Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 1

Advanced Machining

Preface

What's New

Getting Started
Enter the Workbench and Setup the Part Operation
Create a Roughing Operation
Create an Isoparametric Machining Operation
Create a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operation
Generate NC Code

User Tasks
Drilling Operations
2.5-axis Milling Operations
3-axis Milling Operations
Multi-Axis Milling Operations
Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Tanto Fan
Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Combin Tanto
Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Local Modifications
Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Non Adjacent Drives
Multi-Axis Helix Machining: Lead and Tilt
Auxiliary Operations
Part Operations, Manufacturing Programs and Machining Processes
NC Manufacturing Entities
Verification, Simulation and Program Output

Workbench Description
Menu Bar
Toolbars
Specification Tree

Customizing
NC Manufacturing Settings
General
Resources
Operation
Output
Program
Photo / Video

Reference Information
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Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operations

Multi-Axis Helix Machining

Methodology

Glossary

Index
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Preface
Advanced Machining easily defines NC programs dedicated to machining complex 3D parts (aerospace,
hydraulic, turbo-machinery, and so on) within a single workbench including 2.5 to 5-axis machining
technologies. Complementary to other V5 NC Manufacturing solutions, this product brings new
functionalities in order to cover the entire machining process in addition to existing key functionalities that
speed up skill oriented operations. All these functionalities overtake previous version CATIA NC
Manufacturing solutions, and therefore surpass existing all-in-one CAM systems.

Advanced Machining offers the following main functions:

● Accurate tool path definition through a full set of 2.5 to 5 axis milling and drilling machining capabilities
● Quick tool path definition thanks to an intuitive user interface
● Flexible management of tools and tool catalogs
● Definition of machining areas including multi-thickness areas
● Check and repair tool holder collisions
● Quick verification of tool path
● In-process part visualization and material removal simulation in multi-axis mode
● Tool path editor
● Fast tool path update after modification
● Seamless NC data generation
● Automatic shop-floor documentation
● Management of NC related documents
● Multi-CAD management
● Integration with DELMIA
● NC know-how capitalization and reuse
● Productive design change management.

Certain portions of this product contain elements subject to copyright owned by the following entities:

© Copyright LightWork Design Ltd., all rights reserved.

© Copyright Deneb Robotics Inc., all rights reserved.
© Copyright Cenit, all rights reserved.
© Copyright Intelligent Manufacturing Software, all rights reserved.
© Copyright WALTER Informationssysteme GmbH, all rights reserved.
© Copyright ICAM Technologies Corporation, all rights reserved.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 4

What's New?
New Functionalities
Multi-Pocket machining
New machining mode dedicated to Aerospace Part Machining.

Enhanced Functionalities
Global auxiliary guiding curve for Multi-Axis Flank Contouring
This guide curve is used to avoid collisions on top of drive elements, or keep a safety distance to it.
This can be useful for twisted surfaces in turbomachinery and structural parts.
Improved cutter compensation
2D Radial Tip Compensation for Multi-Axis Flank Contouring
3D Contact Compensation for Multi-Axis Helix Machining.

Enhancements brought to multi-axis machining operations

Please refer to the Multi-Axis Surface Machining User's Guide for more information.

Enhancements brought to 3-axis machining operations

Please refer to the 3-Axis Surface Machining User's Guide for more information.

Enhancements brought to 2.5-axis machining operations

Please refer to the Prismatic Machining User's Guide for more information.

Enhancements brought to the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure

This product benefits from enhancements to the infrastructure's general functions (NC resources, design
changes, simulation, NC data output, 3D PLM integration, and so on).

Please refer to the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide for more information.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 5

Getting Started
Before getting into the detailed instructions for using Advanced Machining, this tutorial is intended to give
you a feel of what you can accomplish with the product.

It provides the following step-by-step scenario that shows you how to use some of the key functionalities.
Enter the Workbench and Setup the Part Operation
Create a Roughing Operation
Create an Isoparametric Machining Operation
Create a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operation
Generate NC Code
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Enter the Workbench and Setup the Part Operation

This first task shows you how to open the part to machine, enter the Advanced Machining workbench, and setup the
Part Operation.

1. Select File > Open then select the SampleProductAMG.CATProduct document.

2. Select NC Manufacturing > Advanced Machining from the Start menu. The Advanced Machining workbench appears.
The part is displayed in the Setup Editor window along with the manufacturing specification tree.

3. Double click Part Operation.1 in the tree. The Part Operation dialog box appears.
4. Select the Machine icon to access the Machine Editor dialog box. Select the 5-axis Machine icon then click OK to
return to the Part Operation dialog box.
5. Select the Stock icon then select the stock geometry.
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6. Click OK to accept the Part Operation.

7. Select Manufacturing Program.1 in the tree to make it the current entity.
To insert program entities such as machining operations, tools and auxiliary commands you can either:
● make the program current before clicking the insert program entity command
● click the insert program entity command then make the program current.
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Create a Roughing Operation

This task shows you how to insert a Roughing operation into the program. This operation rough machines parts by horizontal planes,
so you must define:
● geometry

● machining strategy parameters

● tool.

Make the Manufacturing Program the current entity in the tree.

1. Select the Roughing icon .

A Roughing entity and a default tool are added to the program.

The dialog box opens at the Geometry tab page .

This page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry to be machined.
2. Click the red Part area in the sensitive
icon and select the part body in the
viewer.

Double click anywhere in the viewer to

confirm your selection and display the
dialog box again.

3. Click the Rough stock area in the

sensitive icon and select the stock in the
viewer.

Please note that you may need to use

the Hide/Show command to make the
Stock visible.

Double click anywhere in the viewer to

confirm your selection and display the
dialog box again.

4. Select the Strategy tab page to specify:

● Machining parameters:

● Strategy parameters:
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5. Select the Tool tab page .

6. Enter a name of the new tool (for example, T1 End Mill D 32 RC4).

7. Double click the D (nominal diameter) parameter in the icon, then enter 32mm in the Edit Parameter dialog box.

The tool icon is updated to take the new value into account.

Set the db (body diameter) parameter to 32mm in the same way.

8. If needed, deselect the Ball-end tool checkbox.

Double click the Rc (corner radius) parameter in the icon, then enter 4mm in the Edit Parameter dialog box.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 10
9. Click Replay to compute the operation and visualize the tool path. You will see that the part has been rough machined.

10. Click OK to create the operation.

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Create an Isoparametric Machining Operation

This task illustrates how to create an Isoparametric Machining operation in the program.

1. Select the Isoparametric Machining icon .

An Isoparametric Machining entity is added to the program. It is initialized with the tool used in the previous operation.

The Isoparametric Machining dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page .
This tab page includes a sensitive icon to help you specify the geometry to be machined.

The part surface and corner points of the icon are colored red indicating that this geometry is required. All other geometry is
optional.

2. Click the red part surface in

the icon then select the
desired surfaces in the 3D
window.

3. Click a red point in the icon

then select the four corner
points of the part surface.

The part surface and corner

points of the icon are now
colored green indicating that
this geometry is now defined.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 12
4. Select the Strategy tab page to specify:

● Machining parameters:

● Stepover parameters: Set Number of paths to 3.

● Tool Axis parameter: Set Guidance to Fixed axis.

5. Click Replay to compute the operation and visualize the tool path.

6. Click OK to create the operation.

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Create a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operation

This task illustrates how to create a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring operation in the program.

1. Select the Multi-Axis Flank Contouring icon .

A Multi-Axis Flank Contouring entity along is added to the program. It is initialized with the tool used in the previous
operation.

The Multi-Axis Flank Contouring dialog box appears directly at the Geometry tab page .

2. Click the red part surface in the icon then select the desired part surface in the 3D window.

3. Click the red drive surface in the icon then select the desired drives in the 3D window.

4. Click the start and stop elements in the icon then select the desired elements in the 3D window.

5. Select the Strategy tab page to specify:

● Tool Axis parameters:

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● Machining parameters:

● Stepover parameters:

● In the Finishing tab, request a Side finish pass on last level with a 1mm Side finish thickness.
● In the Compensation tab, select 3D Radial compensation output
Please note that the generated APT source will contain information for cutter radius compensation. Output is the tool tip
point (XT, YT, ZT), tool axis vector (IJK) and the drive surface normal (PQR).

6. Select the Tool tab page to create a new tool. Enter a name for the tool (for example, T1 End Mill D 16 RC4) and
the following characteristics:
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7. Click Replay to compute the operation and visualize the tool path.
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8. Click OK to create the operation. The specification tree is updated as follows.
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Generate NC Data
This task shows you how to generate NC data in APT format from the program.

For more information about this procedure please refer to Program Output.

1. Use the right mouse key on the Manufacturing Program.1 entity in the tree to select
Manufacturing Program.1 object > Generate NC Code Interactively. The Generate NC Output
Interactively dialog box appears.

2. Select APT as the desired NC data type.

3. Click the Output File [...] button to select the folder where you want the file to be saved and
specify the name of the file.
4. Click Execute to generate the APT source file.
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An extract from a typical APT source file is given below.

Please note that the Flank Contouring portion of this source contains information for cutter
radius compensation. Output is the tool tip point (XT, YT, ZT), tool axis vector (IJK) and the
drive surface normal (PQR).

$$ -----------------------------------------------------------------
$$ Generated on Thursday, October 16, 2003 09:52:12 AM
$$ CATIA APT VERSION 1.0
$$ -----------------------------------------------------------------
$$ Manufacturing Program.1
$$ Part Operation.1
$$*CATIA0
$$ Manufacturing Program.1
$$ 1.00000 0.00000 0.00000 0.00000
$$ 0.00000 1.00000 0.00000 0.00000
$$ 0.00000 0.00000 1.00000 0.00000
PARTNO PART TO BE MACHINED
COOLNT/ON
CUTCOM/OFF
$$ OPERATION NAME : Tool Change.1
$$ Start generation of : Tool Change.1
MULTAX
$$ TOOLCHANGEBEGINNING
RAPID
GOTO / 0.00000, 0.00000, 100.00000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
CUTTER/ 32.000000, 4.000000, 12.000000, 4.000000, 0.000000,$
0.000000, 50.000000
TOOLNO/3, 32.000000
TPRINT/T1 End Mill D 32 RC4
LOADTL/3
$$ End of generation of : Tool Change.1
$$ OPERATION NAME : Roughing.1
$$ Start generation of : Roughing.1
SPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLW
RAPID
GOTO / 49.14075, -129.01000, 50.20000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
RAPID
GOTO / 49.14075, -129.01000, 50.00000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
FEDRAT/ 300.0000,MMPM
GOTO / 49.14075, -129.01000, 40.00000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
.
.
.
GOTO / -22.69277, -110.01000, -0.00000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
FEDRAT/ 1000.0000,MMPM
GOTO / -22.69277, -110.01000, 10.00000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
RAPID
GOTO / -22.69277, -110.01000, 50.20000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
$$ End of generation of : Roughing.1
$$ OPERATION NAME : Isoparametric Machining.1
$$ Start generation of : Isoparametric Machining.1
FEDRAT/ 1000.0000,MMPM
SPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLW
GOTO / 94.69478, -9.32685, 6.00000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
GOTO / 86.33038, -9.32685, 6.00000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
.
.
.
GOTO / 91.86793, -4.77816, 7.49749, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
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GOTO / 2.80778, -4.79095, 35.40089, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
$$ End of generation of : Isoparametric Machining.1
$$ OPERATION NAME : Tool Change.2
$$ Start generation of : Tool Change.2
$$ TOOLCHANGEBEGINNING
RAPID
GOTO / 0.00000, 0.00000, 100.00000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.000000
CUTTER/ 16.000000, 4.000000, 4.000000, 4.000000, 0.000000,$
0.000000, 50.000000
TOOLNO/4, 16.000000
TPRINT/T1 End Mill D 16 RC4
LOADTL/4
$$ End of generation of : Tool Change.2
$$ OPERATION NAME : Multi-Axis Flank Contouring.1
$$ Start generation of : Multi-Axis Flank Contouring.1
LOADTL/4,1
FEDRAT/ 1000.0000,MMPM
SPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLW
CUTCOM/ SAME, NORMDS
CUTCOM/ NORMDS
$$ START CUTCOM NORMDS XT,YT,ZT,I,J,K,P,Q,R
GOTO / 100.00276, -17.79095, 34.00000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.00000$
0, 0.000000,-1.000000, 0.000000
GOTO / -17.69092, -17.79095, 34.00000, 0.000000, 0.000000, 1.00000$
0, 0.000000,-1.000000, 0.000000
.
.
.
GOTO / 117.59356, -82.66197, 4.36385,-0.000004,-0.087155, 0.99619$
5,-0.012004, 0.996123, 0.087149
GOTO / 142.86522, -82.35744, 4.36385,-0.000004,-0.087155, 0.99619$
5,-0.022595, 0.995940, 0.087133
CUTCOM/OFF
$$ END CUTCOM NORMDS XT,YT,ZT,I,J,K,P,Q,R
$$ End of generation of : Multi-Axis Flank Contouring.1
SPINDL/OFF
REWIND/0
END
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 20

User Tasks
The user tasks you will perform in the Advanced Machining workbench involve creating, editing and
managing machining operations and other NC manufacturing entities.
Drilling Operations
2.5-axis Milling Operations
3-axis Milling Operations
Multi-Axis Milling Operations
Auxiliary Operations
Part Operations, Manufacturing Programs and Machining Processes
NC Manufacturing Entities
Verification, Simulation and Program Output
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 21

Drilling Operations
The tasks for creating 2.5 to 5-axis drilling operations are documented in the Prismatic Machining User's
Guide.

Spot Drilling Operation

Create a Spot Drilling Operation: Select the Spot Drilling icon then select the hole or hole
pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters,
macros and feeds and speeds as needed.

Drilling Operations
Create a Drilling Operation: Select the Drilling icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be
machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters, macros and
feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Drilling Dwell Delay Operation: Select the Drilling Dwell Delay icon then select the hole
or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy
parameters, macros and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Drilling Deep Hole Operation: Select the Drilling Deep Hole icon then select the hole or
hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy
parameters, macros and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Drilling Break Chips Operation: Select the Drilling Break Chips icon then select the hole
or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy
parameters, macros and feeds and speeds as needed.

Hole Finishing Operations

Create a Reaming Operation: Select the Reaming icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be
machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters, macros and
feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Counterboring Operation: Select the Counterboring icon then select the hole or hole
pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters,
macros and feeds and speeds as needed.

Boring Operations
Create a Boring Operation: Select the Boring icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be
machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters, macros and
feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Boring Spindle Stop Operation: Select the Boring Spindle Stop icon then select the
hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy
parameters, macros and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Boring and Chamfering Operation: Select the Boring and Chamfering icon then select
the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining
strategy parameters, macros and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Back Boring Operation: Select the Back Boring icon then select the hole or hole
pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters,
macros and feeds and speeds as needed.

Threading Operations
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Create a Tapping Operation: Select the Tapping icon then select the hole or hole pattern to be
machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters, macros and
feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Reverse Threading Operation: Select the Reverse Threading icon then select the hole
or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy
parameters, macros and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Thread without Tap Head Operation: Select the Thread without Tap Head icon then
select the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify
machining strategy parameters, macros and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Thread Milling Operation: Select the Thread Milling icon then select the hole or hole
pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters,
macros and feeds and speeds as needed.

Countersinking and Chamfering Operations

Create a Countersinking Operation: Select the Countersinking icon then select the hole or hole
pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters,
macros and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Chamfering Two Sides Operation: Select the Chamfering Two Sides icon then select
the hole or hole pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining
strategy parameters, macros and feeds and speeds as needed.

T-Slotting and Circular Milling

Create a T-Slotting Operation: Select the T-Slotting icon then select the hole or hole pattern to
be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters, macros
and feeds and speeds as needed.
Create a Circular Milling Operation: Select the Circular Milling icon then select the hole or hole
pattern to be machined and specify the tool to be used. Specify machining strategy parameters,
macros, and feeds and speeds as needed.
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2.5-axis Milling Operations

The tasks for creating 2.5-axis milling operations are documented in the Prismatic Machining User's Guide.

Pocketing Operations
Select the Pocketing icon then select the geometry to be machined (open or closed pocket, islands,
and so on). Specify the tool to be used.
Set parameters for axial and radial machining and other criteria such as finishing and high-speed
milling. Set feeds and speeds and NC macros as needed.

A Pocketing operation can be created for machining:

● Closed pockets
Tool machines the area delimited by hard boundaries

● Open pockets
Tool machines the area that has a least one soft boundary.

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

Profile Contouring Operations

Select the Profile Contouring icon then select the geometry to be machined and specify the tool to
be used.
Set parameters for axial and radial machining and other criteria such as finishing. Set feeds and
speeds and NC macros as needed.

A Profile Contouring operation can be created for machining:

● Between two planes
Tool follows contour between top and bottom planes while respecting user-defined geometry
limitations and machining strategy parameters.

● Between two curves

Tool follows trajectory defined by top and bottom guide curves while respecting user-defined
geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.

● Between a curve and surfaces

Tool follows trajectory defined by a top guide curve and bottom surfaces while respecting user-
defined geometry limitations and machining strategy parameters.

● By flank contouring
Tool flank machines vertical part surface while respecting user-defined geometry limitations and
machining strategy parameters.

Groove Milling Operations

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

Point to Point Operations

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

Curve Following Operations

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

Operations for Reworking Corners and Channels

Corners and channels left unmachined by Pocketing or Profile Contouring operations can be
identified thanks to a Prismatic Rework Area feature. This feature can then be used to Create
operations for reworking corners and channels.
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3-axis Milling Operations

Multi-Pockets Machining
Multi-Pockets machining proposes a process-focused solution to machine Cavity Parts dedicated to
Mechanical and Aerospace industries:
● Rough to finish pockets of machined part with only one tool and one tool path
● Roughing with over-thickness, finishing sides and bottom with waterline machining
● Rough to finish with several tools using rework technology
● Dedicated operation to finish top of stiffeners.
Create a Multi-Pockets machining operation: Select the Multi-Pocket Machining icon, choose the area
to machine and specify the tool to be used. You can also specify machining parameters, feedrates and
spindle speeds.

Please refer to Multi-Pockets Machining.

The following sections provide more useful information about this operation:
● Selecting Geometry

● Automatic Rough Stock

● Ordering Zones

● Reference information for Multi-Pockets machining.

The tasks for creating the following 3-axis milling operations are documented in the 3-Axis Surface
Machining User's Guide.

Rough Machining the Part

Create a Sweep Roughing operation: Select the Sweep Roughing icon, choose the part to machine and
specify the tool to be used. You can also specify machining parameters, feedrates and spindle speeds.
Create a Roughing operation: Select the Roughing icon, choose the part to machine and specify the
tool to be used. You can also specify machining parameters, feedrates and spindle speeds.

Semi-Finish the Part

Create a Sweeping operation: Select the Sweeping icon, choose the part to machine and specify the
tool to be used. You can also specify machining parameters, feedrates and spindle speeds.
Create a ZLevel machining operation: Select the Z-Level icon, choose the part to machine and specify
the tool to be used. You can also specify machining parameters, feedrates and spindle speeds.
Create a Contour-driven machining operation: Select the Contour Driven icon, choose the part to
machine and specify the tool to be used. You can also specify machining parameters, feedrates and
spindle speeds.
Create a Spiral Milling operation: Select the Spiral Milling icon, choose the part to machine and specify
the tool to be used. You can also specify machining parameters, feedrates and spindle speeds.
Create a Isoparametric machining operation: Select the Isoparametric Machining icon, choose the part
to machine and specify the tool to be used. You can also specify machining parameters, feedrates and
spindle speeds.
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Rework Areas of the Part

You can use the following operation to rework an area on a part where there is residual material. Before
using this operation, compute the areas that you want to rework.

Create a Pencil operation: Select the Pencil icon, choose the area to rework and specify the tool to be
used. You can also specify machining parameters, feedrates and spindle speeds.
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Multi-Axis Machining Operations

The tasks in this section show you how to create multi-axis operations in your NC manufacturing program.

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring operation

Select the Multi-Axis Flank Contouring icon then select the geometry to be machined. Specify the tool
to be used. Set the Guiding strategy and choose one of the following Tool axis modes:
● Tanto Fan

● Combin Tanto

● Combin Parelm

● Mixed Combin

● Fixed

● Normal to Part.

Note that the tool axis strategy can be automatically adjusted to avoid collisions in certain cases by
selecting an auxiliary guide curve.

Specify machining parameters, feeds and speeds, and NC macros as needed.

The following user tasks illustrate some of this operation's capabilities:

● Tanto Fan tool axis mode

● Combin Tanto tool axis mode

● Local modifications

● Non-contiguous drives.

Multi-Axis Helix Machining operation

Select the Multi-Axis Helix Machining icon then select the geometry to be machined. Specify the tool to
be used. Set the Guiding strategy and choose one of the following Tool axis modes:
● Lead and Tilt

● 4-Axis Tilt.

Specify machining parameters, feeds and speeds, and NC macros as needed.

The following user task is illustrated for this operation:

● Lead and Tilt tool axis mode.

The tasks for creating other multi-axis milling operations are documented in the Multi-Axis Surface
Machining User's Guide.

Multi-Axis Sweeping operation

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Select the Multi-Axis Sweeping icon then select the geometry to be machined. You can use Offset
Groups and Features when defining geometry. Specify the tool to be used. Set the Tool axis mode then
specify machining parameters, feeds and speeds, and NC macros as needed.

User tasks illustrate the following Tool axis modes for this operation:
● Lead and Tilt

● Fixed

● Thru a Point

● Normal to Line

● 4-Axis Lead/Lag

● Optimized Lead.

Multi-Axis Contour Driven operation

Select the Multi-Axis Contour Driven icon then select the geometry to be machined. You can use
Offset Groups and Features when defining geometry. Specify the tool to be used. Set the Guiding
strategy and choose one of the following Tool axis modes:
● Lead and Tilt

● Fixed

● Thru a Point

● Normal to Line

● 4-Axis Lead/Lag

● Optimized Lead.

Specify machining parameters, feeds and speeds, and NC macros as needed.

User tasks illustrate the following Guiding strategies for this operation:
● Between contours

● Parallel contours

● Spine contour.

Multi-Axis Curve Machining operation

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Select the Multi-Axis Curve Machining icon then select the geometry to be machined. Specify the tool
to be used. Set the Machining mode and choose one of the following Tool axis modes:
● Lead and Tilt

● Fixed

● Interpolation

● Thru a Point

● Normal to Line

● Optimized Lead (for Contact machining only)

● Tangent Axis (for Between Two Curves and Between Curve and Part modes only)

● 4-axis Lead/Lag.

Specify machining parameters, feeds and speeds, and NC macros as needed.

User tasks illustrate the following Machining modes for this operation:
● Contact

● Between two curves with Tip or Side machining

● Between a curve and part with Tip or Side machining.

Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining operation

Select the Isoparametric Machining icon then select the geometry to be machined. Specify the tool to
be used. Set the Machining mode and choose one of the following Tool axis modes:
● Lead and Tilt

● Fixed

● Interpolation

● Thru a Point

● Normal to Line

● Optimized Lead

● 4-Axis Lead/Lag

● 4-Axis Tilt.

Specify machining parameters, feeds and speeds, and NC macros as needed.

User tasks illustrate the following Tool Axis modes for this operation:
● Lead and Tilt

● 4-Axis Lead

● Interpolation.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 30

Create a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operation

with "Tanto Fan" Tool Axis Guidance
This task illustrates how to create a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring operation in the program. The tool
axis will be guided in Tanto Fan mode.

To create the operation you must define:

● the geometry to be machined

● the tool that will be used

● the parameters of the machining strategy

● the feedrates and spindle speeds

● the macros (transition paths) .

Open the Flank_5X_test_part.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Advanced

Machining from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.

1. Select the Multi-Axis Flank

Contouring icon .

A Multi-Axis Flank
Contouring entity along with
a default tool is added to the
program.

The Multi-Axis Flank

Contouring dialog box
appears directly at the
Geometry tab page .

The part, drive and

start/stop elements of the
sensitive icon are colored
red indicating that this
geometry is required.

2. Click the red part surface in the icon then select the desired surfaces in the 3D window.
3. Click the red drive surface in the icon then select the desired drives in the 3D window (Drives 1 to
5).
4. Click the start and stop elements in the icon then select the desired limiting elements in the 3D
window.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 31

After geometry selection, the surfaces of the icon are colored green indicating that this geometry
is now defined.

5. Select the Strategy tab page to specify:

Machining parameters:

Stepover parameters:
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 32

Tool axis guidance parameters:

In this example, Finishing, High-speed milling and Compensation is not required.

6. Click Preview in the dialog box to verify the parameters that you have specified.

A message box appears giving feedback about this verification.

7. Select the Tool tab page and specify a 16mm ball end mill.

For more information please refer to Edit the Tool of an Operation.

8. If needed, select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify feedrates and spindle speeds
for the operation. Otherwise default values are used.
9. If needed, select the Macros tab page to specify the operation's transition paths (approach
and retract motion, for example). See Define Macros of an Operation for an example of specifying
transition paths on a multi-axis machining operation.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 33

10. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.

11. Click OK to create the operation.

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 34

Create a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operation with

"Combin Tanto" Tool Axis Guidance
This task illustrates how to create a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring operation in the program. The tool axis
will be guided in Combin Tanto mode.

To create the operation you must define:

● the geometry to be machined

● the tool that will be used

● the parameters of the machining strategy

● the feedrates and spindle speeds

● the macros (transition paths) .

Open the Flank_5X_test_part.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Advanced Machining
from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.

1. Select the Multi-Axis Flank

Contouring icon .

A Multi-Axis Flank Contouring

entity along with a default tool is
added to the program.

The Multi-Axis Flank Contouring

dialog box appears directly at the
Geometry tab page .

The part, drive and start/stop

elements of the sensitive icon are
colored red indicating that this
geometry is required. All other
geometry is optional.

2. Click the red part surface in the icon then select the desired surface in the 3D window.
3. Click the red drive surface in the icon then select the desired drive in the 3D window (Drive 1).
4. Click the start and stop elements in the icon then select the desired limiting elements in the 3D
window.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 35

After geometry selection, the surfaces of the icon are colored green indicating that this geometry is
now defined.

5. Select the Strategy tab page to specify:

Machining parameters:

Stepover parameters:
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 36

Tool axis guidance parameters:

In this example, Finishing, High-speed milling and Compensation is not required.

6. Click Preview in the dialog box to verify the parameters that you have specified.

A message box appears giving feedback about this verification.

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

Please refer to Edit the Tool of an Operation.

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

See Define Macros of an Operation for an example of specifying transition paths on a multi-axis
machining operation.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 37

Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.

9. Click OK to create the operation.

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 38

Local Modifications to a
Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operation
This task illustrates how to create then locally modify a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring operation in the program. First the operation
will be globally created in Tanto Fan mode. Then the first and last drives will be locally modified to:
● use a different guiding strategy
● use different offsets
● use a 4-axis constraint.

Open the Part5XDemoGFC.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Advanced Machining from the Start menu. Make
the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.

1.
Select the Multi-Axis Flank Contouring icon .

2. Use the sensitive icon in the Geometry page to:

● select the part surface

● select the drive surfaces (Drive 1 to Drive 5) either
manually or using the navigation functionality for face
selection.
● select the start and stop limiting elements
● set a 1mm offset of the drive surfaces.

3. Select the Strategy tab page to specify Tanto Fan tool axis guidance.

The other Strategy parameters can be left at the default values.

The default Tool, Feeds and Speeds, and NC macros can also be used.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 39
4. Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.

5. Right click the drive surfaces area in the sensitive icon of the Geometry page and select Local Modifications. The Local
Drive Surfaces dialog box appears:

6. Double click line 1, which corresponds to the first drive. The Local Drive Surface 1 dialog box appears:
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 40
Modify the drive by adding a 2mm offset and changing the tool axis guidance to Tanto.
Click OK. The updated Local Drives dialog box appears:

7. Double click line 5, which corresponds to the last drive, and modify it in the same way.
8. Check the validity of the modifications by replaying the tool path. Tanto replaces Tanto Fan on first and last drives.

9. Click the 4X constraint symbol on the Strategy tab page icon and select an edge as shown:
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 41
10. In the Local Drive 1 and Local Drive 5 dialog boxes, select the Enable 4-axis checkbox.

The Local Drives dialog box is updated:

11. Check the validity of the modifications by replaying the tool path. The 4-axis constraint is applied on first and last drives.

12. Click OK to create the operation.

Please note:
● Tanto tool axis guidance only exists as a local mode.
● 4-axis constraint can only be applied to Normal to part and Tanto tool axis guidance.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 42

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring with Non Contiguous

Drives on Different Solids
This task illustrates how to create a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring operation when the drive surfaces
are non contiguous. In this scenario, you will use:
● drive surfaces located on two different solids
● drive surface defined by additional geometry used to bridge a gap.

Open the AMG2Solids.CATProduct document, then select NC Manufacturing > Advanced Machining
from the Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.

1. Select the Multi-Axis Flank Contouring icon .

2. Use the sensitive icon in the Geometry page to:

● select the part surface (underside of gray solid, for example)

● select the start and stop limiting elements
● select Drive 1 on the flank of the blue solid and Drives 2 and 3 on the flanks of the gray
solid.

Drives 1 and 2 are non contiguous: they belong to different solids.

Stopping and Restarting conditions must be defined on non contiguous drives.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 43

Arrows appear on Drives 1 and 2 indicating the orientation for each contiguous section. Make
sure that they are oriented outward.

Arrows appear whenever necessary to indicate the orientation for your drive selection. You
must make sure that they are correctly oriented.
3. Right click the drive surfaces area in the sensitive icon of the Geometry page and select Local
Modifications. The Local Drive Surfaces dialog box appears.

4. Double click line 1, which corresponds to the first drive. The Local Drive Surface 1 dialog box
appears. Set the Stopping condition to To.

Access the Local Drive Surface 2 dialog box using the '>>' button and set Restarting
direction to Left.
5. The Local Drive Surfaces dialog box is updated as follows:

Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 44

6. Change the position of the Stop element, then select Drives 4, 5 and 6.

These Drives are non contiguous: Drive 5 is in fact geometry added by the user to close the gap
between Drives 5 and 6.

7. Access the Local Drive Surface 4 dialog box and set Stopping condition to Tangent DS.
Access the Local Drive Surface 5 dialog box and set Stopping condition to Tangent DS.

Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 45

8. Change the position of the Stop element, then select Drives 7 to 13 on the flanks of the gray
solid. Select the last Drive 14 on the flank of the blue solid.

Drives 13 and 14 are non contiguous: they belong to different solids.

An arrow appears on Drive 6 indicating the orientation for the contiguous section. Make sure
that it is oriented outward.

9. Access the Local Drive Surface 13 dialog box and set Stopping condition to To.
Access the Local Drive Surface 14 dialog box and set Restarting direction to Left.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 46

Check the validity of the operation by replaying the tool path.

10. Click OK to create the operation.

Right clicking in the Local Drive Surfaces dialog box gives access to a number of contextual
commands:
● Column Order and Column Filter for managing the columns of information that are shown
● Properties for accessing the dialog box of the selected local drive
● Reset to reset local drive selection in the list
● Copy, Cut and Paste for managing the list of local drives.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 47

Create a Multi-Axis Helix Machining Operation

with "Lead and Tilt" Tool Axis Guidance
This task illustrates how to insert a Multi-Axis Helix Machining operation in the program. This
operation will be used to generate a single helix toolpath to mill an entire turbo-machinery blade. To
create the operation you must define:
● the geometry to be machined

● the tool that will be used

● the parameters of the machining strategy with the tool axis guided in Lead and Tilt
mode

● the feedrates and spindle speeds

● the macros (transition paths) .

Open the Blade.CATPart document, then select NC Manufacturing > Advanced Machining from the
Start menu. Make the Manufacturing Program current in the specification tree.

1. Select the Multi-Axis Helix Machining icon . A Helix Machining entity along with a default
tool is added to the program. The Multi-Axis Helix Machining dialog box appears directly at the
Geometry tab page .

The part surface, upper and lower contours, and leading and trailing edges of the sensitive icon
are colored red indicating that this geometry is required and must be selected. The upper and
lower contours and the leading and trailing edges must lie on the faces selected as part surface.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 48

Fixture geometry is optional.

2. Click the red part surface in the icon then select the faces to be machined in the 3D window. In
this scenario, you must select 4 faces: the front face, the back face and the two side faces.

The Face Selection toolbar appears to help you select faces or belts of faces.

Note that faces must be continuous. Gaps between faces may result in a bad tool path.
3. Select the upper and lower contours. The Edge Selection toolbar appears to help you select
these contours. They must be closed contours
4. Select the leading and trailing edges to define the limits of the machining. The Edge Selection
toolbar appears to help you select these edges. They must intersect the upper and lower
contours.

The geometry entities of the icon are now colored green indicating that this geometry is now
defined.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 49

5. Select the Strategy tab page , then select a Start or Stop point using the sensitive icon.

Specify parameters for:

● Tool axis guidance:

● Machining:
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 50

● Stepover:

A default reference tool axis (A) is displayed. You can double click on this axis to modify it. You
can also click the tool axis (A) symbol in the Strategy tab page to modify the orientation of the
reference axis.
6. Click Preview in the dialog box to verify the parameters that you have specified. A message box
appears giving feedback about this verification.
7. A tool is proposed by default when you want to create a machining operation. If the proposed
tool is not suitable, just select the Tool tab page to specify the tool you want to use.
Please refer to Edit the Tool of an Operation.
8. Select the Feeds and Speeds tab page to specify the feedrates and spindle speeds for
the operation.
9. Select the Macros tab page to specify the operation's transition paths (approach and
retract motion, for example). See Define Macros of an Operation for an example of specifying
transition paths on a multi-axis machining operation.
10. Before accepting the operation, you should check its validity by replaying the tool path.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 51

11. Click OK to create the operation.

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 52

Auxiliary Operations
The tasks for inserting auxiliary operations in the manufacturing program are documented in the NC
Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Insert Tool Change: Select the Tool Change icon then select the tool type to be referenced in the
tool change.
Insert Machine Rotation: Select the Machine Rotation icon then specify the tool rotation
characteristics.
Insert Machining Axis Change: Select the Machining Axis Change icon then specify the
characteristics of the new machining axis system.

Insert PP Instruction: Select the PP Instruction icon then enter the syntax of the PP instruction.

Insert COPY Operator (P2 functionality): Select the COPY Operator icon then select the
reference operation. You can then specify the number of copies and the characteristics of the
transformation.
Insert TRACUT Operator (P2 functionality): Select the TRACUT Operator icon then select the
reference operation. You can then specify the characteristics of the transformation.
Insert Copy Transformation Instruction (P2 functionality): Select the Copy Transformation icon
then select the reference operation. You can then specify the number of copies and the
characteristics of the transformation.

Opposite Hand Machining: for machining symmetrical parts.

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 53

Part Operations, Manufacturing Programs

and Machining Processes
The tasks for creating and managing Part Operations, Manufacturing Programs and Machining Processes are
documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Create and Edit a Part Operation: Select the Part Operation icon then specify the entities to be
referenced by the part operation: machine tool, machining axis system, tool change point, part
set up, and so on.
Create and Edit a Manufacturing Program: Select the Manufacturing Program icon to add a
program to the current part operation then insert all necessary program entities: machining
operations, tool changes, PP instructions, and so on.
Auto-sequence Operations in a Program (P2 functionality): Verify the administrator's settings
for sequencing rules and priorities. If you are authorized, you can adjust these settings before
applying the Auto-sequencing to your program.
Generate Transition Paths in a Program (P2 functionality): Automatically creates all necessary
transition paths and machine rotations in the program according to the kinematics of the machine
tool assigned to the Part Operation and user-defined transition planes.
Create a Machining Process (P2 functionality): Select the Machining Process icon to create a
machining process, which can then be stored in a catalog.
Apply a Machining Process (P2 functionality): Select the Open Catalog icon to access the
machining process to be applied to selected geometry.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 54

NC Manufacturing Entities
The tasks for creating and managing the specific entities of the NC manufacturing environment are
documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
● Edit the Tool of a Machining Operation: Double click the machining operation in the program and select
the Tool tab page to edit the tool characteristics or search for another tool.

● Edit a Tool in the Resource List: Double click a tool in the resource list and edit the tool characteristics in
the Tool Definition dialog box.

● Edit a Tool Assembly in the Resource List: Double click a tool assembly in the resource list and edit the
tool characteristics in the Tool Definition dialog box.

● Replace Tools in Resource List: Click the Replace Tools icon to rename tools already used in your
document.

● Specify Tool Compensation Information: Double click a tool referenced in the program or resource list
and specify the tool compensation information in the Compensation tab page of the Tool Definition
dialog box.

● Create and Use Machining Patterns: Select Insert > Machining Feature > Machining Pattern then select
a pattern of holes to be machined.

● Manufacturing View: Select a feature using the Manufacturing view and create operations based on this
feature.

● Define Macros on a Milling Operation: Select the Macros tab page when creating or editing a milling
operation, then specify the transition paths of the macros to be used in the operation.

● Define Macros on an Axial Machining Operation: Select the Macros tab page when creating or editing an
axial machining operation, then specify the transition paths of the macros to be used in the operation.

● Build and Use a Macros Catalog.

● Manage the Status of Manufacturing Entities: Use the status lights to know whether or not your
operation is correctly defined.

● Design or User Parameters in PP Instruction and APT Output.

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 55

Verification, Simulation and Program Output

The tasks for using capabilities such as tool path verification, material removal simulation, and production
of NC output data are documented in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.
Replay Tool Path: Select the Tool Path Replay icon then specify the display options for an animated
tool path display of the manufacturing program of machining operation.
Simulate Material Removal (P2 functionality): Select the desired icon in the Tool Path Replay
dialog box to run a material removal simulation either in Photo or Video mode.

● Generate APT Source Code in Batch Mode: Select the Generate NC Code in Batch Mode icon
then select the manufacturing program to be processed and define the APT source processing
options.

● Generate NC Code in Batch Mode: Select the Generate NC Code in Batch Mode icon then select
the manufacturing program to be processed and define the NC code processing options.

● Generate Clfile Code in Batch Mode: Select the Generate NC Code in Batch Mode icon then
select the manufacturing program to be processed and define the Clfile processing options.

● Generate a CGR File in Batch Mode (P2 functionality): Select the Generate NC Code in Batch
Mode icon then select the manufacturing program to be processed and define the CGR file
processing options.

● MfgBatch Utility that allows you to generate NC data files from a manufacturing program by
means of an executable program under Windows or a shell under UNIX.

Batch Queue Management: Manage tool path computation outside the interactive session, with the
possibility of scheduling the execution of several batch jobs.
Generate NC Code in Interactive Mode: Select the Generate NC Code Interactively icon to generate
NC data for the current manufacturing program.
Generate Documentation: Select the Generate Documentation icon to produce shop floor
documentation in HTML format.
Import an APT Source into the Program: Select the APT Import contextual command to insert an
existing APT source into the current manufacturing program.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 56

Workbench Description
This section contains the description of the menu commands and icon toolbars that are specific to the Advanced Machining workbench, which
is illustrated below.

Menu Bar
Toolbars
Specification Tree
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 57

Advanced Machining Menu Bar

The various menus and menu commands that are specific to Advanced Machining are described below.

Start File Edit View Insert Tools Windows Help

Tasks corresponding to general menu commands are described in the CATIA Version 5 Infrastructure User's Guide.

Tasks corresponding to common NC Manufacturing menu commands are described in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's
Guide.

Insert Menu
Command... Description...
Machining Operations See Insert > Machining Operations
Machining Features Inserts Machining Features:
● Geometrical Zone

● Machining Area

● Rework Area

● Prismatic Rework Area

● Prismatic Machining Area

● Offset Group

● Machining Pattern

● Machining Axis System feature, which is referenced

in the Machining Axis or Origin auxiliary operation.

Auxiliary Operations See Insert > Auxiliary Operations

Insert > Machining Operations

Command... Description...

Axial Machining Operations Creates Axial Machining Operations

Prismatic Machining Operations Creates Prismatic Machining Operations

Surface Machining Operations Creates Surface Machining Operations

Multi-Axis Machining Operations Creates Multi-Axis Machining Operations

Insert > Machining Operations > Axial Machining Operations

Command... Description...
Drilling Creates a Drilling Operation

Spot Drilling Creates a Spot Drilling Operation

Drilling Dwell Delay Creates a Drilling Dwell Delay Operation

Drilling Deep Hole Creates a Drilling Deep Hole Operation

Drilling Break Chips Creates a Drilling Break Chips Operation

Tapping Creates a Tapping Operation

Reverse Threading Creates a Reverse Threading Operation

Thread w/o Tap Head Creates a Thread without Tap Head Operation:

Boring Creates a Boring Operation

Boring and Chamfering Creates a Boring and Chamfering Operation

Boring Spindle Stop Creates a Boring Spindle Stop Operation

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 58
Reaming Creates a Reaming Operation

Counter Boring Creates a Counterboring Operation

Counter Sinking Creates a Countersinking Operation

Chamfering 2 Sides Creates a Chamfering Two Sides Operation

Back Boring Creates a Back Boring Operation

T-Slotting Creates a T-Slotting Operation

Circular Milling Creates a Circular Milling Operation

Thread Milling Creates a Thread Milling Operation

Insert > Machining Operations > Prismatic Machining Operations

Command... Description...

Pocketing Creates a Pocketing Operation

Facing Creates a Facing Operation

Profile Contouring Creates a Profile Contouring Operation

Curve Following Creates a Curve Following Operation

Point to Point Creates a Point to Point Operation

Groove Milling Creates a Groove Milling Operation

Insert > Machining Operations > Surface Machining Operations

Command... Description...

Sweep Roughing Creates a Sweep Roughing Operation

Roughing Creates a Roughing Operation

Multi-Pockets Machining Creates a Multi-Pockets Machining Operation

Sweeping Creates a Sweeping Operation

Pencil Creates a Pencil Operation

ZLevel Creates a ZLevel Operation

Contour Driven Creates a Contour Driven Operation

Spiral Milling Creates a Spiral Milling Operation

Isoparametric Machining Creates an Isoparametric Machining Operation

Insert > Machining Operations > Multi-Axis Machining Operations

Command... Description...
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 59
Multi-Axis Sweeping Creates a Multi-Axis Sweeping Operation
Multi-Axis Contour Driven Creates a Multi-Axis Contour Driven Operation

Multi-Axis Curve Following Creates a Multi-Axis Curve Following Operation

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Creates a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operation

Multi-Axis Helix Machining Creates a Multi-Axis Helix machining Operation

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 60

Machining Operations Toolbar

The Advanced Machining workbench includes one specific icon toolbar: the Machining Operations toolbar.
The other toolbars in the workbench are common to all the NC Manufacturing products and are described in
the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure User's Guide.

The Machining Operations toolbar contains the commands for creating and editing 2.5 to 5-axis Milling and
Drilling operations.

The icons for creating and editing 2.5-axis Milling operations are as follows.

See Create a Pocketing Operation

See Create a Facing Operation

See Create a Profile Contouring Operation

See Create a Curve Following Operation

See Create a Point to Point Operation

See Create a Groove Milling Operation

The icons for creating and editing 3-axis Milling operations are as follows.

See Create a Sweep Roughing Operation

See Create a Roughing Operation

See Create a Multi-Pockets Machining Operation

See Create a Sweeping Operation

See Create a Pencil Operation

See Create a ZLevel Operation

See Create a Contour Driven Operation

See Create a Spiral Milling Operation

See Create an Isoparametric Machining Operation

The icons for creating and editing 5-axis Milling operations are as follows.

See Create a Multi-Axis Sweeping Operation

See Create a Multi-Axis Contour Driven Operation
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 61

See Create a Multi-Axis Curve Following Operation

See Create a Multi-Axis Isoparametric Operation

See Create a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operation

See Create a Multi-Axis Helix Machining Operation

The icons for creating and editing Drilling operations as follows.

See Create a Drilling Operation

See Create a Spot Drilling Operation

See Create a Drilling Dwell Delay Operation

See Create a Drilling Deep Hole Operation

See Create a Drilling Break Chips Operation

See Create a Tapping Operation

See Create a Reverse Threading Operation

See Create a Thread without Tap Head Operation

See Create a Boring Operation

See Create a Boring and Chamfering Operation

See Create a Boring Spindle Stop Operation

See Create a Reaming Operation

See Create a Counterboring Operation

See Create a Countersinking Operation

See Create a Chamfering Two Sides Operation

See Create a Back Boring Operation

See Create a T-Slotting Operation

See Create a Circular Milling Operation

See Create a Thread Milling Operation

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 62

Specification Tree
Here is an example of a Process Product Resources (PPR) specification tree for Advanced Machining.

Process List is a plan that gives all the activities and machining operations required to transform a part
from a rough to a finished state.
● Part Operation defines the manufacturing resources and the reference data.

● Manufacturing Program is the list of all of the operations and tool changes performed. The example
above shows that:

● Drilling.1 is complete and has not been computed

● Drilling.2 is complete but has been computed (by means of a replay)

● Drilling.3 does not have all of the necessary data (indicated by the exclamation mark
symbol)

● Drilling.4 has been deactivated by the user (indicated by the brackets symbol)

● Drilling.5 has been modified and needs to be recomputed (indicated by the update
symbol).
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 63

Product List gives all of the parts to machine as well as CATPart documents containing complementary
geometry.
Resources List gives all of the resources such as machine or tools that can be used in the program.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 64

Customizing
Tasks for customizing your NC Manufacturing environment are documented in the NC Manufacturing
Infrastructure User's Guide.

NC Manufacturing Settings
Build a Tools Catalog
Access External Tools Catalogs
Add User Attributes on Tool Types
PP Word Syntaxes
NC Documentation
Workbenches and Tool Bars
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 65

Customizing Settings for

NC Manufacturing
This section describes how to customize settings for NC Manufacturing.

Before you start your first working session, you can customize the settings to suit your working habits. Your
customized settings are stored in permanent setting files: they will not be lost at the end of your session.
1. Select Tools > Options from the menu bar: the Options dialog box appears.

2. Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing settings appear,
organized in tab pages.

3. Select the tab corresponding to the parameters to be customized.

Parameters in this tab... Allow you to customize...

General general settings for all NC Manufacturing products
Resources tooling, feeds&speeds and resource files
Operation machining operations
Output PP files and NC data output
Program manufacturing programs (sequencing, and so on)
Photo / Video material removal simulation

4. Change theses options according to your needs.

5. Click OK to save the settings and quit the Options dialog box.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 66

Customize General Settings

This document explains how to customize General settings for NC Manufacturing products.
These settings are accessed as follows:
● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing
settings appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the General tab, which is divided up into areas.

Parameters in this area... Allow you to customize...

Performance settings for optimized performance
Trees Display display of the specification tree
Color and Highlight colors of displayed geometry and parameters
Tool Path Replay tool display during tool path replay
Complementary Geometry handling of geometry necessary for manufacturing
Design Changes use of the Smart NC mode and enhanced detection of design
changes.

Performance

● Click the Optimize button in order to automatically set a number of the NC Manufacturing options for
optimized performance. These options are listed in the Information dialog box that appears:
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 67

If you click Yes, these options will be set as described in the dialog box. Note that, if needed, you may
locally reset any of these options.
If you click No, the options will remain with their current settings.

The Information box also lists some recommendations for manually setting other options that have an
influence on performance.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 68

Tree Display

● Select the checkbox if you want the status of activities in the tree to be updated automatically.
● If this checkbox is not selected:

❍ you can update activity status manually in your workbench using the Update Status icon in
the Auxiliary Commands toolbar.
❍ the status of the activity after a manual update is masked at the first action on the node (for
example, edit, replay, collapse/expand of a parent node). To retrieve the status of the activity you

must select the Update Status icon again.

If this checkbox is not selected, performance is improved.

Color and Highlight

● Select the colors to be used to identify the various manufacturing entities by means of the combos.
Note that for Geometry that is not found or not up to date, you can select the colors used to display
the valuated parameters in the corresponding Operation or Feature dialog boxes.
● For certain entities, you can select the corresponding checkbox to use highlighting.
Performance is improved when all the Highlight checkboxes are selected.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 69

Tool Path Replay

● Select the first checkbox if you want to display the tool near your cursor position on the trajectory
during a tool path replay

● Select the second checkbox if you want to display the tool center point instead of the tool tip during a
tool path replay

● Select the third checkbox if you want to display each circular trajectory as a circular arc instead of a
set of discretization points. The extremities of the circular arc are indicated by means of 'O' symbols.
This allows better control of the Point by Point replay mode, where it is necessary to make several
interactions to replay a circle (because of its representation by a set of points). With the graphic
representation as a circle, only one interaction is necessary to perform the replay.

Complementary Geometry

● Select the checkbox to create a CATPart dedicated to manufacturing-specific geometry in the Product
List of the PPR tree.

Design Changes

● Select the first checkbox to activate the Smart NC mode. In this mode, an image of the geometry
selected in machining operations is kept to allow analysis of design changes.
Performance is improved when this checkbox is not selected.
● Select the second check box to enable a geometrical comparison mode in order to more precisely
determine the design change status of machining operations.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 70

Customize Resource Settings

This document explains how to customize Resource settings for NC Manufacturing products.
These settings are accessed as follows:
● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing settings appear, organized in tab
pages.
● Select the Resources tab, which is divided up into areas.

Parameters in this area... Allow you to customize...

Catalogs and Files the path name for resource files
Tool Selection the selection of tools
Automatic Compute from Tool Feeds and the update of feeds and speeds according to tooling data
Speeds
Tool Query Mode in Machining Processes tool queries in machining processes
Instantiation

Catalogs and Files

● Enter the path of the folder containing tool catalogs, PP tables, macros, and machining processes. You can choose a folder by
clicking the [...] button.

You can concatenate paths using:

❍ a semi colon (;) character for Windows NT platforms.
❍ a colon (:) character for UNIX platform.

For example, if the concatenated folders E:\DownloadOfCXR12rel\intel_a\startup and e:\users\jmn\NC in the figure above contain PP
tables, then those PP tables will be available for selection in the Part Operation's Machine Editor dialog box.

Please note, however, that:

● PP tables must be contained in folders named Manufacturing\PPTables
● tools must be contained in folders named Manufacturing\Tools.

Tool Selection

● Select the first checkbox if you want to to activate an automatic query after each modification of a tool parameter. Performance is
improved when this checkbox is not selected.

● Select the second checkbox if you want to preview the tool after selection.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 71

Automatic Compute from Tool Feeds and Speeds

● Select the first checkbox if you want the Automatic Update of Feedrates option to be set by default in the Feeds and Speeds tab
page of machining operations.
This option allows feedrates of operations to be automatically updated whenever feedrate information on the tool is modified.

● Select the second checkbox if you want the Automatic Update of Speeds option to be set by default in the Feeds and Speeds tab
page of machining operations.
This option allows spindle speeds of operations to be automatically updated whenever speed information on the tool is modified.

Tool Query mode in Machining Processes Instantiation

select the type of Tool Query to be executed when a Machining Process is instantiated:
● automatically computed Tool Query
● interactively defined Tool Selection in case of multiple results
● interactively defined Tool Selection if no tool is found.

Depending on the selected option, the Advanced tab page of the Search Tool dialog box shows the solved Tool Query for each operation
in the Machining Process.
In the example below, you can choose one of the tools found in the ToolsSampleMP, or use the Look in combo to select a tool from
the current document or another tool catalog.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 72
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 73

Customize Operation Settings

This document explains how to customize Operation settings for NC Manufacturing products.
These settings are accessed as follows:
● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing
settings appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the Operation tab, which is divided up into areas.

Parameters in this area... Allow you to customize...

Default Values the use of default values
After Creation or Machining process (MP) what happens after creating machining operations or
Instantiation machining processes

When Copying the duplication of geometry links

Display tool path displays of operations
User Interface dialog boxes of 3-axis surface machining operations.

Default Values

● Select the checkbox if you want operations to be created with the values used in the current program.
The values and units of attributes at the creation step of an operation are set to the values and units of
the last edited and validated operation whatever its type (that is, exit the operation definition dialog
box using OK) .

Otherwise the default settings delivered with the application are used.

After Creation or Machining Process (MP) Instantiation

Select the desired checkboxes to specify conditions to be applied when you create machining operations or
machining processes.
● Sequence machining operations
Machining operations are automatically sequenced in the current program after creation.
Otherwise, sequencing can be managed in the feature view.

● Search compatible tool in previous operations

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 74

When creating an operation, if a compatible tool exists in a previous operation of the current program,
it will be set in the new operation.
Otherwise, the operation will be incomplete.
● Use a default tool
When creating an operation, a search is done in the document to find a compatible tool. If no
compatible tool exists, a default one is created in the document and set in the created operation.
If checkbox is not selected, no tool will be defined on the operation.

● Start edit mode (for machining operations only, not for machining processes)
When creating an operation, Edit mode is automatically started to allow modifying parameters of the
created operation.
Otherwise, the operation is added to the program but the machining operation editor is not started.

When Copying

● Select the checkbox if you want geometry links to be duplicated in a copied operation.

Otherwise the geometry must be defined for the copied operation. Performance is improved when this
checkbox is not selected.

Display

● Select the checkbox if you want to display tool paths of operations in the current Part Operation.

User Interface

● Select the checkbox if you want to have the possibility of simplifying the dialog boxes of machining
operations (that is, you can display the minimum number of parameters necessary for a correct tool
path). This setting is available for 3-axis surface machining operations only.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 75

Customize Output Settings

This document explains how to customize Output settings for NC Manufacturing products.
These settings are accessed as follows:
● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing
settings appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the Output tab, which is divided up into areas.

Parameters in this area... Allow you to customize...

Post Processor the type of PP files to be used for generating NC code output
and the path where these files are located
Tool Path Storage the tool path storage capability
Tool Path Edition the tool path edition capability
During Tool Path Computation contact point storage
Tool Output Point type of tool output point
Tool Output Files ... Location default paths for NC output files storage.

Post Processor

Select the desired Processor option:

● None: no Post Processor is defined. NC code output is not possible in this case

● Cenit: you can choose from among the Post Processor parameter files proposed by Cenit to generate
your NC code

● IMS: you can choose from among the Post Processor parameter files proposed by Intelligent
Manufacturing Software (IMS) to generate your NC code

● ICAM: you can choose from among the Post Processor parameter files proposed by ICAM Technologies
Corporation (ICAM) to generate your NC code.

Enter the path of the folder containing Post processors. You can choose a folder by clicking the [...]
button. File concatenation is possible.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 76

Tool Path Storage

Select the desired option to store tool path data either in the current document or in an external file (as a
tpl file).

For operations with large tool paths (more than 100 000 points), tool path storage in an external file is
recommended.

Tool Path Edition

Select the checkbox if you want to be able to edit tool paths even when the operation is locked.

This capability is available only for activities with a tool path node in the specification tree.

During Tool Path Computation

Select the checkbox if you want to store contact points in the tool path.

Performance is improved when this checkbox is not selected.

Tool Output Point

Select the desired option to select either the tool tip or tool center point as output point.

Performance is better when the Tool Tip option is selected.

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 77

Default File Locations

Specify default locations for storing Tool Path files, NC Documentation, and NC Code output.

You can store tool paths files (tpl files) in the same folder as the CATProcess by selecting the checkbox.
This allows you to store these files according to your CATProcess context. Otherwise, you can choose
another location by clicking the [...] button.

For NC Documentation, and NC Code output you can choose a folder easily by clicking the [...] button.

You can customize the extension to be used for NC Code output (by default, the suffix used is
CATNCCode).
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 78

Customize Program Settings

This document explains how to customize Program settings for NC Manufacturing products.
These settings are accessed as follows:
● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing
settings appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the Program tab to customize program auto-sequencing rules and priorities. These settings are
mainly intended for the administrator.

Make sure that the document in the sequencing rules path (AllSequencingRules.CATProduct in the example
below) is accessible in Read/Write.

Auto Sequencing

Select the Access to sequencing rules settings checkbox to authorize user access to sequencing rules.

You can then specify the path for the rules base
You can choose a rules base easily by clicking the [...] button.
Select the Display sequencing rules and priorities checkbox to authorize the display of sequencing
rules and priorities in the user's view. In this case two more checkboxes can be selected in order to:
● allow the user to filter rules
● allow the user to modify rule priorities.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 79

Customize Photo and Video Settings

This document explains how to customize Photo / Video material removal simulation settings for NC
Manufacturing products.
To access these settings:
● Select Tools > Options from the menu bar.
● Select the NC Manufacturing category in the tree to the left. The options for NC Manufacturing settings
appear, organized in tab pages.
● Select the Photo /Video tab, which is divided up into areas.

Parameters in this area... Allow you to customize...

Simulation at material removal simulation at program of Part
Operation level
Video Video material removal simulation options
Photo Photo material removal simulation options
Performance settings that influence performance
Color color during material removal simulation
Positioning Move allowed tool axis variation between two operations

Simulation at

● Select the desired option to perform material removal simulation at either Program or Part Operation level.
Depending on the selected level, simulation begins either from the start of the manufaturing progam or from
the start of the Part Operation.
Best performance is obtained with Program level.

Video

● Select the Stop at tool change checkbox if you want the Video simulation to stop each time a tool change
is encountered in the program.
● Select the desired Collisions detection option to:
❍ ignore collisions during the Video simulation
❍ stop the Video simulation at the first collision
❍ continue the Video simulation even when collisions are detected. In this case, you can consult the list of
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 80
collisions at any time duing the simulation.

Best performance is obtained when collisions are ignored.

● Select the Touch is collision checkbox if you want touch (or contact) type of collision to be detected.

Photo

● Select the desired Fault box type for examining remaining material or gouges:
❍ Transparent: to display a transparent bounding box
❍ Wireframe: to display a wireframe bounding box
❍ None: if no bounding box is required.

Best performance is obtained when no bounding box is required and the checkbox is not selected.

● Select the checkbox to compute all information at picked point.

Performance

● There are three methods of tool faceting used in Video simulation: Standard, Smaller and Larger.
The number of facets for a tool representation is determined by the chord deviation that is set for the tool
diameter (0.005% of the tool diameter).
❍ Smaller: The picture shows a rough approximation of a tool with six facets. Note that the chord
deviation is always inside the actual circle, and that the points are always on the circle (accurate).
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 81

This is the most accurate method for the Arc through Three Points command.

❍ Standard: The picture shows a rough approximation of a tool with six facets. Note that the chord
deviation is partly inside and partly outside the actual circle, and that the points are not always on the
circle.

This is the best method for material removal simulation.

However, this is not suitable for the Arc through Three Points command.

❍ Larger: The picture shows a rough approximation of a tool with six facets. Note that the chord deviation
is outside the actual circle, and that the points are not on the circle.

This is not suitable for the Arc through Three Points command.
However, it can be useful for gouge detection.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 82

● Set the resolution for Photo simulation.

Best performance is obtained when the resolution is set to 0. In this case, a detailed simulation of a portion
of the part can be obtained using the Closeup command.
Increasing the resolution improves machining accuracy and gives a very detailed simulation. However, this
requires increased memory and computation time.

● Specify the maximum angle that the tool axis is allowed to vary between two consecutive points.
Best performance is obtained for an angle of 10 degrees. Decreasing the angle improves the precision of the
simulation. However, this requires increased memory and computation time.

● Set the Optimized rendering for Video checkbox to obtain an optimized rendering to improve Video
simulation performance.
Otherwise, more realistic colors are obtained with a slightly degraded performance.

Color

● Set the tool (and associated machined area) color to be the same as or different from the last tool, or have
different colors for all tools. Best performance is obtained with same colored tools.

● Assign colors to the different tools using the associated color combo.

● Assign colors to tool holders, parts, and fixtures using the associated color combos.

Positioning Move

● Set the Maximum tool axis variation that is to be allowed between the end point of an operation and the
start point of the next operation. If the tool axis varies by an amount greater than the specified value, then
the tool is positioned at the start of the following operation.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 83

Reference Information
Reference information that is specific to the Advanced Machining product can be found in this section.

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operations

Multi-Axis Helix Machining Operations
Multi-Pockets Machining Operations

Reference information on the following topics is provided in the Multi-Axis Surface Machining User's Guide.

Multi-Axis Sweeping
Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining
Multi-Axis Contour Driven
Multi-Axis Curve Machining
Collision Checking

Reference information on the following topics is provided in the 3-Axis Surface Machining User's Guide.

Sweep Roughing
Roughing
Sweeping
ZLevel
Spiral Milling
Contour-driven
Pencil
Isoparametric Machining
Tool Path Editor
Machining/Slope Areas

Reference information on the following topics is provided in the Prismatic Machining User's Guide.

Pocketing Operations
Profile Contouring Operations
Facing Operations
Curve Following Operations
Point to Point Operations
Axial Machining Operations.

Essential reference information on the following topics is provided in the NC Manufacturing Infrastructure
User's Guide.

NC Manufacturing Resources
NC Macros
PP Tables and PP Word Syntaxes
Feeds and Speeds
APT Formats
CLfile Formats
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 84

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring Operations

The information in this section will help you create and edit Multi-Axis Flank Contouring operations in your NC manufacturing
program.

Select the Multi-Axis Flank Contouring operation icon then select the geometry to be machined.

A number of strategy parameters are available for defining:

● machining criteria

● axial and radial stepover conditions

● finishing

● tool axis guidance

● high-speed milling

● cutter compensation.

Specify the tool to be used , feeds and speeds , and NC macros as needed.

The following user tasks illustrate some of this operation's capabilities:

● Tanto Fan tool axis mode

● Combin Tanto tool axis mode

● Local modifications

● Non-contiguous drives.

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Strategy Parameters

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Machining Parameters
Machining tolerance
Specifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path.
Maximum discretization step
Ensures linearity between points that are far apart.
Maximum discretization angle
Specifies maximum angle between two consecutive points that the machine is able to achieve.
Close tool path
For a closed contour, specifies that the first drive is also to be used as the last drive.
Maximum distance between steps
Specifies the maximum distance between points. It is used to detect the end of drive elements.
Manual direction
Specifies the direction on the first drive.
Otherwise, it is determined automatically depending on the reference position.

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Stepover Parameters

Tool path style
Indicates the cutting mode of the operation:
Zig Zag: the machining direction is reversed from one path to the next
One Way: the same machining direction is used from one path to the next.
Sequencing
Specifies the order in which machining is to be done:
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 85
● Axial: axial machining is done first then radial

● Radial: radial machining is done first then axial.

Distance between paths (radial)

Defines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in a radial strategy.
Number of paths
Defines the number of tool paths in a radial strategy.
Axial strategy mode
Defines how the distance between two consecutive levels is to be computed.
Distance between paths (axial)
Defines the maximum distance between two consecutive tool paths in an axial strategy.
Number of levels
Defines the number of levels to be machined in an axial strategy.

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Finishing Parameters

Finishing mode
Indicates whether or not finish passes are to be generated on the sides and bottom of the area to machine. Side finishing
can be done at each level or only at the last level of the operation.
Side finish thickness
Specifies the thickness used for side finishing.
Side finish thickness on bottom
Specifies the thickness used for the last side finish pass at the end of the operation.
Bottom finish thickness
Specifies the thickness used for bottom finishing.
Bottom finish path style
Defines the bottom finish path style: Zig zag or One way.
Spring pass
Indicates whether or not a spring pass is to be generated on the sides in the same condition as the previous Side finish
pass. The spring pass is used to compensate the natural `spring' of the tool.

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Tool Axis Parameters

Tool axis guidance
Specifies how the tool axis is to be guided.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 86

● Tanto Fan: The tool is tangent to the drive surface at a given contact height, and the tool axis is interpolated between
the start and end positions.

● Combin Tanto: This strategy combines three phases:

❍ tool fans over a given Leave distance
❍ tool is tangent to the drive surface at a given Contact height and is contained in a plane normal to forward direction
❍ tool fans over a given Approach distance.

● Combin Parelm: This strategy combines three phases:

❍ tool fans over a given Leave distance
❍ tool is tangent to the drive surface at a given Contact height and follows the surface isoparametrics
❍ tool fans over a given Approach distance.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 87

● Mixed Combin: Either Combin Parelm or Combin Tanto is applied depending on the drive surface geometry. Combin
Tanto is applied for cylindrical and planar drives. Combin Parelm is applied for other drive surface geometry.

● Fixed: The orientation of the tool axis is fixed.

● Normal to Part: The tool axis remains normal to the Part Surface while the tool remains in contact with the drive
surface.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 88

● Tanto: This mode can only be assigned locally to a drive and not globally to the operation. The tool is tangent to the
drive surface at a given contact height, and the tool axis is contained in a plane normal to forward direction.

Contact height
Determines a point on the drive surface where the tool must respect tangency conditions. The Contact height is measured
from the tool tip along the tool axis. The point on the drive is computed such that its projection normal to the drive onto the
tool axis respects the Contact height value.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 89

Leave fanning distance

Specifies a distance at the start of a motion over which tool fanning takes place.
Approach fanning distance
Specifies a distance at the end of a motion over which tool fanning takes place.
Disable fanning
For operations with Combin Tanto, Combin Parelm and Mixed Combin tool axis guidance, it is possible to disable fanning at
Start element, at Stop element, or at both these limiting elements.
Control fanning using tool parameter
When this option is selected, a Useful cutting length can be defined on the current tool. This parameter is helpful for
controlling tool fanning or the offset distance when approaching drive surfaces with negative draft angles, without needing
to modify the tool chosen in the database.

Otherwise, the default standard cutting length value (Lc) of the tool will be used.
An auxiliary guide curve can be selected in order to modify the tool axis strategy. It is mainly used to avoid collisions at the
top of drive elements or to keep a safety distance on these elements. The following parameters can be used if a guide curve
is selected the guide curve.

Position on guide curve

Tool positioning with respect to the guide curve: Auto/Right/Left/On. Auto lets the program determine the best position
regarding the curve.

Offset on guide curve

Offset to be applied to the guide curve.

Use of guide curve

Tool can be made to respect the guide curve either Always or If needed (that is, only where there is a risk of collision
with the drive element).

For example, for the following geometry:

Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 90

A collision occurs if top auxiliary guide curve is not

Collision is avoided if top auxiliary guide curve is defined:
defined:

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: High Speed Milling (HSM) Parameters

In a Multi-Axis Flank Contouring, cornering for HSM applies to all corners for machining or finishing passes. It does not apply
to macros or default linking and return motions.
Cornering
Specifies whether or not cornering is to be done on the trajectory for HSM.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 91
Corner radius
Specifies the radius used for rounding the corners along the trajectory of a HSM operation. Value must be smaller than the
tool radius.

Cornering on side finish path

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

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Cutter Compensation Parameters

Output type
Allows you to manage the generation of Cutter compensation (CUTCOM) instructions in the NC data output:

The following options are proposed:

● 3D radial (PQR)

● 2D radial tip

● None.

3D Radial (PQR)

You can generate 3D radial compensation data (Vector <P,Q,R>) in the APT output.

The Radial compensation data output can be activated or not on each Multi Axis Flank Contouring cycle of a program.

For all tool positions of the machining passes, for the last motion of each approach macro, and for the first motion of each
retract macro, the <PQR> vector is added to the APT statement (which contains the Tip position and the Tool Axis.
Before the first position with <PQR> data, two APT statements : CUTCOM/SAME,NORMDS and CUTCOM/NORMDS are
automatically added, after the last position with <PQR> data, a CUTCOM/OFF statement is automatically added.

These PQR statements are supported and can be translated by Multi-Axis Post Processors provided NC manufacturing
Workbenches.

A sample APT output is given below:

MULTAX/ ON
PARTNO/ 0001 TEST G29
PPRINT/ %0001
MACHIN/ N76TO1, 1.0000, 1.0000
LOADTL/ 1.0000, LENGTH, 100.0000
FROM/ 0.0000, 0.0000, 100.0000, $
0.0000, 0.0000, 1.0000
RAPID
GOTO/ -20.0000, -20.0000, 100.0000, $
0.0000, 0.0000, 1.0000
FEDRAT/ 150.0000,MMPM
RAPID
GOTO/ -20.0000, -20.0000, 5.0000, $
0.0000, 0.0000, 1.0000
RAPID
GOTO/ -20.0000, -20.0000, 5.0000, $
0.1711, 0.1711, 0.9703
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 92
CUTCOM/ SAME, NORMDS
CUTCOM/ NORMDS
RAPID
GOTO/ -5.0000, -14.7721, 2.6047, $
0.1711, 0.1711, 0.9703, $
0.9806, -0.1247, -0.1509
RAPID
FEDRAT/ 150.0000,MMPM
GOTO/ -4.9039, -13.8115, 2.4353, $
0.1711, 0.1711, 0.9703, $
0.9440, -0.3105, -0.1117
GOTO/ -4.6194, -12.8878, 2.2725, $
0.1711, 0.1711, 0.9703, $
0.8718, -0.4852, -0.0682
GOTO/ -4.1573, -12.0365, 2.1223, $
0.1711, 0.1711, 0.9703, $
0.7661, -0.6423, -0.0218

.../...

GOTO/ -12.8878, -4.6194, 2.2725, $

0.1711, 0.1711, 0.9703, $
-0.4852, 0.8718, -0.0682
GOTO/ -13.8115, -4.9039, 2.4353, $
0.1711, 0.1711, 0.9703, $
-0.3105, 0.9440, -0.1117
GOTO/ -14.7721, -5.0000, 2.6047, $
0.1711, 0.1711, 0.9703, $
-0.1247, 0.9806, -0.1509
CUTCOM/ OFF
FEDRAT/ 150.0000,MMPM
GOTO/ -34.7721, -5.0000, 2.6047, $
0.1711, 0.1711, 0.9703
RAPID
GOTO/ -33.0612, -3.2891, 12.3076, $
0.1711, 0.1711, 0.9703
RAPID
GOTO/ -33.0612, -3.2891, 12.3076, $
0.0000, 0.0000, 1.0000
RAPID
GOTO/ -33.0612, -3.2891, 100.0000, $
0.0000, 0.0000, 1.0000

A sample of NC data file is given below:

%0001
N1(TOTAL MACHINING TIME : 0 HOURS AND 4 MINUTES)
N1( 0001 TEST G29 21-May-2001 14:05:10.00)
/N3E62001=-100000
N5E30008=100000
N7E30009=100000D0
N9G52T1M6M36
N11D1
/N13M0
$(RP0001)
N15G0X0Y0Z351A0B0
N17X-20Y-20
N19G0Z256
N21X22.947Y22.947Z248.541A-10.001B9.852
N23G29X37.947Y28.175Z246.145A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P-980.6Q124.7R150.9
N25G94F150G1X38.043Y29.136Z245.976A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P-944Q310.5R111.7
N27X38.328Y30.059Z245.813A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P-871.8Q485.2R68.2
N29X38.79Y30.911Z245.663A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P-766.1Q642.3R21.8
N31X39.412Y31.657Z245.532A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P-630.6Q775.7R-25.6
N33X40.169Y32.269Z245.424A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P-469.8Q879.8R-72.3
N35X41.034Y32.724Z245.343A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P-289.9Q949.9R-116.4
N37X41.972Y33.004Z245.294A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P-98Q982.9R-156
N39X42.947Y33.099Z245.277A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P0Q984.8R-173.6
N41G93F1.5X121.562Y33.572Z248.01A-10.001B4.928U.086V.173W.981P0Q984.8R-173.6

.../...
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 93

N89X30.911Y38.79Z245.663A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P642.3Q-766.1R21.8
N91X30.059Y38.328Z245.813A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P485.2Q-871.8R68.2
N93X29.136Y38.043Z245.976A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P310.5Q-944R111.7
N95X28.175Y37.947Z246.145A-10.001B9.852U.171V.171W.97P124.7Q-980.6R150.9
N97G40
N99F150X8.175
N101G0X9.886Y39.658Z255.848
N103X-33.061Y-3.289Z263.308A0B0
N105Z351
N107M2

2D Radial Tip

The tool tip will be visualized during tool path replay. Cutter compensation instructions are automatically generated in the
NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the compensation to be applied.
Example of generated APT source:

$$ Start generation of : Multi-Axis Flank Contouring.1

FEDRAT/ 1000.0000,MMPM
SPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLW
CUTCOM/LEFT
$$ START CUTCOM PLANAR XT, YT, ZT, I, J, K
GOTO / 100.00000, -125.00000, 10.00000, 0.0000, 0.0000, 1.0000
GOTO / 0.00000, -125.00000, 10.00000, 0.0000, 0.0000, 1.0000
CUTCOM/OFF
$$ END CUTCOM PLANAR XT, YT, ZT, I, J, K
$$ End of generation of : Multi-Axis Flank Contouring.1

None

Cutter compensation instructions are not automatically generated in the NC data output. However, CUTCOM instructions can
be inserted manually. For more information, please refer to How to generate CUTCOM syntaxes.

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Geometry

You can specify the following Geometry:
● Part with possible Offset on Part.
● Drives surfaces with possible Offset on Drive.
● Start and Stop limiting elements with possible Offset on Start and Offset on Stop.
The tool can be positioned with respect to the start and Stop elements by selecting one of the proposed options: On, In,
Out, or Tangent to Drive.
● Fixture or check elements with possible Offset on Check.
● Offset along Tool Axis.

Drive Elements

Surfaces or planes can be selected and they are taken into account according to their order of selection. The tool path starts
on the first drive and ends on the last drive, except when Close tool path is set (in this case, the first drive is also used as
the last drive).

The program determines automatically the stopping and restarting conditions between contiguous drives. If drives are not
adjacent, those values must be set manually with the local modifications capability. The program automatically detects fillets
and joggles (features comprising 3 contiguous drives) to manage the choice of suitable elements for stopping.

Use Curves as Part

You can select edges that are boundaries of the drive elements as part elements. To do this, right click the part surface area
in the sensitive icon and select the Use Curves as Part contextual command.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 94
Start and Stop Elements

You can select vertices, edges, planes and faces as limiting elements. If a vertex or edge is selected, a virtual plane is
computed on the vertex or at the middle of the edge perpendicular to the current drive and part.

Start Position and Optional Reference Point

A typical start element is a plane/almost planar surface that is normal to the drive, and normal to the part. This allows the
program to use an automatic reference point.

It is recommended to select an edge or vertex that will automatically simulate a correct plane.

In the case of a manually selected reference point, you have to imagine that the tool makes a virtual move from a Reference
position to the Start position, which is the end position of that move. The Reference position is defined by the reference point
and the tool axis at that point.

The tool move moves from the Reference position to an intermediate position then on to the Start position when Part, Drive
and Check surfaces are specified.

The intermediate position is defined as being the normal projection of the Reference point on the Drive surface.

Reference position is not taken into account for tool path computation of the machining operation. It is only a reference
location that helps to specify the Start position related to the Part, Drive and potentially Check surfaces that are specified by
the user.

Expected results are obtained by respecting a reference position close to this end location (but at a distance greater than the
tool radius value).

Selecting the fillet of the joggle as starting element is not a good choice. Because the elements are always seen as infinite,
the extension of this fillet is parallel to the first drive. If these two elements do not have a common boundary, select a
starting element whose extensions are not parallel to the drive (drive also seen as infinite).

Local Drive Surface Conditions

Local Restarting direction: Auto / Left / Right / Forward. This is a relative direction, seen from a cutter point of view.
You should set the value according to the direction of the cutter at the end of the previous motion. In Auto mode, the
program applies either Left, Right or Forward according to local geometry conditions.

Local Stopping condition: Auto / To / On / Past / Tangent DS. You should set the value according to how you want the
cutter to reach the next drive. In Auto mode, the program applies either To, Past or Tangent DS according to local geometry
conditions.

Local Tool side on drive: Same as first / Swap / On. You should keep in mind that the reference side is the one set on
the first drive as indicated by the displayed arrow.

Stopping and Restarting conditions must be defined on non contiguous drives.

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User defined settings may lead to bad tool paths. So you should ensure the consistency of the chosen collection of drive
surfaces. For example, a gap between the end of a motion and the beginning of the next motion would generate a simple
straight-line path, which is generally not suitable.

In order to machine some gaps, you may have to create extra geometry. A typical example is two drive elements that are
tangent but not contiguous, lying on the same surface.

Geometry and Tool

Keep in mind that a geometric element is always extended to infinity, vertically and horizontally.

The cutting length of the tool should not be too great compared to the height of the drives. This can lead to bad results or
failure in corners.

For negative draft angles the top of the cutting part of the tool is taken into account to define the fanning areas, if necessary
along the vertical extension of the drive.

It is preferable to specify the cutting length of the tool in the Useful cutting length parameter.

Geometry Recommendations

Do not set the Close tool path option if the first drive is not to be machined as the last drive also.

Do not use a manual reference point if its use is not clearly defined. Prefer an automatic reference point, using a
plane/planar surface as start element, normal to the drive1 and normal to the part (select an edge or a vertex that will
simulate this plane without geometry creation).

Use a cutter whose cutting length (Lc) is nearly the height of the drive elements (use the Useful cutting length parameter, do
not modify the tool).

Always keep in mind that all geometrical elements are seen as infinite elements, extended in all directions: horizontal and
vertical. Also drive elements are machined in the order of selection, one after another.

Select the OUT condition to end after a joggle, or use a plane/edge/vertex as end element.

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Tool

Recommended tools for Multi-Axis Flank Contouring are End Mills and Conical Mills.

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: Feeds and Speeds

In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract, machining, and finishing as well as a
machining spindle speed.

Feedrates and spindle speed can be defined in linear or angular units.

A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output of the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC data file. If the
checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.

Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or Finish quality of
the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.

Feedrate Reduction in Corners

You can reduce feedrates in corners encountered along the tool path depending on values given in the Feeds and Speeds tab
page: reduction rate, maximum radius, minimum angle, and distances before and after the corner.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 96

Feed reduction is applied to corners along the tool path whose radius is less than the Maximum radius value and whose arc
angle is greater than the Minimum angle value. Corners can be angled or rounded.

For Multi-Axis Flank Contouring, feedrate reduction applies to inside corners for machining or finishing passes. It does not
apply to macros or default linking and return motions.

If a cornering is defined with a radius of 5mm and the Feedrate reduction in corners is set with a smaller radius value, the
feedrate will not be reduced.

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring: NC Macros

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

An Approach macro is used to approach the operation start point.

A Retract macro is used to retract from the operation end point.

A Linking macro may be used in several cases, for example:

● to link two non consecutive paths
● to access finish and spring passes.

A Return on Same Level macro is used in a multi-path operation to link two consecutive paths in a given level.

A Return between Levels macro is used in a multi-level machining operation to go to the next level.

A Return to Finish Pass macro is used in a machining operation to go to the finish pass.

A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for example.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 97

Multi-Axis Helix Machining

The information in this section will help you create and edit Multi-Axis Helix Machining operations in your NC
manufacturing program.

Click the icon, then select the geometry to be machined .

A number of strategy parameters are available for defining:

● machining criteria

● stepover conditions

● tool axis guidance

● cutter compensation.

Specify the tool to be used , feeds and speeds , and NC macros as needed.

Please refer to Create a Multi-Axis Helix Machining Operation with "Lead and Tilt" Tool Axis Guidance for an
example.

Multi-Axis Helix Machining: Strategy Parameters

Multi-Axis Helix Machining: Machining Parameters
Direction of cut
Specifies how machining is to be done.
● In Climb milling, the front of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material
first.

● In Conventional, the rear of the advancing tool (in the machining direction) cuts into the material
first.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 98

Machining tolerance
Specifies the maximum allowed distance between the theoretical and computed tool path.
Maximum discretization step
Deines the maximum allowed distance between two points on the tool path. It is used to ensure
linearity between points that are far apart.
Maximum discretization angle
Specifies the maximum angular change of tool axis between tool positions. It is used to add more tool
positions (points and axis) if value is exceeded.

Multi-Axis Helix Machining: Stepover Parameters

Radial strategy mode
Defines how the turns of the generated helix are to be distributed.
Scallop height
Specifies the maximum scallop height between consecutive turns of the generated helix in the radial
strategy.
Distance between turns
Defines the maximum distance between consecutive turns of the generated helix in the radial strategy.
Number of turns
Defines the number of turns of the generated helix in the radial strategy.
Skip path
Gives the possibility of not machining the path on the first contour, the path on the last contour, or
both these paths.

Multi-Axis Helix Machining: Tool Axis Parameters

Tool axis guidance
Specifies how the tool axis is to be guided: Lead and Tilt or 4-axis Tilt.

Lead and Tilt

In this mode the tool axis is normal to the part surface with respect to a given lead angle (a) in the
forward tool motion and with respect to a given tilt angle (B) in the perpendicular direction to this
forward motion.
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There are several types of lead and tilt modes as follows:

● Fixed lead and tilt: Here both the lead and tilt angles are constant.

● Variable lead and fixed tilt: Here the tool axis is allowed to move from the specified lead angle
within a specified range, the tilt angle remaining constant.

● Fixed lead and variable tilt: Here the tool axis is allowed to move from the specified tilt angle
within a specified range, the lead angle remaining constant.

Lead angle
Specifies a user-defined incline of the tool axis in a plane defined by the direction of motion and the
normal to the part surface. The lead angle is with respect to the part surface normal.

Maximum lead angle

Specifies a maximum lead angle.

Minimum lead angle

Specifies a minimum lead angle.

Tilt angle
Specifies a user-defined incline of the tool axis in a plane normal to the direction of motion. The tilt
angle is with respect to the part surface normal.

Allowed tilt
Specifies the range of allowed tilt variation.

4-axis Tilt

The tool axis is normal to the part surface with respect to a given tilt angle and is constrained to a
specified plane. This mode has the same behavior as Lead and Tilt except that the local normal to the
part is replaced by a normal to plane constraint. You can specify a Lead Angle and a Tilt angle.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 100

For example, this mode is dedicated to milling parts with tool axis nearly parallel to the part itself (near
flank milling). It is primary intended for NC machines whose configuration is A+C, but it can be used on
any other multi-axis machine.

Multi-Axis Helix Machining: Cutter Compensation Parameters

In the Machine Editor, the Compensation tab contains options for:

● globally defining the 3D contact cutter compensation mode: None/Contact/Tip and Contact
● imposing the compensation mode to all operations supporting the selected mode whatever the choice
defined at machining operation level.

If the options are set as follows, compensation can be managed at machining operation level.

In this case a Compensation tab appears in the Strategy page of the machining operation editor, and the
following options are available.
Output type
Allows you to manage the generation of Cutter compensation (CUTCOM) instructions in the NC data
output:

The following options are proposed:

● 3D Contact (G29/CAT3Dxx)

● None.

3D Contact (G29/CAT3Dxx)

The tool contact point will be visualized during tool path replay. Cutter compensation instructions are
automatically generated in the NC data output. An approach macro must be defined to allow the
compensation to be applied.
Example of generated APT source:

$$ Start generation of : Multi-Axis Helix Machining.1

FEDRAT/ 1000.0000,MMPM
SPINDL/ 70.0000,RPM,CLW
CUTCOM/NORMPS
$$ START CUTCOM NORMPS XC, YC, ZC, XN, YN, ZN, I, J, K
.../...
CUTCOM/OFF
$$ END CUTCOM NORMPS XC, YC, ZC, XN, YN, ZN, I, J, K
$$ End of generation of : Multi-Axis Helix Machining.1

None

Cutter compensation instructions are not automatically generated in the NC data output. However,
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 101
CUTCOM instructions can be inserted manually. For more information, please refer to How to generate
CUTCOM syntaxes.

Multi-Axis Helix Machining: Geometry

You can specify the following Geometry:
● Part elements (faces or belts of faces) with possible Offset on Part.
● Four limiting curves comprising:
❍ Upper and lower contours, which must be closed contours
❍ Leading and trailing edges, which must intersect the upper and lower contours.

● A Start or a Stop point, which specifies the entry or the exit point of the helix. When one point is
selected, the other point is automatically deduced.
● Optionally, check elements with possible Offset on Check.

Collision Checking

Collision checking can be performed on check and part elements with the tool assembly (that is, the
complete shape of the cutter plus its holder) or the cutting part of the tool.

To save computation time you should use tool assembly only if the geometry to be checked can interfere
with the upper part of the cutter.

For more information refer to Collision Checking.

Multi-Axis Helix Machining: Tools

Recommended tools for Multi-Axis Helix Machining are End Mills, Face Mills, Conical Mills and T-Slotters.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 102

Multi-Axis Helix Machining: Feeds and Speeds

In the Feeds and Speeds tab page, you can specify feedrates for approach, retract and machining as well as
a machining spindle speed.

Feedrates and spindle speed can be defined in linear or angular units.

A Spindle output checkbox is available for managing output the SPINDL instruction in the generated NC
data file. If the checkbox is selected, the instruction is generated. Otherwise, it is not generated.

Feeds and speeds of the operation can be updated automatically according to tooling data and the Rough or
Finish quality of the operation. This is described in Update of Feeds and Speeds on Machining Operation.

Multi-Axis Helix Machining: NC Macros

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

An Approach macro is used to approach the operation start point.

A Retract macro is used to retract from the operation end point.

A Linking macro may be used in various cases (for example, to link two non consecutive paths).

A Clearance macro can be used in a machining operation to avoid a fixture, for example.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 103

Methodology
Methodology and conceptual information on the following topics is provided in the NC Manufacturing
Infrastructure User's Guide.

Machining Processes
Knowledgeware in Machining Processes
CATProduct and CATProcess Document Management
Design Changes and Associativity Mechanisms
Part Operation and Set Up Documents
Opposite Hand Machining
User Features for NC Manufacturing

Methodology and conceptual information on the following topics is provided in the Prismatic Machining
User's Guide.

How to Generate CUTCOM Syntaxes

Select Hole Design Features for Machining
Use Tolerances on Design Features for Machining.
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 104

Glossary

A
approach Motion defined for approaching the operation start point
macro
auxiliary A control function such as tool change or machine table rotation. These commands may be
command interpreted by a specific post-processor.
axial Operation in which machining is done along a single axis and is mainly intended for hole
machining making (drilling, counter boring, and so on).
operation

B
back and forth Machining in which motion is done alternately in one direction then the other.
Compare with one way.
bottom plane A planar geometric element that represents the bottom surface of an area to machine. It is
normal to the tool axis.

C
clearance Motion that involves retracting to a safety plane, a linear trajectory in that plane and then
macro plunging from that plane.
climb milling Milling in which the advancing tool rotates down into the material. Chips of cut material
tend to be thrown behind the tool, which results to give good surface finish.
Compare with conventional milling.
Combin Tool axis guidance strategy for Multi-Axis Flank Contouring. This strategy combines three
Parelm phases:
● tool fans over a given Leave distance

● tool is tangent to the drive surface at a given Contact height and follows the surface
isoparametrics

● tool fans over a given Approach distance.

Combin Tanto Tool axis guidance strategy for Multi-Axis Flank Contouring. This strategy combines three
phases:
● tool fans over a given Leave distance

● tool is tangent to the drive surface at a given Contact height and is contained in a
plane normal to forward direction

● tool fans over a given Approach distance.

conventional Milling in which the advancing tool rotates up into the material. Chips of cut material tend
milling to be carried around with the tool, which often impairs good surface finish.
Compare with climb milling.

D
DPM Digital Process for Manufacturing.

E
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extension Defines the end type of a hole as being through hole or blind.
type

F
Facing A surfacing operation in which material is removed in one cut or several axial cuts of equal
operation depth according to a pre-defined machining strategy. Boundaries of the planar area to be
machined are soft.
Fault Types of faults in material removal simulation are gouge, undercut, and tool clash.
feedrate Rate at which a cutter advances into a work piece.
Measured in linear or angular units (mm/min or mm/rev, for example).
Fixed Tool axis guidance strategy for Multi-Axis Flank Contouring. The tool axis is fixed.
fixture Elements used to secure or support the workpiece on a machine.

G
gouge Area where the tool has removed too much material from the workpiece.

H
hard A geometric element (such as a boundary or a bottom face) that the tool cannot pass
beyond.
high speed Functionality that is available for operations such as Flank Contouring, Pocketing and
milling (HSM) Facing in which corners and transitions in the tool path are rounded to ensure a smooth
and continuous cutting effort.

I
inward helical Machining in which motion starts from a point inside the domain to machine and follows
paths parallel to the domain boundary towards the center of the domain. Compare with
outward helical.
island Inner domain of a pocket that is to be avoided during machining. It has a closed hard
boundary.

L
linking motion Motion that involves retracting to a safety plane, a linear trajectory in that plane and then
plunging from that plane.

M
machine An auxiliary command in the program that corresponds to a rotation of the machine table.
rotation
machining Reference axis system in which coordinates of points of the tool path are given.
axis system
machining A feature instance representing a volume of material to be removed, a machining axis,
feature tolerances, and other technological attributes. These features may be hole type or milling
type.
machining Contains all the necessary information for machining a part of the workpiece using a single
operation tool.
machining The maximum allowed difference between the theoretical and computed tool path.
tolerance
manufacturing Defines the sequence of part operations necessary for the complete manufacture of a part.
process
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manufacturing Describes the processing order of the NC entities that are taken into account for tool path
program computation: machining operations, auxiliary commands and PP instructions.
manufacturing The set of machining features defined in the part operation.
view
Mixed Combin Tool axis guidance strategy for Multi-Axis Flank Contouring. Either Combin Parelm or
Combin Tanto is applied depending on the drive surface geometry. Combin Tanto is applied
for cylindrical and planar drives. Combin Parelm is applied for other drive surface
geometry.
multi-level Milling operation (such as Flank, Contouring, Pocketing or Profile Contouring) that is done
operation in a series of axial cuts.

N
Normal to Tool axis guidance strategy for Multi-Axis Flank Contouring. The tool axis remains normal
Part to the Part Surface while the tool remains in contact with the drive surface.

O
offset Specifies a virtual displacement of a reference geometric element in an operation (such as
the offset on the bottom plane of a pocket, for example). Compare with thickness.
one way Machining in which motion is always done in the same direction. Compare with zig zag or
back and forth.
outward Machining in which motion starts from a point inside the domain to machine and follows
helical paths parallel to the domain boundary away from the center of the domain.
Compare with inward helical.

P
part operation Links all the operations necessary for machining a part based on a unique part registration
on a machine. The part operation links these operations with the associated fixture and set-
up entities.
pocket An area to be machined that is defined by an open or closed boundary and a bottom plane.
The pocket definition may also include a top plane and one or more islands.
Pocketing A machining operation in which material is removed from a pocket in one or several axial
operation cuts of equal depth according to a pre-defined machining strategy.
The tool path style is either Inward helical, Outward helical or Back and forth.
Point to Point A milling operation in which the tool moves in straight line segments between user-defined
operation points.
PP instruction Instructions that control certain functions that are auxiliary to the tool-part relationship.
They may be interpreted by a specific post processor.
PPR Process Product Resources.
Profile A milling operation in which the tool follows a guide curve and possibly other guide
Contouring elements while respecting user-defined geometric limitations and machining strategy
operation parameters.

R
retract macro Motion defined for retracting from the operation end point
return macro Motion for linking between paths or between levels. It involves retracting to a safety
plane, a linear trajectory in that plane and then plunging from that plane.

S
safety plane A plane normal to the tool axis in which the tool tip can move or remain a clearance
distance away from the workpiece, fixture or machine.
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set up Describes how the part, stock and fixture are positioned on the machine.
soft A geometric element (such as a boundary or a bottom face) that the tool can pass beyond.
spindle speed The angular speed of the machine spindle.
Measured in linear or angular units (m/min or rev/min, for example).
stock Workpiece prior to machining by the operations of a part operation.

T
Tanto Tool axis guidance strategy for Multi-Axis Flank Contouring. This mode can only be
assigned locally to a drive and not globally to the operation. The tool is tangent to the
drive surface at a given contact height, and the tool axis is contained in a plane normal to
forward direction.
Tanto Fan Tool axis guidance strategy for Multi-Axis Flank Contouring. The tool is tangent to the drive
surface at a given contact height, and the tool axis is interpolated between the start and
end positions.
thickness Specifies a thickness of material.
Compare with offset.
top plane A planar geometric element that represents the top surface of an area to machine. It is
always normal to the associated tool's rotational axis.
tool axis Center line of the cutter.
tool change An auxiliary command in the program that corresponds to a change of tool.
tool clash Area where the tool collided with the workpiece during a rapid move.
tool path The path that the center of the tool tip follows during a machining operation.
total depth The total depth including breakthrough distance that is machined in a hole making
operation.

U
undercut Area where the tool has left material behind on the workpiece.

Z
zig zag Machining in which motion is done alternately in one direction then the other.
Compare with one way.
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Index

Numerics
2.5-axis milling operations

3-axis milling operations

4-Axis Lead/Lag

Multi-Axis Contour Driven tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Curve Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Sweeping tool axis guidance

4-Axis Tilt

Multi-Axis Helix Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining tool axis guidance

A
Allowed tilt

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Approach fanning distance

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

approach macro

APT import

APT source generation

auxiliary command
Auxiliary operation

COPY Operator

Copy Transformation

Machine Rotation

Machining Axis Change

PP Instruction

Tool Change

TRACUT Operator

axial machining operation

Axial strategy mode
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Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

B
back and forth
Bottom finish path style

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Bottom finish thickness

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

C
CGR file generation

clearance macro

Clfile code generation

climb milling
Close tool path

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Column Filter contextual command

Column Order contextual command

Combin Parelm

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring tool axis guidance

Combin Tanto

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring tool axis guidance

command

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring

Multi-Axis Helix Machining

Contact height

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

contextual command

Column Filter

Column Order

Copy

Cut

Local Modifications

Paste
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 110

Properties

Reset

Use Curves as Part

Control fanning using tool parameter

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

conventional milling

Copy contextual command

COPY Operator

Copy-Transformation Instruction
Corner radius

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Corner radius on side finish path

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Cornering

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Cornering on side finish path

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Cut contextual command

D
Direction of cut

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Disable fanning

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Distance after corner (feed reduction)

Distance before corner (feed reduction)

Distance between paths (axial)

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Distance between paths (radial)

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Distance between turns

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Documentation generation

drilling operations
Advanced Machining Version 5 Release 13 Page 111

F
Facing operation

Fault
Feedrate reduction in corners

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Finishing mode

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Fixed

Multi-Axis Contour Driven tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Curve Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Sweeping tool axis guidance

Fixed lead and tilt

Multi-Axis Helix Machining tool axis guidance

Fixed lead and variable tilt

Multi-Axis Helix Machining tool axis guidance

G
Geometrical Zone feature

gouge

H
hard geometric element

high speed milling (HSM)

I
Interpolation

Multi-Axis Curve Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining tool axis guidance

Inward helical

Island
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Isoparametric Machining

L
Lead and Tilt

Multi-Axis Contour Driven tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Curve Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Helix Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Sweeping tool axis guidance

Lead angle

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Leading edge
Leave fanning distance

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Local Modifications contextual command

Lower contour

M
Machine Rotation

Machining Area feature

Machining Axis Change

machining axis system

Machining Axis System feature

machining feature

machining operation

Machining Pattern feature

Machining Process, Apply

Machining Process, Create

Machining tolerance

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

machining tolerance
Manual direction
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Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

manufacturing process

Manufacturing Program

manufacturing view
Maximum discretization angle

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Maximum discretization step

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Maximum distance between steps

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Maximum lead angle

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Maximum radius (feed reduction)

Minimum angle (feed reduction)

Minimum lead angle

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Mixed Combin

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Contour Driven tool axis guidance

4-Axis Lead/Lag

Fixed

Lead and Tilt

Normal to Line

Optimized Lead

Thru a Point
Multi-Axis Curve Machining tool axis guidance

4-Axis Lead/Lag

Fixed

Interpolation

Lead and Tilt

Normal to Line

Optimized Lead

Tangent Axis

Thru a Point
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Multi-Axis Flank Contouring command

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring operation

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Approach fanning distance

Axial strategy mode

Bottom finish path style

Bottom finish thickness

Close tool path

Contact height

Control fanning using tool parameter

Corner radius

Corner radius on side finish path

Cornering

Cornering on side finish path

Disable fanning

Distance between paths (axial)

Distance between paths (radial)

Feedrate reduction in corners

Finishing mode

Leave fanning distance

Machining tolerance

Manual direction

Maximum discretization angle

Maximum discretization step

Maximum distance between steps

Number of levels

Number of paths

Offset on guide curve

Output type

Position on guide curve

Sequencing

Side finish thickness

Side finish thickness on bottom

Spring pass
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Tool axis guidance

Tool path style

Useful cutting length

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring tool axis guidance

Combin Parelm

Combin Tanto

Fixed

Mixed Combin

Normal to Part

Tanto

Tanto Fan

Multi-Axis Helix Machining

Multi-Axis Helix Machining command

Multi-Axis Helix Machining operation

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Allowed tilt

Direction of cut

Distance between turns

Lead angle

Machining tolerance

Maximum discretization angle

Maximum discretization step

Maximum lead angle

Minimum lead angle

Number of turns

Output type

Radial strategy mode

Scallop height

Skip path

Tilt angle

Tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Helix Machining tool axis guidance

4-Axis Tilt

Fixed lead and tilt

Fixed lead and variable tilt

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Lead and Tilt

Variable lead and fixed tilt

Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining tool axis guidance

4-Axis Lead/Lag

4-Axis Tilt

Fixed

Interpolation

Lead and Tilt

Normal to Line

Optimized Lead

Thru a Point

multi-axis milling operations

Multi-Axis Sweeping tool axis guidance

4-Axis Lead/Lag

Fixed

Lead and Tilt

Normal to Line

Optimized Lead

Thru a Point

Multi-Pockets Machining operation

N
NC code generation
Normal to Line

Multi-Axis Contour Driven tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Curve Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Sweeping tool axis guidance

Normal to Part

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring tool axis guidance

Number of levels

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Number of paths

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Number of turns
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Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

O
offset

Offset Group feature

Offset on guide curve

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

One way

Opposite Hand Machining

Optimized Lead

Multi-Axis Contour Driven tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Curve Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Sweeping tool axis guidance

Output type

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Outward helical

P
Part Operation

Paste contextual command

pocket

Pocketing operation

Point to Point operation

Position on guide curve

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

PP Instruction

PPR

Prismatic Rework Area feature

Process List

Product List

Profile Contouring operation

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Properties contextual command

R
Radial strategy mode

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Reduction rate (feed reduction)

Reference point

Reset contextual command

Resources List

Restarting direction

retract macro

return macro

Rework Area feature

Roughing operation

S
Scallop height

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Sequencing

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Side finish thickness

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Side finish thickness on bottom

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Simulate material removal

Skip path

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

soft geometric element

Spring pass

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

start element

Start point

Start position
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stop element

Stop point

Stopping condition

T
Tangent Axis

Multi-Axis Curve Machining tool axis guidance

Tanto

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring tool axis guidance

Tanto Fan

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring tool axis guidance

thickness
Thru a Point

Multi-Axis Contour Driven tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Curve Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Isoparametric Machining tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Sweeping tool axis guidance

Tilt angle

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Tool axis guidance

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Multi-Axis Helix Machining parameter

Tool Change

tool clash

Tool path replay

Tool path style

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

Tool side on drive

TRACUT Operator

Trailing edge

Transition paths

U
undercut
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Upper contour

Use Curves as Part contextual command

Useful cutting length

Multi-Axis Flank Contouring parameter

V
Variable lead and fixed tilt

Multi-Axis Helix Machining tool axis guidance

Z
Zig zag