Solid Machinist

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EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
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Launching EdgeCAM from EdgeCAM Solid Machinist CAD

As an alternative to loading saved solid files into EdgeCAM, you can transfer solids directly from the CAD package. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence Requires This method potentially transfers more information into EdgeCAM, such as hole threading and CPL data EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid models without the need (this information is not accessible from the saved solids files, and is transferred via a saved XML file). for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. You use the 'launch EdgeCAM' option, that can be installed into these CAD systems installed on your PC: You can machine the solid directly, or you can create 'features' from the solid, and machine these. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or EdgeCAM Part Modeler* SolidWorks toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically Autodesk Inventor Solid in the regenerate the features to reflect the changesEdge design model. Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence Additional geometry can links from the EdgeCAM Installation CD, for example.purposes by using standard You can install the CAD be created around the solid model for manufacturing EdgeCAM designMachinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for EdgeCAM Solid tools. translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismaticno installation is needed. *In EdgeCAM Part Modeler the option is standard; and surface milling including multi-plane. Also AlsoSolid CAD Integration . see Seean up to date list of supported CAD system versions, see the What's New help. For You will be Systems and EdgeCAM Licenses from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and Solid CAD able to create machinable features The launch option starts EdgeCAM and loads the are available: the CAD system into EdgeCAM. operations. Two methods of feature identification work open in Loading Solid Models Features inlaunch option without EdgeCAM installed prismatic features on the solid model with UsingThe Feature Finder command will automatically find the Solid Machinist respect to thefrom Solid Entities current Creating Geometrydistribute CPL. files for later use in EdgeCAM from a machine that does not itself have You might want to solid EdgeCAM installed.tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Identification Creating a CPL In this case Reloading ofinstall and use the launch EdgeCAM option as follows: Associative you can still Solid Models Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically The Features Window 1. Save work in to CAD the changes in the design model. regenerate the featuresthe reflectpackage. 2. Use the launch EdgeCAM option in the package. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. 3. Now distribute the saved solid file, along with the additional XML file that is created with additional data for EdgeCAM use. (This has the same name as the solid file, with '.XML' appended). See Also If these two files are copied into the same folder, EdgeCAM will read the extra information from the Solids Toolbar and Menu XML file when you open the solid file. Loading Solid Models Note that this does not apply to the EdgeCAM Part Modeler CAD package, which does not save an XML Features in Solid Machinist file. Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a the launch option Installing CPL Machining Solid Features option using the EdgeCAM installation CD (when installing EdgeCAM or You can install the launch subsequently), or by downloading the installer from www.edgecam.com. (The Web site may be more up to Associative Reloading of Solid Models date and support additional systems over the CD.) You are individually prompted for installing into the CAD The Feature Browser PC. systems found on your You do not need to do this for EdgeCAM Part Modeler, as the link is in place on installation. Refreshing You can refresh EdgeCAM with changes to the work done within the CAD system. To do this re-use the 'launch EdgeCAM' option with EdgeCAM still open. This updates the intermediate XML file, and the Feature Finder automatically updates any dependent found features within EdgeCAM. (Note that this is better than saving the solid file from the CAD system, and waiting for the automatic EdgeCAM prompt to re-load. This is because this method does not re-read the XML file). See also Transfer of CAD System Data to EdgeCAM
Importing Autodesk Inventor Thread Data

Transfer of CAD System Data to EdgeCAM

Over a CAD link there are options for importing: Coordinate System Planes - SolidWorks and Solid Edge only. Work Planes - see below. Sketch Planes - EdgeCAM generates CPLs normal to these sketch planes. Note that this data is transferred via an XML file created in the same folder as the CAD model (except from EdgeCAM Part Modeler). The options are in Options menu Preferences dialog Solids tab. For more details click the dialog's Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence Help button, or click here. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. CPLs from Work Planes Also see Solid CAD Integration . EdgeCAM CPLs from Work Planes are not associative to the CAD model, so if a work plane changes in YouCADbe able to new EdgeCAM CPL is generated; the original CPL is not modified. cycles and the will system a create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: Where possible, EdgeCAM will use the same identification names as the CAD system. However these are truncated to 20 characters so we recommend you use names shorter than this. The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with If a CPL nameto the current CPL. name is generated with a .1, .2 etc suffix. respect already exists a new EdgeCAM CPL names are optionally manuallywith 'WP_' or 'SP_'. This groups the CPLs to the listing for Identification tools allow you to prefixed identify machinable features with respect in the current CPL. easy identification. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Importing Autodesk Inventor Thread Data

The 'launch EdgeCAM option' within Autodesk Inventor loads threading information into EdgeCAM, but only if: The thread has been defined using the Inventor Hole Wizard. (Note that the (threads) 'Diameter' setting must be 'Tap Drill', otherwise the hole feature will be drilled to the wrong size.)
The Thread Information option has been checked on the Feature Finder dialog. Note that: EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for Whenloading Autodesk Inventor assemblies, threading data is only loaded from holes in parts within translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. the assembly. It is not loaded from holes in the assembly itself. Also see Solid CAD Integration . No attempt is made to map the values from the CAD source to the EdgeCAM threads database. This You will bethe emphasis on the CAD systems thread data being complete and correct. cycles and puts able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Importing SolidWorks Thread Data

The 'launch EdgeCAM option' within SolidWorks loads threading information into EdgeCAM, but only if: The thread has been defined using the SolidWorks Hole Wizard. The Thread Information option has been checked on the Feature Finder dialog. Thread data is taken from the Tap tab of the Hole Definition (Hole Wizard) and cosmetic thread data is ignored.
No attempt is made to map the values from the CAD source to the EdgeCAM threads database. This puts the emphasis on the CAD systems thread data being complete and correct. Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for Notes on using the Hole Wizard in 2001 Plus and surface translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and 2003 milling including multi-plane. When defining the Tap Hole information in SolidWorks the Property Add Cosmetic Thread must be set to Also see Solid CAD Integration . Add Cosmetic Thread with/without thread callout. Setting it to No Cosmetic thread will result in the solid You will be able to hole to machinable features from thread. When use withinaEdgeCAM EdgeCAM it will be body generating a create the major diameter of the the model for found as feature in cycles and operations. Two methodshole which identification are available: such. seen as a counter bored of feature can easily be machined as The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
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No cosmetic thread Add cosmetic thread

Loading Solids Files

You open solids files in the same way as any other type of file. Most popular solids file types are supported. For the latest versions supported see the What's New help. For the licenses required see Solid CAD Systems and EdgeCAM Licenses. Pro/DESKTOP files (*.des) are listed under the Pro/ENGINEER file type. Note:
As an alternative to opening a saved file, you can open a solid from some CAD packages directly; see Launching EdgeCAM from CAD for details. Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence SolidWorks assemblies can only be opened directly from SolidWorks. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for The solid model Machinist supports both prismatic the surface milling including font for the translation. Solidwill be loaded into EdgeCAM using and current layer, colour and multi-plane.solid. When loading parasolid files (*.x_t, *.x_b) colour properties for hole features will also be passed to EdgeCAM. If Also see Solid CAD Integration . preferred, these can be suppressed using the Face Colour - Ignore Model Values option on the Solids tab of the Preferences (Options menu) dialog. In addition, EdgeCAM use within EdgeCAM cycles and You will be able to create machinable features from the model for allows you to colour the faces of a solid model by their geometry type. To enable this functionality, check the Face Colour - Render by Geometry operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: Type option on the Solids tab of the Preferences (Options menu) dialog. See Specifying Colour Preferences for Solid Models. The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. The load operation will automatically scale the solid to the current EdgeCAM units. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. See Also Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or Solid Machinist Erroryou to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically toolbar which allows Messages regenerate the featuresSolid Models changes in the design model. Colour Preferences for to reflect the Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard Associative Reloading of Solid Models EdgeCAM design tools. Inserting a Solid Model See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Solid CAD Systems and EdgeCAM Licenses

The table lists the file formats from the Solid CAD systems and the licenses required to load them into EdgeCAM. Solid CAD system Autodesk Inventor File types supported License required
*.ipt, *.iam Solid EdgeCAM Solid MachinistMachinist for Inventor or Solid CAD/CAM or Solid Machinist Max Solid Machinist for CATIA V5
RequiresV5 CATIA EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence *.CATpart, *.CATproduct
EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides *..pmod to directly load and machine solid files without the needor the ability EdgeCAM Part Modeler Solid Machinist for Parasolid for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Solid CAD/CAM or Also see Solid CAD Integration . Solid Machinist Max You will be able to create machinable *.prt, *.sldprt, *.sldasm for use within EdgeCAM cycles and features from the model SolidWorks Solid Machinist for Parasolid or operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: Solid CAD/CAM or Solid Machinist Max The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features onMachinist for Parasolid or Solid Edge *.par Solid the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Solid CAD/CAM or Solid respect to the Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features withMachinist Max current CPL. Pro/Desktop Pro/ENGINEER *.prt, *.des, *.pdt, *.g, *.asm Solid Machinist for menu or Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids Granite Wildfire, Wildfire 2 you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically toolbar which allows regenerate the files Native ACIS features to reflect the changes in the design model. *.sat, *.sab Solid Machinist for ACIS or Solid CAD/CAM Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. Native Parasolid files *.xmb, *.xmt, *.x_t, *.x_b Solid Machinist for Parasolid or Solid CAD/CAM or Solid See Also Machinist Max Solids Toolbar and Menu IGES files loaded as Parasolid bodies Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser *.igs Solid Machinist for Parasolid and Part Modeler or Solid CAD/CAM
Notes on Loading Autodesk Inventor files

Required Software To load an Autodesk Inventor file into EdgeCAM, one of the following products must be installed on the same PC: Autodesk Inventor, or Design Tracking - a free utility that can be installed from the Design Tracking folder of the EdgeCAM CD. Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence If neither product is installed, the following message will be issued when you attempt to load an Autodesk Inventor fileSolidEdgeCAM: provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for EdgeCAM into Machinist translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Deleting temporary files Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or EdgeCAM creates temporary copies updated model cam\temp directory called iptsaved0.ipt and toolbar which allows you to reload anof .ipt files in theinto EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically iptload0.ipt. EdgeCAM to reflect the changes in the design model. regenerate the featuresshould automatically delete these files when loading a new part. If temporary .ipt files exist the wrong Inventor file can be saved in the EdgeCAM part file (*.ppf). If this occurs you should delete Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard the temporary files. EdgeCAM design tools. Reloading Inventor files See Also When reloading Autodesk Inventor parts up to, but not including, Inventor 4 features tend to be updated on a best match basis even Solids Toolbar and Menuwhen the solid model has not been modified. We recommend updating the parts to a later version of Inventor to overcome this problem. Loading Solid Models Also see: Features in Solid Machinist Launching EdgeCAM from CAD Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Notes on Loading Autodesk Inventor Assemblies Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
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Notes on Autodesk Inventor Assemblies

Inventor 9 SP1 and above only Inventor Assemblies use Project files to define the component locations. Ensure the Inventor or Inventor View has the correct Project selected before loading the assembly; otherwise some or all components may not be loaded.
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When moving or copying an assembly from its original location to another PC drive, CD-ROM or Network location the Inventor Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence and Go utility must be used so that the Project paths are Pack correctly updated. To use the Pack and Go feature right mouse EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides theclick onto directly load file (*.iam) and select Pack and the need for ability the assembly and machine solid files without Go. Please translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic andavailable milling including multi-plane. read the Help surface with this utility for further information. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: You can: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with Use File the current CPL. respect to Open to open a saved Inventor Assembly (*.iam) file into EdgeCAM. Or use the 'launch allow you tooption within Autodesk Inventor, with the assembly open. Using the Identification tools EdgeCAM' manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. 'launch EdgeCAM' option can transfer more information, such as threading data, work planes, sketch planes and co-ordinate retained, and a Associativity with the model issystem planes. Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically Please note: features to reflect the changes in the design model. regenerate the Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard This information on loading thread data. EdgeCAM design tools. If the assembly is modified and saved, then EdgeCAM knows to reload the assembly. See Also component part is reloaded into the assembly, then EdgeCAM knows to reload the new assembly If a once it has been saved. Solids Toolbar and Menu If a component part is modified,then EdgeCAM will NOT know to reload it until the assembly has been Loading Solid Models updated and saved. Features in Solid Machinist If parts are transformed in the (Inventor) assembly, EdgeCAM knows to reload the updated assembly Creating Geometry from Solid Entities itself. Creating a assembly can be transformed in EdgeCAM. The CPL Machining Solidparts cannot be moved individually in EdgeCAM. Separate Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models if parts are transformed in the (EdgeCAM) assembly. Associativity in EdgeCAM is OK The Feature Browser EdgeCAM is OK if an individual part is changed inside or outside of the assembly. Associativity in Associativity in EdgeCAM is NOT OK if parts are removed or added to the assembly. See also: Notes on Loading Autodesk Inventor files.
Notes on Loading Granite Models

Accuracy of Granite models SeeSolid CAD Systems and EdgeCAM Licenses for a summary of the Granite CAD systems and file types. To ensure that Granite models are machined to the required accuracy in EdgeCAM you should ensure that the model is created in the CAD system to at least the desired machining tolerance. You can check this when you load or transform the solid, as the internal tolerance is displayed in the Feedback Window. (Unless this is disabled; to enable it use Options menu Preferences Solids tab, and click the unchecked Model Tolerance Notification checkbox.)
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You can also find out the internal tolerance by using Verify menu Entity and selecting (digitising) the Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence solid. EdgeCAM Solid Machiniston solid geometry with directly loadtighter than the internal tolerance of need for If you create a cycle based provides the ability to a tolerance and machine solid files without the the solid, translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. you see a Feedback Window message; for example: Also see Solid CAD Integration out of tolerance CAD kernel data may be . You will be able to internalmachinable0.018720896 the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and Solid model create tolerance: features from operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: is looser than required tolerance: 0.01 The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with The cycle will still generate successfully however. respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Loading of PDT files Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically We do not recommend using PDT files if you have the DES or PRT file available (or a means to regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. create them). Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard PDT files are designed as an internal transfer mechanism between PTC products; exporting them into EdgeCAM design tools. third party products is not recommended. PDT files have a hard coded internal tolerance that is far tighter than the default tolerance of either See Also PRT or DES files used to create them. Solids Toolbar and Menu If you experience problems when performing a Feature Find command on a PDT file, adjusting the Loading Solid tolerance in EdgeCAM may resolve the problem. system Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Notes on Loading SolidWorks Assemblies

SolidWorks 2003 and above only To load a SolidWorks assembly into EdgeCAM. In SolidWorks, first save. Then with the assembly still open use the launch EdgeCAM button. For EdgeCAM use, workplane and other data is now written out to a separate .XML file. This is created with the same name as the assembly (but with a '.XML' extension), in the same folder.
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EdgeCAM now starts and searches for the assembly structure file. If this is missing or out of date, you Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence are prompted to repeat the launch from SolidWorks. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for The Solid Machinist loaded as one BREP, and is associative including multi-plane. translation.assembly is then supports both prismaticwhichsurface milling to the assembly filename. (The BREP may contain multiple solid bodies.) The data in the .xml file is also loaded. Also see Solid CAD Integration . Individual bodies may be machined and searched for features, but EdgeCAM cycles and You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within all the bodies will be transformed or deletedfeature identification are available: operations. Two methods of together. Note that even if your CAD machine does not have EdgeCAM installed you can still install and use the The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic solid file and XML file are distributed launch EdgeCAM facility. You just need to make sure that the saved features on the solid model with respect to the the same folder. Open the solid file into EdgeCAM from the new folder and the XML together, and kept incurrent CPL. data will also be read. allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or Assemblies and layers to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically toolbar which allows you regenerate thesolid assemblies you can specify whether all parts are placed on the same layer or each part When loading features to reflect the changes in the design model. is placed on an individualbe created around the solid model option on the Solids tab of the Preferences Additional geometry can layer using the Separate Layers for manufacturing purposes by using standard (Options menu) tools. EdgeCAM designcommand. The default setting for this option is OFF. When checked, each part is placed on a separate layer where the layer name is the name of the assembly file followed by the part number, i.e. filename - 001, filename - 002 etc. See Also If the option is unchecked, all parts will be placed onto the current layer. Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Summary of functionality Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry part isSolid Entities the assembly, then EdgeCAM knows to reload the new assembly If a changed from reloaded into Creating a CPL transformed in the (SolidWorks) assembly, EdgeCAM knows to reload the updated If parts are assembly. Machining Solid Features The assembly can Solid Models Associative Reloading of be transformed in EdgeCAM. Separate parts The Feature Browser cannot be moved individually in EdgeCAM. Associativity in EdgeCAM is OK if parts are transformed in the (EdgeCAM) assembly. Associativity in EdgeCAM is OK if an individual part is changed inside or outside of the assembly. Associativity in EdgeCAM is not OK if parts are removed or added to the assembly. To maintain associativity, you will need to re-launch EdgeCAM from SolidWorks using the EdgeCAM launch button and with the EdgeCAM session open, this will update the data in the file containing the assembly structure.
Notes on Loading Pro/ENGINEER Assemblies

Once loaded or inserted, the assembly file is not associative, that is if parts are added to or removed from the assembly the EdgeCAM .ppf file will not be updated. Any changes made at assembly level in Pro/ENGINEER will not be detected unless they affect the parts. Changes at part level will be detected and EdgeCAM will prompt for a re-load (if the Change Notification option on the Preferences dialog is switched on). Assembly cuts are only supported if they intersect at part level.
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Empty parts (for bill of material purposes etc.) and surface only parts are excluded, and the assembly file will continue to load any valid files until the end of the assembly file is reached. An error message will be displayed "Some files did not produce solid models:", followed by file path and part name. Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence Assemblies generated by Pro/Engineer manufacturing modules (i.e. Mold) are not supported. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Assemblies and layers Also see Solid CAD Integration . When loading solid assemblies you can specify whether all parts are placed on the same layer or each part You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and is placed on an individual layer using the Separate Layers option on the Solids tab of the Preferences operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: (Options menu) command. The default setting for this option is OFF. When checked, each part is placed on a separate layer where the layer names are those of the individual The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with parts loaded. When loading assemblies that contain multiples of the same solid part, all instances of the respect to the current CPL. solid are placed on a common layer. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. If the option is unchecked, all parts will be placed onto the current layer. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically Summary of functionality regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can detect if an assembly has changed for it references individual partsusing standard EdgeCAM cannot be created around the solid model as manufacturing purposes by not the whole EdgeCAM design tools. assembly. Separate parts of an assembly can be transformed in EdgeCAM individually or in groups. See Also Associativity in EdgeCAM is not OK if parts are transformed in the assembly. Solids Toolbar and Menu Associativity in EdgeCAM is OK if an individual part is changed outside of the assembly. Loading Solid Models Associativity in EdgeCAM is not OK if parts are removed or added to the assembly. Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Notes on loaded non-assembly multiple-body files

Here are some notes relating to multiple-body assembly files loaded into EdgeCAM (these do not apply to assembly files which have there own topics): When feature finding, individual solids can be selected. Each body: may have its own colour, font and layer. may be machined separately.
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may be digitised as stock or fixture separately. Requires EdgeCAM the EdgeCAM licence Deleting one body in Solid Machinistdeletes all the other bodies from the same file. Deleting bodies may have undesirable effects if digitised stock or fixtures are specified. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for If you add a body to the model and update EdgeCAM, the new milling EdgeCAM will have the translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surfacebody in including multi-plane. same colour and layer as the first body. Also see Solid CAD Integration . When merging two or more bodies by Boolean union, the target part (the part that is to have others merged You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and to it) will retain its features, the features of any tool part (part that is to be merged) will be automatically operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: orphaned and deleted (even if the Delete Orphaned Features preference has not been checked). Any new features created by the union on the target part will be displayed as New in the Features Window. The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with Bodies may be all on same layer, or on separate individual layers, depending on the setting of the respect to the current CPL. 'Separate Layers' Preferences option (Solids tab). If on separate layers, these are given the name of the Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features layer at the to the the load. solid file followed by the body number. If on one layer, this will be the active with respecttime of current CPL. When using the the model is retained, and a Reload command Associativity withtransform commands (Rotate, Scale, Translate):is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regeneratea solid in a multiple body solid and all the design model. be transformed. Pick the features to reflect the changes in solid bodies will Additional geometry can be created around the and stock will be transformed. purposes by using standard Pick a stock feature and the solid bodies solid model for manufacturing EdgeCAM design tools. Pick a fixture and the solid bodies and fixture will be transformed. Pick all (ctrl+'A') and all the solid bodies, stocks and fixtures will be transformed. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Inserting a Solid Model

Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence A solid model may be added or inserted to an existing worksession using the File Insert, Solid (File Menu) command. This allows you to scale, rotate and translate the model. The inserted model uses the current colour and font for the solid model but you can override the model's colour and substitute a colour of your own choice.
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The model will be inserted on the current layer for the solid model unless a different layer is specified. Multiple models may Solid Machinist licence Requires EdgeCAM be inserted each with different transformations if required. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for Inserting an EdgeCAM part file that contains a solid surface milling including multi-plane. translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and model You can also insert an EdgeCAM part file (*.ppf) that contains a solid model as a part or component. This Also see Solid CAD Integration . allows you to scale, rotate and translate the model. Multiple models may be inserted each with different You will be able if required. transformations to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Saving Parts
If an EdgeCAM worksession contains a solid model, the Save command will write the model to the EdgeCAM part file (*.ppf). You can then reload this part file in a subsequent worksession. If a part file containing a solid model is loaded and the Solid Machinist licence is not available, the solid portion of the model will be ignored and will not be loaded or displayed.
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Specifying Colour Preferences for Solid Models

Colour Attributes for Hole Features You might use coloured features in your CAD model to represent desired machining processes on the features. When exporting parasolid files (*.x_t, *.x_b) colour attributes for hole features will be passed from the CAD system to EdgeCAM. The Automatic Feature Finder will detect these colours and group hole features according to their colour , as well as their geometry. The following example would therefore generate two feature groups, one counter bored and one not, but both groups would have the same colour attribute.
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Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Strategy Manager decisions can be based on Reload command of the feature(s). Associativity with the model is retained, and a the colour attribute is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically As the colour attributes for hole features will be passed from the CAD system to EdgeCAM, the colour of the regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. solid cannot be modified in EdgeCAM, and stock/fixtures do not show the user defined colours when rendered. geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes Values standard Additional If preferred, the colour attributes can be suppressed using the Ignore Model by usingoption on theSolids design tools. EdgeCAM tab of the Preferences (Options menu) dialog. Please note that Autodesk Inventor 4 and above and Pro/ENGINEER Wildfire pass the model colour (body colour of the entire solid, not just the hole feature) through to EdgeCAM. This can be suppressed by See Also checking the Ignore Model Values option. Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Colouring Solid Model Faces by Geometry Type Features in Solid Machinist The rendered view of a solid can be displayed with the faces coloured by geometry type as follows: Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Type Colour Machining Solid Features Plane white (white) Associative Reloading of Solid Models Cylinder yellow (yellow) The Feature Browser Cone aqua (green-blue) Sphere Torus Other* fuchsia lime red (purple) (green) (red)
*Includes NURBS, imported geometry, and any surface type not explicitly handled in a different way. This can be used as a diagnostic tool to obtain information about the different face types in a solid. Check theRenderby Geometry Type option on the Solids tab of the Preferences (Options menu) dialog to enable this functionality.
Transforming Solids
You can rotate, scale or translate solids using Transform Solid in the Solids toolbar or menu. Note that this is a combined menu and command button offering Translate, Rotate and Scale commands.
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The dialog for the selected command will now be displayed.
Note on transforming solids with features Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence Solids can be transformed and copied after a feature find command has been performed. Any features on EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for the original model will also be transformed. translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. A feature can only be transformed such that it does not move out of its defining CPL. For mill features this Also see Solid CAD Integration . about the Z axis of the feature CPL. Turn features cannot be rotated out allows any translation plus rotation of the ZX plane. to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and You will be able operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: the threaded hole features are modified, in Thread information will be preserved after transformation, unless which case the thread information will be removed on a reload. The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Associative Reloading of Solid Models

UseReload Solid (Solids menu or Solids toolbar) to replace the currently loaded solid model with the updated file from disk.
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When you select this command, a browse dialog will be displayed with the name of the file(s) already entered unless it cannot be found. The updated solid file will be reloaded into EdgeCAM and any changes displayed. This will allow you to modify the model in an external application and then reload it into EdgeCAM.
When reloading a model, you will be asked whether you want to save the original model. Saving the model Requires EdgeCAM it as is, prior to any re-load changes. As it is not possible to use the Undo command at this stage will saveSolid Machinist licence after a re-load, the saved part may be used as a back-up if required. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. If you click No, the model will . Also see Solid CAD Integration be updated without saving the original data and Feature Find will then find the features of the reloaded model. You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: Change notification The Feature Finder command will automatically name in the features on the solid model with A message is displayed when a newer file of the same find prismaticsame directory (or subdirectory) as the respect to the current CPL. original file is detected and EdgeCAM prompts for a reload. If you say no to the reload prompt, further notification will only be issued when a still newer file is found. If the original file cannot be found checking Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. that solid will be disabled for the rest of the EdgeCAM session. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or have The Features Window displays the status of all features since the last reload. In addition, features that toolbar whichbe highlighted reload an updated model window after theEdgeCAM will Features Window changed will allows you to (displayed in bold) in the into EdgeCAM. re-load. See automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Status. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard Note on Reloading Pro/Engineer Files. EdgeCAM design tools. Specifying Preferences for the Reloading of Solid Models Notes on Reloading SolidWorks Files See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Solid Keys and Associativity Loading Solid Models The solid model has a unique identifier for every entity in a body (face, loop, edge and vertex). When a Features in Solid Machinist holds a cross-reference to the solid keys. When a body is reloaded feature is identified EdgeCAM EdgeCAM will first try and match the current features to the keys in the new model. In addition, you can use Creating Geometry from Solid Entities theGeometric Match option on the Solids tab of the Preferences (Options menu) dialog to enable Creating a CPL matching by geometry. Geometric attributes are used to match vertices, faces and edges during the re-load and if the geometric shape of the feature found by the matching process is considered to be the same as Machining Solid Features the original feature it is deemed to be unchanged (and given the same ID in the new model). Associative Reloading of Solid Models When the Feature Find command or any manual feature identification command is re-run after reloading a The Feature Browser solid: Features will be updated on a best match basis if any of the topological information (faces, edges etc.) is retained or geometrically matched in the modified solid. This includes any common cylindrical face in a group of hole features, for example. Autodesk Inventor parts up to, but not including, Inventor 4 tend to best match features on reload even when the solid model has not been modified. We recommend updating the parts to a later version of Inventor to overcome this problem. Otherwise, Old features will be updated by new features of the same type in the order in which they were found, and will be classified as Changed features. This works in the majority of cases where the topological information has been lost by the changes to the solid. Features updated in this way will be displayed with a dashed www.cadfamily.comfont. EMail:cadserv21@hotmail.com
The document is for study only,if tort toGuide rights,please inform us,we will delete EdgeCAM User your
Features that cannot be re-created by matching their identities or matching their geometry will be orphaned and will be displayed in dotted font. Manual features other than face features behave like automatic features on a reload, their status is updated and they are added to the report message. Because face features are defined as references to faces of the current model, they cannot be retained if orphaned. Important note on associativity when working with CAD links
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When launching EdgeCAM from the CAD system, information contained within the CAD file is written out to a separate .xml file of the same name (i.e. part.ipt.xml) that is stored in the same folder as the CAD model. This way, EdgeCAM Solid Machinist as work plane or thread definitions) which is not stored in the solid Requires detailed information (such licence model is available during the CAM process. EdgeCAM interrogates the .xml file when the model is opened and during Solid Machinist provides the EdgeCAM the feature finding process. ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. To maintain associativity, you will need to re-launch EdgeCAM from the CAD system with the EdgeCAM session Solid CAD Integration . Also seeopen, this will update the threading data in the .xml file. The Feature Finder command will then detect the threading data changes and update the information in the EdgeCAM Hole Feature accordingly. You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and When a CAD model that of previously been passed to EdgeCAM is updated in the CAD system and then operations. Two methodshasfeature identification are available: accessed again within EdgeCAM, without being launched from CAD system, the Feature Finder will update all theThe Feature Finder thread andwill automatically find prismatic in the .xml file that has not been features except the command CPL details as these are held features on the solid model with updated. respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Special PCI Variable $SolidFilename Associativity with the modelto reload a solid in Reload command is available from the Solidsdifferent model This variable name is used is retained, and a a PCI. Useful for updating Solids or loading a menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically of the same family. regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Example- %calc=$SolidFilename=c:\data\part1234.x_t Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. Note It is important to understand that the method used to modify the solid body can affect the way features are updated in EdgeCAM. For example, if a pocket in the body is moved, stretched, edited this will generally See Also result in an updated feature because the key cross-reference is maintained. However, if a pocket is deleted Solids new pocket isMenu in the same area the key cross-reference is lost and the pocket will appear as a and a Toolbar and placed new, or in the case of geometric matching, best matched or changed feature.. Loading Solid Models Features in reloading the model, the features of the model in EdgeCAM are updated. After Solid Machinist Any existing from Solid Entities Creating Geometryoperations using the updated features will need to be regenerated. (This may happen automatically - if Options menu Preferences Solids tab Regenerate Current Sequence is Creating a CPL checked). Any Solid used on Machining cyclesFeatures the model may require editing/regenerating as they are not associated with any changes. Associative Reloading of Solid Models Please note Browser The Feature that EdgeCAM geometry created by copying loops, edges, vertices or turned faces from the solid will not reflect any change to the solid and will remain in its original form.
Feature-Based Instruction Validity Checking

You can check a feature to make sure that any cycles and operations based on the feature are still valid. (Note that this also happens automatically - for more details (and on validation in general) see Sequence Validation.) 1. Make sure you are in Manufacture mode. 2. Click the Instructions menu and click the Feature Check command. Alternatively click the command's button in the Edit toolbar: Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM the features you want to checkability to directly load the Graphics area, or clicking them need for 3. Pick Solid Machinist provides the by digitising them in and machine solid files without the in the translation. Solid Machinist supports both finish the command to milling all the features. Features window. Alternatively just prismatic and surface check including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You see feedback on the checking in the Feedback window, and any invalid sequences are marked in You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and the Sequence window. operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
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Selecting Solid Entities

You can select faces, edges, loops, vertices or the entire solid when creating features for machining or for verification purposes.
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Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can an ambiguous selection (e.g. an edge and a line created from the edge) the cursor When filtering allows for be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM change tools. the mouse is moved over the entities. In this case, you can use the tab key to shape will design when determine which entity will be selected. The currently selectable entity type is indicated in the tooltip that is displayed beside the cursor. If the cursor is moved over an entity when Intellisnap is active, the selectable See Also entity is also highlighted in the 'flyover' colour. Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Features in Solid Machinist

Features are named entities, or groups of entities, that you can select for machining. A feature might represent a pocket or boss for example. Features are derived from key areas in the solid, such as edges and faces, so they correspond to these areas. The correspondence is 'associative', so if the model is edited the Features automatically adapt themselves. Features are associated with the CPL in which they were derived. When deriving a pocket feature for example, for the bottom of the pocket you can select a planar area whose plane is parallel to the CPL. The pocket would have a depth, measured in an axis normal to the CPL.
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You can work with featuresMachinist licenceedit them to change their colour, for example), in the Features Requires EdgeCAM Solid (delete them or Window. You can view the properties of features in the Properties Window. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for Machining Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. translation. features There areSolid CAD Integration . Also see various ways of categorising features; for example some are pocket features and some are boss features. Also, pocket and boss features are further categorised according to their geometry; whether they You'2D',be able to or '3D' (see Featurefeaturesfor more details).for use within EdgeCAM cycles and are will 'Contour' create machinable Types from the model operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: However you always machine features in basically the same way. In cycles you set the 'Model Type' option in the dialog to 'Solid'. You then go on to digitise the feature, when selecting the cycle's geometry. To use The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic and select the solid model with an operation you can right-click on the option in the Features windowfeatures on from the shortcut menu. respect to the current CPL. Identifying features Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. You can create features by: Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allowsderivingreload using the Feature Finder command, automatically you to them an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. or you can create them manually by specifying the key areas from which to derive the feature, using AdditionalMill Feature command. around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard the geometry can be created EdgeCAM design tools. When you manually create a feature, it will be displayed in the colour and on the layer displayed on the Standard toolbar. If required, you can change these properties. See Also When using the Feature Finder, you can specify a default colour and/or layer for features on the Display Solids Toolbar and Menu tab of the dialog. Loading Solid Models Pocket, Hole and Boss features can be displayed as a translucent solid or wire frame; use the Toggle Features in Solid Machinist Features command to switch. Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Exploding Features Creating use the Edit, Explode (Edit menu) command to break up features into simpler component You can a CPL entities. The original feature is destroyed. Machining Solid Features For example, a complex Solid may be Associative Reloading ofpocketModels found very quickly by the Feature Finder but may not provide the exact geometry needed for machining. It is possible to explode the features into continuous loops which you The Feature Browser(with other geometry and even a wall profile) to provide the required solution. may then recombine Displaying Features To display features (in translucent form) click Toggle Features in the Display toolbar to activate it. Click Toggle Features again to de-activate it and switch off the feature display See Also Feature Types Creating Turn Features Features Window
Feature Types
This topic refers to features created in EdgeCAM Version 9 and later. Features created in earlier versions are 'superseded'. For notes on how these features differ, see About Superseded Features. A feature can be one of the following types:
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Feature Type
Pocket or Boss
Notes
Pockets and bosses fall into sub-categories according to how complex their geometry is; '2D', 'Contour' and '3D'.
Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence you identify pockets and bosses; see Identifying This relates to how Features in Solid Machinist for details. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist'closed', a both prismaticplanar area at the bottom, which is parallel to the Pocket If supports pocket has a and surface milling including multi-plane. feature's Also see Solid CAD Integration . CPL. The walls need not be vertical. You will be able to createA pocket has features from the modelplane, and thisEdgeCAM cyclesto the machinable top edges that are in a for use within plane is parallel and plane of the CPL. This may mean the top edge of the feature protrudes operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: above any point in the solid. A pocket has properties for level, prismatic whether it the solid or blind. The Feature Finder command will automatically find depth andfeatures onis through model with respect to the current CPL. A pocket has a 'Nesting status' property; see Feature Finder for details. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. You can work on pockets using a number of cycles and operations. For example the Roughing and Profiling cycles. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you A boss has aupdatedarea at into top, which isEdgeCAM will automatically to reload an planar model the EdgeCAM. parallel to the feature's CPL. Boss regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. The walls need not be vertical. Additional geometry can beboss has around the for level andfor manufacturing purposes by using standard A created properties solid model depth. EdgeCAM design tools. You can work on bosses using a number of cycles and operations. For example the Roughing and Profiling cycles. See Also Profile Solids Toolbar and MenuA profile is a feature that can be machined using the Profiling cycle. A profile has a record of which side the material is on; you can only machine Loading Solid Models along this side. You can edit the profile to switch the material to the other side. Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities has properties for level, depth and diameter, and whether it Hole A hole feature is a through or a blind hole. Creating a CPL You can group all holes with identical properties. Machining Solid Features The Automatic Feature Finder groups hole features according to their Associative Reloading of Solid Models colour , as well as their geometry. Also see Specifying Colour Preferences The Feature Browser for Solid Models. Also see Countersink and Tip Angle in Hole Features Also see Defining Thread Parameters in Hole Features. Face Aface feature is a flat surface derived from a flat face of the solid. You can machine a face feature using the Parallel Lace cycle, for example.
Please note that the Hole Identifier only recognises straight holes, whereas the Feature Finder will also set attributes for a counterbore (depth and diameter). Additional modifiers are available for a countersink (depth and angle), and for tapping (depth and pitch). These values have to be entered manually as they are not specified in the model.
In addition, you can specify a Maximum Diameter above which holes will be treated as pockets (this option is only available in the Feature Finder).
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See Also Creating Turn Features

Feature Height Properties

For 'automatic' features (as found using the Feature Finder command), these pocket and boss examples illustrate how the feature height type properties are derived. For example the elevation of the lowest point of the features is read off the Z scale to become the 'Bottom' property. Depth (Bottom - Top) Level and Top EdgeCAM Solid Machinist Reference Plane Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence Bottom
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EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and = 0 Z machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Boss Also see Solid CAD Integration . Pocket
You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and Note: operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The boss feature is identified as a boss because, from its outer boundary working inwards, it starts to The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic featuresplane'. Similarly the with rise in elevation. The point from which is starts to rise is the 'reference on the solid model pocket is a respectbecause it starts to fall from the reference plane. pocket to the current CPL. Identification the CPL marker, which is always positioned at Zfeatures with coordinates (also X = 0 and You can see tools allow you to manually identify machinable = 0 in world respect to the current CPL. Y = 0). Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or Level and Top are to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically toolbar which allows you one and the same thing. regenerate the a negative number. changes in the design model. Depth is features to reflect the Additional manually identified features, you can accept default depths, or digitize verticesby using standard For geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes to specify depth. EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Face Features
When you are using a surface cycle and you are prompted to specify a surface, you can digitise (select) a solid. This will set the cycle to machine every face of the solid. If you only want to machine one face of the solid you can turn it into a 'face feature'. Face features have their own separate identity; they appear in the Features Window, for example. You create a face feature from a face using the Face Feature command or its icon . The face feature is not limited to one face of the solid, you can group several faces together into one face feature. A face can be a member of different face features. Face features are associative to the model.
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The normals of the faces will point forward so that the system will not prompt for Side Selection when a Requires EdgeCAM cycle is used. Surface operation or Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solidoperation prompts you toability to a surface, you can digitise/select anywithout the need for When a cycle or Machinist provides the specify directly load and machine solid files combination of: translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . EdgeCAM surfaces, You will be able to create machinable EdgeCAM surfaces), surface groups (containing just features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: face features, an entire solid body. command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with The Feature Finder respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model theretained, and a Reload command is available prevent full gouge protection The cycle will only process is surfaces you have grouped together, this will from the Solids menu or toolbarsolid body. you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically of the which allows regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Notification of Model Change

When working with an EdgeCAM part containing an embedded solid model, the system continuously checks the date-time stamp of the solid model. When a difference is found a dialog is displayed asking if you wish to reload the model.
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If the original design file is still open it is not possible to reload the model and a warning will be displayed.
Editing Features
You can modify feature information by: Using the Entity Data (Edit menu) command, or Right-clicking on the feature in the Features Window and selecting the Edit command from the shortcut menu, or Double clicking on the feature in the Features Window.
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You can also use the Properties Window (certain properties only; Depth for example is not editable). Requires allows you to override attribute values such as depth, level, colour, name etc. However, if you EdgeCAMEdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence reload the model the modifiers level, depth and diameter will be reset to the values of the reloaded solid. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for Any other properties are retained. translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. When altering the level of a feature, the Preserve Depth option allows you to maintain the absolute depth. Also see Solid CAD Integration . Otherwise the feature depth (which is relative to the level) will move with the level by default. You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: Setting comment attributes for use in Strategy Manager The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the reamed or with In Strategy Manager, you may need to determine if a hole feature needs to be finish solid modelbored or if respect to the current CPL. the feature is a special feature requiring its own unique machining process. The Comment field on the edit dialog for hole and pocket/boss features allows you to set a comment attribute (of up to 255 characters). Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. This text string allows you to label the feature and can then be checked in Strategy Manager to ensure that the appropriate machining process is applied. Reload command is available from the Solids menu or Associativity with the model is retained, and a toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Identifying Features in Solid Machinist

You can identify features in a solid, with respect to the current CPL: Automatically, using the Feature Finder command. You can identify any type of feature including features of 2D, Contour and 3D geometry, using this command. Manually, using the Mill Feature command, for example.
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When manually identifying features, you cannot identify 3D or Contour pockets and bosses. Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Manual Feature Identification

You can manually derive features using the Mill Feature and Face Feature commands. In the 'Mill Feature' dialog you choose one of several strategies. (You can also by-pass the dialog using other commands; instead of choosing the 'Bottom_Face' strategy in the dialog, you could use the 'Mill Feature from Bottom Face' command directly). The table below shows the feature types you can derive, using each of the strategies:
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Blind Through Boss Pocket Pocket Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence Profile Hole (no counterbore or countersink) EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for Wall_Face (cylinder) translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. NA Bottom_Face Also see Solid CAD Integration . Profile_Loop You will be able to create machinable features from the modelfor use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: Profile_Edges The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with Note: respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. When using Profile_Edges, digitising a complete closed loop can result in a pocket or boss. When AssociativityProfile_Loop, pockets or bosses a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or using with the model is retained, and may result. toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically When digitising loops or combinations of edges, the feature will regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. have a height set to the highest point on the loop or edges. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Digitise Vertex for Depth in Profile Features See Also Countersink and Tip Angle in Hole Features Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Contouring Attributes for Pocket/Boss Features

The Feature Finder command will detect constant radius fillets at the base and top of pockets/bosses and store the radius value as an attribute in the pocket and boss features. To be detected, fillets must be of a constant radius and at a fixed Z height.
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Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu The Lower and Upper Radius properties from the pocket/boss feature will be passed automatically to the appropriate parameter field on the Pocket or Profile operation dialog when the feature is selected for Loading Solid Models machining. These values will remain associative to the model following a reload. Features in Solid Machinist Creating pocket/boss nesting Note on Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL When working with a part that contains a boss inside a pocket, with different fillet radii on each, the largest bottom radius and smallest top radius are applied to all fillets in the pocket feature, leaving material behind Machining Solid Features in both cases. Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Defining Thread Parameters in Hole Features

Automatically Setting Thread Parameters
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Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. When Identification tools allowInventor or SolidWorks you can import threading data from to the current CPL. working with Autodesk you to manually identify machinable features with respect the CAD system into the EdgeCAM Hole feature dialog. Thread details are only passed to EdgeCAM when: Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically the thread has been defined using the Hole Wizard in the CAD regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. system, the geometry session is started via the launch option in manufacturing purposes by using standard AdditionalEdgeCAM can be created around the solid model for the CAD system, and EdgeCAM design Information option has been checked on the Feature Finder dialog. the Thread tools. When EdgeCAM is launched from the CAD system the thread data is written out to an .xml file of the same See Also name. The .xml file will be stored in the same folder as the CAD model. When feature finding, EdgeCAM interrogates the thread data Solids Toolbar and Menu held within the .xml file to populate the thread parameters of the EdgeCAM Hole Feature dialog. When maching, the Feature properties are used to populate the appropriate fields in Loading Solid Models the Hole Operation dialogs. Features in Solid Machinist To maintain associativity, you will need to re-launch EdgeCAM from the CAD system with the EdgeCAM session Geometry from Solid Entities Creatingopen, this will update the threading data in the .xml file. The Feature Finder command will then detect the threading data changes and update the information in the EdgeCAM Hole Feature accordingly. Creating a CPL No attempt is made to map the values from the CAD source to the EdgeCAM threads database. This Machining Solid Features puts the emphasis on the CAD systems thread data being complete and correct. Associative Reloading of Solid Models A threaded hole feature needs to have the following parameters set to be considered fully defined: Thread Units, Tap Diameter, Drill Size, Pitch/TPI, and Depth. If the hole is threaded and any of these The Feature Browser parameter fields are blank a question mark "? " is displayed after the feature name in the Features Window. Threaded hole features are listed as either "Blind tapped hole" or "Through tapped hole" in the Features Window. This allows you to see if a hole feature has threading information without opening the feature for edit. When importing thread data from the CAD system the Standard and Nominal Size parameters will be set to None. The relevant information will be taken through from the CAD system. Manually Setting Thread Parameters
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Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The automatic import of threading data is only available when the EdgeCAM session is started via the launch option in Autodesk Inventor orwill automatically find prismatic features on the solid model tapping The Feature Finder command SolidWorks. For all other systems the solid does not store with information and you have to CPL.this to the Hole Feature manually. respect to the current add The EdgeCAM threads database canmanually identify checking the features with respectsetting current CPL. Identification tools allow you to be accessed by machinable Tapped option and to the the Standardparameter to one of the standard thread formats and selecting a nominal size. This is particularly useful when with the adding retained, and Hole Features. Associativity manuallymodel isthread data to a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically When machining, the Hole Feature properties are used to populate the appropriate fields the Hole regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Operation dialogs. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Countersink and Tip Angle in Hole Features

Countersink in Hole Feature The Hole feature (generated either by Feature Finder or by the Hole Identifier command) recognises countersinks if the following conditions are met: the countersink shares a common edge with the cylindrical face defining the hole it lies above the cylinder defining the hole in the CPL is a conical face has its axis aligned Machinist licence Requires EdgeCAM Solidwith the CPL normal has an included angle greater than 0 and smaller than 180 degrees EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Tip see Solid CAD Integration . AlsoAngle in Hole Feature The will be able generation (either by Feature Finder or by the Hole Identifier command) records tip You hole featureto create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and angle information based on the model. A tip will be recognised if there is a face which: operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: shares a common edge with the cylindrical face defining the hole The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. lies below the cylinder defining the hole in the CPL Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. and either Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically is a conical face regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. has its axis aligned with the CPL normal Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard has design tools. EdgeCAMan included angle greater than 0 and smaller than 180 degrees or See Also Solidsis a planar face Toolbar and Menu Loading parallel to the CPL is Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities The included angle of the conical face will be used to define the tip angle. For a planar face the tip angle will be 180 degrees. Creating a CPL If there is no face below the hole or the face does not meet the criteria above then the tip angle will be defined as Unknown and the behaviour will be as for current hole features (118.0 degrees Machining Solid Features assumed) for compatibility. Associative Reloading of Solid Models The hole operation will then use the feature and tool tip angles to calculate the correct full or diameter depth for the cycles. The Feature Browser
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Depth in Manually Derived Features

When you are manually deriving a feature and you digitise an edge, loop or face, then the depth of the feature is set between the highest and lowest points on all the faces that neighbour this, as in this example based on profiles from edges . However you can change these; at the next step you are prompted to 'Digitise one or more vertices to specify depth range (or return)'. EdgeCAM guesses what point you are altering:
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If you digitise near the highest point, you alter the highest point. Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinistpoint, you alter the lowest point. If you digitise near the lowest licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability between them. and machine solid files without the need for If you make two digitises, the depth is set to directly load translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Creating Turn Features

Two methods of creating turn features are available: The Envelopes option of the Feature Finder command will automatically generate a turn envelope that considers the maximum envelope of the revolved profile. The Turn Feature command allow you to manually identify machinable features.
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Automatically Creating Turn Profiles

The turn profile will be created by using the Feature Finder(Solids menu) command. WhenEnvelopes is checked the command will generate a turn profile that considers the maximum envelope of the revolved profile. For example, if the profile is generated on the plane through the flats of a hexagon, the turn envelope will extend to include the dimension across corners. The Feature Find dialog offers the following parameters: Tolerance - Specify a tolerance to be used for faceting the faces of the solid which are not revolved about the turning axis. You can adjust the tolerance value to speed up processing of the solid. Automatically Name Features - Check this box to automatically assign a name (1, 2, 3 etc.) to the feature. Requires EdgeCAM prefix to the feature description in the Features Window. If unchecked, only the feature This will appear as a Solid Machinist licence description Solid Machinist in the Features Window. EdgeCAM will be displayed provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Envelopes - Check this option to generate a turn envelope that considers the maximum envelope of the revolved profile. Also see Solid CAD Integration . Lower Turret - If selected, a lower turret feature willthe model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and You will be able to create machinable features from be created for any turned envelope feature found. This will be identical except that the profile will be rotated 180 degrees around the main axis (Z, which is X as far operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: as the CPL is concerned). These features will be on the same layer and use the same colour as the other turn features. The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Finding holes in the turning environment Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Please note that only holes aligned with the Turn CPL will be found, so radial holes will be ignored. You Associativity with the model is retained, and holes. Please note that available from the Solids menu orholes need to switch the CPL to Axial to find axial a Reload command is there is no support for machining toolbarSee Feature Finder. reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically off x0. which allows you to regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard See Also EdgeCAM design tools. Turn Profile Feature Types Aligning the Body for Turning See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
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Turn Profile Feature Types

When the Envelopes option is checked the command will generate a number of features that represent profiles. The profiles are created around the Z axis defined by the current CPL. Up to four feature types are created: External Turn, Internal Turn, Face Turn, and Back Turn. The feature will consist of elements in the profile that can be seen when viewed in the appropriate direction. The arrows in the following diagram indicate the direction in which the model is being viewed. Occasionally, due to tolerances within the model, additional elements may be appended to the ends of the profiles.
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This model Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with will produce an External Turn feature respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also an Internal Turn feature Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models aFace Turn Browser The Feature feature
and a Back Turn Feature
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Aligning the Body for Turning

The profile creation relies on the model being correctly aligned along the Z axis of the current CPL. The model can be oriented to the Z axis of the Turn CPL by using the Align Body for Turning command (Solids menu) .
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When the command is selected you will be prompted to digitise a face to define the axis of rotation (or return). Please note that this must be a turned face (cylinder, cone, torus, body of revolution or sphere). If an incorrect surface is digitised an error message will be displayed Selected surface has no axis of rotation and you will need to digitise another surface. Once the model is correctly aligned, press Return.
The turned body now needs to be translated along the Z axis until the face axis lies in the XY plane (i.e. Z0). Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence You will be prompted to select a face to define the origin plane (or return). Press Return to finish the selection. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Manually Identifying Turn Features

In some instances, the Feature Finder command will not find the all of the machinable features. In such cases a manual turn feature tool is required. In the turning environment, the Turn Feature (Solids menu) command or the icon allows you select turnable faces in the Turn CPL and create a turn feature from those that are connected. It is possible to select the complete model and generate a single turn feature from the connecting turnable faces. The resultant turn features are associative to the solid.
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Unlike the automatic Feature Finder which finds the maximum turned envelope, the Turn Feature command will find the profile edges. The command consistently works in the same direction. The solid material will Requires on the left side Machinist licence always beEdgeCAM Solidof the profile in the direction the tool is travelling. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly message machine solid files without the need for When non-turnable faces are selected, the following error load and Some Face(s) did not form simple translation.geometry and have been ignored is displayed. connected Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . Notewill be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and You operations. Two methods of feature identification are available:that have their centre on the Z axis of the The Turn Feature command will only work on cylindrical faces Turn CPL. You can find out whether a face is cylindrical by using the Entity (Verify menu) command. The your faces are command will automatically find (Solids menu) command solid model with If some of Feature Findernot cylindrical the Feature Finder prismatic features on the should be used. This respect to to process CPL. may take longer the current as the face is swept to find the outer profile. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Feature Finder
Use the Feature Finder command (Solids menu) to automatically find features (pockets, holes, bosses and turn profiles) on the solid body. Note that to be found, pocket and boss features must have a top face or base that is planar, and whose plane is parallel to the CPL ('top face' applies to bosses, 'base' applies to pockets).
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The command is only available when a solid model is loaded. You opt whether or not to find features in the geometry classifications: '2D', 'Contour' and '3D'. If you only Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence find the type of features you are going to machine, you reduce the time spent finding the features, and reduce the clutterMachinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for EdgeCAM Solid caused by unnecessary features. translation.'Nesting' option in the Feature Finder dialog that you can setincluding multi-plane. There is a Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling to: Also see Solid CAD Integration . Single Pockets machinable features from the have for use within EdgeCAM of 'Single', You will be able to create features found with this settingmodela 'Nesting status' propertycycles and and can not have bosses within them (even if the region of the solid model they are originally operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: derived from does). The Nested Feature Finder commandthis setting have a find prismatic features on of 'Nested', and can have Pockets found with will automatically 'Nesting status' property the solid model with respect to the current CPL. bosses within them. Use this setting if you will be roughing out pockets with bosses, to prevent the boss to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow youbeing machined away. Both There are two coincident versions of every pocket feature; a Single and a Nested version. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. You can also feature find on a body in the current CPL by right-clicking the solid in the Features Window and selecting the Feature Find option from the context menu. manufacturing purposes by using standard Additional geometry can be created around solid model for EdgeCAM design tools. You use the Feature Finder dialog that opens; click the Help button in the dialog for more details. By default, features are placed on a layer associated to the feature type and given a default colour. You can See Also use the Display tab to specify a colour and layer for the found features. Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models See Also Features in Solid Machinist Creating Turn Profiles Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Feature Find Report Creating a CPL The Features Window Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Feature Capping
The Feature Caps option on the Feature Finder (Solids menu) dialog allows you to cover pocket or hole features in solid models with STL caps that can be used to exclude the hole or pocket feature from any surface machining cycle. To do this, the cap must be included in the cycle. If the Feature Caps option is checked when using the Feature Finder command on a solid with Find Pockets and/or Find Holes checked all pocket and/or hole features will be capped. The following rules apply:
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IfGroup Similar Holes is checked, then the caps will also be grouped. Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinistthe parent feature and are associative with the solid. Caps have their The caps are generated from licence own definable layer, colour and name. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic andand capped features are treated as STL models for Caps are represented as EdgeCAM STL entities surface milling including multi-plane. surface machining instructions. If you explode a capped feature, the cap will be kept as a separate Also see Solid CAD Integration . STL entity. Please note that exploding caps will break associativity. You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and When the features are displayed rendered, the cap will be displayed rendered, otherwise it will be operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: displayed as points around the cap boundary. The Feature Finder command will automatically breaking through a on the solid model caps Capping complex non-planar shapes (e.g. a holefind prismatic featuresfillet) may producewith that respect to are not smooth.the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Feature Find Report

When Feature Find has finished a dialog is displayed that reports the number of features found:
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Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence If desired, it is possible to turn off the ability find report by and machine solid files Find Summary EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the featureto directly loadunchecking the Feature without the need for option on the Solids tab of supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. translation. Solid Machinist the Preferences (Options menu) dialog and just view the status of features in the Features Window. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and Feature Find Report on Updated Features operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: When the Feature Finder command or any manual feature identification command is re-run after reloading a solid: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Features will be updated on a best match basis if any of the topological information (faces, edges Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. etc.) is retained or geometrically matched in the modified solid. This includes any common cylindrical face in a group of hole features, for example. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically Otherwise, regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional features will bebe createdby new features of the same type in the order in which they were found, Old geometry can 'updated' around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAMwill be classified as Changed features.. This works in the majority of cases where the topological and design tools. information has been lost by the changes to the solid. Features updated in this way will be displayed with See Also a dashed font. SolidsFeatures and Menu be re-created by matching their identities or matching their geometry will be Toolbar that cannot orphaned and will be displayed in dotted font. Loading Solid Models The report dialog Machinist and reports the changes. User Identified features are also updated, but are Features in Solid is displayed not reported: Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Features Window Status The Features Window displays the status of all features since the last re-load. The first time Feature Find or any manual feature identification command is run the features are listed without any change status. Following a re-load the status of each feature will be displayed as either NewFeatures that were not found on the original model. Changed Features that have changed, for instance a pocket position has moved or the depth of a hole has changed.
Best match Features that have been updated using a best match process. These should be checked to
make sure they are what you expect. Orphaned Features that no longer exist on the reloaded model. These can be deleted automatically by checking the Delete Orphaned Features option on the Solids tab of the Preferences (Options menu) command. Manual features other than face features behave like automatic features on a re-load and orphaned features are retained unless Delete Orphaned Features has been checked. Because face features are defined as references to faces of the current model, they cannot be retained if orphaned. When merging two or more bodies by Boolean union, the target part (the part that is to have others merged to it) will retain its features, the features of any tool part (part that is to be merged) will be automatically orphaned and deleted (even if the Delete Orphaned Features preference has not been checked). Any new features created by the union on the target part will be displayed as New in the Features Window. Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence Unchanged features will be listed by their name only, without any status prefix. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for In addition, features that have changed will be highlighted (displayed in bold) in the window after the retranslation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. load. Also see Solid CAD Integration .
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You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: Note that any operations or cycles that used the features must be regenerated in manufacture. Operations that were applied to orphaned features need to be deleted or edited to select a new feature. The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. SeeAssociative Reloading of Solid Models for further information on updating features. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Creating Geometry from Solid Entities

The Geometrycommand (Solids menu) solid entities. command allows you to create EdgeCAM geometry from
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Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence
In the Geometry dialog you choose to create the lines, arc, curves, continuous and points from edges, loops, vertices and turned faces respectively.
EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: You can either digitise single entities or select an entire solid by holding down the Ctrl key and pressing the 'A' key. Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with The respect to the current CPL. Note that there are other commands, such as Geometry from Loops (Solids toolbar) which by-pass the dialogIdentification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. and take you straight to digitizing the entities. Once created these EdgeCAM entities will not be associative, so if the model is modified and reloaded the Associativity with the model is retained, and a EdgeCAM entities can be created from the modified model. entities will not be regenerated, although new Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically The colour the layer for the resulting EdgeCAM the design taken regenerate and features to reflect the changes in geometry ismodel. from the colour/layer control on the main EdgeCAM toolbar. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. When the 2D Snap button is active the EdgeCAM geometry will be generated planar at the current Z level. See Also Notes on using the Turned Face option Solids Toolbar and Menu This command is primarily for use within the turn environment. (For an associative solution use the Turn Loadingcommand). Feature Solid Models Features in prompted to select a number of turnable faces aligned with the z-axis of the current CPL. All You will be Solid Machinist geometry will be created as 2D entities Creating Geometry from Solid Entities in the CPLs ZX plane as follows: Creating a CPL aligned cylinders and cones will generate lines, Machining Solid Features aligned tori and spheres will create arcs, Associative Reloading of Solid Models planes parallel to the CPL will produce lines, The Feature Browser aligned Parasolid surfaces of revolution will produce the drive curve, all other surfaces (including those not aligned with the z-axis) will be ignored. If non-turnable faces are selected the following error message Some Face(s) did not form simple connected geometry and have been ignored is displayed.
Creating a CPL from a Solid Face

The command CPL(Solids menu) or the icon allows you to create a CPL from a Solid Face. This requires the selection of a face, plus an origin (optional). You can select the origin from any points on the model (including typed in co-ordinates and vertices). This CPL can then be used as a reference for machining purposes. This function provides a method of CPL creation for Multi-plane applications. The full functionality for CPL creation is available through the normal Create CPL command, although this will first require you to create the EdgeCAM geometry.
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Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence CPL creation from cylinders/cones EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to to selectload andand cylindrical faceswithout the need for The Face Axis option (Plane modifier) allows you directly conical machine solid files from a solid for translation. Solid Machinist supportsmultiplane milling environment when creatingmulti-plane. is normal to CPL creation, typically useful in the both prismatic and surface milling including a CPL which a hole. Also see Solid CAD Integration . The orientation is taken from the cylinder, the Z-axisthethe CPL will point away from the cycles andthe You will be able to create machinable features from of model for use within EdgeCAM middle of cylinder. If the datum position for theidentification are available: the cylinder the CPL's Z axis will point up operations. Two methods of feature CPL is above the center of and if the datum is below the center of the cylinder the Z axis will point down. You will be prompted to pick the cylindrical face to define the CPL orientation.on the solid model with The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features respect to the current CPL. You can intellisnap the origin at either end of the cylindrical face along the centreline of the cylinder. (This selection mode is optional and you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow can be controlled by checking the appropriate box on the Selection tab of thePreferences (Options menu) dialog. The default setting for this option is ON.) Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
The Features Window Shortuct Menu

Right-click in the Features Window to call up a shortcut menu.
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Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. The available commands depends on the type(s) of features and environment selected. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. You can select multiple entries in the window and choose the appropriate action from the shortcut menu. If Associativity with the model isthe Edit command moves through them one by from calling up the relevant multiple entries are selected, retained, and a Reload command is available one the Solids menu or toolbarfor you allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically dialog which to edit. regenerate the features to function is not supported in the Turning environment. Please note that the Edit reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard After a re-load, modified features will be displayed highlighted in the Features Window. After reviewing a EdgeCAM design tools. highlighted feature, you can accept the feature by using the Accept option in the shortcut menu. The Apply Strategy command is used to apply a machining strategy that has been previously defined in See Also theStrategy Manager application to the selected feature(s). For further information please refer to the Solids Toolbar andhelp. Strategy Manager Menu Loading Solid Models in the window, the Feature Find command can be used to feature find on the body When you select a solid in the current CPL Features in Solid Machinist The Expand and Collapse options can be used to streamline the tree view and simplify selection and Creating Geometry from Solid Entities manipulation of solids and features. For further details, see The Features Window. Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
About Strategy Manager

EdgeCAM Strategy Manager is a product introducing rules based machining to the Solid Machinist user. You can start it from the Solids menu or toolbar. Strategy Manager combines logic and flow chart methodology to capture working practices and define a machining strategy, which can then be applied to EdgeCAM hole cycles and operations in the first development phase in version 7.00.
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EdgeCAM Strategy Manager is a separate licensed application. Please contact your EdgeCAM reseller for further information on Strategy Manager. Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. Also see Solid CAD Integration . You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design tools. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Loading Solid Models Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser
Solid Machinist Error Messages

The following table contains a list of error messages that are generated when a solid fails to load or re-load in EdgeCAM Solid Machinist. Load error types refer to File Open, Insert Solid, Insert Part and Insert Component commands. For Autodesk Inventor users the kernel version is the version of Inventor, VoloView or Design Tracking installed, for all other CAD kernels the version supported will be listed in the Whats new file in EdgeCAM.
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Error type Message(s) displayed Reason Re-load Cannot Machinist Kernel, A Reload Solid command has failed to Requires EdgeCAM Solidload (CAD licence i.e. Parasolid) mode. Ensure file contains a valid solid load the new file. EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the abilityopen the load Possible causes: Corrupt file, file ofneed for and machine solid files without the later of a suitable version. Cannot to directly translation. Solid Machinist file. supports both prismatic and surface milling than kernel used by EdgeCAM, file specified version including multi-plane. contains no solid model or the file is locked Also see Solid CAD Integration . by another application. You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods open the specified file. are available:The file cannot be accessed by the Load Cannot of feature identification EdgeCAM application (i.e. deleted, hidden or security is too the solid model with The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on tight). respect to the current CPL. Load Pre 4.70.0 Solid Machinist part not Parts created with very early versions of Identification tools allow you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. supported. Solid Machinist can no longer be read, Please contact Pathtrace Support. please contact Support. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or Load Correct Solid Machinist licence required. Loading a solid file or .ppf file containing a toolbar which allows you to reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically Cannot reflect the changes in the solid regenerate the features toload (CAD Kernel) model design model. fails because the user does not have the correct Solid Machinist licence. Additional geometry can be created around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard EdgeCAM design Ensure file contains a valid solid of a tools. Load Loading a .ppf with a solid fails to See Also suitable version. Cannot load (CAD Kernel) model determine which CAD kernel to use. Most likely caused by corrupt .ppf file. The version of Inventor, VoloView or Design Tracking is an older version than the solid being loaded, or neither Inventor or VoloView are installed. Possible causes: Corrupt file, file of later version than kernel used by EdgeCAM, file contains no solid model or the file is locked by another application. Possible causes: Corrupt file, file of later version than kernel used by EdgeCAM, file contains no solid model or the file is locked by another application.
Solids Toolbar and Menu correct version of (CAD Kernel) Load Ensure application installed on computer. Loading Solid Models Cannot load (CAD Kernel) model Features in Solid Machinist Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Load Cannot load (CAD Kernel, i.e. Parasolid) Creating a CPL model. Ensure file contains a valid solid of a Machining Solid Features version suitable Associative Reloading of Solid Models Load Ensure file contains a valid solid of a The Feature Browser suitable version.
Load
Solid file contains possible non-manifold geometry.

Requires EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence
This warning can occur for two reasons. 1) A face is detected that has no facets. Check the model for any gaps between faces. 2) An edge which has other than two faces attached to it. This is generally caused when part of a body has a zero thickness. Some modelers can create zero thickness parts (sheet material) which will cause this warning. Zero thickness solids can still be machined.
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We have noted that the error tends to occur on models that have been imported EdgeCAM Solid Machinist provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for into the sending CAD system rather than translation. Solid Machinist supports both prismatic and surface milling including multi-plane. created by the CAD system, for example Also see Solid CAD Integration . IGES files that have been knitted into a solid. You will be able to create machinable features from the model for use within EdgeCAM cycles and operations. Two methods of feature identification are available: Error messages when identifying features The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with respect to the current CPL. The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features on the solid model with Identification tools allow youIfto manually identify machinable features with feature findthe current CPL. respect to the current CPL. a surface body is selected for the automatic respect to command, the following error message Cannot feature find - Body is not solid is displayed. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or If non-turnable faces reload an updated model into EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will the following toolbar which allows you to are selected when manually identifying turn features, automatically error message Some to reflect not form simple connected geometry and have been ignored is regenerate the featuresface(s) didthe changes in the design model. displayed. The Turn Feature command will only work on cylindrical faces that have their centre on AdditionalZ axis of the Turn created around theout whether a face is cylindricalpurposes by using standard the geometry can be CPL. You can find solid model for manufacturing by using the Entity (Verify EdgeCAM design tools. If some of your faces are not cylindrical the Feature Finder (Solids menu) command menu) command. should be used. This may take longer to process as the face is swept to find the outer profile. See Also Solids Toolbar and Menu Error messages when machining solid models Loading Solid Models If you receive the warning message Solid Machinist internal model evaluation error when trying to Features in Solid Machinist machine a solid model the problem is internal to the solid model and cannot be altered in EdgeCAM Creating Geometry from Solid Entities but needs to be reported to the CAD system vendor. Creating a CPL If you receive the warning message "Possibly corrupt solid - faceting incomplete at requested tolerance" we recommend you look at the original CAD system and try to repair the model. In some Machining Solid Features cases, modifying the tolerance may help to generate a toolpath. Please note that the message may Associative Reloading of Solid Models appear in the feedback window after loading or regenerating the vectors on the solid, or as an error message when The Feature Browser machining or when exporting as STL.
Copyright
(C)1988-2005 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved. Pathtrace Engineering Systems and its registered resellers or sub-resellers shall have no liability or responsibility to the licensee or any other person or entity with respect to any liability, loss or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by this product, including but not limited to any interruption of service, loss of business or anticipatory profits or consequent damages resulting from the use or operation of this software. Microsoft, Windows and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. MemoHASP is a registered trademark of Aladdin Knowledge Systems Ltd. NetSentinel is a trademark Machinist licence Requires EdgeCAM Solid of Rainbow Technologies, Inc. OpenGL(r) and Optimizer are trademarks of Silicon Graphics Inc. EdgeCAM Solid MachinistUnigraphics Solutions Inc. Parasolid is a trademark of provides the ability to directly load and machine solid files without the need for translation. Solid Machinist supports bothAutodesk Inc. surface milling including multi-plane. Autodesk Inventor (tm) is a trademark of prismatic and SolidWorks is a registered trademark of SolidWorks Corporation. Also see Solid CAD Integration . Solid Edge is a registered trademark of EDS Inc. You will be able to create machinable features from the model are use within EdgeCAM cycles and PTC, Pro/DESKTOP, Pro/ENGINEER(r), GRANITE (tm) One, for trademarks or registered trademarks of operations. Technology Corporation identification are available: and in other countries. Parametric Two methods of feature or its subsidiaries in the U.S. AutoCAD and DXF are registered trademarks of Autodesk Inc. MicroStation is a trademark of Bentley Systems Inc., an affiliate of Intergraph on the solid model with The Feature Finder command will automatically find prismatic features Corporation. IGDS respect to the current CPL. Corporation. is a trademark of Intergraph EdgeCAM Simulator and EdgeCAM Verify use technology developed by Lightworks Designs Ltd. Identification tools allow Technology, Inc., and was developed in co-operation with Three-Space, Ltd., ACIS is a trademark of Spatial you to manually identify machinable features with respect to the current CPL. Cambridge, England, and Applied Geometry Corporation, Seattle, Washington. Associativity with the model is retained, and a Reload command is available from the Solids menu or Other brands allows you to reload an trademarks of their EdgeCAM. EdgeCAM will automatically toolbar which and product names are updated model into respective owners. regenerate the features to reflect the changes in the design model. The information contained within this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part ofcreated around the solid model for manufacturing purposes by using standard Additional geometry can be the vendor. The software described in this document is furnished under a licence agreement and EdgeCAM design tools.may only be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement. See Also
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Pathtrace Engineering Systems Solids Toolbar and Menu 45 Boulton Road Reading Berkshire England RG2 0NH Loading Solid Models Telephone +44 (0)118 975 6084 Facsimile +44 (0)118 975 6143 Features in Solid Machinist http://www.edgecam.com Creating Geometry from Solid Entities Creating a CPL Machining Solid Features Associative Reloading of Solid Models The Feature Browser

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EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Launching EdgeCAM from EdgeCAM Solid Machinist CAD

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Importing Autodesk Inventor Thread Data

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Transfer of CAD System Data to EdgeCAM

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Importing Autodesk Inventor Thread Data

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Importing SolidWorks Thread Data

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Loading Solids Files

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Solid CAD Systems and EdgeCAM Licenses

RequiresV5 CATIA EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence *.CATpart, *.CATproduct

Notes on Loading Autodesk Inventor files

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Notes on Autodesk Inventor Assemblies

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Notes on Loading Granite Models

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Notes on Loading SolidWorks Assemblies

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Notes on Loading Pro/ENGINEER Assemblies

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Notes on loaded non-assembly multiple-body files

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Inserting a Solid Model

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Specifying Colour Preferences for Solid Models

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

The dialog for the selected command will now be displayed.

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Associative Reloading of Solid Models

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Feature-Based Instruction Validity Checking

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Selecting Solid Entities

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Features in Solid Machinist

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

See Also Creating Turn Features

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Feature Height Properties

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Notification of Model Change

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Identifying Features in Solid Machinist

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Manual Feature Identification

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Contouring Attributes for Pocket/Boss Features

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Defining Thread Parameters in Hole Features

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

EdgeCAM Solid Machinist

Countersink and Tip Angle in Hole Features

RequiresV5 CATIA EdgeCAM Solid Machinist licence .CATpart, .CATproduct