Introduction

This version of BobCAM for SolidWorks V7 offers more functionality than ever before. This version has 86 upgrades and enhancements affecting the following areas: 

• NC Editor : New NC Editor
• Language : Now available in German and Russian
• General CAM
• Milling
• Mill Turn
• Posting
• Simulation

 

New G-Code Editor

It has been quite some time since the NC code editor has seen an enhancement, and we are proud to introduce the new NcEditor product into the BobCAD-CAM product line. This product was developed to make your code editing and review much faster and more efficient, as well as provide the ability to simulate your NC programs directly!

The NcEditor Standard product comes with any of the CAM products purchased from BobCAD, and the NcEditor Pro module provides the capabilities to get full 3 and 4 axis milling program simulation, as well as 2 axis lathe simulation for all of your common controllers!

NcEditor Standard

The new NcEditor comes with a ton of functionality in the Standard version! You can now:

• Re-Sequence Line Numbers

• Remove Blank Lines

• Remove Spaces

• Adjust Feedrate

• Adjust Spindle Speed

• Edit Values

• Collapse and Expand tool change sections

• Jump to Tool Change (Next / Previous)

• Jump to Comment (Next / Previous)

NcEditor Pro

Of course, the main reason you want to upgrade to the Pro version of an editor is to be able to backplot the code to check its result on the stock. Well, you’re going to love the new simulation. From the simple things, like being able to see a gnomon with a unit indicator, being able to toggle the visibility of the axes, axes values, and the tool itself, to the big things, like being able to see the tool holder, arbor, and even your assigned coordinate systems. Simulating in an editor has never been better!

Predator Editor	The new NcEditor

 

The NcEditor Job Setup

Using the NC Editors Job Setup UI allows for a nice graphical interface for being able to define all the information that isn't included in your NC code about the job you want to verify, like the tools, holders, work offsets, and more. In Predator you had to be familiar with their text format and add this directly into your NC program, but now with the NC Editor this is done separately and more robustly all from within the software interface! Even better, all of this done for you when you generate a program from BobCAD!

• Create new job setups to use.
• Save job setups to use later.
• Select a Machine.
• Assign a target part, and set its color.
• Assign stock geometry, and set its color.
• Use the Tool Manager section to: 
  • Create 12 different tool styles.
  • Create Arbors.
  • Create Holders.
  • Create Tool Assemblies.
  • Create Adapters.
• Use the Setup section to: 
  • Create Stock.
  • Create Tool Assignments.
  • Create Work, and Tool Offsets.

With all of this power, the new NcEditor will make verifying and backplotting g-code easier than ever!

 

General

New Language Options

BobCAM V7 now offers German and Russian language options in our software!!

BobCAM in Assemblies

There are many reasons user choose to do CAM work in assemblies. One of our few limitations has always been that our CAM system was only available while working on individual parts. We're happy to say those days are behind us. With our BobCAM for SolidWorks version 7, users can wield the power of our CAM system in parts or assemblies.

 

CAM Enhancements

General CAM

Advanced Feedrates

Now, in BobCAM V7 we are offering a huge amount of control over your feedrates by introducing the Advanced Feedrates page to many of the Mill and Lathe operations.

Lead-in and Lead-out Feed Control

One of the most important cuts in an operation is the initial lead-in. The feedrate used for this cut is also very important, and can sometimes differ quite a bit from the rest of the operation. In the past, there was no way to control these moves individually. You could always set plunge feedrates, and the overall feedrates, but leads would always simply inherit the overall feedrate. Finally, BobCAM offers the ability to control the feedrates for lead-ins, and the lead-outs specifically. This will be big help for jobs run on Lathes, Mills, Lasers, Plasmas, and Waterjet machines.

 

Link Feedrate Control

In toolpath, links occur everywhere one cut needs to connect to the next in the same region. In the image below, you can see an Advanced Z Level Finish operation, with its linking moves in yellow:

In the past, these moves have always been assigned the same speed as the overall feedrate of the operation. Now, BobCAM allows you to have control over the feedrate of these linking moves. The following operations will allow control over the link moves when the particular pattern is selected.

Operation	Pattern
Pocket	Advanced - Parallel Advanced - Offset In/Out Advanced - Morph Advanced - Adaptive Roughing
Facing	Adaptive
Advanced Rough	Parallel Offset In/Out Morph Adaptive
Advanced Z Level Finish	All

 

Rapid Feedrate Control

Now you can gain control over the speed at which rapids run on your machine! This can help enormously when fast moving rapids cause elbows in the rapid moves from one area to another. This is sometimes referred to as "Dog Leg Rapids", and occurs when one axis reaches its coordinate value before the other. When this occurs, what appears to be a straight rapid move in the graphics area can have an angle change in it. This isn't a big deal, until you're moving close to fixture clamps as seen in the images below: 

In cases like these, unexpected dog legs can cause a big problem, and will not be seen in the toolpath! The image below has been altered to show what could happen on the machine.

When this occurs, in both Mill, and Lathe jobs, being able to set a feed value to the rapids can completely correct these issues!

 

Adaptive Feedrate Control (Volume Based)

Another benefit of the Advanced Feedrate Control options is the Adaptive, or Volume Based, feed control. With the Adaptive feedrate control, you can set a Min, or even a Min and Max Feedrate %, so the feedrate will automatically adjust based on the volume of material being engaged by the cutter!

 

Operation	Pattern	Type
Pocket	Advanced - Parallel Advanced - Offset In/Out Advanced - Morph	Min Feedrate %
Pocket	Advanced - Adaptive Roughing	Min & Max Feedrate %
Facing	Adaptive	Min & Max Feedrate %
Advanced Rough	Parallel Offset In/Out Morph	Min Feedrate %
Advanced Rough	Adaptive	Min & Max Feedrate %

 

Radial Chip Thinning

Radial Chip Thinning is something many machinists are familiar with. Since most of the heat from machining is actually removed with the chips, keeping the chips at their largest possible size can be a huge help in saving tool life. In essence, the smaller your stepover, the faster your feedrate should go.

12% Stepover	50% Stepover

That's an easy thing to program when you're working with straight toolpath, but what about when working with curving toolpath? Well things can get tricky there. When using the Adaptive Roughing Pattern for Pockets, or the Advanced Rough operation, you are now able to set a minimum and maximum feedrate percentage for Radial Chip Thinning.

Operation	Pattern	Type
Pocket	Advanced - Adaptive Roughing	Min & Max Feedrate %
Advanced Rough	Adaptive	Min & Max Feedrate %

 

Conventional Feed Control

In the past, when using the Zig Zag method for the Adaptive Pattern on the Advanced Pocket, and the Advanced Rough operations, we would utilize the overall feedrate for both, climb, and conventional cuts. Now, users are provided with the ability to set a separate Conventional Milling Feedrate.

 

Edit Operations from the CAM Tree

In the CAM Tree, right click on a particular operation and click Edit. Now, when the wizard launches, it will open on the tool page for that exact operation.

 

Start and End Indicators

In many cases, once toolpath has been created, the users first concern is where the operation is starting and ending. Having to wait for the simulation to launch just to verify that was never fun, and when we created the Backplot options to view tool movement directly in the graphics area, it was a huge help with this. In this version however, we've gone a step further and created the Start and End Indicators. Just click on an operation, and along with the toolpath highlighting in the graphics area, the Start and End Indicators will now show where the toolpath starts and ends.

 

Update All Geometry

In the previous version of BobCAM we provided a way to Update All Geometry in your CAM Tree for times when, for whatever reason, something about the geometry associated with your features changed. It was a hit! For this release, we took it a step further. Start Point locations and Chain directions for your Mill 2 Axis features are saved. Now, no matter how many features you took the time to customize the Start Point and Chain Direction for, they can all be updated, and all your customizations will be retained, even if you modify the machining origin location!  

 

Lock and Unlock Operation in the CAM Tree

Features and Operations can now be locked in order to keep them from being computed. This is extremely helpful when editing toolpath. Once an operation has had toolpath edited with the Edit Toolpath dialog, the operation will have an icon in front of it, and the name of the operation will appear in red font. This helps to ensure that the edits to the operation are not accidentally lost due to recomputing the operation by mistake.

 

Mill

Mill Express

Fixtures

One of the main reasons to do CAM work in an assembly is to view the fixtures being used for the various machine setups, and to be able to check them for collisions. Now that BobCAM is able to operate inside of assembly files, assigning fixtures to each machine setup is as easy as "1, 2, 3." Simply right-click the fixture item under the associated machine setup, and select Re/Select, then pick the fixture geometry as it appears in the proper configuration, and select OK. This can be repeated for as many machine setups as necessary. Now, when you simulate, you will be able to see the selected fixture geometry, in the configuration it was selected in, for each setup!

Machine Setup - 1	Machine Setup - 2	Machine Setup - 3

Drag Knife

A brand new type of feature is now available in the BobCAM V7 release: The Drag Knife feature! Drag Knives are used in the inlaid veneer industry, the artwork industry, and by everyday hobbyists to cut things like snowboard and ski base materials, wood veneer for inlay/marquetry artwork, leather, carbon fiber pre-preg laminates for aerospace, military, and automotive components, cardboard for custom packaging, and much more. Whether you want to perform delicate veneer inlay work or cut out cardboard boxes with your CNC router, the Drag Knife feature is the right feature for the job.

The Drag Knife also supports the Backplot function, which allows you to view the tool motion directly in the graphics area!

Mill Facing Feature

BobCAM now introduces another brand new feature: The Mill Facing feature! While we've always offered a Facing operation, it was accessed by creating a basic 2 Axis Feature. The only issue with this was that 2 Axis Features require geometry selection, and CAD models rarely contain geometry specifying the required stock shape. This meant the user now had to take the time to create that geometry. With the new Mill Facing feature, geometry selection isn't even necessary. Not only that, but if you select a Workpiece for the job, the new Mill Facing feature even sets the depth automatically, and gives you options on how to deal with the geometry! Choose from the default shape, a bounding box, or Keep Internal Loops.

Part and Stock
Default	Bounding Box	Keep Internal Loops
Feature Preview	Feature Preview	Feature Preview
Result	Result	Result

Adaptive Pattern

For this release we have added a new Pattern to the Facing operation. Besides the basic Zig and Zig Zag Patterns, you can now choose the new Adaptive Pattern when using the Facing operation. This will allow you to apply a high speed style toolpath that is both fast, and highly effective.

New Machine Sequence Options

BobCAM now offers new and improved sequencing options in order to offer lower cycle times. Two new, highly effective ways to maximize the efficiency of the sequence are now available. Along with our standard No Sorting, X/Y directions, and Closest options, a Custom Direction option you can define yourself has been added. We now even offer an Optimized sequence! With the Optimized option, each sequence is tested along with its own algorithm and the result which creates the shortest toolpath is the one you get!

Custom Direction	Optimized

Multiple Step Chamfer

The Chamfer operation now gives you the ability to use multiple depths! Selecting the Multiple Depths option allows you to set the Depth of Cut, gives you an option to use a Stepover, gives you control over the order of each of those, and even provides you the option to utilize the Minimize Retracts feature.

Single Depth	Multiple Depths	with Stepover

Pecking Entry Option

Operations that offer a Plunge entry method will now offer three different Types of Plunge: Single Depth, Peck, and Fast Peck. These options can be a huge help in saving time and tool life!

Single Depth	Peck	Fast Peck

 

Toolpath Statistics Dialog

The Toolpath Statistics dialog is now available to give you some useful data about the current toolpath of an existing job. The Toolpath Statistic dialog will give you even more information than can be found in the Setup Sheet. While the Setup Sheets provide information like the speeds and feeds of a tool, the Toolpath Statistics provide additional information, like Feed Time, vs Rapid Time, the extents of the toolpath, and even the amount of toolpath entities; Feed entities vs. Rapid entities.

 

Extension

Every now and then, the situation arises that calls for the feature geometry to be adjusted. Perhaps during simulation you notice a move that is a little too close or one that could probably be cut back a little bit to save time. In either situation the result would be the same: Time to adjust the model with CAD tools. Now, new Extension options will allow you to extend and trim the virtual feature geometry without the need to adjust the actual CAD geometry!! Choose the Start / End option, and then enter the values to trim and extend those virtual geometries along the chain. This can all be done without the need to touch a CAD tool!

Extension Off	Extension On

 

Mill 3 Axis Standard

Edit Toolpath

Here, at BobCAD-CAM, we are proud to provide our customers with the best in cutting edge technology (pun intended). However, even when using the best toolpath strategies on the market, you may occasionally create a cutting operation that's perfect, except for one little thing. These situations can be frustrating, since it can be difficult to make the change you want, without affecting the rest of the toolpath you are so happy with. BobCAM now puts the power in your hands to change anything you want, about any portion, however small, of an operations toolpath with our Edit Toolpath dialog. The Edit Toolpath dialog gives you the ability to:

 

Delete

Allows you to delete toolpath entities and relink the toolpath.

        

 

Trim and Relink

Allows you to create a trimming boundary to trim portions of the toolpath away.

        

 

Move

Allows you to move toolpath entities and link to their newly located position.

     

 

Replace

Allows you to draw in your own toolpath and replace entities of the toolpath with this CAD geometry.

     

 

Convert to CAD

Although it is not a command, the Convert to CAD button is listed here as it is extremely helpful when using the Replace command. The Convert to CAD button allows you to select regular toolpath and turn it into CAD geometry. This allows you to create a connection point when adding additional geometry, or it can even be used to turn the toolpath into geometry, in order to then modify that geometry and turn back into toolpath!!

 

Break

Allows you to split toolpath entities into multiple segments. This could be used, for example, to later modify a segment of that toolpath, to change the feedrate of a segment, to delete a segment, or many other uses.

 

 

Modify Attributes

Allows you to modify the feedrate, or feed type.

 

Extend Cut Move

Allows you to extend the toolpath tangentially by a specified distance.

     

 

Edit Tool Axis

Gives you the option to modify the tool orientation vector for a selected set of toolpath entities.

        

 

New Pocketing Patterns

In the New BobCAM V7, we offer two main pocketing pattern types; Standard Pocket & Advanced Pocket.

Standard Pocket Advanced Pocket Parallel Offset Pocket Out Offset Pocket In	Standard Pocket Advanced Pocket Parallel Offset Pocket Out Offset Pocket In
	Morph Spiral Adaptive Roughing

While the Standard Pocket type still uses the same basic patterns, the Zig Zag pattern is now called Parallel. In the Advanced Pocket, we offer two brand new patterns: Offset Pocket In, and Morph Spiral.

 

Advanced Offset Pocket In

In order to put another tool in your toolpath arsenal, we are providing you with, yet another method of cutting a pocket. When using the Advanced Pocket with an Offset Pocket In, rather than the standard method of starting from the outside, and working your way in, this toolpath starts on the second row, so when the tool is cutting in full engagement it stays well away from the finished wall. The toolpath then works its way in, and finally comes back to tackle the first row, leaving much cleaner material behind.

 

Morph Spiral cutting for Pocket

A new pattern option has been created for the 2 Axis Advanced Pocket. By popular demand, the Morph spiral has been created to maximize the efficiency of the offset pocket. By morphing the offset shape into a spiral we help eliminate the slowdowns of those pesky linking motions.

 

Smooth Connections for Parallel roughing

When cutting 2 axis pockets with the Zig Zag pattern, the only option to link passes has been a direct route. This is not always ideal, since hard angle changes always cause a lot of slowdown. To stop moving in one direction, you need to slow down, to begin moving in another direction, you have to start from a stop. In BobCAM V7, the Zig Zag pattern, which is now called Parallel, offers a new parameter, called Smooth Connections. Smooth Connections allows you to eliminate the hard angles between passes, and replace them with a radius value to keep the tool moving and avoid the slowdown of those hard angle changes.

 

Breakthrough overlap for Adaptive Roughing

When creating an open pocket using the adaptive roughing method, we would sometimes find ourselves in situations where the toolpath didn't quite remove enough material from the opening before coming back with cleanup passes to remove the left over amount. This was easy enough to correct, but it did require the creation of new geometry to select for the feature so you could force it into doing what you wanted. An easy fix, but not easy enough. Now, we've added a simple slider control in the Parameters page called Break through amount. This allows you to set the slider to either Less, or More, which will set how much material will be left for the cleanup passes to handle.

 

Mill 3 Axis Pro

Advanced Rough

We have introduced the two new cutting patterns to the Advanced Rough as well. While the Advanced Rough has had the Offset, which is now called Offset Out, Parallel, and Adaptive Roughing patterns, the available patterns are now: 

• Offset Out
• Offset In
• Morph Spiral
• Parallel
• Adaptive Roughing

 

Advanced Rough Offset In Cut Pattern

In order to put another tool in your toolpath arsenal, we are providing you with, yet another method of clearing an area. When using the 3 axis Advanced Rough with a Offset Pocket In, rather than the standard method of starting from the outside, and working your way in, this toolpath starts on the second row, so when the tool is cutting in full engagement it stays well away from the finished wall. The toolpath then works its way in, and then comes back to tackle the first row, leaving much cleaner material behind.

 

Morph Spiral Cutting Pattern

A new pattern option has been created for the 3 axis Advanced Rough. By popular demand, the Morph spiral has been created to maximize the efficiency of the cuts. By morphing the offset shape into a spiral we help eliminate the slowdowns of those pesky linking motions.

 

Smooth Connections for Parallel Cut Pattern

When cutting with the Parallel pattern, the only option to link passes has been a direct route. This is not always ideal, since hard angle changes always cause a lot of slowdown. To stop moving in one direction, you need to slow down, to begin moving in another direction, you have to start from a stop. In BobCAM V7, the Parallel pattern offers a new parameter, called Smooth Connections. Smooth Connections allows you to eliminate the hard angles between passes, and replace them with a radius value to keep the tool moving and avoid the slowdown of those hard angle changes.

 

Dynamic Holder Collision Avoidance

This is a new option in the Gouge Check page of the Advanced Rough operation. Unlike other gouge checking options which check for gouges once the toolpath has been calculated, and then trim and relink, this option checks for gouges during the toolpath calculation. You can now check holder with: In Process Stock, or Machining Surface. In Process Stock constantly updates what stock would be remaining as it is removed by the tool. This is extremely helpful, since, as the stock is removed, it is no longer a concern for collision. The Machining Surface option is most helpful when the model extends beyond the stock.

  

 

Arc Leads for Adaptive Roughing

To help create smooth entry and exit options, the adaptive roughing option now offers a Vertical Arc lead when using the plunge entry method for the Adaptive Roughing pattern. This option enables you to utilize vertical tangential arc moves as default lead-in/out segments instead of linear leads.

Advanced Z Level Finish

Start Point Control

With all the power available in the Advanced Z Level Finish, there was one area it was lacking in; the toolpath calculation determined the start point. When programming a part, the more control you have, the better. That's why in V7, we now offer control over exactly where your Advanced Z Level starts! The Start point can be selected from the graphics area, or it can even be entered manually.

Undesirable Start Location	Adjusted Start Location

 

This works for the regions as well! Whereas the above example has only one start point, operations with multiple regions have multiple start points as in the examples below. Notice the original part with toolpath, and notice the start points being affected with the selected start points.

New Linking Options

Along with the control to set the start point of the Advanced Z Level Finish, we are also providing brand new methods of linking one pass to subsequent passes. Along with the links that have been available for the Advanced Z Level Finish, you can now also use Horizontal/Vertical, and Spiral.

Horizontal / Vertical	Spiral

Shift Subsequent Passes

Normally, no matter which linking option is selected for the Advanced Z Level Finish, the start of the next pass is basically straight down from the end of the previous pass. This isn't always an issue for most, but in some cases, the best practice is to move the start point of the next pass, so an obvious line isn't visible in the final product. In our latest release, you can do just that. By selecting the Linking Position option, you can enter a value, and the start of the next pass will be offset by that amount. This is a great way to "blur the edges", and get the best finish possible.

Default	Shift subsequent passes by:

 

Undercuts for Advanced Z Level Finish

The Advanced Z Level Finish now offers the ability to machine undercuts! In the past, although lollipops and t-cutter style tools could be used, the toolpath created would not accommodate undercut areas of the model. Now, you can, not only, cut undercut areas of the model, but even specify to cut only the undercut areas of the model!

Undercuts	Undercuts	Machine only undercuts

 

Improved Round Corners / Smooth Corners Calculation

Not only do we create brand new tools and features for our releases, but we are also constantly working to make what we have better, for us, and our customers. In this version, one of those improvements is to the calculation of our Round Corners option found in the Advanced Z Level Finish, along with the Advanced Planar, and the Smooth Corners option found in the Advanced Rough. This greatly enhances the ability to run higher feedrates when using these toolpaths for roughing and semi-finishing operations.

Expand the Rest Machining Area

Since the introduction of Rest Machining in BobCAM, users have been making the most of it. Being able to create an operation which only focuses on the areas left by a larger tool on a previous operation has certainly proven invaluable! The only thing we noticed along the way, however, is it can be a little too exact. In machining, having a little overlap is usually the way to go to keep things as clean as possible. That's why, in BobCAM V7, we are introducing the Expand Rest Area option. This provides the ability to extend the area that will be rest machined in order to provide enough overlap to have it machined well.

The Expand Rest Area options are now available in the following operations:

• Advanced Planar
• Advanced Z Level Finish
• Project Curves
• Equidistant

Mill 3 Axis Premium

Multiple Surfaces for Flowline

When we introduced the Flowline toolpaths, it changed the way we created toolpaths. Clicking one surface and having the software do the work was a lot easier than selecting several different pieces of geometry to help define the toolpath. However, the only problem with the flowline toolpath was that it only worked for one surface at a time. Needing to apply toolpath to one single surface is definitely the exception and not the rule. Normally toolpath needs to cover several different surfaces. With the new flowline options, you can select multiple surfaces at once. Although the surfaces are technically still calculated individually, the toolpaths are then linked together to create one continuous operation.

Lead In – Reverse orthogonal line

The Reverse Orthogonal Line has now been introduced to offer the ability to change the direction of the orthogonal line lead when needed.

Automatic Arc lead

Toolpath cutting moves, and retract moves can sometimes feel at odds with each other. In an effort to create smoother overall toolpath, the Automatic Arc Lead offers a way to blend out of the cut move, and into the linking move with a tangential arc. The Automatic Arc consists of two splines. The first spline leaves the surface tangentially in the surface normal direction of the relinking. The second spline connects tangentially into the plunge or retract motion using the tool axis tilting orientation.

 

 

Mill 4 Axis Standard

4 Axis Rotary: Adaptive Stepover for the Around Cut Style

When using an Around Style cut, users now have an option to apply an Adaptive Stepover. This is the same functionality that was a huge help in other 3 Axis toolpaths. With the Adaptive Stepover, steep areas that would normally cause gaps in the toolpath are filled with additional passes to match the consistency of the rest of the toolpath. What would usually require an additional operation to finish, can now be done all in one operation.

Mill 4 Axis Pro

4 Axis Advanced Rough and 4 Axis Advanced Finish Operations

Users familiar with our 4 Axis toolpaths can tell you, getting the perfect 4 Axis toolpath on complex parts could take a little work. Geometry selection needed to be precise. You would need to specify each surface to cut, you would need some edges to help define the pattern it should use, and because you were selecting individual surfaces, some gouge checking against particular surfaces might come into play. Finishing may need a couple different operations to achieve the desired result. Now, for the first time ever, you can pick the entire model and get the results you need, in a fraction of the time. The new 4 Axis Advanced Rough, automatically recognizes where the stock is, and avoids air cuts. The Advanced Finish automatically recognizes the walls in need of finishing, and tackles them precisely.

Specified Stock	4 Axis Advanced Rough	4 Axis Advanced Finish

Notice in the images above, the roughing toolpath ends where the stock ends, and the finish focuses only on the walls of the part model. Getting excellent 4 Axis results like these has never been easier!

 

Rapid Distance in Tool Plane

The rapid distance, including the feed distance, can be applied in the tool plane instead of the tool axis plane. This option can be used for machining with undercut tools, e.g. a slot mill, where the engagement is usually from the side and axial retractions are not wanted.

 

Tool Axis Smoothing

When tools move through a valley of surfaces, the valley can cause to tool to make wide changes in angle when attempting to cut normal to the surfaces. In order to allow a smoother transition between these areas, the Smoothing options have been added to the Tool axis control page.

 

Isometric View of the part
Top View Smoothing Off	Top View Smoothing On

 

Mill 5 Axis Pro

Contact Point Based Feed Rate Optimization

This functionality finds its application in grinding processes and not in classic milling operations. To achieve a constant feed per tooth, the toolpath feedrate is controlled by the actual contact point of the surface and the contact point of the tool.

 

Swarf

Normal to Guide Curve

The tool axis is oriented normal to the guide curve.

Swarf Sorting - Start From Bottom

To give you the control you need, the sorting algorithm for multiple cuts has been extended. For best material removal performance, the first cut can now start from the bottom. You're welcome.

  

Multiaxis Roughing

Dynamic Holder Collision checking against stock

This is a new option in the Gouge Check page of the Multiaxis Rough operation. In our BobCAD-CAM V30 release, we presented this option for our 3 Axis Pro module. Now, in BobCAM V7 it is available for the Multiaxis Roughing toolpath. Unlike other gouge checking options which check for gouges once the toolpath has been calculated, and then trim and relink, this option checks for gouges during the toolpath calculation. You can now check holder with: In Process Stock, or Machining Surface. In Process Stock constantly updates what stock would be remaining as it is removed by the tool. This is extremely helpful, since, as the stock is removed, it is no longer a concern for collision. The Machining Surface option is most helpful when the model extends beyond the stock.

Extend cuts for stock

When using the Morph between ceiling and floor strategy of the Multiaxis Roughing, you can now choose to extend the toolpath beyond the selected ceiling surface with the Extend cuts for stock option. This can be found in the Advanced section of the Roughing page. This option can be used to extend the morph toolpath to the top of the stock material when it is located above the ceiling surfaces.

Gradual Front Shift Change

This feature is for shifting the tool contact point as it moves along the contour. This can be used for a polishing process, where in the beginning of the machining process the tool sits on the front, and at the ends it runs on the heel.

On	Off

Enhanced Multiaxis Roughing

The new algorithm in the Multiaxis Roughing now supports rotational, or so called periodic pocket geometries. This was considered a major limitation to multiaxis machining even though the initial design was never supposed to support it. The tool does not continuously follow the pocket, but an overlap is guaranteed when the pattern returns on the surface edge seam. As seen in the image below, the new algorithm helps to ensure that all areas are handled with smooth multiaxis movements.

Old	Old	Old
New	New	New

 

Gradual side tilt angle change for fixed angle to axis

This new feature gives an incredible amount of control over the range of tilt during machining. While there are many options when it comes to setting the tilt of the tool, there has never been an option quite like this one. Just define the start angle and the end angle, and the tool gradually changes the tilt angle between those angles. This is extremely helpful in cases similar to a turbine blade finishing toolpath, and can help to ensure that the tool stays clear of obstacles like the blade root.

  

 

Linking - Clearance - Blended Spline

This feature enables two contours to be linked with a new blend spline and is available for Gaps along cut, and Links between Slices and Passes. This option enables a smooth transition between contours and In the event of a detected collision, the blend spline is extended to ensure the main shape is not disturbed and to guarantee a smooth transition.

 

Automatic Arc

The new Automatic Arc lead option is a great way to ensure nice, clean leads. The automatic arc consists of two splines. The first spline leaves the surface tangentially in the surface normal direction, similar to a tangential arc. The second spline connects tangentially into the plunge or retract motion, using the tool axis tilting orientation. This lead option even works in combination with collision checking.

  

 

Automatic Start Height for the Position Line Lead-in

When using the Position Line lead option, the start/end position of a cut is defined by a line. The line defines the direction of the tool axis as well as the height of the tool. Because this line is absolute, all following retractions will go to same position and height. A new option has been added to this lead called Automatic start height. Using this option means the height along the line is not absolute, but is automatically adjusted to the cut position.

Automatic Start Height On	Automatic Start Height Off

 

Automatic Clearance Area

Taking us another step closer to one-click machining, is the new Automatic Clearance Area. While, most will want to have control over the exact clearance area types, and distances being used, with this new feature the system automatically determines the clearance area type, position, and dimension. Using this method, it tries to maintain the most suitable setting for each pattern. It doesn't get any easier than that.

Mill Turn

Chuck Jaws

For the first time ever, BobCAM offers a simple solution to quickly define chuck jaws in the user interface and view them in the simulation. Now, you can easily check chuck jaws for collisions, verify jaws opening and closing, spinning, and even syncing properly for part transfers!

Posting Enhancements

New Multiaxis Posting

New Multiaxis Posting options are available when using Select Between The Two Solutions. When moving the material and tool into position, there are instances where two solutions exist which achieve the same result, and in the past, you could choose between them with the options First Solution and Other Solution. The only problem with this, was that it could be frustrating in cases where you have a particular outcome in mind. In those instances, if the first solution wasn't what you were looking for, you would need to go back and choose Other Solution. Now, other options exist that give predictable results: Solution closest to 0 and Solution not closest to  0. With these options, the sum of the 2 angles has been found for each solution. This way, when you select Solution closest to 0, you know which result you are choosing.

Solution closest to  0	Solution not closest to 0

Transform Plane Output - Fanuc G68.2 or Equivalent

Each controller may use a different name for it, but whether your controller refers to it as Tilted Work Planes, Transform Planes, Slope Machining, or anything else, what it actually does is shift the work coordinate system to make things possible which, otherwise, would not be. For instance, drilling canned cycles cannot be output if the tool is not aligned with the Z axis of the coordinate system. By using a Transform Plane, we can shift the coordinate system to make this possible. When an operation is being done on an indexing system, most controllers aren't able to use machine compensation. By tilting the coordinate system, the controller is able to tell exactly where to put the tool to compensate properly. In many cases, machinists need to make adjustments to jobs on the fly, but on each and every job, it is always good to be able to look at the code and know exactly what to expect. However, this can get pretty tricky when working with jobs that aren't completely flat. Simple coordinates can get pretty tricky! Look at the part below; a simple profile, when done on an index system can have pretty confusing X, Y, and Z coordinates called: 

Simple Profile	Coordinate System
Output without Transform Plane
N13G01 G93Y-0.4697Z-0.3536 F3.3369 N14Y-0.6464Z-0.5303 F6.6738 N15X0.1250 N16Y-0.4697Z-0.3536 N17X-0.1250 N18G00Y-0.7879Z-0.0354 N19Y-1.1187Z0.2955

 

Now, let's take a look at how easily that code can be read, and even updated, if we use a transform plane.

Simple Profile	Coordinate System
Output using the Transform Plane
N13G68.2X0.0000Y-0.7.4800Z-0.2652 I00. J45. K00. N14G53.1 N15Y-0.1250 N16Z0.2000 N17Z0.1000 N18G93G01Z-0.2500 F3.3369 N19Y-0.1250 F6.6738 N20X0.1250 N21Y0.1250 N22X-0.1250 N23G00Z0.2000

Origin Tracking

The Move List Writer, of the Multiaxis Posting page, has had its Move List Coordinates group upgraded. The Move List Coordinates now offer the ability to have different settings for Standard, Indexing / Positioning, and Multiaxis Simultaneous Motion outputs. Along with the available settings, in BobCAM V7, we now offer Origin Tracking! 

G43	TCP	Origin Tracking DWO

 

Post Processor Encryption

We now offer customers the ability to encrypt particular portions of a post processor, or even entire post processors to hide data within the post from the general public. This is accomplished in three easy steps: pick your post, pick a name for it, and pick who can use it. The encrypted posts can be set to work with any License ID, particular License ID's, particular Customer ID's, or a combination of particular License, and Customer ID's. Post encryption will be most useful with post containing custom scripted functionality. A BobCAD dealer, or partner may want to encrypt a post they have written for a particular customer. A shop owner may want to encrypt a post that gives his machine custom functionality so an employee won't be able to give it to his buddy in the shop down the street with the same machine. Either way, everyone now has the ability to make their post proprietary if they so choose.

Example of a Post with a portion encrypted

262. Add sign to all coordinate values? n 267. Amount to add to tool # for tool register value?   <--ENCRYPTED BEGIN //  The post will work on ANY license ID XRY6MWZE8Q6ERUQH2YJ6R7TNZNC5 HEDGCY2IVQWFETMY42DCDBJYSN90 7SFTPRAQ2IYQ82E8V5ZRFIFHQI79 JMTZJMZU3ZR26JQEV74Y76DGBBWTJXXR2FKDEXRRAZSPTDNVV93S64 RQYY4CYUHGISSPDYN55RYP5WIWEB ET24SPQNZ6GJ3U2YKBJVSNBHTGJCAAC6VTG9FE72FT9EHH6XPKSAC1 <--ENCRYPTED END   273. Output programmable rotary axis codes? y 280. Primary Rotary Axis Modal? y

 

Posting Question 447. When using DPM, Polar should be output as UPM? y/n

In order to support all possible cases, this posting question has been added to allow users outputting in degrees per minute, the option to output units per minute during polar interpolation moves.

 

New Posting Variables

Just as we have added a new posting question to support all possible cases, we have also added a few new posting variables that can be used in Mill and MillTurn output: 

• xf_no_output - Updates modality with the new X position but does not output the position to the NC file.
• yf_no_output - Updates modality with the new Y position but does not output the position to the NC file.
• zf_no_output - Updates modality with the new Z position but does not output the position to the NC file.

 

Simulation Enhancements

Split Simulation into multiple views

Usually, when simulating, users have a couple of different areas of the part they would like to focus on during the simulation. Whether it's to check the tool angle against the material, or to make sure tool movements between cuts are as close as possible, while still being safe, the result is the same; watching the simulation over and over, from different angles, to make sure everything is the way you want it. This can be a little frustrating when you finally rotate the view into the perfect angle, then need to check another view, only to have to try to get back to that same view again later. Now, this can be done with ease! In the View ribbon, click the down arrow under Viewports and choose between 4 views, 3 views, 2 rows, or 2 columns. Now several views can be covered at once, and those difficult to get to views, can be left alone while other views are adjusted.

 

Double Click Toolpath

When simulating your part, trying to find information on a certain area of toolpath can be frustrating. It usually requires adjusting the speed bar, pressing play, trying to stop soon enough, and then slowly stepping through the toolpath move by move until you finally get to the area your looking for. Don't worry, those days are behind you now. Today, in BobCAM V7, all you need to do is double-click on the toolpath segment in question to have that exact move called up in the move list.

 

Opaque

In the Machine Definition page of the Current Settings dialog, you can define how components are shown in the simulation. The adjustable attributes of the components include a transparency setting, which defines how visible the component is when it's set to Show in the graphics area. In the past, the only other options for component visibility were, Transparent, and Hide. This meant if a component was given a transparent attribute in the machine definition, you were not able to see that component as opaque in the simulation. Now, an Opaque option has been created to allow components defined as transparent to be shown opaque without the need to redefine it in the current settings.

 

Layer Interval

In many cases toolpath can be a little overwhelming to look at. With so much going on, it can be difficult to zero in on an area of interest. Now, in the Toolpath Rendering group, of the Simulation ribbon, you'll find Layer Interval, and the Layer Interval Settings. This option allows you to specify a height range and location. With that specified, any toolpath outside of that defined range will be hidden. This is a great way to cut through confusing rapid moves, to get to the meat of the toolpath, or even analyze each Z level of the toolpath! 

 

New Toolpath Analysis Options:

A/B/C Axis Value Change

You can now set the simulation to show changes in the A, B, or C axis by changing the color of the toolpath. In the Analysis tab of the simulation, select from: 

• A Axis Value Change
• B Axis Value Change
• C Axis Value Change

With the axis of interest selected, you can set the range for colors and the associated value change they represent, or allow the system to auto adjust the settings. With the settings applied, the toolpath will show a change in color as the particular axis changes in value.

 

Operation Highlight

In the simulation, you can change the colors for each and every operation being applied in the simulation. This can be handy, but depending on the number of operations, it can be a little overwhelming. In this version, another option has been created in the Analysis tab of the simulation. Now, we've added the Operation Highlight option, which allows you to simplify the colors down to one for the Current Operation, and a second for Other Operations. This way, instead of having a separate color for each and every operation, the color scheme is simplified to what is being done now, and what is not.

 

Thicken Operation

For several versions now, BobCAM has given users the ability to click on an operation in the CAM Tree to make the toolpath associated with that operation turn bold in the graphics area. This helps the toolpath of the current operation to stand out visually. It was a small feature that was actually a huge help! Now, in the Toolpath Rendering section of the simulation, the same thing is available. Users can now select the new Thicken Op option to make the toolpath of the current operation bold.

Color the moves in the move list based on the Toolpath Analysis setting

Scrolling through the Move List has always been helpful, but in this version of BobCAM, it can do more than ever before. Right-click in the Move List, select Settings, and, In the Move list settings dialog, select the check box for Show text colors based on Toolpath Analysis option, and press OK. Now, when the Move List is viewed, the font color of the listed values will update based on the corresponding settings in the Analysis tab. This can be set to update the color for everything from a Height Change, to a Tool Number change. Now you'll be able to see all these changes, without ever taking your eyes of the Move List values.

 

Jump to First or Last Move from Move List context menu

The Move List now allows users to right-click on the moves and choose either Jump to First Move, or Jump to Last Move to quickly find the moves in question.

 

Ruler

The ruler shown in the bottom corner of the simulation now has a vertical aspect to show height. In the past, the on screen ruler only displayed the width. This has been updated to give you a better understanding of size without the need to enter the measurement functions.

 

Measure Grid

In the last several versions, the simulation has been offering more and more for quick measurement references. First, a horizontal ruler was offered in the corner of the screen. Now, along with vertical ruler been added, you can even go to the View ribbon, and select the Measure Grid icon to overlay the entire screen with a measurement grid. Click a second time to turn it off.

 

Zoom Window

To help users analyze the model and stock easier, we now offer a Zoom Window option in the simulation window. In the right-click menu, you can select Zoom Window to allow you to click twice in the graphics area to create a rectangle to zoom to.

 

Show Previous View

Finding the perfect view to see what you want to see in the simulation, can sometimes be tricky. When you have a hard time getting to the perfect view, and then accidentally alter that view, it can be pretty frustrating. Now, with the Show Previous View option, this is no longer an issue. Choose from several different previous views using the right-click context menu, or simply use Ctrl+Z while in the graphics area of the simulation to easily move through the most recently used views.

 

Full Screen Mode

In any application, space is always at a premium. In the past, users would sometime settle on a smaller view window than they would actually want, because it was easier than having to resize the information tabs in the simulation just to gain an inch of viewing area in the simulation. Now, its quick and easy to go full screen. Either press F11, or select Full Screen Mode from the right-click context menu to quickly push the simulation window to its maximum viewing size. This allows you to take over the space of the entire ribbon, and the space in all the information tabs easily. Once you are done with full screen, simply press F11, or select Full Screen Mode from the right-click context menu to go right back to the previous size, without the need to manually resize anything.

 

Automatic coloring mode for Tool Axis vectors

This new feature, for automatic coloring of the Tool Axis Vectors and Tool Path Points, will now draw these graphics elements with colors very similar to the toolpath line color. This function will work best with a toolpath analysis option like Tool Number or Operation Number.

 

Display Arrows Show Axis Direction

This new option is the easiest way yet to get familiar with a machine and its axes. In the past, when getting familiar with a machine, the best way to test machine components in the graphics area was to go into the axis control pane, and start clicking on the sliders for each axis to move it up and down. This would, in turn, move the associated machine component in the graphics area. Now, you can simply go into the machine pane and click on an axis. The associated machine component will then highlight in the graphics area, and will even display an arrow showing positive direction and rotation when applicable. This helps end guess work and gives you a ton of data at a simple glance.

 

Highlighting an Object in Simulation

In previous versions, you could click on an item in the Machine tree to have the object highlight in the graphics area. This could be useful if you wanted to know what axis a particular object in the graphics area was linked to. The drawback, however, was you would need to go through the machine tree clicking items until the object of interest highlighted in the graphics area. Now you can hold Ctrl and double right-click directly on an object in the graphics area and the associated item will highlight in the machine tree.  

 

Highlighting for the Collision Checking Group

The simulation should be as informative as possible at simple glance. In order to assist in this, the objects in the viewing area are color coded for each Collision Checking group and grey for non-selected objects. Just click on the Collision Check group in the machine list and the objects in the graphics area will highlight to show you what is being checked against what.

  

 

Machine Simulator Move List improvements

The Move List pane now has the ability to adjust the order of the columns, resize the columns, and even has a handy new addition called the Field Chooser. Right-click anywhere in the pane and select Field Chooser and you can drag and drop additional columns to and from the field chooser with ease! Now you have control over the look and content of the Move List.

  

 

Axis Control

The Axis Control pane has been updated to give you the ability to set the axis to a particular value directly in the pane. In the past, if you wanted to set an axis to a particular location, you had to right click on the slider to launch the Set Axis Values dialog box. The axes could then be adjusted to a particular location, but that value had to be entered in specifically, and the result could not be seen until you exited the dialog. Now, these adjustments can be made without launching a separate dialog, and a stepper has been added for those instances when the exact location is not known. Simply use the slider to get close and the stepper to hone in on the exact figure.

  

 

Improved Pop-up Notifications

All pop-up notifications have been improved and now have different options for disabling their display during simulation runs. To give you as much control as possible, the pop-ups can be disabled according to different groups and criteria.

  

 

Rotation Point is Always Marked

During mouse rotation in Machine Simulation, a dot is displayed to show the selected rotation center point.

  

 

Automatic Chip Removal Based on Volume

While there have always been options for chip removal in the simulation, this has always been something that had to be done by the user after the simulation had ended. Now, you can set chips to be automatically removed as they are created!