FeatureCAM Introduces New Interleaved Toolpath

FeatureCAM Introduces New Interleaved Toolpath

Engineering Geometry Systems introduces a new "interleaved" spiraling option for Z level finish toolpaths in Booth 1608 at EASTEC 2004 in West Springfield, Massachusetts from May 25 to May 27. Continuing to build on its support for high-speed machining (HSM), FeatureCAM delivers an interleaved spiral toolpath that uses a single pass technique with retract moves kept to a minimum so the tool stays on the metal and maintains smooth transitions for a faster and more productive toolpath, stated a company spokesperson.

The interleaved spiral toolpath applies spiral cutting passes that are interleaved between Z levels based on the desired scallop height and the shape of the part.

FeatureCAM analyzes the slope and shape of part surfaces and then uses a scallop height constraint to calculate whether spiraling passes are needed between Z levels to produce the appropriate surface finish. The user specifies the maximum slope value (for example, any slope less than 30 degrees) for toolpaths to be interleaved and FeatureCAM calculates where the spiraling passes are needed and what Z increment is required to achieve a constant scallop height. In addition, a scallop height step size is used for the spiral passes. For any horizontal area that would otherwise be missed using the defined Z increment, spiral-cutting passes are created that match the shape of the part with minimal tool retractions.

For more information contact:

Maryann Beaver

Engineering Geometry Systems

275 E. South Temple

Salt Lake City, UT 84111

208-678-4534

Fax: 801-575-5017

E-mail: maryann@featurecam.com

FeatureCAM Southeast Office

1428 Liz Vista Court

Maryville, TN 37803

865-982-3351