
inside of this type of area. In this case, you must define the start point.
If you use a limit line or if you use an inner offset on the rough stock, the start point may be defined inside
the initial rough stock. The rules concerning the domain of the contour line or the offset on the rough stock
contour line above must be applied.
Whenever possible, the end of the engagement associated to the start point corresponds to the
beginning of the sweeping path. If this is not possible, the path will be cut to respect the constraint
imposed by the start point.
Inner points (only active if the Drilling mode has been selected in the Macro tab). There are
specific conditions for inner points:
they are usable for pockets only,
They must not be positioned so as to cause collisions with either the part or the check
element. If an inner point for a given pocket causes a collision, the tool will adopt a new
inner point generated automatically.
the inner point must lay inside the pocket or inside the portion of the pocket that is
machined.
If there are several inner points for a given pocket, the one that is used is the first valid one
(in the order in which they were selected) for that pocket.
A point can not be valid for several pockets.
Limiting contour which defines the machining limit on the part, with the Side to machine
parameter.
Automatic horizontal areas detection
When this option is not checked, the only way to ensure that a cutting plane corresponds with an
horizontal area is to define an Imposed plane crossing the area. This means that you have to consider the
offset on part. This plane applies to the whole part (which is not necessary). If there are several horizontal
areas to consider at different levels you have to define all of the corresponding imposed planes.
Check this option to:
detect automatically horizontal areas on the part,

limit the cutting plane effect to these areas,
apply a dedicated offset on the part for these areas.
Then enter the value of the offset to apply on the areas (Offset on areas) and define the Maximum angle
that can be considered as horizontal. The angle is measured perpendicular to the tool path.
If the machining mode is By area, the tool path will look like this:
If the machining mode is By plane, the tool path will look like this:
The cutting planes in green are the Standard roughing tool paths, the red ones are those computed for the
horizontal areas detected.
The computation of horizontal areas is not possible if the part is made of a cloud of points (STL).
This option is not compatible with the use of offset groups.
Horizontal areas are always defined as pockets (no distinction outer part/pocket). To mill Pocket only or
Outer part areas, please use a limiting contour.
Offset
Defines the distance that the tool can overshoot the Position. It is expressed as a percentage of the tool
diameter. This parameter is useful in cases where there is an island near the edge of the part and the tool
diameter is too wide to allow the area behind the island to be machined.
This parameter can only be used if the Position is inside or outside.
Limit Definition
Defines what area of the part will be machined with respect to the limiting contour(s). It can either be
inside or outside. In the pictures below, there are three limiting contours on the rough stock. The yellow
areas will be machined.
Side to machine: Inside Side to machine: Outside
If you are using a limiting contour, you should define the start point so as to avoid tool-material collision.
Prismatic Roughing:Tools
The only supported tools are End Mills.
Prismatic Roughing: Feeds and Speeds

In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, machining and
finishing as well as a machining spindle speed.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC
data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough
or Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining
Operation.
You can reduce feedrates in corners encountered along the tool path depending on values given in the
Feeds and Speeds tab page: reduction rate, maximum radius, minimum angle, and distances before and
after the corner.
Feed reduction is applied to corners along the tool path whose radius is less than the Maximum radius
value and whose arc angle is greater than the Minimum angle value.
For Pocketing, feedrate reduction applies to inside and outside corners for machining or finishing passes.
It does not apply for macros or default linking and return motions.
Corners can be angled or rounded, and may include extra segments for HSM operations.
Slowdown Rate
You can use Slowdown rate in the Feeds and Speeds tab page to reduce the current feedrate by a given
percentage.
In Outward/Inward Helical Pocketing, the reduction is applied to the first channel cut.
In Back and Forth Pocketing, the reduction is applied to the first channel cut and to the transitions
between passes.
Combining Slowdown Rate and Feedrate Reduction in Corners
If a corner is included in a Slowdown path, the general rule is that the lowest percentage value is taken
into account.
For example, if the Slowdown rate is set to 70 % and Feedrate reduction rate in corners is set to 50%, the
feedrate sequence is:
100%, 70% (entry in slowdown), 50% (entry in corner), 70% (end of corner, still in slowdown), 100% (end
of slowdown).
If Feedrate reduction rate in corners is then set to 75%, the feedrate sequence is:
100%, 70% (entry in slowdown), 70% (entry in corner: 75% ignored), 70% (end of corner, still in
slowdown), 100% (end of slowdown).
Prismatic Roughing: Macro Data

For more information on how to save or load an existing macro, please refer to Build and use a macros
catalog.
Optimize retract
This button optimizes tool retract movements. This means that when the tool moves over a surface where
there are no obstructions, it will not rise as high as the safety plane because there is no danger of tool-part
collisions. The result is a gain in time.
In some cases (where areas of the part are higher than the zone you are machining and when you are
using a safety plane), the tool will cut into the part. When this happens, deactivate the Optimize retract
button.
Axial safety distance
Maximum distance that the tool will rise to when moving from the end of one pass to the beginning of the
next.
Mode
Specifies the engagement of the tool in the material:
Plunge; the tool plunges vertically,

Drilling; the tool plunges into previously drilled holes. You can change the Drilling tool diameter,
Drilling tool angle and Drilling tool length,
Ramping; the tool moves progressively down at the Ramping angle,
Helix; the tool moves progressively down at the ramping angle with its center along a (vertical)
circular helix of Helix diameter.
Ramping approach mode applies to pockets but also outer areas in given conditions:
If a limit line is used, the tool will approach outer areas of the part and pockets in ramping mode.
If a lateral approach is not possible (due to the check element), the approach is made in ramping
mode.
Approach distance
Engagement distance for plunge mode.
Radial safety distance
Distance that the tool moves horizontally before it begins its approach.
Facing Operations
The information in this section will help you create and edit Facing operations in your NC
Select the Facing icon then select the geometry to be machined.
machining criteria
radial stepover conditions
axial stepover conditions
finishing
high-speed milling.
Specify the tool to be used , NC macros , and feeds and speeds as

needed.
Facing Strategy Parameters
Facing Machining Parameters
Tool path style

Inward helical: the tool starts from a point inside the area to machine and follows
inward paths parallel to the boundary.
Back and forth: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next.
Direction of cut
Specifies how milling is to be done in Inward helical:
Climb milling or Conventional milling

In Climb, the front of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the
material first
In Conventional, the rear of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts
into the material first.
Machining tolerance
Specifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool
path.
Fixture accuracy
fixture is less than fixture thickness minus fixture accuracy, the position is eliminated from
the trajectory. If the distance is greater, the position is not eliminated.
Type of contour
Indicates the contouring type of corners in Inward helical:
Circular: the tool pivots around the corner point, following a contour whose radius
is equal to the tool radius
Angular: the tool does not remain in contact with the corner point, following a
contour comprised of two line segments
Optimized: the tool follows a contour derived from the corner that is continuous in
tangent
Forced circular: the tool follows a near-circular contour comprised of line
segments.
Compensation
The corrector type (P1, P2, P3, for example), corrector identifier and corrector number
are defined on the tool. When the NC data source is generated, the corrector number can
be generated using specific parameters.
Facing Radial Stepover Parameters
Radial mode
Defines how the distance between two consecutive paths is to be computed.
You should either set a Maximum distance between paths or give a Percentage of tool
diameter to be used as:
either Tool diameter ratio or Stepover ratio .


Defines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy
as a percentage of the nominal tool diameter.
End of path
Defines how the tool path is to start and end with respect to the boundary between two
consecutive paths (In or Out).
Overhang
Allows a shift in the tool position with respect to the soft boundary of the machining
domain.
Tool side approach clearance

Specifies the clearance between the tool side and the part that must be respected when
entering or leaving the material.
Facing Axial Stepover Parameters
Axial strategy mode

Defines how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed.
Number of levels
Facing Finishing Parameters
Finishing mode
Indicates whether or not a finish pass is to be generated on the bottom of the area to
machine.
Specifies the thickness used for bottom finishing.
Facing High Speed Milling (HSM) Parameters
For Facing operations using an Inward helical tool path style only.
High Speed Milling

Corner radius
Specifies the radius used for rounding the corners along the trajectory of a HSM
operation. Value must be smaller than the tool radius.
Limit angle
Specifies the minimum angle for rounding corners in the toolpath for a HSM operation.
Specifies the overlap for the extra segments that are generated for cornering in a HSM
operation. This is to ensure that there is no leftover material in the corners of the
trajectory.
Transition radius
Specifies the radius at the start and end of the transition path when moving from one
path to the next in a HSM operation.
Transition angle
Specifies the angle of the transition path that allows the tool to move smoothly from one
path to the next in a HSM operation.
Transition length
Specifies a minimum length for the straight segment of the transition between paths in a
HSM operation.
Facing Geometry
Bottom (planar face or surface) with possible Offset on Bottom.

Drive contour (edges or sketch) with possible Offset on Contour.
Top plane with possible Offset on Top.
Start point (for Inward helical)
Start and end points (for One way and Back and forth).
You can select start and end points as preferential start and end positions on the operation.
This allows better control for optimizing the program according to the previous and following
operations.
For One way and Back and forth tool path styles, you can select the Bounding envelope
checkbox to machine the maximum bounding rectangle of the part. After selecting the
geometry to be machined, this rectangle is computed after defining a machining direction.
The figures below illustrate how machining is done for different machining directions.
Facing Tools
Recommended tools for Facing are End Mills, Face Mills and T-Slotters.
Facing Feeds and Speeds

In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract,
machining and finishing as well as a machining spindle speed.
generated NC data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise,
it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data
and the Rough or Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and
Speeds on Machining Operation.
Facing NC Macros
You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC
Macros. These transition paths are useful for providing approach, retract and linking motion
in the tool path.

A Return on Same Level macro is used in a multi-path operation to link two

consecutive paths in a given level.
A Return between Levels macro is used in a multi-level machining operation to go to
the next level.
A Return to Finish Pass macro is used in a machining operation to go to the finish
pass.
A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for
example.
Facing P1/P2 Considerations

Note that P2 functionalities for Facing include all Finishing parameters and Sectioning for
guiding element selection.
To edit in P1 a Facing operation that was created in P2, the following parameter values
must be set:

HSM Corner radius = 1 mm
HSM Limit angle = 10 deg.

The information in this section will help you create and edit Curve Following operations in
your NC manufacturing program.
Select the Curve Following icon then select the geometry to be machined .
machining criteria
axial stepover conditions.
Specify the tool to be used , NC macros , and feeds and speeds as

needed.
Curve Following Strategy Parameters
Curve Following: Machining Parameters
Tool path style

Zig Zag: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next
Machining tolerance
Specifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool
path.
Fixture accuracy
fixture is less than fixture thickness minus fixture accuracy, the position is eliminated from
the trajectory. If the distance is greater, the position is not eliminated.
Curve Following: Axial Stepover Parameters

Number of levels
Curve Following Geometry

Guiding contour (edges or sketch) with possible Axial Offset:

Curve Following Tool

Most Milling and Drilling tool types can be used for Curve Following.
Curve Following Feeds and Speeds

In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, and
machining passes as well as a machining spindle speed.
generated NC data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise,
it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data
and the Rough or Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and
Speeds on Machining Operation.
Curve Following NC Macros

You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC
Macros. These transition paths are useful for providing approach, retract and linking motion
in the tool path.

A Return between Levels macro is used in a multi-level machining operation to go to
the next level.
A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for
example.

The information in this section will help you create and edit Point to Point operations in your NC
Select the Point to Point icon then set the strategy parameters for defining:
a sequence of elementary Goto Point, Goto Position and Go Delta tool motions
machining conditions.
Specify the tool to be used, NC macros , and feeds and speeds as needed.
Point to Point Strategy Parameters
Point to Point Tool Motions
Goto Point
A tool motion defined by the point the tool tip has to reach.
Geometry can be selected as follows:
Direct selection on the part (points, vertices, and so on)

Direct indication in a pre-selected surface.
Only selection done within the topological limits of the surface are taken into account.
Indication of points to be projected onto a user-defined indication plane.
This indication plane is considered as infinite (it has no topological limits). This allows point
indication outside the part boundaries. It is a temporary element used as an aid for selection. It is
not saved after operation edition.
Goto Position
A tool motion defined by positioning the tool in contact with a part element, a drive element and possibly
a check element, while taking To / On / Past conditions into account.
Go Delta
A tool motion defined by a displacement relative to a previous Point, Position or GoDelta motion location.
Types of Go Delta motion are as follows.
Components: relative motion defined by DX, DY, DZ displacements
from previous motion location.
Along Y axis: relative motion along Y axis (current axis system) on
a user specified Distance, from previous motion location.
Along X axis: relative motion along X axis (current axis system) on

a user specified Distance, from previous motion location.
Parallel to Line: relative motion on a user specified Distance,

parallel to a user selected Line, from previous motion location.
Normal to Line: relative motion on a user specified Distance,

normal to a user selected Line, from previous motion location. The
tool motion is done in a plane perpendicular to the tool axis.
Angle to Line: relative motion on a user specified Distance, along a

line computed from user defined Angle and Line. The tool motion is
done in a plane perpendicular to the tool axis.
Point to Point Machining Parameters
Machining tolerance
Offset along tool axis
Defines an offset along the tool axis for all positions of the tool path (it is taken into account for all the
positions of the operation).
First compensation
The corrector type (P1, P2, P3, for example), corrector identifier and corrector number are defined on the
tool. When the NC data source is generated, the corrector number can be generated using specific
parameters.
Point to Point Tool

All Milling and Drilling tools can be used in this type of operation.
Point to Point Feeds and Speeds

In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract and machining as well as
a machining spindle speed.
A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC
data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.
Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or
Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.
In Point to Point operations, a local feedrate can be defined for all tool motions (except the first motion, which
must be either RAPID or a specific feedrate). The local feedrate is applied instead of the machining feedrate
during the tool motion to reach the tool position.
Point to Point NC Macros

You can define transition paths in your machining operations by means of NC Macros. These transition paths
are useful for providing approach and retract motion in the tool path.

2.5 to 5-axis Drilling Operations

The information in this section will help you create and manage the drilling (or axial machining) operations in your NC
Note that the commands and capabilities included in the Geometry tab page of the Axial Machining Operation dialog box allow
support of multi-axis as well as fixed axis drilling.
Axial Machining Strategy Parameters
General Parameters
Approach clearance (A)

Defines a safety distance along the tool axis for approaching the hole reference.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_CLEAR_TIP.
Approach clearance 2 (A2)
Only for Boring and Chamfering, Chamfering Two Sides and Back Boring operations. Defines a safety distance along the
tool axis for approaching the chamfering or back boring pass.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_CLEAR_TIP_2.
Breakthrough (B)
Defines the distance in the tool axis direction that the tool goes completely through the part.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_BREAKTHROUGH.
Plunge mode
Allows you to specify an axial plunge from the hole reference at plunge feedrate prior to machining.
The overall plunge distance is determined as follows:

Approach clearance + (Plunge depth - Plunge offset)
where Plunge depth is determined by a tool tip or tool diameter value.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_PLUNGE_MODE.

Plunge offset (Po)
Specifies the plunge offset value.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_PLUNGE_OFFST.
Plunge diameter (Pd)
Specifies the plunge diameter value.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_PLUNGE_DIAMETER.
Plunge tip (Pt)
Specifies the plunge tip distance.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_PLUNGE_TIP.
Depth mode
Defines how the depth computation is to be done.
Depending on the type of operation this can be done as a function of the tool tip, shoulder, diameter or a distance value.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_DEPTH_MODE.
Dwell mode
Defines the dwell by means of a number of revolutions or time duration.
Revolutions: Specifies the number of revolutions for the dwell

Time: Specifies the time duration of the dwell.
Shift mode
Specifies the shift mode used to offset the tool just before retracting.
By linear coordinates
Shift along X: Specifies the shift along X
Shift along Y: Specifies the shift along Y
Shift along Z: Specifies the shift along Z
By
Shift distance: Specifies the shift distance
Shift angle: Specifies the shift angle
None.
The values entered for the selected shift mode determine the angle at which the active part of the boring bar stops and the
amount of the tool displacement.
For a shift defined by polar coordinates (90deg, 1.5mm), the tool is displaced 1.5mm as indicated by the arrow in the figure
below.
The same shift motion could be obtained by the linear coordinates (0mm, 1.5mm, 0mm).
Max depth of cut (Dc)
Defines the maximum depth of cut for:
each peck in a Drilling Deephole operation
each break chips pass in a Drilling Break Chips operation.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_AXIAL_DEPTH.

Retract offset (Or)
Defines the value of:
the back motion used to break chips after each drilling pass in a Drilling Break Chips operation
the offset where machining feedrate starts before each new peck in a Drilling Deephole operation.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_OFFSET_RET.

Decrement rate
Decreases the effective depth of cut at each new peck until the total depth is reached.
Depth of peck 1 = Max depth of cut (Dc)

Depth of peck 2 = Dc * (1-Decrement rate)
Depth of peck 3 = Dc * (1-2*Decrement rate)
and so on.
If Decrement rate is equal to zero, the Maximum depth of cut is applied at each new peck as a constant step.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_DEPTH_DEC.
Decrement limit
Coefficient used to determine the maximum allowed depth of cut for a peck in a Drilling Deephole operation.
The depth of a new peck never becomes smaller than the Maximum depth of cut multiplied by the Decrement limit.
That is:
Depth of current peck > Maximum depth of cut * Decrement limit.
When:
Depth of current peck = Maximum depth of cut * Decrement limit
this depth is kept for all remaining pecks until the total depth is reached.
The value of Decrement limit must be greater than zero.

The manufacturing attribute is MFG_DEPTH_LIM.
Example of Decrement rate and Decrement limit
A Drilling Deep Hole uses the following parameters:

Maximum depth of cut = 10mm
Decrement rate = 0.1
Decrement limit = 0.8
Therefore, depth of current peck must always be greater than 8mm (that is, 10mm*0.8).
Depth of peck 1 = 10mm

Depth of remaining pecks = 8mm.
Automatic ROTABL
Allows the generation of rotation motions between drilling points.
Works with 3-axis milling machine with rotary table when ROTABL/ output is requested.
Rotary motions are displayed during Replay.
ROTABL/ instructions are generated in the output file.
Facilitates environment setup by minimizing the requirement on post processors (avoids having to deal with X, Y, Z, I, J, K
outputs for rotary tables).
Provides the NC programmer with a more accurate tool path simulation for machine tools with rotary table.
Output CYCLE syntax
Specifies how the NC output is to be generated: output in CYCLE mode or in GOTO mode.
If you want to generate CYCLE statements, you must select the Output CYCLE syntax checkbox in the Strategy tab page
and set the Syntax Used option to Yes in the NC Output generation dialog box.
Otherwise, GOTO statements will be generated.
Note that when several axis orientations are present in a machining pattern, output of the components of the tool axis
orientation is possible whenever the NC data format is set to Axis (X, Y, Z, I, J, K) in the Part Operation's Machine Editor
dialog box.
First compensation
Specifies the first tool compensation number for the operation.
Second compensation
Specifies the second tool compensation number for the operation.
Only for Boring and Chamfering and Chamfering Two Sides operations.
Circular Milling and Thread Milling Parameter
Machining tolerance
Specific Circular Milling Parameters
Machining mode
Specifies the machining mode: Standard or Helical.
Distance between paths (Dp)
Number of paths (Np)
Defines the number of tool paths in a radial strategy.
Axial mode
Defines how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed.
Maximum depth of cut (Mdc)

Number of levels (Nl)
Sequencing mode
Specifies the order in which machining is to be done:
Axial: axial machining is done first then radial

Radial: radial machining is done first then axial.
Direction of cut
Specifies how milling is to be done:
Climb milling: the front of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first
Conventional milling: the rear of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material first
Percentage overlap
Specifies the percentage overlap.
Specifies the draft angle to be applied on the circular flank between the top and bottom of the hole.
Helix mode
Defines how the helix computation is to be done.
The manufacturing attribute is MFG_HELIX_MODE.
Pitch (P): Specifies the helix pitch

Angle (Ang): Specifies the helix angle.
Output style
Specifies how the NC output is to be generated: output by tool tip or by cutter profile.
If a cutter profile output style is selected, both the tip and cutter profile will be visualized during tool path replay.
The cutter profile output allows easier tool compensation to be done on the shop floor.
Machining Patterns
In the Geometry tab page, the operation is assigned a machining pattern, which is initially empty. The identifier of this
machining pattern appears in the combo at the top of this page. When you select hole points, these positions are added to the
pattern.
When creating a new axial machining operation, a new machining pattern is created automatically.
You can add positions in this machining pattern by clicking the sensitive text (No Point or x Points). This opens the Pattern
Selection dialog box that lists all available patterns. Just select one of the existing patterns and/or select geometry in the 3D
view to add new positions to the current machining pattern. Double click to exit.
If there are already machining patterns on previous operations, the combo allows a quick selection of an existing pattern. If
selected, the existing pattern is shared between operations.
Modification of the machining pattern is possible using the machining pattern editor only. This editor can be opened by double-
clicking the machining pattern in the manufacturing view.
Ordering Strategies
Holes that are selected for a machining pattern can be ordered according to the following modes:
Closest: to obtain the shortest possible tool path

Manual: to obtain a user-defined numbered sequence
By Band: to obtain a Zig Zag or One Way configuration according to a set of bands that have a user-defined width.
Zig Zag ordering of a pattern of 40 points for a band width of 18mm is illustrated below:
One Way ordering of the same points and same band width is illustrated below:
Overall Tool Axis Orientation

Right click the Tool axis strategy sensitive text in the Geometry tab page and select one of the following options to specify the
general tool axis orientation:
Fixed Axis: the tool axis orientation is the same for all the selected points
Variable Axis: the tool axis orientation can vary from one point to another
Normal to PS Axis: the tool axis orientation is determined by the normal to the selected part surface.
Note that the tool axis orientation can be inverted by clicking the tool axis symbol in the Geometry tab page.
Projection and Top Element Modes

In the Geometry tab page you can choose between Projection and Top Element modes by clicking on the sensitive text.
The following figure illustrates Projection mode. The reference pattern points are projected onto the selected part surface. The
projected points and the axes normal to the surface define the hole positions to be drilled.
The following figure illustrates Top Element mode. The reference pattern points define the hole positions to be drilled. The
machining depth takes into account the normal distance between the reference points and the selected part surface.
Contextual Menu on 'No Points / x Points' Sensitive Text
A number of contextual commands are available for managing hole positions when you right click the 'No Points / x Points'
sensitive text in the Geometry tab page.
Remove All Positions: Resets all points of the pattern.

Analyze: Allows you to consult the status of the referenced geometry.
Find Features Through Faces: Allows you to quickly locate circular edges in a selected face.
Reverse Ordering: Reverses the numbered sequence of pattern points.
Contextual Menu on Pattern Points

A number of contextual commands are available when you right-click a pattern point.
Deactivate the Point: Deactivates the selected point in the pattern. An O symbol indicates that the point is omitted
from the pattern. A deactivated point can be activated in the pattern again.
Invert Selection: All omitted points are retained in the pattern again; pattern points become omitted points.
Select All: allows you to include all omitted points in the pattern again.
Edit Entry Distance and Edit Exit Distance:
Allow you to locally edit Entry and Exit distances at individual points in a hole pattern. This can be useful for locally
specifying a clearance that is greater than the one defined by the jump distance/approach clearance discussed below.
Set as Start Point: Allows you to choose the start point for the pattern.
Edit Depth: Allows you to edit the depth of a pattern point.
Restore Associativity: Restores the original values taken from the selected design feature if these were modified by
the user, and so restore associativity with the feature.
Edit Local Axis: Allows you to locally modify the tool axis at a point.
Remove Position: Deletes a point from the pattern.
Locally Modifying a Tool Axis

Select the Edit Local Axis contextual command, then choose the method for defining tool axis orientation in the Tool Axis
dialog box that appears:
Manual. Choose one of the following:

Coordinates to define the orientation by means of X, Y and Z components
Angles to define the orientation by means of a rotation of the X, Y or Z axis. The rotation is specified by means
of one or two angles.
Selection. If you select a line or linear edge, the tool axis will have the same orientation as that element. If you select a
planar element, the tool axis will be normal to that element.
Points in the View. Just select two points to define the orientation.
The tool axis is visualized by means of an arrow. The direction can be reversed by clicking Reverse Direction in the dialog
box.
Just click OK to accept the specified tool axis orientation.
Origin Offset
You can specify an Origin Offset in order to shift the entire tool path by the specified amount.
Jump Distance
The jump distance allows an extra clearance for moving in Rapid motion between the holes to be drilled whenever this
distance is greater than the approach clearance.
For example, for an approach clearance of 2.5mm and a jump distance of 10mm, the extra clearance is 7.5mm.
Holes at Different Levels

For 2.5-axis operations, the program automatically manages holes at different levels using horizontal transition paths.
Machining Different Depths

When dealing with design feature holes in design patterns, both the result and specification mode are taken into account
(except spot drilling, counterboring, and countersinking operations).
Select the Machine different depths checkbox when you want the program to automatically manage different depths of holes
in a pattern (result mode).
If the checkbox is not selected, the program uses the values specified in the Geometry tab page for the pattern holes
(specification mode).
For threading operations, select the Machine different thread depths checkbox when you want the program to take the real
thread depth of each selected pattern hole into account.
Relimiting Hole Origins

The Relimit hole origin and Machine different depths options can be used together to manage the machining strategy of
different design hole configurations.
In the following figures the red star ( ) representes the origing of the selected design hole, and the green star ( )
represents the start of the tool path.
Relimit hole origin Off Relimit hole origin Off
Machine different depths Off Machine different depths On
Relimit hole origin On Relimit hole origin On

Machine different depths Off Machine different depths On
Macros in Drilling Operations

The Macro Tab page in the operation definition dialog box allows customized transitions paths for approach, retract and
linking. Refer to Define Macros on an Axial Machining Operation for more information.
Collision Check on Macros used in Drilling Operations

All types of macros used in Drilling Operations are collision checked. If a check element is specified between two machined
positions, a linking macro is applied to avoid collisions. Check (or fixture) elements as well as an associated Offset on Check
can be specified in the Geometry tab page.
Editing CYCLE Syntaxes
For all axial operations the Edit Cycle command in the Axial Machining Operation dialog box allows you to:
display the unresolved syntax of the NC Instruction of the operation. This is the syntax as specified in the PP table
referenced by the current part Operation.
display and, if needed, modify the syntax that is resolved either by geometric selection and user entries.
You can access all the CYCLE syntaxes contained in the current PP table by means of the PP instruction icon. You can
then select the desired syntax to be used by means of the procedure described in the Insert PP Instruction section.
Methodology
This section provides methodology and conceptual information on the following Prismatic
Machining topics.

Use Tolerances on Design Features for Machining
Methodology and conceptual information on the following topics is provided in the NC

Machining Processes
Knowledgeware in Machining Processes
CATProduct and CATProcess Document Management
Design Changes and Associativity Mechanisms
Part Operation and Set Up Documents
User Features for NC Manufacturing
V5 - VNC Bridge

This document explains how to generate Cutter compensation (CUTCOM) instructions for Profile
Contouring, Pocketing, and Circular Milling operations.
When Cutter Profile output is activated, cutter compensation instructions are generated automatically in the
NC data output. In the case of Standard output the following method should be used.
Cutter Compensation on Prismatic Machining Operations

The activation/deactivation of cutter compensation is available by using NC macros on these operations.
For Profile Contouring operations, compensation can be defined on Approach, Retract, Return to finish
pass, and Return between levels macros for each pass.
For Circular Milling operations, compensation can be defined on Approach, Retract, and Return between
levels macros for each pass.
For Pocketing operations, compensation can be defined on Retract, Return to finish pass, and Return
between levels macros on the side finish pass only.
This is done by insertion of a dedicated PP instruction in macro tool path. In the generated APT source
CUTCOM syntaxes are inserted as follows:
CUTCOM/LEFT or CUTCOM/RIGHT (from point where CUTCOM is activated).

The valuation LEFT or RIGHT is automatically defined by the system in order to respect the
machining side.
CUTCOM/OFF (from point where CUTCOM is deactivated).
Methodology
Select position in macro for Cutter Compensation
In the Macro tab page of the Machining operation edition dialog box:
Select the desired macro type (Approach, for example).

Build a user macro or use a predefined macro.
Right click the point where Cutter compensation is to be inserted in the macro path and select the PP
Word List command.
Insert CUTCOM PP word in the macro
The PP Word Selection dialog box appears.

Select the ‘To access PP table’ icon.
Note that this icon is accessible only if a machine and an associated PP table are defined on the part
operation.
The PP Word Selection Assistant appears.
Select the Major word ‘CUTCOM’ in the list (Major words with parameters).
Select the appropriate NC_CUTCOM syntax:

NC_CUTCOM_ON activates Compensation.
CUTCOM/LEFT or CUTCOM/RIGHT will be generated in the APT source.
The valuation LEFT/RIGHT is automatically defined by the system in order to respect the
machining side.
NC_CUTCOM_OFF deactivates Compensation.
CUTCOM/OFF will be generated in the APT source.
Select Apply to add the syntax then Close to quit the dialog box.
The PP Words Selection dialog box appears again.
Click OK to insert the NC_CUTCOM_ON PP word in macro tool path.

Complete the machining operation definition
Define the other parameters of the operation (geometry, tool, and machining strategy).
Click OK on the Machining operation edition dialog box to create the operation.
Shortcut with a Machining Process
To avoid defining each time macros with cutter compensation syntaxes, a template of the operation can be
defined in a Machining Process.
This operation, which has macros but no geometry, can be instantiated from a catalog in the machining
program. Then only the geometry and tool need to be selected to completely define the operation.
Refer to Create a Machining Process and Apply a Machining Process for more information.
Example of Generated APT Source

Here is an example of the type of APT source that can be obtained for a Contouring operation when a
NC_CUTCOM_ON word was inserted in the approach macro and a NC_CUTCOM_OFF word was inserted
in the retract macro.
$$ Start generation of : Profile Contouring.1

SPINDL/ 500.0000,SFM,CLW
GOTO / -110.00000, 80.00000, 10.00000 )
GOTO / -110.00000, 80.00000, 0.00000 )
CUTCOM/LEFT )
GOTO / -110.00000, 70.00000, 0.00000 )
INTOL / 0.10000 ) Approach macro:
OUTTOL/ 0.00000 )
AUTOPS )
NC_CUTCOM_ON is
INDIRV/ 0.00000, -1.00000, 0.00000 ) generated as CUTCOM/LEFT
TLON,GOFWD/ (CIRCLE/ -100.00000, 70.00000, 0.00000,$ )
10.00000),ON,(LINE/ -100.00000, 70.00000, 0.00000,$ )
-100.00000, 60.00000, 0.00000) )
)
GOTO / 100.00000, 60.00000, 0.00000
INDIRV/ 1.00000, 0.00000, 0.00000
TLON,GOFWD/ (CIRCLE/ 100.00000, 50.00000, 0.00000,$
10.00000),ON,(LINE/ 100.00000, 50.00000, 0.00000,$
110.00000, 50.00000, 0.00000)
GOTO / 110.00000, -50.00000, 0.00000
FEDRAT/ 200.0000,MMPM )
INDIRV/ 0.00000, -1.00000, 0.00000 )
TLON,GOFWD/ (CIRCLE/ 120.00000, -50.00000, 0.00000,$ ) Retract macro:
10.00000),ON,(LINE/ 120.00000, -50.00000, 0.00000,$ )
120.00000, -60.00000, 0.00000) )
NC_CUTCOM_OFF is
CUTCOM/OFF ) generated as CUTCOM/OFF
GOTO / 130.00000, -60.00000, 0.00000 )
GOTO / 130.00000, -60.00000, 10.00000 )

This task shows how to locate circular edges in a selected face. These edges may be included in mirror
transformations, for example.
The Drilling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page . This tab page includes a
sensitive icon to help you specify the hole geometry to be machined.
2. Right click the No Points field and select the Find Features Through Faces contextual menu.
The following dialog box appears. It allows you to globally define a range of diameters for edges to be
searched.
The following tool bar also appears. It allows you to filter the search based on:
Design feature hole parameters

Reference feature selection.
3.
Select the icon and define the following query.
Click OK.
4. Select the face where the circular edges are to be searched.
5.
Select the icon , then select a reference feature.
6.
Select the icon to start the search. The circular edges of holes identical to the reference feature are
selected and highlighted in the part.
7. Click OK in the tool bar to accept the selection.
The No Points field in the Drilling dialog box is updated with the number of selected holes.
You can then continue defining the machining operation to machine the selected holes.
Use Tolerances on Hole Design Features for Machining

This task shows how to use tolerances on hole design features to apply a Machining Process with tolerancing
considerations such as:
validate a Reaming operation for an H7 hole

find a tool using a tolerance range
parameterize Circular milling parameters according to minimum and maximum values.
This capability makes use of the Functional Tolerancing & Annotations TPSPackage Knowlegdeware package. You can
load this package under Tools > Options > General > Parameters and Measures. In the Knowledge tab page, select the
Load extended language libraries checkbox and choose TPSPackage as the package to load.
See Functional Tolerancing & Annotations User's Guide for more information.
1. Select File -> Open then select the Tolerances.CATPart document.
The part is displayed in the Part Design workbench.
2. Double click a tolerance of one of the toleranced holes (for example, Ø10 H7).
The Limit of Size Definition dialog box appears.
For the selected Ø10 H7 tolerance, the tabulated values are set to H7 and 0 / 0.018mm as minimum / maximum
values. Click OK to quit the dialog box.
These values can be accessed in Knowledgeware expressions using the following functions:
SemanticDimTabValue for the Hole quality (H7 in the example above)

ToleranceMin (or SemanticDimLowerLimit) for the minimum value (0mm in the example above)
ToleranceMax (or SemanticDimUpperLimit) for the maximum value (0.018mm in the example above).
These functions can also be used in Machining Processes (for example:

../startup/Manufacturing/Processes/MPWithToleranceControl.CATProcess).
The following steps are done in a NC manufacturing workbench.

3. Checks Editor
An example of use of Hole Quality in checks is shown below.
Select File > Open and select the MPWithToleranceControl.CATProcess document.

Select the Machining Process View icon .
Right click the Reaming operation and select Edit Checks.
Enter the expression in the Checks Editor as shown below and click OK.
Note that you must select the Diameter attribute before entering the SemanticDimTabValue="H7" string.
4. Tool Query
An example of use of Tolerance values for a Tool query is shown below.

Right click the Reaming operation's Tool Query and select Definition.
Enter the expression in the Tool Query Definition dialog box as shown below and click OK.
Note that you must select the Diameter attribute before entering the ToleranceMin or ToleranceMax string.
5. Formula Editor
An example of use of Tolerance values in formulas is shown below.

Right click the Circular Milling operation and select Edit Formula.
Enter the expression in the Formula Editor as shown below and click OK.
Note that you must select the Diameter attribute before entering the ToleranceMin or ToleranceMax string.
See Create a Machining Process for more information.

6. Save the Machining Process in a catalog (for example:
../startup/Manufacturing/Processes/MP_demo.catalog).
See Organize Machining Processes for more information.

7. Enter the desired NC Manufacturing workbench and apply the Machining Process on toleranced holes as desired.
See Apply a Machining Process for more information.

For the Circular milling operation, the machining tolerance is parameterized as shown by the f(x) icon.
Click the f(x) icon to display the Formula Editor.
The hole diameter is parameterized as shown by the f(x) icon on the Edit Parameter dialog box.
Click the f(x) icon to display the Formula Editor.

Glossary
A
approach Motion defined for approaching the operation start point
macro
auxiliary A control function such as tool change or machine table rotation. These
command commands may be interpreted by a specific post-processor.
axial Operation in which machining is done along a single axis and is mainly
machining intended for hole making (drilling, counter boring, and so on).
operation
B
back and forth Machining in which motion is done alternately in one direction then the
other.
Compare with one way.
bottom plane A planar geometric element that represents the bottom surface of an area to
machine. It is normal to the tool axis.
C
clearance Motion that involves retracting to a safety plane, a linear trajectory in that
macro plane and then plunging from that plane.
climb milling Milling in which the advancing tool rotates down into the material. Chips of
cut material tend to be thrown behind the tool, which results to give good
surface finish.
Compare with conventional milling.
conventional Milling in which the advancing tool rotates up into the material. Chips of cut
milling material tend to be carried around with the tool, which often impairs good
surface finish.
Compare with climb milling.
D
DPM Digital Process for Manufacturing.
E
extension Defines the end type of a hole as being through hole or blind.
type
F
Facing A surfacing operation in which material is removed in one cut or several
operation axial cuts of equal depth according to a pre-defined machining strategy.
Boundaries of the planar area to be machined are soft.
Fault Types of faults in material removal simulation are gouge, undercut, and tool
clash.
feedrate Rate at which a cutter advances into a work piece.
Measured in linear or angular units (mm/min or mm/rev, for example).
fixture Elements used to secure or support the workpiece on a machine.
G
gouge Area where the tool has removed too much material from the workpiece.
H
hard A geometric element (such as a boundary or a bottom face) that the tool
cannot pass beyond.
high speed Functionality that is supported for Pocketing and Facing operations in which
milling (HSM) corners and transitions in the tool path are rounded to ensure a smooth and
continuous cutting effort.
I
inward helical Machining in which motion starts from a point inside the domain to machine
and follows paths parallel to the domain boundary towards the center of the
domain. Compare with outward helical.
island Inner domain of a pocket that is to be avoided during machining. It has a
closed hard boundary.
L
linking motion Motion that involves retracting to a safety plane, a linear trajectory in that
plane and then plunging from that plane.
M
machine An auxiliary command in the program that corresponds to a rotation of the
rotation machine table.
machining Reference axis system in which coordinates of points of the tool path are
axis system given.
machining A feature instance representing a volume of material to be removed, a
feature machining axis, tolerances, and other technological attributes. These
features may be hole type or milling type.
machining Contains all the necessary information for machining a part of the workpiece
operation using a single tool.
machining The maximum allowed difference between the theoretical and computed tool
tolerance path.
manufacturing Defines the sequence of part operations necessary for the complete
process manufacture of a part.
manufacturing Describes the processing order of the NC entities that are taken into
program account for tool path computation: machining operations, auxiliary
commands and PP instructions.
manufacturing The set of machining features defined in the part operation.
view
multi-level Milling operation (such as Pocketing or Profile Contouring) that is done in a
operation series of axial cuts.
O
offset Specifies a virtual displacement of a reference geometric element in an
operation (such as the offset on the bottom plane of a pocket, for example).
Compare with thickness.
one way Machining in which motion is always done in the same direction. Compare
with zig zag or back and forth.
outward Machining in which motion starts from a point inside the domain to machine
helical and follows paths parallel to the domain boundary away from the center of
the domain.
Compare with inward helical.
P
part operation Links all the operations necessary for machining a part based on a unique
part registration on a machine. The part operation links these operations
with the associated fixture and set-up entities.
pocket An area to be machined that is defined by a closed boundary and a bottom

plane. The pocket boundary may be either open or closed. The pocket
definition may also include a top plane and one or more islands.
Pocketing A machining operation in which material is removed from a pocket in one or
operation several axial cuts of equal depth according to a pre-defined machining
strategy.
The tool path style is either Inward helical, Outward helical or Back and
forth.
Point to Point A milling operation consisting of a sequence of elementary tool motions
operation between points. A tool motion can be defined by:
the point the tool tip has to reach (Goto Point motion)
positioning the tool in contact with a part element, a drive element
and possibly a check element, while taking To/On/Past conditions
into account (Goto Position motion)
a relative displacement (Go Delta motion).
PP instruction Instructions that control certain functions that are auxiliary to the tool-part
relationship. They may be interpreted by a specific post processor.
PPR Process Product Resources.
Profile A milling operation in which the tool follows a guide curve and possibly other
Contouring guide elements while respecting user-defined geometric limitations and
operation machining strategy parameters.
R
retract macro Motion defined for retracting from the operation end point
return macro Motion for linking between paths or between levels. It involves retracting to
a safety plane, a linear trajectory in that plane and then plunging from that
plane.
S
safety plane A plane normal to the tool axis in which the tool tip can move or remain a
clearance distance away from the workpiece, fixture or machine.
set up Describes how the part, stock and fixture are positioned on the machine.
soft A geometric element (such as a boundary or a bottom face) that the tool can
pass beyond.
spindle speed The angular speed of the machine spindle.
Measured in linear or angular units (m/min or rev/min, for example).
stock Workpiece prior to machining by the operations of a part operation.
T
thickness Specifies a thickness of material to be removed by machining.
Compare with offset.
top plane A planar geometric element that represents the top surface of an area to
machine. It is always normal to the associated tool's rotational axis.
tool axis Center line of the cutter.
tool change An auxiliary command in the program that corresponds to a change of tool.
tool clash Area where the tool collided with the workpiece during a rapid move.
tool path The path that the center of the tool tip follows during a machining operation.
total depth The total depth including breakthrough distance that is machined in a hole
making operation.
U
undercut Area where the tool has left material behind on the workpiece.
Z
zig zag Machining in which motion is done alternately in one direction then the
other.
Compare with one way.
Index
A
Activate the Point contextual command
Pocketing parameter
Analyze contextual command
Approach clearance
Axial Machining parameter
Approach clearance 2
approach macro
APT import
APT source generation
Auto Sequence command
Pocketing parameter
Profile Contouring parameter
Auto-sequencing
auxiliary command
Auxiliary operation
Copy Transformation
Machine Rotation
Machining Axis or Origin
PP Instruction
Tool Change
Pocketing parameter
axial machining operation
Approach clearance
Approach clearance 2

Axial mode
Breakthrough
Decrement limit
Decrement rate
Depth mode
Direction of cut
Dwell mode
First compensation
Helix angle
Helix mode
Helix pitch
Machining mode
Machining tolerance
Number of levels
Number of paths
Output CYCLE syntax
Output style
Percentage overlap
Plunge diameter
Plunge mode
Plunge offset
Plunge tip
Retract offset
Second compensation
Sequencing mode
Shift mode
Axial mode
Axial strategy mode
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
B
back and forth
Back Boring command
Back Boring operation
Between Curve and Surfaces
Profile Contouring mode
Between Two Curves
Between Two Planes
Boring and Chamfering command
Boring and Chamfering operation
Boring command
Boring operation
Boring Spindle Stop command
Boring Spindle Stop operation
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Bounding envelope
Facing parameter
Breakthrough
Pocketing parameter
By Flank Contouring
C
Center path overlap

Pocketing parameter
CGR file generation
Chamfering Two Sides command
Chamfering Two Sides operation
Choose Reference Feature command
Circular Milling
Circular Milling operation
clearance macro
Clfile code generation
climb milling
Close tool path
Closed Pocket
Pocketing style
command
Auto Sequence
Back Boring
Boring
Boring and Chamfering
Boring Spindle Stop
Chamfering Two Sides
Choose Reference Feature
Circular Milling
Counterboring
Countersinking
Curve Following
Define Feature Query
Drilling
Drilling Break Chips
Drilling Deep Hole
Drilling Dwell Delay
Facing
Pocketing
Point to Point
Prismatic Machining Area

Profile Contouring
Reaming
Reverse Threading
Rules Manager
Search Circular Edges
Spot Drilling
Tapping
Thread Milling
Thread without Tap Head
T-Slotting
Compensation
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
contextual command
Activate the Point
Analyze
Contour Detection
Deactivate the Point
Edit Depth
Edit Entry Distance
Edit Exit Distance
Edit Local Axis
Find Features Through Faces
Invert Selection
Island Detection
Offset on Island
Remove All Positions
Remove Position
Restore Associativity
Reverse Ordering
Select All
Set as Start Point
Contour Detection contextual command

conventional milling
Copy-Transformation Instruction
Corner radius
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Cornering
Pocketing parameter
Counterboring command
Counterboring operation
Countersinking command
Countersinking operation
Curve Following command
Curve Following operation
Curve Following parameter
Fixture accuracy
Machining tolerance
Number of levels
Tool path style
CUTCOM Syntax
D
Deactivate the Point contextual command
Decrement limit
Decrement rate

Define Feature Query command
Depth mode
Direction of cut
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Distance before corner (feed reduction)
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Documentation generation
Drilling Break Chips command
Drilling Break Chips operation
Drilling command
Drilling Deep Hole command
Drilling Deep Hole operation
Drilling Dwell Delay command
Drilling Dwell Delay operation
Drilling operation
Dwell mode
E
Edit Depth contextual command
Edit Entry Distance contextual command
Edit Exit Distance contextual command
Edit Local Axis contextual command
Edit Parameter dialog box
End of path
Facing parameter
End point
Entry distance
Exit distance
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
F
Facing command
Facing operation
Facing parameter
Axial strategy mode
Bounding envelope
Compensation
Corner radius
Direction of cut
End of path
Finishing mode
Fixture accuracy
High Speed Milling
Limit angle
Machining tolerance
Number of levels
Overhang
Radial mode
Stepover ratio
Tool diameter ratio
Tool path style

Transition angle
Transition length
Transition radius
Type of contour
Fault
Feedrate reduction in corners
Pocketing parameter
Find Features Through Faces contextual command
Finishing mode
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
First compensation
Point to Point parameter
Fixture accuracy
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
G
Go Delta
Point to Point motion
Goto Point
Goto Position
gouge
H
hard geometric element
Helix angle
Helix mode
Helix pitch
High Speed Milling
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
high speed milling (HSM)
I
Invert Selection contextual command
Inward helical
Inward/outward mix
Pocketing parameter
Island
Island Detection contextual command
J
Jump distance
L
Limit angle
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Pocketing parameter
linear coordinates
Shift mode
M
Machine different depths
Machine different thread depths
Machine Rotation
Machining Axis or Origin
machining axis system
Machining direction
machining feature
Machining mode
machining operation
Machining Process
Machining Process, Apply
Machining Process, Create
Machining tolerance
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
machining tolerance (definition)
Macros
manufacturing process
Manufacturing Program
manufacturing view

Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Maximum radius (feed reduction)
milling operations
Minimum angle (feed reduction)
N
NC code generation
Number of levels
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Number of paths
O
offset
Offset on Island contextual command
One way
Open Pocket
Pocketing style
Output CYCLE syntax
Output style

Pocketing parameter
Output type
Outward helical
Overhang
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
P
Part Operation
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Percentage overlap
Plunge diameter
Plunge mode
Plunge offset
Plunge tip
pocket
Pocketing command
Pocketing operation
Pocketing parameter
Axial strategy mode

Breakthrough
Center path overlap
Compensation
Corner radius
Direction of cut
Finishing mode
Fixture accuracy
High Speed Milling
Inward/outward mix
Limit angle
Machining tolerance
Number of levels
Output style
Overhang
Radial mode
Scallop pass
Scallop pass ratio
Slowdown rate
Spring pass
Stepover ratio
Tool diameter ratio
Tool path style
Transition angle
Transition length
Transition radius
Pocketing style
Closed Pocket
Open Pocket
Point to Point command
Go Delta
Goto Point
Goto Position
Point to Point operation
First compensation
Machining tolerance
polar coordinates
Shift mode
PP Instruction
PPR
Preview button
Prismatic Machining Area
Prismatic Machining Area command
Prismatic Rework Area command
Process List
Product List
Profile Contouring command
Between Curve and Surfaces
Between Two Curves
Between Two Planes
By Flank Contouring
Profile Contouring operation
Axial strategy mode

Breakthrough
Close tool path
Compensation
Corner radius
Cornering
Direction of cut
Finishing mode
Fixture accuracy
Machining tolerance
Number of levels
Number of paths
Output type
Percentage overlap
Sequencing
Spring pass
Tool path style
Type of contour
Progression direction
R
Radial mode
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Reaming command
Reaming operation
Reduction rate (feed reduction)
Remove All Positions contextual command
Remove Position contextual command
Resources List
Restore Associativity contextual command
retract macro
Retract offset
return macro
Reverse Ordering contextual command
Reverse Threading command
Reverse Threading operation
Rules Manager command
S
Scallop pass
Pocketing parameter
Scallop pass ratio
Pocketing parameter
Search Circular Edges command
Second compensation
Select All contextual command
Sequencing
Sequencing mode
Set as Start Point contextual command
Shift mode
linear coordinates
polar coordinates
Pocketing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Simulate material removal
Slowdown rate
Pocketing parameter
soft geometric element
Spot Drilling command
Spot Drilling operation
Spring pass
Pocketing parameter
Start point
Stepover ratio
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
T
Tapping command
Tapping operation
thickness
Thread Milling command
Thread Milling operation
Thread without Tap Head command
Thread without Tap Head operation
Tolerance on Hole
Tool Change
tool clash
Tool diameter ratio
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Tool path replay
Tool path style
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Facing parameter
Transition angle
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Transition length
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Transition radius
Facing parameter
Pocketing parameter
Pocketing parameter
T-Slotting command
T-Slotting operation
Type of contour
Facing parameter
U
undercut
User Feature
Z
Zig zag

05 Prismatic Machining

Hochgeladen von

Dokumentinformationen

Originalbeschreibung:

Copyright

Verfügbare Formate

Dieses Dokument teilen

Dokument teilen oder einbetten

Freigabeoptionen

Stufen Sie dieses Dokument als nützlich ein?

Sind diese Inhalte unangemessen?

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

05 Prismatic Machining

Hochgeladen von

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

Prismatic Machining Version 5 Release 11 Page 1

Enter the Workbench

Axial Machining Operations

Drilling Break Chips

Create and Use a Prismatic Machining Area

Part Operations, Programs and Processes

Create Machining Process for Prismatic Features

Managing Manufacturing Entities

How to Generate CUTCOM Syntaxes

Prismatic Machining offers the following main functions:

2.5 axis milling and drilling capabilities

© Copyright LightWork Design Ltd., all rights reserved.

Machining Strategy parameters include:

Helical strategy (climb/conventional)

Multiple side finish paths per level for Pocketing operation

Axial Machining Operations

ROTABL output between points for Axial machining operations

Support Boring Bar tool in material removal simulation

Enter the Workbench

Entering the Workbench

1. Select File -> Open then select the GettingStartedPrismaticMachining.CATPart document.

2. Select NC Manufacturing > Prismatic Machining from the Start menu.

The Prismatic Machining workbench appears.

3. Select Manufacturing Program.1 in the tree to make it the current entity.

Create a Pocketing Operation

The red status

areas and texts

2. Right click the

Click the red

The dialog box

The dialog box

The bottom and

4. Click OK to create the operation.

Replay the Tool Path

1. Select the pocketing

The tool path is

You can set the

3. Click the button to

4. Click the button to

5. Click OK to quit the

Create a Profile Contouring Operation

1. Select the Profile

Make sure the

The closed external

Set this value to 1mm

A message box appears giving feedback about this verification.

Create a Drilling Operation

1. Select the Drilling icon .

The Drilling dialog box appears directly at the Geometry page .

The Drilling dialog box

2. Select the red hole depth

The Pattern Selection

3. Select the cylindrical

4. Select the second hole

The Drilling dialog box

The icon is updated with

5. Double click the Jump

Click OK to return to the Drilling dialog box.

7. Click OK to create the Drilling operation in the program.

2. Select the Approach

An icon representing the

Default values are displayed

4. Double click the circular