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Training Menu
The menu is used for this workshop only. Please return this menu on each day you
leave. You can download the menu from:
http://www.hku.hk/tscofhku/download/index.html
(i)
Workshop Training
Workshop Training is a compulsory course for engineering students. The Workshop
Training Programs are developed in collaboration with the engineering departments
concerned. The Training Timetable is available. Students can change the personal
training timeslot as far as facilities allow. One hundred percent (100%) attendance
is required in order to satisfy the training requirements. Application for leave of
absence will not be approved except on very strong and justifiable grounds. Make-up
training is required in all cases. Students working in the workshop shall wear
proper safety attire according to the instructions given by the Instructors
concerned. Assessment is based on (1) The behavior and performance in the workshop;
(2) The quality of work produced; and (3) Training log book. The deadline for
submitting the Training Log Book is on Friday in the week of the first semester in
the following academic year. Students are strongly recommended to read the
Guidelines on Workshop Training.
( ii )
THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG Technology Support Centre
Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Content
No. A B C D E Mcam 1 Mcam 2 Mcam 3 Mcam 4 Mcam 5 Mcam 6 Mcam 7 Mcam 8 Mcam 9 Mcam
10 Mcam 11 Mcam 12 Mcam 13 Mcam 14 F G H I J K Project 1 Project 2 Project 3
Project 4 Project 5 Project 6 Project 7 Project 8 Project 9 Project 10 Description
Introduction to the modular Workshop schedule Summary MicroTech CNC simulator
Mastercam version 8 : Introduction Basic CAD Modify Chain Xform Creating 2D Part
Machining Parameters and Verification Creating 2D Contour Toolpath Creating 2D
Pocket Toolpath Engraving Details 3D Wireframe Design Surface model Curve Surface
Toolpath Cadem seeNC mill Cadem seeNC turn HKPC 3D-Mill CNC machine Dophen CNC
wirecut machine Dophen CNC Electric Discharge Machine Projects : CNC program
concept study 2D NC program edit and operate 3D-Mill CNC machine 2D drawing 2D NC
program for wirecut and operate CNC wirecut machine 2D milling program 3D drawing
Surface modeling Surface machining CNC program for lathe turning process CNC
Electric Discharge Machine (EDM) Page 3 4 5 8 -12 16 18 20 21 22 24 27 35 39 41 45
64 65 73 77 80 81 85 -88 89 91 93 94 97 99 103 105 108
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No.
Description
Page
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
A.
Aim:
B. Software
Mastercam version 8.0 MicroTech ISO introduction MicroTech CNC simulator d. Cadem
CNC mill / lathe simulator
Project:
This module consists of several projects. Students may be assigned to work as team
(2 or 3 members) to run their programs on CNC machines making prototypes, and
simulates programs on computer.
Objective:
A. Understanding the construction of NC program and the functions of G, M codes. B.
Writing NC programs to operate CNC machines (Electrical Discharge Machine, Wire Cut
Machine and Milling Machine) for machining desired part geometry. C. Using
Mastercam software to draw components and prepare NC programs for machining
Timetable:
Day Time 9:00am to 10:30am 10:30am to 11:00am 11:00am to 1:00pm 1:00pm to 2:00pm
2:00pm to 5:00pm 9:00am to 1:00pm 1:00pm to 5:00pm Event Workshop Break Workshop
Lunch Workshop Workshop Logbook (Library)
Mon to Thu
Fri
Logbook:
The procedure of making and / or testing parts and the final product should be
recorded in the Logbook. In addition, each project may consist of specific areas
that the student is required to address in the Logbook. The Logbook should be
completed as and when the training is progress. Legible handwriting and freehand
sketching will be sufficient for assessment.
Reference:
a) http://www.mastercam.com b) http://www.cncsimulator.com c) http://www.cadem.com
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B.
Day
Workshop schedule:
Workshop Introduction CNC program concept study Activities Movie a) IsoIntro
software b) CNC program concept .pdf c) CAM Training Menu a) CncSimulator software
for program editing and verification b) Work on CNC machine to make prototype Using
Mastercam v.8 to create drawings a) Create product geometry on Mastercam b) Operate
Dophen CNC Wire Cut Machine to make prototype a) Mastercam b) Operate HKPC CNC
Engraving Machine to make prototype c) Verify on Cadem seeNC mill simulator
Mastercam Mastercam Mastercam a) Mastercam b) Verify on Cadem seeNC mill simulator
Edit and verify on Cadem seeNC lathe simulator Dophen CNC EDM Library Time 0.5 hr 1
hr
2.5 hr 3 hr 3 hr
2D milling program
4 hr 3 hr 4 hr 1.5 hr 5.5 hr 3 hr 1 hr
3 4
3D drawing Surface modeling Surface modeling (cont.) Surface machining CNC program
for lathe turning process EDM process Logbook
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
C.
1
Summary
Introduction:
Numerical Control (NC) is the operation of a machine tool by a series of coded
instructions consisting of numbers, letters of the alphabet, and symbols, which the
machine control unit can understand. These instructions are converted into
electrical pules of current which the machine’s motors and controls follow to carry
out machining operations on a workpiece. The numbers, letters and symbols are coded
instructions which refer to specific distance, positions, functions, or motions
which the machine tool can understand as it machines the workpiece. At first, NC
program was manually prepared; however, it soon became apparent that manual
programming was too slow and cumbersome for complex part geometry. Today, NC
programming is assisted by computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided machining
(CAM), where the geometry can be drawn on CAD software and translated into NC
programs on CAM software. As a result, CAD / CAM software can make this task
easier. MasterCAM is provided in the training, which is an integrated CAD/CAM
software package that creates 2D and 3D geometry, prepares engineering details,
finished blueprints, graphical toolpaths and NC program for supporting design work
and 2 through 5-axis milling, lathes, 2 and 4-axis wire EDM, ... ... etc. machining
processes.
Useful NC codes: 2.1 The most commonly used words in a program are called G-codes
and M-codes. They use the
addresses G and M respectively. G-codes: Preparatory functions, which involve tool
motions like rapid motions, feed motions, circular motions, dwells and canned cycle
codes. M-codes: Miscellaneous functions, which involve machine actions, like
spindle on and off, tool change, coolant on off, program stops. 2.2 Addresses used
in a program Words Description Block number - specifies the star of the block N
Preparatory functions G Miscellaneous functions M X-axis co-ordinate X Z-axis co-
ordinate Z X-axis location of arc center I Z-axis location of arc center K Radius
of arc center R Spindle speed or Cutting speed S Feed rate F Tool to be used T 2.3
Examples of block formats
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Example: go to (100, 100) and then drill a hole to 15mm depth G54 The first zero
point position register G90 Absolute coordinate value G00 X100. Y100. Go to
starting point G00 Z30 Down to repaid depth G01 Z-15. F100 (Where the F code
specifies feed rate and default unit is mm / min of the tool for machining.)
drilling G00 Z30 Return to repaid depth M02 Program stop Prepared by: Y. C. Tam
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EDM is a process that is used to remove metal through the action of an electrical
discharge of low voltage and high current density between the cutting tool
(Electrode) and workpiece. EDM has proved especially valuable in the machining of
supper-tough, -hard, -brittle conductive materials that would be difficult to
machine by conventional cutting methods. EDM process is widely used for plastic
mould making and die making in Hong Kong Industry. EDM is a controlled metal
removal process whereby an electric spark is used to cut the workpiece, which then
takes the shape opposite to that of the electrode. The electrode and workpiece are
both submerged in a dielectric fluid, which is a light lubricating oil and non-
conductivity. A servomechanism maintains a gap about 0.01 to 0.5mm between
electrode and workpiece, preventing them from coming into contact with each other.
The electrical discharges are the result of controlled pulse of direct current and
occur between the tool electrode (usually negative) and the workpiece (positive).
The functions of dielectric fluid 1. It acts as a coolant for reducing heat
caused by the spark. 2. Flushing particles out of the spark gap to prevent
shorting. 3. It serves as an insulator between electrode and workpiece.
The Wire Cut machining is also an electrical discharge machining process, which
uses NC programs (e.g. using G01, G02, G03 ... ... etc. G codes for machining) to
make the desired contour or shape on workpiece. It does not require a special-
shaped electrode; instead, it uses a continuous traveling wire (from φ0.05 to
0.3mm) under tension as the electrode. The path that wire follows is controlled
along a two-axis (X, Y) contour, cutting a narrow slot through the workpiece. A
dielectric fluid flushing system is applied on the machine to carry out removal
particles and reduce the heat caused by the spark. Wire Cut machines are equipped
with a servo-mechanism that automatically maintains a constant spark gap of 0.005
to 0.05mm.
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D.
1.
Text editor
3D wire-frame Plot
Status window
The CncSimulator is used to simulate CNC code for mills and lathes. On startup you
will use the program window divided in several panes. These are: a. Simulation
panes, these show the tool movements in 2D, 3D and block graphics. b. Status pane,
this pane shows the current tool, tool position, rotation etc. c. Editor pane,
(blue background) In this pane, you edit the CNC code and it also shows the current
CNC block during simulation. There is also a full screen mode where one of the
three simulation windows is maximized to cover the entire screen. (Press “ESC”
return to normal screen)
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2.
a. b. c. d. e.
Switch on the Simulation box. To run the file. Step by step to run the file. Stop
the simulation. Slowdown the speed.
3.
Example: to demonstrate the Edit Tools, Details Settings and Zero Point Register
for simulation. Edit Tools: Milling mode: Here you can fill in the tool number,
diameter, length, feed data, spindle and the name of each tool. Turning mode: Here
you can see the contour of the tool. You can fill in the name, cutting data and
tool number of each tool. Details Settings: This is used to set the size of the
work piece as well as the color scale if the CncSimulator is in the milling mode.
By clicking the milling depth button you can decide which colors represent
different depths. Zero Point Register: Here you can edit the zero points that are
called by G54-G59
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Settings: a. Size of the Workpiece is 250 x 150 x 6 mm b. Set the first zero point
(G54) on the middle top of the above workpiece c. Set the rapid depth is z=10.mm,
the machining depth is z=-1.mm, and the cutting tool is 2mm diameter stopped at the
upper right Conner of the machine.
Program details:
N1 G54 N2 G90 N3 G00 X0 Y60. N4 G00 Z10. N5 G01 Z-1. F300 N6 G01 X75. F500 N7 G02
X100. Y35. I0 J-25. F500 N8 G01 Y-35. F500 N9 G02 X75. Y-60. I-25. J0 F500 N10 G01
X-75. F500 N11 G02 X-100. Y-35. I0 J25. F500 N12 G01 Y35. F500 N13 G02 X-75. Y60.
I25. J0 F500 N14 G01 X0 F500 N15 G00 Z10. (Set to the first coordinate system) (Use
the absolute coordinate system) (Go to the starting point) (Down to the rapid
depth) (Down to the machining depth at 1mm) (Start machining) ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ (Close
the contour) (Go to the rapid depth)
N16 M02
(Program stop)
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c d
a. b. c. d.
Copy (c:\CAM\demo\CNCsimEG.nc) the program into the text editor Modify the first
tool to 2mm diameter of Tool Number 1 Input the size of the workpiece (X=250,
Y=150, Z=6) Offset the X / Y distance to register the zero point on the middle top
position
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Mcam 1: Introduction
It is a powerful CAD/CAM application that lets you design parts and choose from 2-
to 5-axis milling, turning wire EDM. Leasers, mold base development, surface, and
solid modeling.
b.
Machining setup
Define stock size, and select material. Select a suitable processor for your CNC
machine.
Select suitable command for your parts. (E.g. Drill, Contour, Pocket, Surface, … …
etc.)
Run Post Processor to create NC file Transmit the NC file to CNC machine to make
your parts.
B.
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C. Identifying Construction Plane (Cplane) & Graphics View (Gview) Click the Cplane
or Gview button or icons to create custom views or planes based on part geometry.
There are 8 standard Gviews and Cplanes, identified by number: 1 = Top 5 = Right
Side 2 = Front 6 = Left Side 3 = Back 7 = Isometric 4 = Bottom 8 = Axonometric
Press “Alt + w” to configure 2 or more viewport on a screen.
D.
For all angle, 3 o’clock = zero degree Measure Positive angles counter-wise,
Negative angles clockwise. All angles use degrees, not radians.
E.
Main menu:
To gives you options for viewing data about entities and, in some cases, editing
the data. When the construction plane is set to 3D, Mastercam calculates data using
absolute, or world, coordinates relative to the system origin (0,0,0). In any other
Analyze (F4) construction mode, the system calculates data using coordinates
relative to the current Cplane. These functions let you create basic Mastercam
entity types: points, lines, arcs, Create (F8) splines, surfaces, drafting
entities, … … etc. File management for drawing and NC files, and convert drawing
to/from other format. Choose Next menu to access a second menu that lets you see
file properties, open a DOS window (shell) within Mastercam, recover RAM memory,
print files, File (F6) set up communications with other devices, and renumber NC
files. The Mastercam Exit function (Alt+F4) is also located on this menu. To gives
you options for modifying entities: Fillet, Trim, Break, Join, Extend, … Modify
(F7) etc. To gives you options for moving entities and optionally creating copies
of them by mirroring, rotating, scaling, offsetting, translating, stretching, and
rolling them. With some functions, you have the option to join the copied entities
to the Xform originals. When you perform a transform function, Mastercam creates a
temporary group from the original entities and a result from the transformed
entities. To gives you options for deleting entities and restoring deleted
entities. There are Delete (F5) undelete-function up to 256 entities being
restored. To lets you specify default system settings and manage the display of
geometry in Screen the graphics window. To let create solid geometry (not provided
in these module) Solids To shows where a tool removes material from a part.
Mastercam Mill has several Toolpaths (Alt+O) types of toolpaths that you can create
on wireframe, surface, and solid geometry. To provides functions that help you
prepare for machining and manage workflow. NC utils
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F.
Functions Keys
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1.2 Sketch a vertical line, which top endpoint cross the right endpoint of above
horizontal line
Select /Main Menu /Create /Line /Vertical Use the AutoCursor function to specify
the 1st endpoint, move the cursor near the right endpoint of above horizontal line
(note: the 1st endpoint has defined the X/Y coordinates to draw Vertical/Horizontal
line at desired position) Use sketch method to specify the 2nd endpoint at –Y
direction Press Enter to accept the default X coordinate that is defined by the 1st
endpoint.
Note:
There will display messages on the bottom of Prompt Area or top of menu bar to
request what information is being input. So you must follow these requirements then
you can create entities successfully. 2 Create Arc and circle 2.1 The Arc is 50mm
radius, angle from 600 to 1350, and center on (0, 0)
Select /Main Menu /Create /Arc /Polar /Center pt Select “Origin” from Point Entry
menu, or input “0, 0”at Prompt Area Enter the radius, 50, at Prompt Area Enter the
initial angle, 60, at Prompt Area Enter the final angle, 135, at Prompt Area Note:
If you want to create a circle by this method, you can input the angle from 0 to
360
Try these function keys: F1, Alt+F1, F2, Alt+F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F8, F9, ESC,
Alt+A, Alt+U and Alt+H Note: If you have applied more function keys, a warning
message box will display. You should press ESC or mouse click BACKUP / Main Menu
for initialize.
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3.3 In the prompt area, enter the angle of the line. 3.4 Enter the length of the
line. 3.5 Select the line to keep. Note: The line may be created on an extended
portion of the selected entity that means one is started from the tangent point to
upper, another one to lower. 3.6 Repeat steps 2 through 5 to create additional
tangent lines. 3.7 Press [Esc] to exit the function.
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Mcam 3: Modify
Trim is one of the most commonly used Modify commands. As the name implies, it is
used to trim, or cut back one, two, or more entities to a specified intersection
point. It is also used to extend geometry in a similar way. Using Trim is easy.
First pick the type of trim operation needed, and then select the geometry. Where
the entities are picked, and the order they are picked, determines how the trim
operation works. Always select the part of the geometry to keep, not the part to
discard The following diagrams and instructions show how to use Trim. Numbers
indicate where and which order to pick entities, and the icon for that trim
function is shown to the right.
1 Entity trims one entity to another. The first entity picked is the one that will
be trimmed. The side of the entity picked is saved, the other side is discarded.
2 Entities trims two entities to each other. Don’t pick right on the intersection
itself. Pick on each entity far enough away from the intersection so it is clear
which entity is selected
3 Entities trims an entity back to two others. This is especially useful for
breaking an arc as shown.
To Point trims an entity back to a point selected on the Point Entry menu. This is
a very useful function. Make sure to understand how it works.
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Many trims many entities back to another. Select Done after picking the entities to
trim, and then indicate with the mouse which side to keep. Pick the lines one at a
time, or use Window or other methods to select all at once. The Window command is
covered later in this chapter. Close arc turns a partial arc into a full circle.
The arc is closed by trimming it in a clockwise direction. The endpoint of the new
arc is not at the 3:00 position, but at the counterclockwise start point, as shown
by the circle (o) on the diagram.
Divide cuts away a section of an entity between two other entities. This is a very
useful function that saves having to break the entity before trimming. However,
this does not work well on arcs. For arcs, use the 3 Entities function instead.
Fillet is the other commonly used modify command, which is similar to “Trim 2
entities”. When you fillet curves, you create an arc of a defined radius tangent to
the curves. By default, Mastercam trims the curves to the fillet, although you have
the option to turn off trimming. You can select this command from “Modify menu”, or
“Create menu”
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Mcam 4: Chain
Mastercam displays the Chaining Methods menu whenever chaining is required to
complete a function. The method is available on any selection submenu to help you
faster selected entities. Chaining methods divide into two groups: methods for
creating a single chain at a time and methods for creating multiple chains all at
once. The single chain methods provide more control in setting the start and
endpoints of chains, chaining order, and chaining direction. The multiple chain
methods require less effort but provide less control.
Move the cursor to select an endpoint for open contour, or any one side for close
contour. There will appear an arrow and move very fast around the contour. When the
arrow has stopped that means selection process is completed.
So what happens if the arrow won’t go al the way around a chained profile? This is
almost always the result of one of the following: Small Breaks in Profile Duplicate
Entities Overlapping Entities Here is how to find and fix these problems Small
Breaks in Profile: There is a difference between close and closed. Even though two
entities may look connected, they may be separated by a small, even microscopic
break, perhaps 0.001 mm or less. To find these, start zooming up on the areas where
the reb arrow stopped. As you zoom, any gap will become visible. Another excellent
troubleshooting tool is the Screen, Endpoints function. This places small white
point at the end of each entity. This helps spot small gaps, since two marks will
appear close together at the gap. Gaps can normally be avoided by using the
AutoCursor when drawing, and exercising cares to make a completely “watertight”
drawing to begin with. Duplicate Entities are what the name implies: two identical
entities where there should be only one. Chain sees these like a branch point and
stops. Getting rid of duplicate entities is easy. Just select Delete, Duplicate,
Entities. This only works if the entities are true duplicates. It won’t work on
overlapping entities. It usually won’t work on splines from CAD data either. Why?
These splines normally are placed on the edges of adjacent surface. Though the
splines share the same shape, their underlying definition (node points, etc) re
different, so they are not true duplicate entities.
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Mcam 5: Xform
The Xform menu gives you options for moving entities and optionally creating copies
of them by mirroring, rotating, scaling, offsetting, translating, stretching, and
rolling them. With some functions, you have the option to join the copied entities
to the originals. When you perform a transform function, Mastercam creates a
temporary group from the original entities and a result from the transformed
entities. After you have completed entities selection procedure, an optional dialog
box of which you selected Xform command will appear. For example: The options on
the Translate dialog box set the type of operation to perform, the number of times
to perform the transformation, and the attributes of the transformed entities. Move
transforms the selected entities to a new position in the graphics window. Copy
transforms a copy of the selected entities to a new position in the graphics window
and maintains the position of the original entities. Join transforms a copy of the
selected entities to a new position in the graphics window and maintains the
position of the original entities. Mastercam creates lines or arcs to connect the
endpoints of the original entities to the endpoints of the transformed entities.
Number of steps determines how many times Mastercam performs the transform
function. Entering a value greater than 1, results in multiple copies of the
original entities. Example of Translate: a) Select Main Menu /Create /Rectangle /1
point b) Input Width = 100, Height = 60, and select Point Placement at center
position c) Select Origin from point entry menu Now there is a rectangle center at
(0, 0) d) Select Main Menu /Xform /Translate /Chain /mouse select the contour /Done
/Done e) Select Between pts f) Origin for 1st point, (100, 100) for 2nd point g)
Select Move operation, Number of steps = 1 h) Press Alt+F1, then press F2 Now, the
rectangle is moved to (100, 100) i) Select Main Menu /Xform /Translate /Chain
/mouse select the new contour /Done /Done j) Select Polar k) Enter the translate
distance: 100 l) Enter the translate angle: 450 m) Select Copy operation, Number of
steps = 10 n) Press Alt+F1, then press F2 How many contours are there, now? o)
Press F5, then select Result, yes How many contours are there, now? p) Press
Alt+F1, then press F2 q) Select Main Menu /Xform /Translate /Chain /mouse select
the contour /Done /Done r) Select Rectang s) Enter the translate vector: X100 Y100
t) Select Join operation, Number of steps = 1 u) Press Alt+F1, then press F2
Create 2 arc of 8mm radius at (0, 0) and (50, 0) a) Select Main Menu /Create
/Arc /Circ pt + rad /Enter the radius is 8 /center at origin b) Select Main Menu
/Create /Arc /Polar /Center pt /center at origin c) Enter the radius is 8 /initial
angle is 210 /final angle is 150 d) Press Alt+F1, then press F2 and F9
Create a line tangent 50 at left arc, and then Mirror copy along X-axis e) Main
Menu /Create /Line /Tangent /Angle /mouse click about the tangential position f)
Input angle is 50 , the length is 50, then mouse to select which line to keep g)
Main Menu /Xform /Mirror /mouse click the Line /Done /X axis /select copy operation
Create fillet at the neck position h) Main Menu /Modify /Fillet /Radius /Input
radius is 4 /mouse click to select entities
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Rotate the arm to 1050 about the origin i) Main Menu /Xform /Rotate /Chain /Done
/Done /Origin /select Copy, 1050 j) Press Alt+F1, then press F2 and F9
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Mcam7:
Note:
The above value is for your reference. Actually, the calculation of accuracy metal
removal rate that you should consider with the physical properties of the cutter
and machined material.
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Operations Manager
The Operations Manager is a central location where you can manage all the elements
of the current job. An operation consists of all the information needed to cut a
particular toolpath. The right figure shows you how a number operation appears in
the Operation Manager Each operation has a name that describes the kind of
machining action it includes, such as Contour and Pocket. A single part can have
many operations; they are grouped in Toolpath Groups. You can select from Main Menu
/Toolpaths /Operations. Or press [Alt+O] to access.
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Backplotting a toolpath
Backplot displays the NCI file and lets you catch any errors in the program before
you machine the part. The path displays in the current graphics view (Gview). When
backplotting finishes, the approximate machining time displays in the prompt area
at the bottom of the screen. You can access the backplot function by choosing the
Backplot button on the Operations Manager or by choosing Backplot from the NC
Utilities menu.
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Mcam 8
This chapter shows you the basic steps for creating a contour toolpath. A toolpath
shows how material is removed along a cutter path. A contour toolpath removes
material along a cutter path defined by a curve or chain of curves. The toolpath
you will create is for the part you created in “Mcam 6” (or download 2D.mc8 from
server, or get from C:\CAM\demo\2D.mc8). You will use: Job setup: select from
Toolpath menu, Operation Manager, or press [Alt+J] Toolpaths Menu: Contour, or
Operations, or the function keys of “Alt+O”. Chaining method that decides the
toolpath direction. Tool library and Contour parameters Backplot or Verify toolpath
Run post processor to generate NC program a) Draw the outer rectangle to make it
easy Job b) Press [Alt+J] to open Job Setup dialog box. Choosing [Select corners]
to select the outer corners, it defines Setup defines. The lower is (-21, -8) and
the upper is (58, 57) the X, Y and Stock Origin. Finally, input the Z is 40.
Open the Operation Manager: select Operations from toolpath menu or press Alt+O. d)
Right click on “Toolpath Group”, then Select [Contour] Note: We will use a cutter
of 12mm diameter flat end mill to cut the contour at 30mm depth
c)
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e)
Use “Chain” to define the contour toolpath and click DONE to accept the chaining
contour. Auxiliary functions: use “Reverse”, “Move forward / backward” to change
the chaining direction, change starting point, or check that The chaining direction
is represented the motion of cutter. Usually, the clockwise chaining direction is
defined for cutting outside boundary; the counterclockwise for inside cavity. (Now,
we should place the cutter at outside.)
f) Input machining parameters: Feed rate = 500; Plunge rate = 300; Retract rate =
500; Spindle speed = 1000; Tool dia. = 12
Or, Select a Tool from the library: Right click in the tool display area, choose
“Get tool from library”, and select required cutter size. (This method can save
more useful data for next programming, or select pervious data) Note: Unselect the
[Filter Active] optional box, there will show all tools.
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You can right click on the tool icon to define more information and save it in tool
library (use default name for saving)
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f)
Input the contour parameters Feed plane = 10 (ABS) Depth = -30 (ABS) Compensation
in computer = Left
g) Your defined contour parameters, tools, chains and NCI data files that are saved
in the Operations Manager. The manager helps you to define / manager more toolpaths
and provides simulations to check toolpaths. Try to run Backplot / Verify to check
your toolpath, and run the Post Processor to generate NC program for CNC.
Backplot: Select the [Backplot] button on Operation Manager. Or, exit the manager,
then select command from Main Menu /NC utils /Backplot: Change the “Gview” from
second menu to Isometric. Press [Alt+F1], then [Alt+F2] for better view. Try: Run;
Step, Show Tool, Show Path
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Why? There are some problems. The tool length is too short. The depth cut is 30mm,
so the cutter must longer than this depth value.
Increase the length to 40, 50, and 60, and then save to library again.
Simulate this toolpath as right figure shown, but there are problems have not
solved yet. More metal have not removed; More heavy cutting loads during machining
that will cause the tool broken. We should consider with more machining parameters,
as: Roughing / Finishing cuts; Stepover per cut; Depth per cut; … … etc.
Depth cuts:
Define number steps and step distance of rough and finish cuts.
Multi passes:
Define number steps and spacing distance of roughing and finishing passes.
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c) Define the max rough step size (equal or less then 75% of used cutter dia) and
finishing allowance size. Note: Mastercam divides the total depth into equal step
based upon the input values between [Top of stock] and [Depth] at “Contour
parameters” dialog box. There will be required min 1 finish cut for any finishing
process.
d) Completed the above settings and then click OK return to Operations Manager,
where will appear a red-cross-mark on NCI data file. You must press the “Regen
Path” button to resume and update all paths. e) Try to run [Verify] again. There
are step down for depth machining, but it is more metal has not removed yet. You
must define the [Multi passes] at next stage.
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c) Input data as followings. (Note: The amount of stock the rough pass leaves for
finish passes equals the number of finish passes multiplied by the finish pass
spacing. For example, if you enter 2 finish passes with a spacing of 0.125”, the
system would leave 0.25” remaining stock after the last roughing pass.)
d) Regen Path to resume and update program, and then run Verification for checking.
Question: How do calculate the roughing passes number? There are spent more time
for tool moving around the workpiece (means no cutting), did you see. Prepared by:
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Evaluate where is the max distance and value. Max Number x Roughing Spacing ≧ The
max distance
Where: Dark Blue represents the stock size; Green represents designed geometry;
Light Blue represents the tool motions for each depth cuts; Yellow represents the
tool retraction to Feed Plane; The toolpaths, which is inside the Blue Rectangle,
is effective paths for metal cutting, but which is outside the Blue Rectangle is
noncutting motion. So, this example is noneffective cost for production. Solution:
Break down the close contour into several chains for independent operation
programming. Each operation is given difference Roughing passes number. Another
solution: Using Pocket command (described in next chapter), or using “Trim
Toolpathe” advance command.
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To make island(s) inside cavity: Define 1st for the outside boundary; and defined
the 2nd and other chains for island(s). Note: When Island(s) defined, you must
carefully define the cutter side for machining that criteria – The used cutter
diameter is less than the distance between island and island, island and boundary.
To make island(s) only: Defined a hidden outside boundary; and than defined other
chains within the hidden boundary for islands. Note: The required hidden boundary
side and shape is just larger than the stock side or desired shape for one diameter
of used cutter. Note: We can use this method to create aforesaid “2D contour
toolpath”. It is most wanted method for practical machining.
The example will use the below geometry to explain the 2D POCKET toolpaths.
Note: Its stock size is 180x160x50, and the cavity depth is 30mm. Using 12mm flat
endmill for machining. (Download from server, or get from c:\CAM\demo\Pocket.mc8)
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Geometry: “Pocket.mc8”
Verification
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e) Input data: Feed plane = 10 (ABS) Top of stock = 0 (ABS) Depth = -30 (ABS)
Standard pocket type Press [Depth cuts] button to define max step size and
finishing passes.
f) Depth cuts: Note: These definitions are the same as aforesaid “Contour”
descried.
g) Define cutting method (“ZigZag” is most common method for practical machining)
h) Input stepover size (either % or distance value) i) Min given one Finish pass at
0.5mm allowance for general purpose.
Note: The roughing angle sets the angle for roughing passes for One Way and Zigzag
pocket toolpaths. The right graphic shows examples of roughing angles. At general
workshop, we would like to set an angle (like 150, 300, 450, … etc) for machining.
This angle will cause two axes moving at the same for machining. If the angle is
0/90/180/270 that will be one axis in lock status, another is driving axis for
machining. If two axes is in motion status, it can prevents backlash.
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Question: What can you find in there as using another roughing cut methods? Modify
the cavity geometry where is an island of 25mm diameter at the middle position, and
then create new toolpath for machining. Change the cavity shape to core as page 35
shown.
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Mcam 10:
Engraving Details
Toolpath Verifcation with 0.5mm cutter
Using Contour command without cutter compensation to engrave very shape details
onto workpiece. Drawing in area 60 x 70
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8) Input feed rate, plunge rate, … etc. 9) Modify the Tool Name for easier
searching 10) Save these information for next requisition
Finally step: Input machining Depth to –0.5mm (ABS), and feed plane … etc. Remember
that turn off all cutter compensation. Not required Multi passes and Depth cuts
define, because there is very light cutting.
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Mcam 11:
3D Wireframe Design
This chapter describes the functions of [Gview], [Cplane] and [Z (axis depth)].
Gview (Graphic View) The graphics view is the plane from which you view your work
in the graphics window. When you choose Gview from the Secondary Menu, the Gview
menu displays. Gview does not move or otherwise translate the geometry. Rather,
Gview moves your vantage point. However, it appears the geometry is rotating when
you change the Gview, especially when using Gview, Dynamic. Cplane (Construction
Plane) The Cplane is a flat, two-dimensional plane on which you create geometry and
that you can define anywhere in three-dimensional space. When creating geometry,
you are always working on a Cplane. When working in a 2D environment, all geometry
creation takes place on a single plane. Usually the default plane (Top XY) is
adequate for 2D work. Further, when in the 2D environment, you do not usually need
to change the Cplane or use Gviews. The Cplane button shows the current setting
with a letter or number. (Number 1 to 8 are system defined, 9 to 255 are user
defined, refer to Page 13 of this menu.) When working in a 3D environment, you can
use any of the eight predefined construction planes (six planes that correspond to
the six faces of a cube; isometric, axonometric) and the 3D construction plane. You
can also define planes yourself. You will need to be aware of the current Cplane
and Z depth or you will create the geometry in wrong and unintended orientations.
One way to avoid this mistake is to set the graphics view (Gview) to the same
setting as the Cplane or to Isometric. Cplane and Gview have many of the same
available settings. Cplanes that you define can also be used as Gviews. Also, be
sure to check, and if necessary, change, the Z depth when you change the Cplane.
For example: No define a suitable Construction Plane to draw entities; where: Line-
1 is parallel to Front Plane (X-Z), Line-2 is parallel to Side Plane (Y-Z). Go to
create fillet between these lines at Front Plane.
As a result, the created fillet is not joined with Line-1 and Line-2, because the
Construction Plane is not set on requested plane. Therefore, defining and/or
selecting a Cplane are the most important element of geometry creation. A good
understanding of this concept is essential. The user may select any existing view
as a Cplane, or graphics view (Gview), or use other commands (e.g. 2 lines, Arc...)
to create requested 2D construction plane to draw the fillet.
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World / View Coordinate System World: Inputting axis direction and position are the
same as the actual threedimensional Construction Plane.
Example 1: Draw a line on 3D space. 1st: set the Cplane to 3d, 2nd: set the Gview
to Isometric, 3rd: input coordinates (input X, Y, Z values at the same time to
represent a point.), Point-1 (X-80, Y-50, Z60) Point-2 (X50, Y80, Z-30), 4th: the
line is created. Note: World Coordinate System is only suitable for 3d Cplane, not
for Top, Front, Side ... etc. The 3D Cplane is no need to concern axis depth (Z).
View: Assume Cplane (except 3d) is equal to the Monitor Screen, where horizontal
direction is X-axis, vertical direction is Yaxis, and perpendicular to screen is Z-
axis. User applies the “Left Hand Rule” to indicate each axis direction and
position. Thumb represents Z-axis, 1st Finger represents Y-axis and 2nd Finger
represent X-axis. Pointing direction of each finger represent +ve side at any time.
The 1st Finger and 2nd Finger are parallel to the Cplane or Monitor Screen. Example
2: Draw a circle and triangle parallel to Front Cplane. 1st: set up Cplane and axis
depth Cplane and Gview are set to “Front”; the axis depth (Z) is set to 50. 2nd:
press Alt-F9 to see the view axes. User can see the drawing axis of the current
Cplane, which displayed on the left hand side lower corner. 3rd: to draw the circle
and triangle. Circle: Center on X-30, Y40, radius 20. Triangle: Point 1 (X20, Y-
15), Point 2 (X35, Y-55), Point 3 (X100, Y-30).
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Example 3: Create the rectangle wireframe and two circles on Front / Side plane.
Discussion: 1. Describe the relationships between Cplane, Gview and Axis depth (Z).
2. Compare the difference between World / View coordinate system. 3. To create Arc
on 3D space. 4. To define a new construction plane.
Data (0,0) & (100,60) Vector: Z30 and select “Join” (Now, you have created the 3D
wireframe, go to create circle on rear and right side position.) Front Isometric
-60 Press the [Z] on secondary menu, then input Z-60, or use the point entry
function select endpoint (or, midpoint, intersection, … etc) at relative entity to
obtain which Z value. Front Isometric -60 Create /Arc /Circ pt + dia Center (50,
15) Diameter is 20 Side Isometric 100 Define the Z axis depth of required Side
plane Side Isometric 100 Create /Arc /Circ pt + dia Center (30, 15) Diameter is 20
3d Isometric No concern Create /Line /Multi Select endpoints: P1, P2, P3, P4, and
Then press F5 to delete lines as above figure. then P1 (press ESC to stop) (Now,
you need to define a new construction plane for the middle circle as above figure.)
User Isometric Calculated Press the “Cplane” from secondary, then select “Entity”
from existing Define by system menu to define two perpendicular lines. -51.450
Mouse click at first line (P1-P2) and last line (P1-P3) Select “Save” from existing
menu to store the new construction plane. (The system will generate a new number to
represent the plane, and the Z depth is also generated and display on menu. Note:
this value is calculated from the origin perpendicular to this plane.) Create
/Arc /Circ pt + dia Center at the intersection of these cross lines. Diameter is 20
Finished
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Example 4: To trim entities on 3D space, if they have not any intersection points.
Create two cross lines on “Top” plane at difference axis depth. 1. Create a
horizontal line on Top plane at Z: 0.000: Dates: first endpoint: (-100, -20);
second endpoint: (100, -20). 2. Create a horizontal line on Top plane at Z:
120.000: Dates: first endpoint: (0, -100); second endpoint: (0, 100). Note:
Actually, these two lines have not any intersection point at the 3D space. But,
when you set the “Cplane” & “Gview” at TOP, you have found that these lines are
across to anther one. (i.e. They are not parallel lines.) So, you can use “Trim”
command to change their length. Example 5: download file, or get from
c:\CAM\demo\3D.mc8 Given drawing for Side construction
Finish geometry
Procedures: Change the Cplane to Side, and Giew to Isometric Select Xform
/Translate /Chain entities / Rectang /Translate Vector is Z-44 /select “Join” Press
Cplane from secondary menu, and then select “Entity” to select two perpendicular
lines at the plane. Select Xform /Offset copy lines to construct the window box
position. Use Modify /Trim to correct length. Select Xfrom /Translate /to draw the
box depth.
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Mcam 12:
Surface Model
The Surface menu gives you options for creating and modifying surfaces. A surface
is a 2D or 3D shape that has area but no thickness, which you create from curves
(lines, arcs, splines), from other surfaces, or from pre-defined shapes. Create
functions Modify functions Creating a lofted surface Creating fillet surfaces
Creating a Coons surface Offsetting surfaces Creating a ruled surface Trimming
surfaces Creating a revolved surface Extending a surface by a defined length
Creating a swept surface Extending a surface to a plane Creating draft surfaces
using a defined length Blending two surfaces Creating draft surfaces using a
defined plane Blending three surfaces Creating surfaces in pre-defined (primitive)
shapes Blending three intersecting fillet surfaces Extracting surfaces from solids
Setting the display of surface: The Surface Display menu gives you options for
specifying how surfaces appear in the graphics window. While this menu is
displayed, current surface display settings (Show back, Back color, and Density)
are shown in the prompt area. You can access the Surface Display menu by choosing
Main Menu, Screen, Surf disp. Surface density is the concentration of display
curves (not geometric entities) used to show wireframe (unshaded) surfaces and
solids in the graphics window. Mastercam determines the appropriate number of
curves for a density value based on the composition of the surface. Surface density
settings do not affect shaded surfaces. Surface density is measured by a value
between 1 (least dense) and 15 (most dense). Entering a density of zero displays
the outline of the surface and one curve in each of the surface directions. The
current density is shown in the prompt area. Choosing the Density option on the
Surface Display menu lets you set the surface density for the current drawing
session. 1. Choose Main Menu, Screen, Surf disp, Density. 2. Type a value from 0 to
15 in the text box, then press [Enter]. Example: download from server, or get from
c:\CAM\demo\PocketSurface.mc8
Shading is intended primarily to help you visualize 3D geometry while you work, not
to provide a permanent, savable image. Shaded images update to reflect the changes
you make to the geometry. You can select the command from Screen menu, or press
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You can select [Normal] command from “Modify” menu, to change surface’s normal
direction. For machining, the Normal Direction indicates the cutter compensation;
means cutter is always following the Positive Direction.
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Draft Surface:
It is created by extruding (or, driving out) the shape of a curve (line, arc, or
spline) in a linear direction perpendicular to some view, often with an angle, or
degree of tilt. The draft surface extends to a defined length or plane. The
pictures below show an example of a draft surface:
Note: Follow the arrow direction is positive length or positive angle. Example:
Using Draft to create a cylinder Create a Diameter of 50mm circle at Origin on Top
plane Select Draft from surface menu, and then Chain the circle Given length = 50;
Angle = -150
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Revolve Surface:
This option creates a surface that is circular in one direction. The system
revolves one or more selected chains of curves (profile entities) about a single
line (axis of rotation). When you select the axis, the system displays a temporary
arrow at one end of the axis to indicate the rotation direction. The following
graphics identify a profile entity and axis of rotation and show them used in a
full and partial rotation.
Create the Profile Entity: /Arc /3 Points /Given Coordinates (100, 50); (0, 80); (-
100,50) Create rotation axis: Select Create menu /Line /Endpoints /Given
Coordinates (100, 0); (-100, 0) From the Main Menu, choose Create /Surface
/Revolved. (The Chaining Methods menu displays.) Select one or more chain of
curves, select the ARC (click at left side endpoint), then choose Done. Select a
line for the axis of rotation, select the LINE (click at left side endpoint) Set
parameters on the Revolved Surface menu, as needed, then choose Do it to create
surfaces.
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Ruled Surface Loft Surface They use the same contours to define surface, but the
outputs are difference.
They are similar commands; their difference are shown below: Loft Ruled Curve
fitting between contours Linear matching between contours Cutting direction
either along or across Cutting direction parallel to along direction No
trimming plane Trimming planes can be set on tool path Using these commands to
create surfaces, we should chain two or more contours. We must carefully select
each contour. It is important to select each chain of curves at the same relative
position to each other. 1) Selection in sequence: starting selection at any end
side contour 2) Same chaining direction 3) Same starting angle for each chain, when
you defined close contours.
They are the same chaining direction and starting angle at point-A and point B
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Example: Rule01.mc8, you can download from server or get from c:\CAM\demo Select
Ruled from Surface menu Select Single to select the green Arcs Note: Because these
contours are single entity, so you can use Single for selection easier. If the
contour is constructed by two or more entities, you should use CHAIN for selection.
The selection should be in sequence and same chaining direction.
Example: Rule02.mc8, you can download from server or get from c:\CAM\demo Select
Ruled from Surface menu Select Chain to select the green contours (pick at 3
o’clock near A / B) Note: The selection should be in same chaining direction and
start angle.
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Example: Car.mc8, you can download from server or get from c:\CAM\demo Select Loft
from Surface menu Select Window to select all green contours Specify an endpoint
for automatically searching all contours Note: Compare Loft and Ruled results.
Example: Rule_Loft.mc8, you can download from server or get from c:\CAM\demo Select
Loft / Ruled from Surface menu Select Single to select all green contours Note:
Compare Loft and Ruled results.
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Sweep Surface:
The Sweep function creates a surface by sweeping chains of curves along a path. The
chains that you select to sweep are called “Across” chains. These chains define
cross-sections of the resulting surface. The chains that define the path of the
sweep are called “Along” chains. You can define this surface using the following
combinations of across (section) and along (path) chains: 1 across/1 along:
Mastercam sweeps one section chain along one path chain. You have the option to
Translate or Rotate the cross-section chain along the path. 2 or more across/1
along: Mastercam transitions from one section chain to the next in the order in
which you defined them while following one path chain. This is known as a linear
blend. 1 across/2 along: Mastercam proportionally scales one section chain between
two path chains. Selection procedures: 1. Choose Main Menu, Create, Surface, Sweep.
2. Select two or more Across chains to define the cross-sections of the surface,
then choose Done. 3. Select one or two Along chains for the sweep path, then choose
Done. Note: If you selected more than one chain in step 2, you can select only one
path chain. In this case, you do not have to choose Done; Mastercam moves to the
next step automatically. 4. In the prompt area, Mastercam displays the current
surface error tolerance, surface type, and translate/rotate settings. If necessary,
use the Swept Surface menu to edit these settings. 5. Choose Do it to create the
Swept surface. 6. Repeat steps 2 through 5 to create additional swept surfaces, or
press [Esc] to exit the function. Note: The following graphics show three swept
surfaces created using various combinations of across and along chains. Samples of
Sweep Surface: There is the same start point (or position) for each chain. You have
the option to Translate or Rotate the cross-section chain along the path.
Base upon the same start point / position selection method: If you select the
across entities starting at the point A, which along entities are near this point,
so it is the first along direction.
These entities are no any intersection points, we should depend on the along path
to define each across section. If the 1st across direction starting at point A,
then the along path will be started at point C, so the 2nd Across chain is starting
at point B.
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Example: Sweep01.mc8, download from server or get from c:\CAM\demo Select the
single green Arc starting at point A for Across chain Select the green rectangle
near the point A for Along chain If you want to fix the across contour then copy
along the path, you can select [Translate] option. If you want the Across contour
turn around the path, you should select [Rotate] option.
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Coons Surface:
The Coons surface function creates a surface from a grid of curves (Patches). Note:
Two across chains and two along chains construct a Patch as a closed contour. The
longest contour direction is defined as along direction. Each group of along and
across contours must be intersected and cut each other into several pieces as
grids. Each intersection point of along group and across group that should be a
real endpoint. There should be same starting point for the First Along and First
Across For example, several across and along contours construct the bottom. At the
top view, we can find there are six patches are build by these intersected
contours. Note: Before starting select chains, the mastercam will request you give
information as: How many patches in along and across direction. (The total number
of patches = Along no.s x Across no.s)
Selection procedures: The patch boundaries are laid out in a grid. The along
contours for the entire surface are defined first (not patch by patch), followed by
all the across contours. For this example, the point 1 is the starting point, so
the along contours are 3; the across contours are 4. The mastercam system will
prompt you select each portion step by step as following table -Select Along Rows
at first stage Select Across Columns at second stage
1 of row 1 (1-2); 2 of row 1 (2-3); 3 of row1 (3-4); Row 1 finished. 1 of row 2 (5-
6); 2 of row 2 (6-7); 3 of row 2 (7-8); Row 2 finished. 1 of row 3 (9-10); 2 of row
3 (10-11); 3 of row 3 (11-12); Finished. Completed all rows selection then go to
select columns. 1 of column 1 (1-5); 2 of column 1 (5-9); Column 1 finished. 1 of
column 2 (2-6); 2 of column 2 (6-10); Column 2 finished. 1 of column 3 (3-7); 2 of
column 3 (7-11); Column 3 finished. 1 of column 4 (4-8); 2 of column 4 (8-12);
Column 4 finished.
Blending: There are four options that can be selected by user: Linear, Parabolic,
Cubic, and Cubic with slope matching. Parabolic and cubic blending tends to produce
flat spots, on the surface. Use linear blending on single patch surfaces or cubic
with slope matching blending on multiple patch surfaces whenever possible.
Start creating COONS surface The system prompt will ask you using Automatic. Click
[No] Because it is not suitable for complex geometry.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
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Trim Surface
The Trim Surface menu gives you options for trimming, un-trimming surfaces. You can
access the Trim menu by choosing Main Menu, Create, Surface, Trim/extend. Trimming
surfaces to curves Trimming surfaces to a plane Trimming surfaces to surfaces
Creating a trimmed surface within a flat boundary Un-trim a surface (change the
trimmed surface to original shape, not pervious step.) Trimming a surface to curve:
This function trims surfaces to curves (lines, arcs, and splines or surface
curves). If the trimming curves do not lie directly on the surfaces, Mastercam
projects them onto the surfaces in order to calculate the intersection where the
surface will be trimmed. When Mastercam trims a surface, it creates the trimmed
surface as a new surface, and you can keep, blank, or delete the original (default
option) surface. Procedures: 1. Choose Main Menu, Modify, Trim, Surface, To curves.
2. Select one or more surfaces to trim, then choose Done. 3. Select a curve or
chains of curves to use to trim the surfaces, then choose Done. Note: You must
select lines, arcs, and/or splines as the trimming curves in this step. However,
you can replace these trimming curves with surface curves in step 5, if necessary.
4. Choose Options. Set the step method and trimming parameters, then choose OK.
Note: Chord height is generally the most precise step method, but it may take
longer to calculate the trimmed surfaces than Fixed step. 5. Set the remaining
parameters on the Trim to Curves menu, then choose Do it. Note: To trim the
surfaces to surface curves instead of using the trimming curves selected in step 3,
choose Surf crvs, then select one or more surface curves in the graphics window. 6.
Select a highlighted surface. Mastercam displays an arrow on the surface. 7. Move
the base of the arrow to the area of the surface to keep after trimming, and then
click. Note: Avoid selecting the outer boundary of the surface, which may produce
unintended results. 8. Press [Esc] to exit the function.
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Trimming surfaces to surfaces This function looks for intersections between two
sets of surfaces, one of which must contain only one surface, and trims one or both
of the sets of surfaces. The selection procedures are similar to aforesaid, but you
should use mouse click the two set surfaces where to keep.
Note: You can define more than two surfaces a time for each trimming set. Creating
a trimmed surface within a flat boundary Define one closed 2D chain, or the chain
consists other closed chains. (These chains must be created at the same plane, if
not, system will project the second and other chains onto the plane of first
selected chain.)
Example: c:\CAM\demo\Ball.mc8 Change the Cplane to TOP Select Trim to Plane Select
Z = 0 Flip the arrow position at figure shown Now, the ball is trimmed to half. Try
to use untrrim surfaces function to view what happens. Change the Cplane to TOP
Select Trim to Curve Select the red circle Mouse click where to keep as figure
shown Now, the surface is punched a hole.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
If you want to generate the surface at the Region II, you should select the end
side A & B and using [Check Normal] function to Flip each Arrow direction pointing
to the Region II. Such that you can create this fillet surface at required
position. There are two operations for you select: Single / Cycle. Single –
manually mouse click each surface again to Flip the arrow direction. Cycle – system
will automatically prompt to you one by one to check arrow direction. Remember that
turn off the auto shading function for easier selection. Example:
c:\CAM\demo\TF01.mc8 (Create fillet surface of R10 around the intersected area)
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Offsetting Surfaces: This function offsets one or more surfaces by a distance and a
direction relative to the surface normal direction of each selected surface. When
Mastercam offsets a surface, it creates the offset surface as a separate surface
from the original surface. 1. Choose Main Menu, Create, Surface, Offset. 2. Select
one or more surfaces to offset, then choose Done. Mastercam displays the Offset
menu. The default offset values display in the prompt area. 3. To change the offset
distance, choose Offset dist. In the prompt area, enter a new value for the
distance to offset the surfaces. Note: You can enter a positive or negative value.
A positive value offsets the surfaces in the positive surface normal direction. A
negative value offsets the surfaces in the negative surface normal direction. 4. To
check the surface normal directions, choose Check norms. Mastercam displays the
Check Surface Normals menu. You can check the normal direction of one or all
surfaces in the selection. For more information, press [Alt+H] from the menu. 5.
Indicate what to do with the original surfaces once the offset surfaces have been
created. Toggle Dispose to K to keep the surfaces, B to blank the surfaces, or D to
delete the surfaces. 6. Choose Do it to create the offset surfaces. Example:
c:\CAM\demo\OffsetSurf.mc8 (Offsetting Surfaces for 5mm distance)
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Mcam 13:
Curve
We can use the projected curve and the green contour to generate a ruled surface.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Mcam14:
Surface Toolpath
Surface toolpaths are used to machine single surfaces, multiple surfaces, solids,
solid faces and/or STL files. When you select a solid for a surface toolpath,
Mastercam extracts the exact surface data for each solid face. To create a surface
toolpath, choose Toolpaths, Surface from the Main Menu or from the Operations
Manager right-click menu. Normal direction (refer to Page 46) is more important
data to define Surface Toolpath. The cutter compensation always follows the
positive direction. You can select from Modify /Normal to reverse the surfaces’
normal direction before starting the surface toolpaths. The surface toolpaths are
two main processes: Surface Rough and surface Finish, which are similar to 2D
Contour and 2D Pocket Toolpaths. Surface rough toolpaths remove large amounts of
material from surfaces as rapidly as possible. Surface finish toolpaths are used to
create precise surfaces after roughing. You can access surface Rough / finish
toolpaths by choosing Toolpaths, Surface, Rough / Finish from the Main Menu or by
choosing Toolpaths, Surface Rough / Finish from the right-click menu in the
Operations Manager. This chapter will describe the following Surface Toolpaths –
Surface Rough Pocket: Pocket rough toolpaths create pocket boundaries from selected
surfaces. Surface Finish Flowline: Flowline finish toolpaths allow precise control
of the scallops left on the part, creating an exact, smooth finish. You can only
use flowline toolpaths on a row of adjacent drive surfaces. Plunge: Plunge rough
toolpaths machine surfaces Parallel: Parallel finish toolpaths are the most quickly
with a drilling-type motion. common type of finish toolpaths Note: Contour: Contour
rough and finish toolpaths Generally, the raw material that use for machining,
perform multiple cuts at constant Z levels, is round or rectangular shape. So the
Surface Pocket which can be an ideal machining method for and Surface Plunge are
more suitable for our certain tools. Unlike other surface toolpaths, requirements.
both contour rough and finish use the same If we rough cut a casting product, we
would use the dialog box. Contour Rough for machining because it required Radial:
Radial finish toolpaths are primarily used machining time less then Surface Rough.
for creating more precise surface toolpaths on round parts.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Select surface rough /pocket from operations manger. System will prompt you select
entities: using [All] command to all surfaces (if you do not want to all, you
should mouse click one by one). Click [Done] to finish selection
Go to tool parameters screen to set: Dia 6mm ball endmill Feed rate = 500 Plunge
rate = 300 Retract rate = 500 Spindle speed = 1000
Surface parameters screen: Only change the feed plane at suitable rapid depth No
need to define machining depth due to all geometrical dimension being calculated
from the surface.
The rough pocket parameters screen is similar to 2D pocket. Click to [OK] to finish
setting.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Define the outside boundary: Select [Chain] the outside edge curves Waiting the
system for toolpath calculation.
Set the toolpath display to off, where will be easier for next toolpath selection.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Create Surface Finishing Toolpath: Select Surface Finish /Flowline from operations
manager. Select All surfaces
Go to tool define and surface parameters screens that are similar to surface rough
packet, as below figures. Using the 6mm ball endmill Using default values Note: If
you want to make a very finer product, you can decrease these values.
Now, going to Flip direction menu screen: You can change this direction of
Offsetting and Cutting direction for tool metal removal; step and start position.
The right figure shows the correct position that cutter places inside, and the
cutting direction along the longest position. You can flip to outside or change the
moving follows the across direction, as below figures.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
As shown below:
Try to select other finishing command: Select Parallel surface finishing toolpath
from Operations Manager Select all surfaces Go to parameter menu screen: Select 6mm
ball endmill Finish Parallel Parameters menu screen: The surface finishing is
depend on the value of [Max Stepover] The machining angle is depend on the
geometry, the below figures show: There are excessive cuts for machining angle is 0
degree.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Using Surface Pocket for roughing and Surface Contour for finishing toolpath. Get
SurfMc02.mc8 from c:\CAM\demo -Stock size is 160x140x20 Use 12mm Flat endmill
Before machining the green island, we should define a flat surface and boundary are
larger than the stock Where the red box is stock Surface Pocket Roughing toolpath:
Select 12mm flat endmill Chain the outside boundary: click the white rectangle
Surface Contour Roughing toolpath: Select this command from Surface Finishing
Select all surface Use 12mm flat endmill
Surface Contour Finishing Parameters menu screen Note: You can decrease the value
of [Max Stepdown] to obtain good surface finishing.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Example: Get SurfMc03.mc8 from C:\CAM\demo Using Plunge for surface roughing,
Parallel for surface finishing with a12mm ball endmill. Note: After you have
completed surfaces selection, the prompt will request you define the upper and
lower position for the Plunge roughing boundary: Click the Point A & B Notice on
Rough Plunge parameters: The max stepover is less 75% of cutter dia.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Finish Radial parameters: The calculation of cutting stepover value is not linear,
base on the rotating angle. You should identify the rotating center position and
give to system. The geometry center is the Origin.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
F.
SeeNC is special purpose CNC part program verification software. This software
designed to be used with ISO standard G codes similar to FANUC CNC. Click this icon
to open the simulator.
When you entry the system, there will display prompt screen menu for you select an
event, as right figure shown. The Main screen of seeNC mill as show below --
Getting started: To simulate an existing NC file that used to machine [Hook] as the
right figure shown. Open an existing part from [c:\CAM\demo\HookMill.nc]
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Procedures: 1) Define Blank – Select [Blank] from menu bar, or click this icon from
tool bar. The workpiece size is 100 x 50 x 30 (mm) and the origin point set at the
top surface on middle position. The system request you input the min (lower corner
coordinate) and max (upper corner coordinate) and specify the lowest Z coordinate
with thickness defined that used to calculate the origin point. 2) Machine
Selection –
Select [Machine] or click this icon The NC file is used the “FANUC” controller to
generate, so we will select [Fanuc 0M] (The Fanuc controller is most popular used
for CNC to control each axis movement.) 3) Checking syntax – Select [Syntax] or
click this icon Checking process Syntax error message The below errors are no
problems, because the demo version cannot support the 4th axis code (A0) and (%) is
used for some older version control software to start/stop reading program.
Correcting errors: If there appears wrong G code constructed, you must Go to the
program editor and correct the erroneous blocks. Run the syntax check once again.
Repeat this procedure until no errors are detected. (For example: given wrong
starting coordinate for next G02/G03 circular path.) 4) Assigning Tools – When you
initially configure an NC file, the system automatically displays the Configure
screen. Otherwise, you can select [Tools], or click this icon This NC file requires
tools as – T1 = 6mm Flat endmill; T2 = 6mm Ball endmill Click [Assign tool] button
to configure tools from 1st to last, as blow figure shown. (Otherwise, you can
click the tool no 1 or 2 that you want to edit or change.)
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For T1: expand the End mill and then select End mill finish 4 flute /6mm dia. /
[Edit tool geometry] to check or edit suitable length for machining.
For T2: expand the Ballnose end mill and then select Ball nose end mill /6mm dia. /
[Edit tool geometry] to check or edit suitable length for machinin
Note: If there no suitable tool size for you, you can select any tool size and then
using [Edit tool geometry] function to change its size. (For example: you need
6.5mm flat endmill.)
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Note: Save you current configurations, but except these verification graphics.
Because the system only store the stock and tool data. You want to demo these
simulation on next entry the system, you should press the [Syntax] checking once
again then the system will verify it. Otherwise, if you have not save any
configuration, you will get all above procedures again on next visit.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
G.
SeeNC is special purpose CNC part program verification software. This software
designed to be used with ISO standard G codes similar to FANUC CNC. Click this icon
to open the simulator. The seeNC Turn which operations are similar to seeNC mill,
as shown below:
Procedures: Edit or get NC file /Define Blank /Machine Selection (Fanuc OT-Type A
is widely used) /Syntax Check /Assign Tools /Toolpath simulation. Note: The lath
turning tools are more complex than milling tools. Milling tools are almost round
shaft shape, but lathe tools are more and more, which depend on different processes
(external /internal) and different shapes (groove, thread, left or right edge side
… … etc.). There are some tools shown below figure.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Example: get file from seeTurn.txt Stock size: dia. 80 x 100mm, origin at top
center; Select Fanuc OT-Type A controller; Syntax Checking; Define tool.
Note: the [M – series] used for general purpose (rough and finish); [P – series]
used for heavy rough cuts; [S – series] used for fine finish cuts.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Simulation:
Note: the Left and Right Hand external turning tools are widely used for general
purpose. Right Hand external turning tool Left Hand external turning tool
The above blue arrow represents the stepover direction; red arrow represents the
cutting direction.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
H.
3D-Mill is 3-axis CNC desktop machine using 200AC, so it is suitable for any
workshop to make prototype. It uses PC with DNC program to control all motion.
Procedures: 1) Power on all device, except the Spindle Motor (it is safety
requirement) 2) Entry the 3dmill directory on PC: cd\3dmill ---- (Go to C:\3dmill)
enter nc.exe to control screen 3) You can type G code commands step by step to
control each motion, except the Spindle Speed (which is controlled by the “Spindle
Speed Controller). For example – command: G00X0Y0 4) You can input an NC file to
auto run, the format as: command: ]test.nc Where “]” represents file opening, input
the file name with its extension (eg .nc). Remember that the file must be stored in
the same directory {C:\3dmill\ test.nc} Note: You can save NC files to the server
which path is {\\server\ncdata} and this PC has mapped this server path as {T:\}.
So you can copy your NC file directly on this PC, command format as – Copy
t:\test.nc c:\3dmill The file name do not longer than 8 letters, because the PC is
DOS system. When you auto run a NC file, you can select F1 for Control Screen step
go or F10 for continous.
Machining Start
As program running, you can press F1 to PAUSE, or ESC to STOP, if there are
problems.
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I.
(2) Use arrow key move to [SCALE INPUT]; and key in X or Y then input coordinate.
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(3a) Press [ESC] to main screen, and then select [4] (3b) Select input source from
A drive (so, you should to copy file copy your DXF into a floppy disk)
(3f) If there are branch points, you should input [select number] to correct
toolpath direction run.
(3g) System reading entities until it appears message of [Press any key to
continuous] that means all paths are corrected and you can go to next step for
machining.
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(4b) Select [3] to configure parameters (or select [1] return to Scale Display
screen.)
(4d) Base on the ref. Data to adjust electric data – The current can be max 3 unit,
for this thickness we should adjust to 1 unit.
(4e) Select file for machining that you stored. (4f) Select suitable cutter
compensation direction (You can key in file name or move arrow key to (1 or 2)
select.)
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
(4k) Wirecut EDM in process: you can see there are injecting fluid and sparking
light.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
J.
Example: To make 4 cavities with the CAR electrode, which coordinates are (43, 16);
(-43, 16); (-43, -16) and (43, -16). We should use CNC milling machine for roughing
and then use this electrode for finishing.
Procedures: 1) On the scale display screen, using arrow key moved to [SCALE] input
function and then key in X, Y or Z for value input. Note: Using axis controller
move the electrode near the position and then set value for this position. 2) When
you have completed scale input, use arrow key move function button to [EXIT] then
press [ENT] key; the system return to MAIN MENU for other function.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
14) Press [2] for 5mm then press [1] to confirm data.
16) Sparking
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project 1
Objective:
What is the ISO Language Coordinate system Describe the structure of an NC program
Cutting tools used in mills and laths
Duration: Reference:
1hr
IsoIntro software CNC program concept .pdf CAM Training Menu Workshop: Running the
IsoIntro software to study writing an NC program, click this icon to open it.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project 2
Objective:
Duration: Equipment:
2.5hr
Workshop:
1) Using MicroTech CncSimulator to edit NC program for machining the contours as
right figure shown. Dimension as shown below Workpiece size = 200 x 150 x 6 (mm)
Milling Cutter = 2mm Flat endmill Depth cut = 1mm Origin at the lower left corner
of the workpiece The top surface is Z 0.
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
2) Using HKPC 3D-Mill CNC machine to engrave the part as below figure shown -Using
software to simulate your program to make sure it is OK Copy your file to server,
the path is {\\server\NCdata} (Note: the file name is not more than 8 letters and
saves as [.nc] extension.)
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project 3
Objective:
2D drawing
To study the technique of using the MasterCAM’s CAD functions to create drawings.
The CAD function consists of the following menus: Analyze, Create, File, Modify,
Xform, Delete and Screen.
Duration: Equipment:
3hr
MasterCAM version 8
Exercises:
Create six 2D geometry (without dimensioning) as the followings -Note: When you
have completed these drawings, each Student Group send one copy to server.
Instructor will check it later. The server path is {\\Server\CAMex\ “Group name”}
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
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THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG Technology Support Centre
Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project 4
Objective:
To understand the working principle and operations of the wirecut machine. The
wirecut machining is an electric discharge machining (EDM) process that uses NC
programs to produce the desired contour or shape on workpiece. It does not require
a special-shape electrode; instead, it uses a continuous traveling wire (0.2mm
dia.) under tension as the electrode.
Duration: Equipment:
3 hr
Workshop:
Make 4 pieces of this shape , which can assemble square shape as right figure
shown. These shapes will be cut from 1mm sheet metal plate and stack 4 pieces for
machining once. First step, you create 2D geometry of this shape and then converted
to DXF file. Using floppy disk copy the DXF to CNC wirecut machine. Last step,
operate the wirecut machine to make prototypes. Its dimension as below –
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project 5:
Objective:
2D milling program
The MasterCAM provides CAM system defines toolpath for CNC machining. Now, using 2D
contour and pocket commands to generate programs.
Duration: Equipment:
4hr
Exercise:
Get files from C:\CAM\Exercise\ Project5A.mc8; Project5B.mc8; Project5C.mc8 Using
MasterCAM’s Operation Manager defines toolpaths and then post NC files for next
simulation on Cadem seeNC mill. Using Cadem seeNC mill to simulate these NC files
Note: You define the Tool configures to the NC file that must be the same as
defined on MasterCAM’s environment. When you have completed above NC files and
simulation, each Student Group send one copy to server. Instructor will check it
later. The server path is {\\Server\CAMex\ “Group name”}. The copy includes NC
files and the configuration files of that NC simulates on Cadem’s enviroment (the
file’s extension is *.mtl – for example: 5aa.nc with the configuration file is
5aa.mtl). Setting parameters as followings – Project5A.mc8 – (as right figure
shown) Stock size is 180 x 60 x 20 (mm) Origin on the top middle position You will
make two different shapes by using the drawing – one is letter islands with 5mm
height; another is cavities with 3mm depth Uses 6mm flat endmill: Uses 4mm flat
endmill:
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project5B.mc8 – (as right figure shown) Stock size is 102 x 102 x 10 (mm) Origin on
the top middle position Using two cutters – 12mm flat endmill for outside contour
to Z –10 mm 6mm flat endmill for inside holes and cavities to Z –10 mm
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project 6
Objective: Duration:
3D drawing
To study the 3D construction method on MasterCAM – Cplane, Gview, Axis Depth (Z) 3
hr
Note: When you have completed these drawings, each Student Group send one copy to
server. Instructor will check it later. The server path is {\\Server\CAMex\ “Group
name”} Project6A – details as shown below:
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project 7
Objective: Duration:
Surface modeling
To familiar with MasterCAM to design a more realistic model. 5.5 hr
Note: The provided file where is only a quarter entities. You can use Xform to copy
another three. Finished TV model Provided file: Project7B.mc8
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Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Procedures: a. Create Swept surface of its top screen b. Project the inside contour
(From R900 to R700) vertically onto this swept surface c. Using the projected curve
with the outside contour to create a ruled surface. d. Create fillet surface (R3mm)
between the ruled and swept surfaces e. Using Trim/Flat Boundary and Draft commands
to create the TV casing. f. Finally, Xform functions to copy another three
quarters. Details of TV Screen are shown below.
Date: 2006-12-18
THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG Technology Support Centre
Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Date: 2006-12-18
THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG Technology Support Centre
Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Date: 2006-12-18
THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG Technology Support Centre
Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project 8
Objective: Duration:
Surface machining
Using MasterCAM ‘s 2D & 3D suface machining commands to make complex model. 5.5 hr
Date: 2006-12-18
THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG Technology Support Centre
Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project8B: Using the shape of your Project7B exercise Stock size is 180 x 150 x 50
(mm) Cutter is 6mm Ball endmill with Surface Parallel commands for roughing and
finishing processes Note: If any surfaces that are not required to make program,
please blank or freeze it. Such that, you are easier to select surfaces for
programming. Project8C: Using the shape of your Project7C exercise Stock size is
100 x 50 x 30 (mm) Cutter is 6mm Ball endmill for roughing and finishing processes
What commands are you selected for this machining? Which commands are suitable for
this machining that no excessive cuts and good surface finishing? If you want to
use Parallel finishing command, you must add a flat boundary on the hook bottom to
prevents excessive cuts. Project8D: Get from C:\CAM\Exercise\Project8D.mc8 Stock
size is 100 x 80 x 40 (mm) Cutter is 12mm Ball endmill for roughing and finishing
processes Using the black color contour for the Surface Rough Pocket Boundary.
Note: a) The fillet surface is R10 mm b) These surfaces are larger than the stock
size. Because there are opening edges, if not, these edges will be roughly
Date: 2006-12-18
THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG Technology Support Centre
Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Canned cycles: G70 Finishing Cycle – It is used for calling up the finishing passes
after the roughing out has taken place, which format is { G70 P_ _ Q _ _ F _ _ }
Where P is the start block number (Nxxxx) of the finish part profile definition and
Q is the finishing block number. The F is the feed rate, if required. G71
Longitudinal area clearance routine, which format are two line commands together –
G71 U _ _ R _ _ Where U is value of depth per cut along X axis R is value of tool
lift off per depth cut G71 P _ _ Q _ _ U _ _ W _ _ F _ _ Where the P, Q and F are
same meaning of above G70 command. Where U is value of finishing allowance on X
axis; W is is value of finishing allowance on Z axis G72 Transverse area clearance
routine, which are also two line commands together – G72 W _ _ R _ _ Where W is
value of depth per cut along Z axis R is value of tool lift off per depth cut G72 P
_ _ Q _ _ U _ _ W _ _ F _ _ Where the P, Q and F are same meaning of above G70
command. Where U is value of finishing allowance on X axis; W is is value of
finishing allowance on Z axis
Date: 2006-12-18
THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG Technology Support Centre
Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Date: 2006-12-18
THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG Technology Support Centre
Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Exercise:
Ex1
Note: When you have completed above exercises, each Student Group send one copy
(the NC files with their configure file[*.ttl]) to server. Instructor will check it
later. The server path is {\\Server\CAMex\ “Group name”}
Date: 2006-12-18
THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG Technology Support Centre
Training Module: CAD / CAM Code: CAM
Project 10
Objective: Duration:
Date: 2006-12-18